20+ FUN Things to Do in Miami for Adults (Perfect for 1st-Time Visitors!)

Plan the perfect trip to the Magic City with our guide to 20+ Fun Things to do in Miami for adults inc. where to stay, eat + day trip ideas!

Miami remains one of the trendiest and most-visited cities in the United States. With its diverse cultural influence and rich heritage, it is home to the largest Latin American population in the world outside of Latin America and has a rich Cuban history that dates back to the 1960s.

While you may think that the beaches in Miami are its main drawing point, there’s actually so much more to do. And a fun fact for you: Miami is home to the very first Burger King!

Regardless of what kind of experience you want to have in Miami, it’ll have something that is to your liking. To help you plan out your visit to this lively city, everything you need to know will be included in this Miami Travel Guide. We’re talking about how to get around, where (and what) to eat, day trip ideas, and the most fun things to do in Miami for adults (perfect for first-timers!) Get started planning your next – or first – Miami adventure right here!

Disclaimer: Almost all posts on this site contain affiliate links, and this one about 20+ FUN Things to do in Miami Florida (Perfect for first-time visitors) is no different. This means that if you click on any of the links in this post (and make a purchase) I may receive a small commission at absolutely no cost to you. Each post is carefully crafted to (hopefully!) answer all your questions and recommendations are made where we believe they will improve your trip and help with your planning. As such we thank you in advance should you decide to click & buy. Read my full Disclosure here.

GENERAL TRAVEL INFO FOR VISITORS TO THE USA

Visa: Travelers from countries that are members of the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) do not require a visa when visiting the USA. However, it is recommended to check up-to-date visa entry requirements before your visit regardless of what country you are coming from to avoid issues and concerns on the date of your travel.

Currency: The official currency in Miami Florida is the U.S. dollar or American dollar ($, USD, US$).
You can withdraw currency from ATMs using your local bank card or a designated travel card. If you are visiting from another country, be sure to check any fees and charges from your bank prior to using it and carry a second source of payment/cash in case your primary card gets ‘eaten’ by an ATM.

Language: English is the primary and most widely spoken language in the USA (although not the official one at the Federal level!) There are 350 other languages spoken, the main ones being Spanish, Chinese, French, and Vietnamese.

WiFi/Internet Access: Depending on your length of stay, you can either purchase a local sim card (in advance or on arrival) – to swap out with the one in your own phone to avoid roaming charges. OR, grab a pay as you go portable Wifi Devices which means you can keep your sim active and connect wirelessly. Just remember to turn off data roaming so you don’t incur any hefty charges.

Essential Miami Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Getting Around Miami

It’s known that the traffic in Miami is one of the worst in the United States — so it could be worth skipping the car rental, particularly if you’ll be staying in the downtown area or around Miami Beach. The great thing is, public transport is easily accessible and convenient in Miami, so you won’t have to worry about getting lost. The popular tourist destinations like South Beach are also pedestrian-friendly, and you can also rent bicycles and segways to get around.

You can get anywhere you need to on Miami’s Metrobus, which covers 95 routes throughout the county. That, or the above-ground Metrorail which covers the more populated areas, and the Metromover, a free service that covers in and around the downtown area. There are also free trolley services between popular areas that connect with the Metrobus and Metrorail, which can be a great option for traveling to events where parking is harder to find.

Uber and Lyft are also great options for ride-sharing, especially if you’ll be heading somewhere where parking will be difficult (and expensive).

RELATED: See our 15 Top Tips for Visiting Miami on a Budget.

Where to Eat in Miami

Miami’s culinary scene is a combination of tourist-approved eateries, local favorites, and chef-run establishments. And whether you’re looking for something with an expensive tasting menu or looking for some delicious Cuban food in Little Havana, or even looking for a family-run spot, you can find it in Miami. Here are some of our favorites:

Knaus Berry Farm – the best cinnamon rolls you will ever eat, just make sure you get here early or you’ll be in line for at least half an hour
La Carretta – a quintessential must-try spot in Miami, serving up typical Cuban sandwiches (a mixture of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and mustard served warm in-between Cuban bread)
Balloo – located in the heart of downtown, this spot has a menu that draws from the chef’s Caribbean and Asian background. If you’ve never tried bull or goat, here’s where to start.

