The Perfect Miami Itinerary for a Weekend or More (2024)

Miami is an incredible city to visit with so many things to do. From exploring the culture and food scene to soaking up some sun at one of the many beautiful beaches, Miami is a must-visit destination in Florida. 

Being married to someone for over a decade who was born and raised in Miami, I have visited Miami over a dozen times. Each time, I’ve had the chance to explore a bit more of this captivating and enchanting city!

I love visiting Miami. It’s always such a lively and fun destination – not to mention it’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. The city is constantly developing new unique neighborhoods with an exciting variety of restaurants, coffee shops, and trendy boutiques. It’s an incredible place for a weekend getaway as a solo traveler or a weeklong vacation with family and friends. 

This post will detail the best options for a weekend in Miami itinerary, including a 2-day Miami itinerary, a 3-day Miami itinerary, and a 4-day Miami itinerary. For those who are looking for a longer stay, you’ll also find a unique 5-day itinerary for Miami! 

2 Days in Miami

If you are spending only 2 days in Miami, you’ll want to focus on the top sites like Miami Beach, the Art Deco District, and Little Havana.

Day 1: Visit Miami’s Famous Beaches and Art Deco District

Art Deco District

Start your trip to Miami by heading to the Art Deco Miami Beach District. This historic neighborhood in South Beach has a variety of different buildings that were originally built between 1925 and 1940. On top of their rich history, these buildings are also colorful, glamorous, and extremely picturesque. 

This neighborhood features an Art Deco style that became popular in the 1920s. Most of the architecture is based on basic geometric shapes, tropical colors, and neon lighting – giving them a unique, Miami vibe. 

You can explore the Art Deco District on your own, but you’ll get much more out of it by taking a guided walking tour. This Art Deco Walking Tour is a great way to see the unique architecture while hearing fascinating stories about the area from a Design Preservation League guide.

If you’re visiting Miami in January, I highly recommend stopping by the Art Deco Weekend Festival.

Miami Beaches

Of course, no trip to Miami is complete without enjoying some of Miami’s best beaches. In the afternoon on day one of your Miami itinerary, you may want to take some time to relax and soak up the sun. But which beach should you head to? 

The most famous beach in Miami is South Beach, which is known for attracting rich and famous visitors from all over the world. South Beach is an entire neighborhood in the Miami Beach area, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and bars in addition to the long stretch of sandy beach.

Another must-visit beach is South Pointe Beach, which is at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach. In addition to its sandy beach, this area also has a fishing pier, an off-leash dog area, and a picnic space.

For beaches that are less crowded and have more of a relaxed vibe, you’ll want to head further north on Miami Beach to Mid Beach and North Beach. These beaches are more family-friendly, quieter, and overall calmer compared to South Beach.

Miami Botanical Garden

The Miami Beach Botanical Garden should definitely be on your Miami itinerary, especially if you have a soft spot for nature. Located in the heart of Miami Beach, this urban oasis is a 10-minute drive from South Beach. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and immerse yourself in a world of natural beauty without venturing far from the city’s popular spots.

Admission is absolutely free! Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden spans over three acres and is home to a mesmerizing variety of flora and fauna. Wander through the grounds and you’ll come across flowering trees, vibrant orchids, over 100 species of palms, and philodendrons. 

Be sure to check their event calendar as they offer a variety of events from yoga and tai chi classes to farmer’s markets and orchard exchanges.

Miami Beach at Night

From cocktail bars to nightclubs, Miami is world-famous for its nightlife scene. There is something for everyone, whether you are looking to dress up and experience a Miami club or simply enjoy a nice dinner with specialty cocktails. 

South Beach is one of the best places for nightlife in Miami. To start the night, head to one of the area’s famous restaurants like Joe’s Stone Crab, Stubborn Seed, or Azabu. If you are looking to experience a Miami nightclub, popular choices include LIV, M2, and Story.

Miami Beach is a very safe area, but it’s always smart to book a Lyft or an Uber when coming back late at night.

Day 2:  Explore Miami’s Art and Culture in Little Havana and Wynwood

On day two in Miami, venture outside of Miami Beach to enjoy some art and culture in Little Havana and Wynwood.

