Even if you only have a brief visit to Miami Beach, you can still take advantage of some of the best experiences this exciting city has to offer. Miami Beach is a fantastic destination with a lot to discover. Here’s a breakdown of what to do in Miami Beach, whether you have 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days
For a 1-day trip
Start your day at Bayside Marketplace, one of Miami’s most iconic spots. Take a stroll along the bay and enjoy a frozen daiquiri while browsing the many shops and kiosks. You’ll also find daily live music and entertainment.
Next, head to South Beach, where you can experience the heart of Miami. Bask in the sun, take a tour of historic art deco hotels, and have lunch at one of the many Ocean Drive cafes. Shop at trendy boutiques, rub elbows with celebrities at dinner, and dance the night away at the hottest clubs, all within a few blocks.
Don’t forget to visit Lincoln Road, a newly renovated street with art galleries, funky shops, and chic restaurants if you haven’t brought your own, rent inline skates to get around with ease.
For a 2-day trip
On your second day, take a break from the hustle and bustle of South Beach and head out to Key Biscayne to soak up the sun on palm-lined beaches. Visit Crandon Park and the Miami Seaquarium for an up-close look at marine life. Also, explore the stunning Italian Renaissance-style villa and formal gardens on Biscayne Bay, known as Vizcaya.
In the late afternoon, take a drive down Bayshore Drive to downtown Coconut Grove, a charming artists’ colony with eclectic boutiques, fun cafes and restaurants, and tropical foliage. End your day at CocoWalk, a lively open-air marketplace with shops, restaurants, movies, and nightlife.
For a 3-day trip
Take some time on your third day to explore Miami’s subtropical flora and fauna. Visit the Parrot Jungle and Gardens, a bird sanctuary and botanical garden, or explore Metrozoo, a 300-acre cageless animal exhibit and botanical garden. The Fairchild Tropical Garden is also worth a visit, a world-renowned botanical garden and conservatory.
Alternatively, visit the Everglades National Park, one of Miami’s most natural attractions. You can enter from two popular entrances, Shark Valley on the Tamiami Trail or the Royal Palm Visitor Center off the last southern exit of the Florida Turnpike. Walk the boardwalks and trails and experience the unique river of grass firsthand.
Finally, end your trip with a romantic walk along Lincoln Road, where you can enjoy a candlelight dinner and soak up the magic of Miami Beach at night. In any case, whether you have 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days to spend in Miami Beach, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this vibrant and exciting city.
