16 Things You Must Do and Eat In Miami
Featured Image: @Miami
My hometown!! I grew up in Miami, so I know a little something-something about this place.
Miami has a very special place in my heart, no matter where I travel or move to, this city has given me so many wonderful memories.
Miami has a lot to offer both tourists and locals alike. Although it is predominantly known as a party city, and yes you can definitely enjoy some nightclubs and bar-hopping, there is a lot more to this tropical paradise than meets the eye.
Here Are 16 Things You Must Do and Eat In Miami
Whether you like partying or cozy coffee shops, you’ll find something right up your alley in this beautiful city.
If you are only in this vibrant, culturally-rich city for a short while, these are the things you must do. Especially if it’s your first visit.
South Beach
South Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the world. South Beach and Ocean Drive have made many appearances in movies and hip-hop videos.
South Beach is known for its nightlife, soft sand, and vivid buildings. This is the perfect place to unwind, work on your tan, and get a couple of drinks in the process.
Walk around Collins Ave and Oceans Drive to see just what South Beach has to offer.
Beware, Ocean Drive is a bit of a tourist trap with overpriced drinks and food, but if you know where to look, you can find some great local secrets.
Check out the Sugar Factory on Collins, one of the most unique restaurants you will ever find.
Sugar Factory
Price: $$$
Address: 1144 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Sugar Factory via @eatlivetraveldrink
Lincoln Road
Lincoln Road is within South Beach, however, it’s somewhat separate in my head as it has a very different feel to Ocean Drive.
Lincoln Road is like the Times Square of South Beach and it’s a nice place to spend an afternoon. You can shop, dine, and people watch.
While here, you might want to check out Havana 1957, which is one of the most popular restaurants on Lincoln Road and gives you a taste of Cuban food.
Order the famous Cuban Sandwich, or perhaps, be adventures and try a Medianoche which is (in my humble opinion) the greatest sandwich known to man.
Explore Wynwood
Wynwood is an incredible place filled with art and great local cafes and restaurants.
The Wynwood Walls, which are street art galleries, are home to some of the best street art and graffiti you will ever see.
Over 50 artists from all over the world have come to Miami to work on these murals. there’s no other place in the world similar to the Wynwood Walls.
As far as absolute must-do’s go, the Wynwood Walls are an absolute necessity.
Little Havana
You really can’t come to Miami and not spend a couple of hours in the famous Cuban neighborhood, Little Havana.
Cuba has had a huge influence on the region, as a great portion of the population is Cuban, and if you want to get a real feel of the culture, Little Havana will let you do just that.
Take a look at the architecture, cigars, open-air markets, live salsa music, and (best of all) Latin American food.
The famous Calle Ocho is a hub of Cuban and other Latin American cultures. Filled with shops, restaurants, and bodegas, you will have plenty to do and see in the area.
Perez Art Museum
The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) hosts an impressive amount of modern and contemporary art.
The exhibits are constantly changing and evolving so no two times you visit will ever be the same.
I have been there twice since it opened and am always surprised by the art, whether it be sculptures, film, or canvases. PAMM always exhibits very unique collections from famous and up-and-coming artists alike.
On top of this, the museum has a wonderful view of the harbor. Sit at the cafe and enjoy the view with a nice iced latte. It is simply breathtaking and worth the trip.
Head To The Everglades
The Everglades National Park is a very unique ecosystem that offers a variety of sights such as alligators, botanical gardens, and much exotic wildlife.
There are many options for exploring the Everglades such as walking and biking, but the most popular option is an airboat.
The tour guide will take you to some of the most scenic spots and this will give you the greatest chance of seeing the natural wildlife and catching a glimpse of an Alligator in their natural habitat.
If you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of a manatee, these gentle giants are strangely mesmerizing and quite a sight to behold.
Vizcaya Museum and Mansion
You can find many luxurious mansions in Miami, however, the Vizcaya Museum and Mansion top them all.
