Things to Do in Miami, Florida

Nicknamed SoBe, South Beach can arguably be described as one of Miami’s “hottest spots.” The rich and famous rub shoulders with the quirky and eccentric at buzzing beach cafés and bustling restaurants. Beautiful art deco buildings line the palm-fringed beachfront that is packed with walkers, runners, roller skaters, and body-builders, and the vibe is nothing less than electric. Exploring South Beach is one of the best things to do in Miami.

Long, sandy beaches are dotted with umbrellas and sun-worshippers while the tropical waters are ideal for swimming and paddle boarding. South Beach boardwalk is a perfect place for a stroll while people-watching, and the plethora of restaurants and bars overlooking the beach offer everything from fine dining to handmade sandwiches for the beach.

Evenings see colorful cocktails and chic martinis make their appearances as the stars come out to play. For something less glamorous, head to Haulover Park for a game of golf or tennis, excellent fishing, and bicycle rides along the coast.

The Zoological Wildlife Foundation (ZWF) is an appointment-only zoo that specializes in intimate, interactive, and hands-on guided wildlife tours that aim to educate visitors about rare and endangered animal species in both captivity and the wild. Spanning five acres of lush landscape that is home to a range of endangered and rare species, including the white African lion, snow leopard, binturong, and the exceptionally rare Amur leopard, the park provides invaluable insight into the importance of wildlife conservation and education.

Tours at the Zoological Wildlife Foundation include interactive encounters with some of the animals, such as feeding camels, lemurs, toucans, and more, as well as an up-close-and-personal interaction with some of the world’s most beautiful felines in the contemporary Encounters Amphitheater. End your tour with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of an individual experience with one of the baby felines.

Address: 16225 SW 172nd Ave, Miami, Florida 33187, Phone: 305-969-3696

Originally settled in the 1800s, Coconut Grove is the oldest continuously inhabited community in Miami and remains a charming, bayside village in the heart of Miami’s bustling urban vibe. Coconut Grove’s pedestrian-friendly village center is lined with sunny sidewalk cafes, elegant art galleries, and stylish, independent boutiques, giving the small village a laid-back bohemian charm. Sip coffee in the sun and relax at one of the cafés as you watch the world stroll by.

Coconut Grove enjoys some open-air parks with views over the bay, such as Kennedy Park, Peacock Park, and the Barnacle Historic State Park, where hiking, biking, and picnicking can be enjoyed.

The area also boasts CocoWalk, a large multi-level entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife, and a major attraction for both locals and tourists. An afternoon exploring Coconut Grove is one of the best things to do in Miami.

Jungle Island is a contemporary and interactive zoological park in Watson Island, where visitors of all ages can get up close to a variety of extraordinary animals and birds from all around the world.

Founded in 1936 as Parrot Island with the idea that birds could “fly free,” Jungle Island has evolved to include a wealth of animals as well and now features a range of exotic wildlife, including rare twin orangutans and the world’s only trained cassowary. The theme park features a variety of exciting and interactive exhibits, displays, and habitats in which the animals and birds live.

The Parrot Bowl features an impressive array of birds from around the globe, including the Andean condor and the king vulture, while the Serpentarium is a reptilian heaven, with snakes, lizards, and snapping turtles.

Visit Hercules, the 900-pound liger (a cross between a lion and a tiger), watch the fascinating "Tale of the Tiger" in the modern Jungle Theater, or head to the petting zoo where the kids can interact with a number of domestic and exotic animals, including red kangaroos.

Address: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trl, Miami, Florida 33132, Phone: 305-400-7000

Painting with a Twist is a unique and fun way to spend an evening learning how to paint and enjoying a drink with friends under the expert guidance of lively instructors. A franchise of the original Corks N Canvas, Painting with a Twist offers step-by-step instruction in the art of painting in a friendly, fun-filled, and relaxed environment.

Public classes range from two to three hours and cups, paint, paint brushes, canvas, and professional art instructors are provided-guests just need to bring their own wine and creativity. Private classes and special events can be arranged, and each month, studios raise funds for various charities in the region.

Address: 2399 SW 22nd ST, Miami, FL 33145, Phone: (305) 204-6964

Committed to wildlife conservation and the rehabilitation of injured or orphaned sea creatures, the Miami Seaquarium offers visitors a unique take on a traditional aquarium. Yes, you will be able to admire a wide cross-section of marine life in various tanks, but you can also enjoy some remarkable up-close-and-personal animal interactions, like Meeting a Dolphin or even swimming with these remarkable sea creatures if you book ahead.

Other experiences include touching a variety of animals in the petting pool and stingray pool, meeting a penguin on Penguin Isle or joining a Seal Swim. You will also see and learn about gravely endangered animals like the Manatee and several species of sea turtle.

Address: Miami Seaquarium, 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149, 305-361-5705

Located on the 16th floor of the Kimpton EPIC Hotel on Biscayne Boulevard Way, Area 31 Restaurant offers a Miami dining experience you do not want to miss. There are sweeping views over the water from every angle. The innovative cuisine at the restaurant is prepared using the freshest local sustainably sourced ingredients.

A rooftop herb garden supplies fresh herbs to the restaurant and bar. There is a wonderful Terrace Lounge, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the sights of Miami. The restaurant serves daily breakfast, a light pool-side lunch menu, dinner and weekend brunch. Delicious artisan cocktails are a must.

Address:270 Biscayne Blvd Way, Miami, FL 33131, Phone: 305 424 5234

Once Miami's grandest silent movie palace and Vaudeville house, today, the Olympia Theater is one of Miami’s top entertainment venues, hosting an array of live performances, films, and social events.

Opened in 1926 and located at the Gusman Center, the Olympia Theater rests in the heart of a thriving urban center, playing an important role in the revival of the area.

The theater has played host to a number of exciting performers in the arts and entertainment industry throughout history, including cultural icons such as Luciano Pavarotti, B.B. King, and Elvis Presley, who have wooed fans under the stars.

If you are looking for romantic date night ideas in Miami, watch a show at the Olympia Theater. The theater is easily accessible via public transport (rail and road) and is surrounded by a wealth of restaurants, cafés, bars and clubs to enjoy dinner or drinks after a show.

Address:174 E. Flagler Street, Miami, Florida 33131, Phone: 305-374-2444

The Wynwood Arts District has evolved from a dilapidated and run-down district into one of the city’s most vibrant and eclectic art scenes. Home to more than 70 art galleries, featuring local and international works, an array of retails stores, antique shops, buzzing bars and quirky cafés, the Wynwood Arts District also boasts one of the largest open-air street-art installations in the world.

Neglected warehouses, unused buildings, and shuttered factories have been rehabilitated and transformed into modern complexes housing art galleries, performing art spaces, and other creative businesses, as well as restaurants, cafés, wine bars, and pubs.

Every second Saturday of the month sees a popular Art Walk through the District and has been hosting the Art Basel Fair every year since 2002.

Find more to explore with this fun illustrated map of Miami.