KYU – this is one of the toughest spots in Miami to nab a booking, so you know it’s popular. The modern Asian eatery has also been nominated for a variety of awards and is one of the trendiest places for a night out.
Time Out Miami – This culinary destination brings together the city’s top chefs and culinary talents under one roof, offering a unique and diverse dining experience. With over 18 eateries to choose from, visitors can indulge in a variety of cuisines and flavors. The market also features a rooftop bar, art installations, and live events, making it an ideal destination for a night out.

Where to Stay in Miami

Miami is so large that you’ve got plenty of options. If you want the metropolitan vibe, stay in downtown Miami. Interested in being immersed in the Cuban culture? Stay in Little Havana. Or if you want to be in the heart of the action and right on the beach, South Beach Miami is your go-to. Whatever you choose, there’s no wrong choice, really.

Luxury ($$$) – The Setai Miami Beach: the award-winning luxury hotel will place you right in the heart of Miami Beach (that is if you ever end up leaving the beautiful resort).
Mid-Range ($$) — Shore Club South Beach: a fresh, modern hotel located on South Beach with plenty of amenities, including an infinity pool.
Budget ($) – Hampton Inn & Suites Miami (Brickell/Downtown): located near the airport and the beach, this is a great affordable (and safe) place to stay.

20+ Fun Things to do in Miami Florida

South Beach

No trip to Miami is complete without going to the beach to relax — and the best part is, there’s something for every preference. If you want to be right in the middle of the action, South Beach and South Pointe Park is perfect and would be our recommendation for first-time visitors to Miami.

Be sure to also explore the Art Deco buildings in the Art Deco District (here’s a great Art Deco walking tour – or one that includes cocktails to help you experience the best of the area). You can also stop for a streetside lunch or evening meal (it comes alive after dark) – with all this it’s no wonder it’s one of the top Miami attractions.

VISITING FLORIDA? EXPLORE MORE OF THE STATE WITH OUR GUIDES:
– The Ultimate Florida Bucket List: 20+ Incredible Things to do in Florida
– Best Things to do in Orlando for Adults (That Aren’t Theme Parks) + Orlando Travel Tips
– Top Things to do in Jacksonville, FL (Perfect for First Timers)
– 15 Best Things to do in Fort Lauderdale
– 7 Best Florida Road Trips
AND
– Incredible Day Trips from Orlando Florida

Bayside Marketplace

The Bayside Marketplace located along Miami’s waterfront is home to over 150 specialty and tourist shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as many chain stores visitors will recognize. Be sure to head here for your retail fix! The outdoor style mall has a fun and lively vibe, with daily live music – so you can find all sorts of entertainment by the bay.

Enjoy the Ocean

It’s no surprise that some of the best things to do in the Magic City revolve around being on, in or near to the water. And besides enjoying the beautiful beaches, there are also heaps of fun water-based activities to enjoy in Miami.

Whether you want to take a sightseeing cruise on the waters looking at the homes of the rich and famous on Millionaires Row or enjoy a sunset cruise on the water; go underwater on a snorkeling tour or deep sea fishing trip; blast around on a jet-ski, speedboat or a banana boat; or soar above the water as you parasail above Biscayne Bay or give FlyBoarding a go! Take your pick from some of Miami’s top outdoor activities for adults below:

Millionaire’s Row Cruise (inc. the Venitian Islands) – it’s one of – if not the most popular tour in Miami!
Biscayne Bay & South Beach Sunset Cruise
Cross the divide between land and water on the family-friendly Miami Duck Tour
For the adrenaline junkies enjoy a speed boat tour, a jet boat ride or hold on tight on the Banana Boat!
Soar to new heights as your go Parasailing or Flyboarding above Biscayne Bay
Hire a jet-ski for 60 minutes of high-speed fun; or take a 2.5-hour jet ski tour and explore the coral reefs of Biscayne National Park with a guide.
Go deepsea fishing.