Little Havana

In the morning, head to Little Havana – the center of Cuban culture in the city. It’s known for its vibrant culture, delicious Cuban food, lively Latin music, and hand-rolled cigar shops.

One of the best ways to explore Little Havana is by taking a Little Havana Food and Walking Tour. Miami is famous for its incredible Cuban food, and on this tour, you’ll get to try chicken plantain cups, flan ice cream, croquetas, guava pastelitos, mojitos, and more!

Don’t take this tour only for the tasty food, because you’ll also learn about Cuban history and influence in Miami and visit a cigar factory. It’s the best way to maximize your time and get the most out of your visit to Little Havana.

Wynwood Walls

After exploring Little Havana, head north to the Wynwood neighborhood. Wynwood is famous for its street art murals, nicknamed the Wynwood Walls. This artsy area is perfect for exploring, but make sure to have your camera ready because there are tons of great photo ops here.

You can choose to explore the area and admire the art on your own, or take a group tour. This Wynwood Street Art Tour is led by a local artist and will take you via golf cart to some of the coolest murals while giving you behind-the-scenes info on the artists behind the street art. 

Another fun option is to join a Wynwood Party Bike Bar Cawl, which will take you around to different street art murals all while riding and enjoying some drinks on a bicycle pub crawl.

This is a great choice if you want to meet other travelers or just enjoy some drinks and get some fantastic photos along the way.

Miami Design District

Located north of Wynwood, The Miami Design District is a vibrant blend of high-end fashion boutiques, luxury brands, and cutting-edge art galleries. This area is not just about shopping; it’s a cultural hub where you can enjoy unique events and exhibitions, from fashion shows to art workshops. For food enthusiasts, the district offers a diverse range of dining options, including upscale restaurants, cafes, and markets. 

If you’re looking for a unique Instagram-worthy spot, the Miami Design District is a must-add to your Miami itinerary. Be sure to not miss the Miami Museum Garage, an architectural marvel in the Design District famous for its eclectic facade designed by five different architects. Each section showcases a unique style, ranging from a playful mix of colors and shapes to a sophisticated, surreal design.

3 Days in Miami

I recommend spending at least three days in Miami. This will give you more time to get a feel for the city and will allow your trip to be planned over a long weekend. For a 3-day Miami itinerary, simply follow the 2-day itinerary above and add in the additional day below. 

Day 3: Explore the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens and Downtown Miami

On day 3 in Miami, you’ll get a glimpse of the rich and famous lifestyle by exploring the beautiful Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, sailing around Millionaire’s Row, and admiring the incredible Miami skyline.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is one of the top museums in Miami. It was once an elaborate villa, which was designed with Italian Renaissance and Mediterranean influences.

The Vizcaya Villa was originally built in 1916 by James Deering, who was a wealthy businessman. Today, the waterfront home has been converted into a museum that holds over 2,500 pieces of art and furnishings. It also features 10 acres of beautifully manicured gardens that resemble the famous gardens of Versailles in France.

Bayside Marketplace

If you want to do some shopping, Bayside Marketplace is a perfect addition to your Miami itinerary. Bayside Marketplace is a two-story open-air shopping center that is located in the downtown part of Miami on the banks of Biscayne Bay.

There are around 70 shops and 30 restaurants in Bayside Marketplace, so it is great for some shopping and dinner downtown. The area also has several attractions like boat cruises and the Skywheels Miami Observation Wheel.

Take a Boat Cruise along Millionaire’s Row

This popular Boat Cruise along Millionaire’s Row will take you past some of the celebrity mansions in Miami, like Gloria Estefan’s and Shaquille O’Neal’s. Celebrity homes aside, this boat cruise is the best way to take in the beautiful Miami skyline. 

This boat cruise leaves from Bayside Marketplace and offers both afternoon and evening trips, so it is easy to hop on the cruise before or after your shopping spree at the marketplace. 

