Discover one of the most stylish and charismatic neighborhoods in the US. Miami Beach is an art deco-flavored, neon-lit fashion capital where you’ll find supermodels relaxing, incredible nightspots and design masterpieces.
Here’s our list of the top things to do in Miami Beach…
Hit the beach
The clue’s in the name. Miami Beach is home to some of the best sandy stretches in America. Palm-lined with white sand, these are the places to see and be seen. You can also enjoy the colorful lifeguard towers, each designed and painted by a local artist. Go here when you’re wondering what to do in Miami.
Blue Route, Stop: Lincoln Road
Discover South Beach
Often known as the ‘art deco playground’ or ‘American Riviera’, this section of Miami Beach is perhaps its most desirable. Shop in the high-end boutiques or stroll the boulevards with the beautiful people who hang out here. There are also a range of exciting aquatic adventures on offer too.
Blue Route, Stop: South Beach 2
Walk around Ocean Drive
One of the most famous boulevards in Miami Beach, this art deco paradise is where you’ll find a constant crowd frequenting its world-class hotels, fashionable bars and clubs. Small enough to walk around comfortably, just take a stroll and drink in the atmosphere.
Blue Route, Stop: South Beach 1
Go to South Pointe Park and Pier
Explore this 17-acre (68,000 square meter) park and drink in the sweeping views of the brilliant blue ocean. Cool off in the water park, take a closer look at the sculptures, or fish from the 450-foot (137-meter) long pier.
Explore Art Deco District
Jump off the Big Bus Tour in the Art Deco District to see some of the world’s best examples of the style. Buildings are wrapped in bright blues and coral pinks, and when night falls the area comes alive with neon lights. Don’t miss the Streamline Deco and Miami Deco classics such as the US Post Office, Lincoln Theatre and Albion Theatre – all some of the best Miami attractions.
Blue Route, Stop: South Beach 1
Roam around Jungle Island
Sandwiched between South Beach and Downtown, just off the MacArthur Causeway, Jungle Island is a small zoo that’s been open in one form or another since 1936. Meet the animals and even enjoy the chance to bottle feed some of them by hand. It’s well worth arriving in time for the daily shows. This is a great activity to do with kids in Miami.
Red Route, Stop: Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
Eat out
Dine in style in Miami Beach, famed for its restaurant scene and celebrity chefs. Check out top eateries including Miami landmarks like Joe’s Stone Crab and Emeril’s Miami Beach. Sample Asian fusion cooking at the East Ocean and acclaimed Italian at Café Prima Pasta. If you’re looking for something lighter, there are lots of Miami cheap eats on offer too.
Blue Route, Stops: South Beach 1 & Lincoln Road
Shop at Lincoln Road Mall
Shop ‘til you drop at this mile-long (1.6 kilometer) pedestrianized mall. Designed in the 50s and given a big makeover in the late 90s, this shopping center is one of only a few in the US to be added to the National Register of Historic Places. You’ll find everything from high-street names to designer boutiques.
Blue Route, Stop: Lincoln Road
Meet the gators
The Everglades National Park is a unique wetland ecosystem, and what better way to explore it than on a famous flat-bottomed Florida airboat. Spot the many birds, marine life and fish and get up close with alligators, American crocodiles and soft shelled turtles. Then spot the deer, endangered Florida panther and over 28 different snakes that call this ecosystem home. With the Big Bus Everglades Experience also watch a thrilling wildlife show like no other.
With such a diverse range of places to visit in Miami Beach, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Plan your stay well and you’ll be able to take in all of Miami Beach’s best destinations and when you’re done working on your tan, why not cool off in one of Our Favorite Waterparks in Miami?