Miami Design District

The Miami Design District is known for luxury fashion, highend shops, boutique shops & cafes, sleek modern architecture, upscale interior design stores, and art galleries. Not to mention is home to it’s share of restaurants with celebrity chefs at the helm.

Public art dots the area with the Institute of Contemporary Art (also known as the Museum of Contemporary Arts), housed in an ultra-modern building, at its center. Be sure to have your camera. There are lines, shapes, and features just begging to be photographed.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The museum and gardens (formerly the Deering Estate) are arguably Miami’s number one tourist attraction. With its Italian Renaissance-style villa in the middle of a lush Coconut Grove that spans 43 acres, it’s one of the best backdrops of the city (you’ll often find it being used in photoshoots), and the venue is also packed with free events. Head over for some waterfront yoga, jazz-age parties, and even some family-friendly activities for kids.

Frost Museum of Science (formerly the Miami Science Museum)

Established in 1950, The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science (formerly the Miami Science Museum) has a wide range of exhibits on display, including physics, biology, and chemistry. Many of them are interactive and hands-on, so it’s bound to be a truly immersive experience. They regularly change their exhibits, offering new themes and displays, so don’t be surprised if you want to make multiple trips there!

RELATED: If you love science and nature, be sure to include the Miami Seaquarium and Zoological Wildlife Foundation on your visit to Miami.

See a Film at Coral Gables Art Cinema

The Coral Gables Art Cinema in Miami is a must-visit for movie enthusiasts, especially adults looking for a unique and immersive experience. The theater’s cozy lobby is adorned with vintage film posters and quirky decorations, and the friendly staff make visitors feel right at home. The plush seats and intimate setting provide a sense of exclusivity and make attendees feel like they’re part of a small, tight-knit community of film lovers.

The cinema’s impressive selection of films sets it apart from other theaters, offering everything from classic arthouse flicks to the latest indie darlings. But what truly makes the Coral Gables Art Cinema special is the sense of community that permeates every aspect of the experience. Both the staff and the audience members are passionate about cinema, creating a shared love and appreciation for the art form.

Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden

Get in touch with nature at Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden, which is home to a collection of rare tropical plants. You can go there anytime, too, because the gardens are open every day of the year, except for Christmas Day. See if you can recognize the different vines and flowering trees while you’re there, and be sure to take a look at the special Richard H Simons Rainforest.

RELATED – Explore more of the USA with our 30 TOP Places to Visit in the USA – which includes New York City, Key West, Key Largo & New Orleans (but you’ll need to click the link to find out the rest!)

Ancient Spanish Monastery

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Miami, head to North Miami and explore the peaceful grounds of the Ancient Spanish Monastary that you can find there.

Shipped from Spain in the 12th Century and reconstructed where it stands today, it’s lanterns on the garden paths, statues and fountains, stained glass, carved ceilings, columns and arches takes visitors back in time to medieval Europe.

See Miami from Above

If you’re visiting Miami for a special occasion, or just want to do something really unique, you can head to the skies for an incredible view of the Magic City. See all of Miami’s main attractions from above with commentary from your pilot on either a luxury 30-minute helicopter tour, a 30 minute light aircraft flight above downtown Miami & South Beach, or 60 minutes small aircraft scenic flight across the entire city. Or step it up again with a Sea Plane Tour. The choice is yours!

Skyview Miami Observation Wheel

If you’d prefer to keep your feet (mostly) on the ground, the Skyview Miami Observation Wheel may be a better option for an aerial adventure.