If you prefer a private experience or with a group of six or less, you may consider booking a 2-hour private boat rental. The itinerary is fully customizable and the captain is U.S. Coast Guard certified. This may be a more enjoyable (and potentially more affordable) way to see Millionaire’s Row and enjoy Biscayne Bay on your trip to Miami. 

4 Days in Miami

Spending 4 days in Miami will allow you to make the most of your long weekend and see some surrounding areas on day trips from Miami. For a 4-day in Miami itinerary, simply add the additional day below. 

Day 4: Take a Day Trip from Miami

With a 4-day Miami itinerary, you have time to explore the city and take a day trip. There are a few day trip options from Miami, but the most popular one is going to the Everglades, which is Florida’s largest National Park.

Day Trip Option #1: The Everglades

Going to the Everglades is an ideal day trip from Miami for nature enthusiasts. By heading into the Everglades National Park, you’ll get to experience Florida’s wildlife up close and hopefully observe alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and more in their natural habitat. 
This Tour of the Everglades includes roundtrip transportation from Miami, an educational alligator show, and a ride through the swampy wetlands on the famous airboats.

Day Trip Option #2: Key West

Key West, known worldwide for its pastel-colored conch houses and vibrant culture, is a must-visit destination in Southern Florida. It was once home to Ernest Hemingway and today is a colorful and lively island town.

Key West is part of the Florida Keys, which are a series of islands connected to mainland Florida by the famous Seven Mile Bridge. When visiting Key West, don’t miss out on a visit to the Southernmost Point, which marks the southernmost spot in the continental U.S. 
This Tour of Key West from Miami includes a variety of customizable options and is a great way to see the island in only one day. You can choose between a roundtrip transfer with free time, a one-way transfer, or a roundtrip transfer with activities (such as snorkeling). While a trip to Key West is a long day trip, many tourists find it worth it to see this unique island.

Day Trip Option #3: Sailing Biscayne Bay

For a relaxing, yet exciting day trip – this Sailing Tour of Biscayne Bay is the perfect addition to your Miami itinerary. Biscayne Bay features crystal-clear waters, sandbars, islets, and mangroves and is an incredible place to go sailing. It is also home to diverse wildlife, such as dolphins and manatees. 

On this sailing tour, you’ll enjoy a relaxing and comfortable boat ride on a private vessel. You’ll get to go swimming and snorkeling in the warm waters of Biscayne Bay, as well as enjoy the scenic views from the sailboat.

5 Days in Miami Itinerary

Looking to stay in Miami for longer than a weekend? This 5-day Miami itinerary is the perfect way to experience the most of the city and surrounding areas. 

This itinerary is a bit more relaxed than the weekend itinerary options since having 5 days in Miami gives you more time to enjoy everything the city has to offer at a slower pace.

Day 1: Arrive and Explore Little Havana

After arriving in Miami, head straight to one of the best spots in Miami for food and culture: Little Havana.

Little Havana

Little Havana is the heart of Cuban culture in Miami and is a must-visit spot when visiting the city. Calle Ocho (8th Street in English) is the main street of Little Havana and is a great spot to start your day of exploring. When in Little Havana, make sure to try the Cuban coffee and the authentic Cuban food.

The best way to experience Little Havana is by taking this Little Havana Food and Walking Tour. The tour is led by a local guide, who will show you all the best places in the neighborhood (including a cigar factory!). You’ll also get to try delicious and authentic Cuban food, an unbeatable experience on your Miami itinerary. 

Day 2: Street Art and Downtown Miami

For day 2 on your 5-day Miami itinerary, you’ll explore more of the city, including the downtown area, Brickell, and Wynwood.

Wynwood Walls

In the morning, head to the Wynwood neighborhood, which is famous in Miami for its street art murals. You can wander this area on your own or take this Wynwood Walls Guided Tour with a local artist who will show you the most unique murals and tell you more about the artistic genius behind them.

Bayside Marketplace

Next, head downtown and check out the Bayside Marketplace. This trendy shopping spot has plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you entertained during your visit. There are also exciting activities such as the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel or a Boat Cruise and a tour of celebrity homes in Miami.

