Miami is a top U.S. vacation spot that features an abundance of natural beauty, international art and culture, plus world-class shopping and dining. With long boulevards showcasing historic Art Deco buildings alongside modern skyscrapers and tropical white-sand beaches, there’s truly something for everyone in this gem of unique beauty and excitement.
Families can have fun in the sun by kayaking, bicycle riding and visiting the numerous exciting museums around town. Couples can feel closer than ever by exploring Miami’s exceptional restaurants and bars and groups of all sizes will have endless opportunities to party along the beach or at one of Miami’s world-renowned nightclubs.
This guide to visiting Miami will help you discover the best of the city’s natural beauty, shopping, dining and attractions. Plus, you’ll get essential tips on where to stay, what to bring and how you can maximize your time and enjoyment in this stunning city.
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Language
English and Spanish
Currency
American Dollar
How to Get to Miami
Depending on where you’re traveling from, there are many options for getting into Miami for both domestic and international travelers.
Flying In
If you're flying into Miami, whether from within the U.S. or abroad, there are three main airports to choose from that provide easy access into the city.
Miami International Airport (MIA) is the main transportation hub for international and domestic flights and it also serves as the main international terminal for American Airlines. It's also only 6.7 miles from downtown Miami, making it a very convenient option for most visitors.
Other nearby airports include Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Palm Beach International Airport. All airports have car rental services on site, along with taxis, ride-shares and shuttles or buses. You can also take the Metrorail from the airport to downtown in just 20 minutes from MIA.
Driving In
Visitors can drive into Miami on both Interstate 95 and the Palmetto Expressway, which are both toll-free highways. I-95 turns into Highway 1 seamlessly when closer to downtown, making it a simple option for many interstate travelers.
Other roads, which may be less crowded at certain peak hours, include the Florida Turnpike, Dolphin Expressway and the Airport Expressway. However, each of these roads requires a toll payment from the SunPass electronic payment system, which can be purchased in stores all around the city.
Getting Around Miami
As with many American cities, a car is likely the easiest way to travel around Miami and explore its wonderful sights. However, there are pros and cons to using a car in Miami.
Using a car offers several advantages, including the ability to travel at your own pace without waiting for a bus, exploring attractions outside of Miami and potentially being more economical than frequently utilizing taxi or rideshare services if you need to rent one.
A car in Miami can also come with some drawbacks. Heavy traffic in Miami and on surrounding highways can unexpectedly delay travel plans. Additionally, finding parking may pose challenges in downtown areas and other popular destinations, while beaches might reach capacity during weekends, holidays or peak seasons.
Wandering Around on Foot
Despite its large size, Miami is a great city for walking by foot or by bicycle in certain areas.
To make exploration easier, it’s helpful to divide Miami into its main districts:
- Downtown
- North
- South
- West
Each area offers enough activities and sub-districts to enjoy on foot, although traveling from one district to the next may be easier by bus or car. Luckily, there’s a free trolley that can take you through the most popular districts fairly quickly. However, when within a district, you can walk endlessly without running out of things to enjoy.
Likewise, Miami Beach and other coastal areas can be enjoyed throughout the day or night by foot. Clearly defined and well-lit walking paths allow you to enjoy the coast, along with nearby shops and cafés, in a safe and efficient manner.
Making the Most of Mass Transit
Being a large city, there are plenty of ways to get around besides walking or using ride share apps.
Make sure to utilize Miami’s free trolley service, which runs through:
- Miami Beach
- Miami
- Coconut Grove
- Little Havana
- Coral Gables
The Miami Metrorail is another great option for longer-distance travel. Where the trolley is great for exploring districts, or quickly getting to nearby districts, the Metrorail is better suited for traversing across the city quickly and efficiently. Payments can be made either through their app or contactless on the spot (cash is not an option.)
A standard city bus also has routes throughout the city, although the bus is generally one of the slower options. However, it does allow for cash payments along with contactless methods.
Best Time to Visit Miami
Due to its tropical monsoon climate, Miami typically has warm weather throughout the year. However the weather can vary throughout the seasons, so it’s best to know when sounds most appealing to you.