Offering a captivating aerial perspective of Miami’s iconic skyline and waterfront and views that extend across Biscayne Bay and the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, it provides a serene and memorable experience, perfect for couples seeking a romantic evening or friends looking to admire Miami’s beauty from a unique vantage point.

Check Out The Olympia Theater

No theater is as iconic as the Olympia Theater on Flagler Street in Miami, which shows a range of performances and events throughout the year ranging from concerts to comedy. The theater has a distinct look, with breathtaking balconies and columns in its interior.

Venetian Pool

Yes, the Venetian Pool may get crowded on a hot day. However, located just outside of Miami, it’s a little taste of Venice and is a must-visit if you’ve never been before! The pool was built in 1923 out of a coral rock quarry and attracts thousands of visitors every year, holding 820,000 gallons of underground spring water.

Wynwood Walls

The collection of street art at Wynwood Walls is one of the most impressive out there, with rows and rows of colorful murals. This hidden gem is completely free to look at too, but a guided tour in a golf buggy is a great way to enjoy the Wynwood art district with a bit of local commentary! So grab your camera and get ready to take some awesome snaps.

And if you can’t get enough of art, be sure to add the Pérez Art Museum Miami (also known as PAMM) to your list!

RELATED: If you’re interested in Street Art, take a peek at our guide to the Best Street Art Cities in the world!

Little Havana

Take a trip over to Little Havana for some Latin music, open-air social areas, street art, and restaurants with a touch of cultural flavor. Once you’re in the midst, you’ll feel completely immersed in the distinctive atmosphere.

While Calle Ocho is known as the heart of Little Havana and setting for most of the action, you’ll find that the district is slowly spreading out into the surrounding streets. We highly recommend joining a Little Havana Food, Culture, Mojito & Street Art Tour to get the best of what the area has to offer with the help of a local!

Miami Nightlife

No trip to Miami is complete without checking out the nightlife — it’s talked about for a reason. When the sun goes down, Miami comes to life. Sip on some fancy cocktails at Sugar, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city, and then head to one of the popular spots such as E11EVEN or LIV.

3 Day Trips from Miami

Bimini

Did you know that you can take a day trip to the Bahamas from Miami? All you need to do is jump aboard the high-speed ferry early in the morning, and you’ll be on the coast of the Bahamas and docked in at Bimini by lunch.

Spend the day taking a stroll along the white sand beaches and swimming in the crystal clear ocean, or hire snorkels, jet skis, and paddleboards from vendors along the beach.

Everglades National Park

The Everglades in South Florida are home to dozens of endangered species including the Florida panther, the West Indian manatee, and the leatherback turtle (and over 20,000+ alligators, obviously!), and spans 1.5 million acres. It’s a wetland preserve that lies just south-west of Miami city.

It’s truly an incredible experience witnessing the mangrove tunnels by airboat ride on an Everglades airboat tour, and you can take a guided airboat tour that will provide you insight into the ecosystems.

Key West Day Trip

The journey to Key West from Miami will take you over 43 bridges and across 31 islands, and takes around four hours (but perhaps longer if you stop to marvel at the scenery of the Florida Keys!). Once you’re in Key West, enjoy the Caribbean vibes, luxury dining, and high-end retail stores. (And if you don’t have a car, there are some great tours to Key West that can take all the hassle out of organizing your day trip)

The city is home to several museums including the Mel Fisher Museum, the Light House Museum, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, and even Ernest Hemingway’s former home, which has been turned into a museum.

Miami is one of the most vibrant and liveliest cities in North America, it may feel like you will never have enough time there! We guarantee that you will be back for more, so keep this guide in mind when you want to come back for more.

We hope this guide to 20+ Fun Things to do in Miami for Adults (which are perfect for First-Time Visitors) has been a huge help in planning your trip, and if you know of anyone else that needs a little bit of inspiration or assistance in planning their Miami city getaway, please be sure to share on social media: Facebook, Flipboard, Twitter or grab one of the images from below for Pinterest. And remember – sharing is charing (and we thank you in advance!)

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