Designed in 1910 with a lot of European influence, primarily Italian, the Vizcaya Mansion has become one of Miami’s greatest attractions to date.
The property is now a National Historic Landmark and quite breathtaking.
There are several small gardens, pools, mazes, and statues to marvel at.
A lot of wedding and quinceanera photography is done within the mansion because it’s just so stunning. Walk around for a couple of hours and explore, you’ll feel like a true princess.
6 Best Places To Eat In Miami
Mr. Cheezious
Price: $
Address: 7418 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami FL, 33138
If you’re as obsessed with grilled cheeses as I am, you have to stop by this place.
Originally a food truck and now a successful brick and mortar, Mr. Cheezious never disappoints its patrons with a fun twist on a classic.
I mean, have you ever heard of a S’more Melt?! Now you have, and you have to experience it.
Coyo Taco
Price: $
Address: 2300 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127 or 1111 SW 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33130
I can’t say no to Tacos, and Coyo is no exception. They have two locations, in Wynwood and Brickell, so perhaps stop by after exploring the Wynwood Walls.
They also offer amazing margaritas and the whole place is pretty casual. perfect for lunch or a late night bite.
Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop
Price: $
Address: 2818 N Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33127
If you have a craving for something sweet, Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop is an absolute must!
This is a small family-owned business that specializes in pies, cakes, cheesecakes, and cookies.
It’s owned and operated by a former fireman (thus the name) and although the location is tiny, it has a lot of character.
Big Pink
Price: $$
Address: 157 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
If you’re in South Beach, I’m sure you won’t miss Big Pink. As the name suggests, it’s BIG and PINK!
The menu offers a lot of options, from quesadillas to chicken & waffles. There’s something here for everyone and it’s only a five-minute walk from the beach.
If you’re not hungry, you can still stop by to grab an insta pic with the beetles and pink walls.
Perricone’s
Price: $$$
Address: 15 SE 1 St, Miami, FL 33131
A beautiful Italian restaurant just outside Downtown Miami, in Mary Brickell Village.
You have the option to dine inside or out and the whole restaurant has a very romantic and quaint feel.
There’s often live music and the menu never disappoints. If you can, go on Thursday to take advantage of their $10 Pasta Deal.
YardBird
Price: $$$
Address: 1600 Lenox Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
If you’re in the mood for Southern-style food in a beautiful and rustic setting, Yardbird is the spot.
The perfect place for brunch as it has many comfort favorites, such as biscuits and mac n cheese.
Everything is cooked to perfection and it’s an absolute must if you’re in town.
3 Best Places To Grab A Drink In Miami
The Broken Shaker
Price: $$
Address: 2727 Indian Creek Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Cocktail lover? This adorable little bar will steal your heart.
These are some of the best cocktails you will find in Miami and they sure pack a punch.
The bartenders are very personable and know their craft well.
Very cozy and decorated in a comfortable, fun way; this is a must stop for drinks with your girls.
Blackbird Ordinary
Price: $$
Address: 729 SW 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33130
A stylish and popular option for cocktails and dancing.
They also have an outside bar area that’s great. They offer Happy Hour drinks and it’s a locals paradise.
The drinks are very reasonably priced (and tasty) for being the in the Brickell area, and best of all there’s no cover to get in.
Area 31
Price: $$$
Address: 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami, FL 33131
This bar boasts the best view of Downtown Miami. Although located inside the EPIC Hotel, you’ll find plenty of locals here enjoying the Happy Hour offered Monday to Fridays.
Comment below if you’ve been to Miami or are planning a trip! Where will you go?! What will you do?! We wanna hear all about it
Founder. Entrepreneur. Recovering Perfectionist. Not necessarily in that order.
I run on bad jokes and good food. Lover of life and experiences, I did the nomad thing for four years.
Semi-Based in Miami currently.
In my free time, you can find me reading, running my cats Tinder profile, or trying out a new fitness class. You can find me on Instagram