Spring is likely the best time to visit for moderate and not too humid weather. The average temperature from February to May is 77°F/25°C. However, Spring Break and other crowds may make things a bit too crowded for some people.
From June to November, there is an increased risk of hurricanes and tropical storms, making flexible travel a must during this time. Make sure to always check for any weather or storm notifications. If there is a storm or hurricane warning, please take the advisory seriously since the weather can become very serious on very short notice.
Luckily, these storms are frequently tracked by experts and there are usually a few days or even weeks of notice beforehand. By following the news, you will be able to avoid uncomfortable or potentially dangerous travel. It’s very rare for a storm to come on suddenly without notice.
Top Things to Do in Miami
When planning a vacation to a major destination, you’ll likely want to experience the things that the location is most famous for, or it’s offerings that make it truly unique. These are a few of the top highlights of the city to keep in mind:
Miami Beach
As Miami’s main beach, Miami Beach is an essential stop due to its miles of white sand, turquoise waters, plus endless activities from bicycle riding to jet skiing and more. Plus, it’s adjacent to many stores and restaurants, along with Miami’s incredible Art Deco district.
Little Havana
Little Havana has the world's largest Cuban community outside of Cuba and it’s a vibrant district full of incredible meals, wonderful street art, plus cultural events like dances, live music in clubs and more. To get a true feel of Miami’s unique cultural blends, make sure to visit Little Havana on your next trip.
Miami Nightlife
Miami’s nightlife is world-renowned for being wild and everlasting and you can experience it in a number of clubs ranging from casual to ultra high-end and premium. Whether you want bottle service in a neon-lit club, or a calming drink in an outdoor cabana, Miami has something late at night for you.
Miami Beach Architectural District
Located in South Beach, the Miami Beach Architectural District is the world’s largest collection of preserved Art Deco buildings from the 1920s. These charming pastel-colored buildings are gorgeous at any hour, but at night, they illuminate in a neon glow that makes simply walking near them an unforgettable experience.
Outdoor Activities in Miami
On top of being a major beach destination, Miami offers plenty of other kinds of things to do in its outdoors. Experiencing the famous Florida sunshine is something that will likely be difficult to miss out on, finding the right activity to do that in is paramount:
Bayside Marketplace
- Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
The Bayside Marketplace is a gorgeous open-air shopping district right along the bay and it offers amazing views along with wonderful shopping and dining opportunities. With a glowing Ferris wheel and multiple docks nearby, there’s always something here for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
Snorkeling
Miami has incredible snorkeling opportunities to catch views of colorful schools of fish, thriving reefs and other incredible sights.
Some nearby places to snorkel include:
- Biscayne National Park
- Tarpoon Lagoon
- South Beach
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- West Palm Beach
Boat Rides and Water Sports
With gentle waters and amazing views at any hour, Miami is a premier destination for boat rides and other water activities.
For boat rides, you can charter a small private boat complete with champagne and a meal on-board, or you can join larger boats with varying atmospheres. Some boats are rowdier with live music, while others are smaller and better suited for families.
Some other water activities include:
- Kayaking
- Jet skiing
- Paddleboarding
Where to Stay in Miami
Miami has an abundance of hotels in all price ranges to choose from and you can find an amazing place to stay whether you desire something within the bustling city or along the stunning coastline.
To help you get started, let’s look at a few different hotels, from premium to more casual, so you can get an idea of the options available:
The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove
- Address: 3300 SW 27th Ave, Coconut Grove, FL 33133
- AAA Rating: Four Diamond
- Rates: $$$$
- Parking: Valet only
Amenities: Two restaurants, full bar, sauna, poolside cabanas, fitness center, spa, room service, valet laundry, luxurious Italian decor and aesthetic.
The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove has a lovely Italian feel to it and it’s right in the center of an amazing shopping district with tons of boutique stores and high-end restaurants nearby. Each room is spacious and perfectly designed with marble accents and the views range from garden terraces to bustling skylines and even the bay from certain suites.
Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Beach/South Beach
- Address: 1231 17th St, Miami, FL 33139
- AAA Rating: Three Diamond
- Rates: From $269
- Parking: Valet and street
- Amenities: Area transportation, coastal location, valet and coin laundry, fitness center, pet friendly, rooftop pool and lounging area, bicycles.