Brickell

Brickell is located next to downtown Miami and the Bayside Marketplace. Don’t miss out on a visit to the beautiful waterfront park, Maurice A. Ferre Park. This 30 acre park boasts the longest bayfront walk in Miami. 

The area also has some great nightlife options, such as the E11EVEN Miami Nightclub, and local bars like Lost Boy, The Corner, and Mama Tried.

Day 3: Beach Day at Miami Beach

On day 3, you’ll have a chance to explore the iconic Miami Beach neighborhood and spend time relaxing on Miami’s famous beaches.

South Beach

South Beach is the most famous of the Miami beaches and has a lively and entertaining atmosphere. This is the first stop on most tourists’ Miami itineraries. The beach has colorful, Art Deco-style lifeguard stands which make the perfect backdrop for photos. 

While visiting South Beach, make your way down to South Pointe Park Pier or Lummus Park for some time in the shade. Don’t forget to stroll down Ocean Drive to admire the unique Art Deco buildings!
If you’ve had enough beach time, you can also take an Art Deco Walking Tour or try some delicious food on this South Beach Food Tour.

North Beach

For a more relaxed and family-trip-friendly atmosphere, head to North Beach. North Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that is less crowded than South Beach. It’s a popular spot for families or anyone looking for a laid-back beach atmosphere rather than the party atmosphere of South Beach.

Along North Beach, you’ll find North Beach Oceanside Park which is a great place to relax in the shade. The park also has a playground, picnic pavilions, and a dog area, so there is plenty to do there for everyone.
If you are looking for a fun water activity during your beach day, check out this Kayak Tour of North Beach. You’ll get to explore the natural beauty of North Beach as you kayak through mangroves and clear waters.

Nightlife in Miami Beach

Miami is known for its nightlife, and the South Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach has tons of it. Nightlife in South Beach includes local bars like Ted’s Hideaway and Lost Weekend, as well as nightclubs like LIV or Mango’s.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Everglades

Day 4 on this 5-day Miami itinerary will take you out of the city and into the Everglades – Florida’s largest and most popular national park.

Take a Tour to Everglades National Park

Start your day bright and early by heading to Everglades National Park – home to some of Florida’s most incredible wildlife and natural beauty. Visiting the Everglades during your 5 days in Miami is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

The best way to experience the Everglades is by airboat. These boats will take you through the swampy areas filled with alligators, crocodiles, birds, fish, exotic snakes, and more. 

Since you are based in Miami, I highly recommend taking this Everglades Tour from Miami which includes roundtrip transportation, as well as an airboat ride, and an alligator show. The tour lasts around 4-5 hours, including transportation, but the total duration depends on traffic conditions.

If you have a rental car, you could also drive to Everglades National Park and book this Everglades Airboat Tour with a local guide. Please note that, once you arrive at the Everglades, you will need to pay the $30 vehicle admission charge.

Day 5: Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Coral Gables

Coral Gables is a beautiful suburb of Miami and is known for its tree-lined boulevards and historical sites, such as the famous Biltmore Hotel and the Venetian Pool. Not far from Coral Gables is the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, which is one of the most popular museums in Miami.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Start the morning off with a visit to the historic Vizcaya Museum, which was originally built as an Italian-style villa in the early 1900s. You’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to Europe as you explore the beautiful interior, filled with artwork and antique furniture. Make sure to also check out the vast and beautifully manicured gardens.

Coral Gables & the Venetian Pool

In the afternoon, spend time exploring the lovely Coral Gables neighborhood. It’s a great place to grab lunch and wander the beautiful streets.

A highlight of Coral Gables is the historic Venetian pool – a public swimming pool that first opened in 1924. The pool consists of spring water from an underground aquifer and has two waterfalls and cave-like grottos. 

The buildings around the pool are reminiscent of old-world Italy and give off a classy, yet relaxed vibe. It is the perfect place to spend a warm, sunny afternoon in Miami.

Things to do in Miami with Kids

Many people ask me if there are things to do in Miami with kids. I’ve been bringing my kids to Miami since they were infants, and we always find fun and unique things to do as a family in Miami! Don’t forget to pack all the best toddler beach essentials if your kids love the beach as much as mine do.

