Miami, FL, is a dynamic city with a lot to offer, from beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural neighborhoods to art, history, and outdoor activities. Whether you have 3 days or 5 days to explore, here are two itineraries that will help you make the most of your time in this exciting city:
3-Day Miami Itinerary
Day 1: Explore South Beach and Ocean Drive
Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to South Beach, one of Miami's most iconic spots. Relax on the soft white sands and take a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Walk along Ocean Drive to see the famous Art Deco District. Admire the pastel-colored buildings and stop for a coffee or breakfast at one of the vibrant cafes.
Afternoon:
Head to Lummus Park to enjoy the beautiful beachside park and the outdoor fitness stations or volleyball courts.
Explore Lincoln Road, an outdoor pedestrian shopping street with boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. You can stop for lunch at one of the sidewalk cafes here.
Evening:
Day 2: Wynwood, Little Havana & Museum Hopping
Morning:
- Begin your day with a trip to Wynwood Walls, an open-air museum with incredible murals and street art. Spend some time walking through this trendy neighborhood, popping into local galleries and shops.
Afternoon:
Head to Little Havana, Miami's Cuban heart, and stroll down Calle Ocho. Visit Domino Park, have lunch at Versailles Restaurant, and enjoy a cafecito (Cuban coffee).
Visit The Frost Science Museum in downtown Miami to explore interactive exhibits and the planetarium, or check out the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) for a dose of contemporary art.
Evening:
Day 3: Miami Beach, Coral Gables & Coconut Grove
Morning:
- Spend the morning exploring Coral Gables, known for its Mediterranean-style architecture and lush green spaces. Visit the Venetian Pool or explore Miracle Mile for shopping and dining options.
Afternoon:
Take a short drive to Coconut Grove, Miami's bohemian neighborhood, where you can stroll through art galleries, parks, and enjoy outdoor cafes.
Relax at Coconut Grove's Peacock Park or visit the historic Barnacle Historic State Park.
Evening:
5-Day Miami Itinerary
Day 1: South Beach and Art Deco District
Morning:
- Begin your visit with a trip to South Beach, lounging on the sand or enjoying water sports.
- Walk down Ocean Drive to admire the Art Deco architecture. Stop for breakfast at one of the cafes along Lincoln Road.
Afternoon:
Visit The Wolfsonian-FIU Museum for some modern art and design history or head to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden for a peaceful walk.
Enjoy lunch at one of the beachside restaurants, such as The Front Porch Café.
Evening:
For dinner, visit Joe’s Stone Crab (if it’s in season) or Nikki Beach Miami for seafood and beachside vibes.
Spend the evening exploring the nightlife in South Beach, from lively clubs to laid-back lounges.
Day 2: Wynwood, Little Havana & Museums
Morning:
- Start with a visit to Wynwood Walls, where you can appreciate street art and murals.
- Head to Little Havana for a cultural immersion. Explore Calle Ocho, visit Maximo Gomez Park (Domino Park), and try a Cuban sandwich or pastelito.
Afternoon:
Evening:
Day 3: Coral Gables and Coconut Grove
Morning:
- Explore Coral Gables, with its Mediterranean architecture and leafy streets. Visit Venetian Pool, one of the most unique swimming pools in the country, built in the 1920s from coral rock.
Afternoon:
Explore Coconut Grove, a charming, tree-filled neighborhood with boho vibes. Check out Peacock Park, where you can relax by the water, or visit the Barnacle Historic State Park.
Have lunch in Coconut Grove or Coral Gables—both areas offer excellent dining spots with outdoor seating.
Evening:
Day 4: Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, and Miami Seaquarium
Morning:
- Take a trip to Key Biscayne, a beautiful island escape with stunning beaches. Visit Crandon Park for beach fun, or explore the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, which offers trails and a lighthouse.
Afternoon:
Evening:
Day 5: Everglades National Park and Miami Nightlife
Morning:
- Take a day trip to Everglades National Park, about an hour's drive from Miami. Explore the park on a guided airboat tour to see alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Afternoon:
Evening:
Finish your Miami experience with a night out in Downtown Miami or South Beach. Miami's nightlife is world-renowned, with many high-end clubs and bars, or more relaxed, artsy venues in neighborhoods like Wynwood.
Conclusion
Both the 3-day and 5-day itineraries allow you to experience the best of what Miami has to offer. With 3 days, you'll get a quick yet satisfying taste of the city's famous beaches, neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. A 5-day itinerary gives you more time to dive deeper into Miami's natural beauty and explore its surrounding areas, including the Everglades and Key Biscayne. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for more exploration, Miami offers something for everyone!