With a wonderful location near the Miami Canal and South Beach, plus numerous shopping and dining offerings, the Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Beach/South Beach is a great choice that combines luxury and casual Floridian charm.
Enjoy the available bicycles and ride along the canals or to the nearby beaches, or spend your day walking among Lincoln St’s many shops and attractions. When back at the hotel, you can relax in your brightly lit and spacious room or enjoy lounging at the rooftop pool and patio.
Best Western Plus Atlantic Beach Resort
- Address: 4101 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
- AAA Rating: Diamond Approved
- Rates: $$
- Parking: On-site with a fee
- Amenities: On-site beach, fitness room, restaurant, full bar, business center, valet and coin laundry, outdoor pool.
The Best Western Plus Atlantic Beach Resort provides consistent comfort along with one of the best locations in town. Situated along Miami Beach, you have the best of Miami’s coastline right outside your room. Enjoy riding along the beach’s many bike paths, or simply lounge in the sun and soak in the views.
There are also many restaurants and shops nearby, allowing you to enjoy the best of Miami on any budget.
Best Places to Eat in Miami
Miami is home to a number of great restaurants and exciting cuisines, often with unique decorations or coastal views to complete your meal. If you're planning a trip to Miami, check out one of these tasty and exciting options on your next trip.
Havana 1957 - Espanola Way
- Address: 405 Espanola Way, Miami Beach, FL 33139
- Type: Cuban
- Price $$
- Reservations: Recommended
Havana 1957 is an exciting restaurant that feels like a snapshot from Havana in the 1950s, complete with historical decor inside along with comfortable tables on the patio outside. Enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine plus handmade cocktails in this must-visit restaurant.
Smith and Wollensky Steakhouse
- Address: 1 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
- Type: American, Steak and Seafood
- Price: $$
- Reservations: Recommended
At Smith and Wollensky Steakhouse, you can enjoy exquisite meals with a breathtaking coastal view. Premium steaks and fresh-caught seafood make up the bulk of the menu, along with a fantastic wine selection and artisanal cocktails.
Seaspice Brasserie and Lounge
- Address: 412 NW North River Drive, Miami, FL 33128
- Type: International
- Price: $$$$
- Reservations: Required
Beautifully situated along the Miami canal, Seaspice Brasserie and Lounge is a high-end restaurant experience serving premium seafood in a gorgeous location. With both indoor and outdoor patio dining, you can enjoy some of Miami’s finest seafood in this decadent and sophisticated brasserie.
Best Photo Spots in Miami
While nearly every beach and street corner in Miami is worthy of a photoshoot, here are some unique places to get an extra special photo on your next vacation.
Wynwood Walls
- Address: 2516 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127
The Wynwood Walls are an outdoor collection of colorful murals and street art and it’s a wonderful place to stroll and take incredible photos at any hour.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
- Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a gorgeous estate built in 1916 and it offers stunning photo opportunities for visitors of all ages. With classical European architecture and pristine, lush gardens, you can spend hours here enjoying the beauty and historical charm of this unique destination.
Day Trips from Miami
If you're looking to explore more beyond Miami's borders, here are some exciting day trip destinations to take your trip to the next level.
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is only about an hour’s drive from the center of Miami and it’s an essential day trip for nature lovers of all ages.
As the largest mangrove in the West, you can explore some of America’s most unique protected wilderness, including marshy swamps, lush forests and picturesque bays.
Plus, you’re almost guaranteed to see wild alligators lounging around and if you’re lucky, you may even catch a native panther in the distance.
Marco Island
Marco Island is a two-hour drive from Miami and it offers an incredible white sand beach along with luxurious golf courses, boutique shops and delectable restaurants. In some ways, it’s an even more pristine version of Miami Beach.
While the coastal area isn’t vastly different from Miami, it does have a slightly more tropical feel, making it a worthwhile day trip if you wish to see more of Florida’s immense beauty.
The Bahamas
You can reach Nassau, Freeport and other popular destinations in the Bahamas in roughly 2.5 hours from Miami. Countless ferries run every hour and tickets can be as low as $25 one way.