Miami Children’s Museum

Only a short 15-minute drive from Miami Beach, the Miami Children’s Museum is a hit with young children and toddlers. My boys always have a blast! The museum’s design represents elements of earth, wind, water, and fire, making the museum itself a piece of art and adding to the overall visitor experience.

Jungle Island

Located across the street (interstate) from Miami Children’s Museum, a visit to Jungle Island is a fantastic thing to do in Miami for families. It’s an eco-adventure park that combines the beauty of Miami’s tropical landscape with a diverse collection of over 450 animals from around the globe, including a 900-pound liger and twin orangutans, Peanut and Pumpkin.

There are interactive experiences like Sloth, Lemur, and Flamingo encounters, where you and your children can experience these amazing creatures up close. For those seeking more adventure, Jungle Island also features attractions like NEOSplash, a water park with fun rides and slides, and SkyWire, Miami’s first immersive zip line course.

The Miami Zoo

The Miami Zoo is the largest zoo in Florida and has plenty of unique animal exhibits to check out with your kids. It’s located about a 45-minute drive south of Miami, but you can easily visit if you have a rental car.

Where to Stay in Miami

Miami is a massive city with tons of great choices for accommodation. However, for a short stay in Miami, I highly recommend staying in the Miami Beach area since it’s close to many of the best things to do, restaurants, nightlife, and the best beaches. Below are a few of the best hotels in the Miami Beach area.

📍 Budget-Friendly Option: Urbanica Fifth

This hotel is located in Miami Beach and is only a 5-7 minute walk to the beach. The rooms are comfortable and clean, and some even have a balcony. Amenities include free bikes, an outdoor swimming pool, and an on-site bar and restaurant.

📍 Mid-Range Option: Moxy Miami South Beach

Located only a short, 3-minute walk to South Beach, this 4-star hotel is right in the action of South Beach. It is perfect for those looking to have a good time in Miami!

The hotel has not one, but two rooftop pools and multiple restaurants. It’s known for its upbeat vibe and lounge atmosphere with multiple activities planned for guests throughout the week. 

📍 Luxury Option: 1 Hotel South Beach

This 5-star hotel is an incredible choice for a luxury stay in Miami. 1 Hotel South Beach is an oceanfront property with a private beach, on-site restaurant, spa and fitness center, kids club, and four different swimming pools. 

One of the swimming pools is a rooftop infinity pool that is an adults-only space, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views.

The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated. Most rooms are studio-style and include a living space, kitchen, and balcony with either city or ocean views.

Getting Around Miami

There are a few ways to get around Miami, including renting a car, using public transportation, or ordering taxis and rideshare services like Uber/Lyft. Below, you’ll find details on all the ways to get around Miami during your trip.

Renting a Car in Miami

Renting a car gives you a lot of freedom and flexibility to go wherever (and whenever) you want in Miami. It is a good option for longer stays or if you plan to visit sites on your own that are further away from the downtown and beach areas.

One thing to consider before renting a car in Miami is that parking can be limited. At most hotels, parking is available for an extra cost. Additionally, it may be difficult to find parking in busy places like Miami Beach. If you rent a car, I recommend downloading the ParkMe Miami Beach App, which will show you available spots. 

If you took a road trip to Miami from Orlando (like we did!), then you’ll already have your own car to get around Miami!

Lyft or Uber in Miami

Lyft and Uber are rideshare services available in Miami that make getting around the city convenient and easy. While similar to taking a taxi, Uber in Miami is typically much cheaper. 

In general, Uber and Lyft are safe and reliable ways to get around in Miami. They are especially good options for getting back to your hotel late at night or for getting to and from the airport without having to worry about luggage on public transportation.

Taxis in Miami

Taxis are another good transportation option in Miami. Taxis tend to be more expensive than rideshare services, but taking an official taxi allows you to take advantage of the inside lane at Miami Airport for pick-ups and drop-offs. This can be useful when traffic is heavy and you are in a rush to get to or from the airport.

Public Transportation in Miami

Miami has three main modes of public transportation: the Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus. These three options can take you to a variety of places in Miami, including the airport, downtown area, Miami Beach, and other main sites. Taking public transportation is also by far the most affordable way to get around Miami.

Miami Metrorail

The Miami Metrorail is a 25-mile rail system that can get you quickly to places like downtown, Kendall, and the Miami Airport. Metrorail fares start at $2.25, making it an affordable way to get around Miami.

Miami Metromover

If you are in the downtown area, the Metromover is an excellent transportation option. Service runs around Downtown Miami and Brickell and is 100% free!

Miami Metrobus

The Metrobus service has 90 different routes and connects areas outside of downtown Miami such as Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, and Homestead. Bus tickets start at $2.25, and there is also an express bus called the Miami Beach Bus 150 that runs directly between the Miami Airport and Miami Beach.

Trolleys in Miami

Last but not least, some of the neighborhoods in Miami offer free trolley services. These trolleys are fun and free ways to get around the smaller areas of Miami. Neighborhoods that offer trolley services include Miami Beach, the City of Miami, Coral Gables, Doral, and Miami Gardens.

The Best Restaurants in Miami

There are many great places to eat in Miami. Below you’ll find some highly-rated restaurants that are worth trying during your trip. If you are a foodie, I highly recommend taking a Miami Food Tour to experience the best of the city’s culinary scene.

• Havana 1957: Trying Cuban food is a must when visiting Miami, and Havana 1957 is a great place to try the best authentic Cuban dishes. They have four different locations in the Miami Beach area, making it a very convenient stop on your Miami itinerary.
• Joe’s Stone Crab Restaurant: Fresh seafood is a Florida specialty, and Joe’s Stone Crab is an excellent restaurant in Miami for a seafood dinner. This Miami Beach restaurant has been open since 1913 and is most famous for its Florida Stone Crab.
• The Local House: The Local House in Miami Beach is the perfect place to go for brunch in Miami. They also offer a variety of seafood-based dinner options and a happy hour on weekdays.
• Yardbird Table & Bar: Located in South Beach, Yardbird Table & Bar offers delicious Southern comfort foods and a full bourbon bar.

What to Pack for Miami

Miami is a tropical destination that stays warm most of the year, so of course you will want to pack all of your warm weather and beach clothes. Below you’ll find a short list of essentials to bring on a trip to Miami.

• Swimsuits
• Cover-Ups
• Pool shoes or flip-flops
• Sandals
• Beach bag
• Waterproof phone bag
• Sunscreen
• Toiletries
• Sundresses
• Shorts
• Tank-tops
• Breezy, lightweight shirts
• Light jacket
• Cocktail dress
• High Heels or dressy shoes
• Makeup and makeup remover
• Hair Accessories
• Cross-body purse
• Comfy clothes for traveling
• Shoes for walking around in

When to Visit Miami

Miami is a year-round destination, but certain times of the year are better to visit than others. Miami remains warm all year, but summertime can be especially hot and humid and tends to bring frequent afternoon rain showers.

Winter is an ideal time to visit Miami, especially if you live in a cold area (like us in Milwaukee) and are looking for a weekend escape to some sunny weather. Weather in Miami averages around 63° to 76°F and it’s typically dry and sunny during winter.

Miami is a popular destination for spring breakers during March, which can lead to larger crowds and higher prices. However, the weather is perfect at this time of year, averaging between 67° to 83°F with plenty of sunshine. To avoid the spring break crowds, try going in late April or early May instead of March.

One thing to be aware of is that Miami can be affected by the hurricane season which runs from June-November. However, most major hurricanes occur in late August-September. In general, Miami only has around a 16% chance each year of being hit by a major hurricane.

FAQ: Miami Itinerary

There is a lot to consider when planning your Miami itinerary. Below you’ll find some commonly asked questions and answers that will help you curate the perfect trip to Miami.

Conclusion

Miami is a tropical paradise that makes for a perfect weekend trip. These 2, 3, 4, or 5-day Miami itinerary options are sure to include something for everyone, from visiting the best beaches to experiencing local culture. No matter how you decide to spend your time in Miami, you are guaranteed to have an incredible trip to this sunny oasis in South Florida.