While in the Bahamas, make sure to soak in the turquoise waters and incredible natural beauty and check out some local meals to get a taste of the unique Caribbean culture.
Visiting Miami on a Budget
While Miami’s luxurious hotels and endless premium offerings can get expensive, it can also be a great budget-friendly destination for everyone to enjoy as well. There are hotels in all price ranges everywhere from downtown to right on Miami Beach and some of the tastiest meals may come from a local-favorite spot that won’t break the bank.
Plus, many outdoor activities like bike riding or even sailing can be affordable. Of course, finding a less expensive room in busy seasons like during Spring Break may prove challenging, but Miami is welcoming and exciting for all types of travelers in any occasion.
AAA Member Discounts
A great way to save on your next Miami vacation is by utilizing AAA’s vast membership benefits. Members can access extensive traveling advantages, such as huge savings on rooms, car rentals, airfare and more. As a AAA member, you’ll always receive exclusive deals and other cost-saving benefits to ensure you get the most out of every vacation.
Enjoy Free Attractions
With so many nightclubs, restaurants and amazing shopping opportunities, Miami can get expensive if you’re not careful. However, you can have a wonderful vacation by focusing on free attractions such as Miami’s amazing local parks and beaches, along with cultural events like county fairs, live music and dancing by the beach and unique outdoor events that are often free to enjoy.
Certain museums may also be free or with reduced prices on certain days, so check around to see what catches your eye.
Travel Tips for Miami
Hurricane and Storm Safety
Miami has occasional hurricanes and tropical storms that may impact your travel. However, you can stay safe by checking local guidelines in advance, changing your plans if necessary and always following professional advice.
In most cases, storms are predicted well in advance of their arrival. This means you likely won’t be caught off-guard without notice while enjoying your vacation. If a storm is expected, make sure to follow guidelines and leave the area, change your itinerary and follow other recommended precautions.
Crime in Miami
Overall, Miami is a very safe city for tourists and most people will enjoy their stay without worries. However, as with all major cities and popular tourist destinations, it’s important to take basic precautions to ensure you and your belongings stay safe.
Some precautions include:
- Not leaving any valuables on the beach unattended while you swim or walk around. Certain beaches may have locker rooms where you can store your belongings safely.
- Most touristic neighborhoods are safe, but it’s important to be cautious if walking alone at night or in dimly lit areas. Stay with the crowds and walk where there is ample lighting.
- When parking your car, try not to leave valuables such as purses, electronics, or luggage visible for long periods of time to help prevent break-ins.
Beach Safety
The beaches in Miami are great for swimming in and while the waves are often gentle, it’s important to take swimming seriously even while enjoying your vacation.
Some Miami vacation tips to follow at the beach include:
- Not swimming when under the influence of alcohol
- Follow all warning signs, which may warn about riptides, strong currents, or other dangerous types of currents
- Wear sunscreen and reapply it throughout the day
- Wear a life jacket if advised
- Stay hydrated to prevent heat stroke or sickness
- Limit your direct exposure to sunlight, which is often very strong in Miami
- Don't allow children to swim unattended
Alligator and Wildlife Safety
Miami is home to many exciting species, with the most famous being the local alligators. While they may be exceptionally cool to see from a distance, it’s important to always keep your distance from them.
If there are signs warning of alligators nearby, take them seriously. Don't walk near murky or shallow waters, which is where alligators often dwell. It's also important to always keep your children and pets nearby and do not allow them to play in any water while unattended.
While alligator attacks are very rare, they’re still wild animals and they can be extremely dangerous if not given the proper precautions.
What to Pack for Miami
Given the often warm and potentially rainy climate, it’s important to pack accordingly so you can enjoy each day regardless of the weather. While there’s an abundance of stores to help you should you forget anything, here are some essential items to bring to your next Miami vacation:
- Waterproof backpack
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Umbrella
- Insect/Mosquito repellent
- Breathable clothing (to help against the humidity)
- Walking shoes
- Dress shoes
- Reusable water bottle
Planning Your Trip to Miami
When thinking of the best time to visit Miami it’s important to know that AAA members can access perks and take advances for vacation planning such as getting the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.