hidden places to visit in miami

19 Hidden Gems In Miami (And Secret Spots!) From a Local

By: Author Florida Vacation Expert

Posted on Published: November 24, 2022  - Last updated: August 2, 2023

Categories South East Florida

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Looking for Hidden Gems In Miami?

Miami is a typical vacation city located in Florida. Whether it is for Spring Break or just a family vacation in the summer, many people come to this coastal city for some rest and relaxation and to have some fun.

There are many places to visit within the city limits of Miami as well as in the area surrounding the city. From spending time in the ocean to visiting one of the many attractions located throughout the city, there are many opportunities for some fun in the Florida sun.

With many options for activities in Miami, it may be difficult to decide what the best places to visit with your family or on your own are. While you can stick to the obvious attractions Miami has to offer, there are some hidden gems the city holds that serve as great attractions to visit and experience.

Continue reading to learn more about some of the hidden gems you can experience during your time in Miami.

Miami Beach Cinematheque

If you are around South Beach and consider yourself to be a lover of movies, the Miami Beach Cinematheque is definitely a place to visit. The Miami Beach Cinematheque is located at 1130 Washington Avenue and is known for showcasing indie films as well as classic films. One of the best indoor activities in Miami for sure.

You are able to attend live performances held here which are hosted here alongside many art exhibitions. Once you are inside the Cinematheque, you can find many places to visit, such as a coffee shop, library, and art gallery. Some live performances held are “Aftersun”, My Policeman”, “Decision to Leave”, and “Meet Me In The Bathroom”.

This is a great place to visit year-round, but you want to get your tickets early as this is a popular destination and is only allowed to sit 50 people. If you are a cinephile, this is definitely one of the top places you should have on your list to visit.

See more: Hotels in Miami with Kitchen

Miami Beach Cinematheque/ Flickr

Las Olas Cafe

When you are visiting South Beach, you may find many different eateries that catch your eye. Some may be chain restaurants that you find back where you live, and others may be local restaurants that offer some homestyle cooking. If you want some of this homestyle cooking, you want to visit the Las Olas Cafe.

At the Las Olas Cafe, you can find more food than you could eat, and the prices are not going to completely empty your budget for your trip. The Las Olas Cafe is a cafeteria-style restaurant that has some rotating options. There are also some classic foods that are offered, such as empanadas and pastelitos. The main cuisine type offered at Las Olas Cafe is Cuban cuisine, so it is a great place to try some if you would like.

Miami Beach is often known for its party life at happens after the sun goes down, and Las Olas Cafe can offer the perfect cure for any hangover you may have after a wild night.

Las Olas Cafe/ Flickr

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Tropical flowers are an amazing sight to see. The color and beauty of the flowers help to take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If the idea of being surrounded by various tropical plants fills you with joy, then the Miami Beach Botanical Garden is the perfect place for you to visit.

Located in the heart of South Beach, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden is an amazing getaway that makes you forget you are in the heart of the city. The Miami Beach Botanical Garden consists of 2.6 acres which you can explore and literally smell the roses. You can visit the garden any day from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 in the morning until 5 in the afternoon.

The botanical garden also includes a tranquil Japanese garden. Here you can watch dragonflies and butterflies travel from one plant to another in a confined space. This little slice of paradise is the perfect place to find relaxation.

See more: Christmas in Miami

Miami Beach Botanical Garden/ Flickr

South Pointe Pier

If you plan on visiting one of the most relaxing piers you will ever find, then South Pointe Pier is the exact place you are looking for. What makes South Pointe Pier so relaxing is the fact that there is often a lack of crowds at the pier.

If you are interested in fishing, South Pointe Pier is considered to be one of the best spots for fishing. There is even a place to cut bait and a place to wash fish. There is also plenty of seating, so you can cast out your line and relax while taking in the beautiful scenic views that the pier has to offer.

The pier is open every day from 7:30 in the morning until 6 in the afternoon. You can enjoy both some adventure and relaxation at South Pointe Pier. You can also stroll down the walking paths and have a photoshoot during your visit.

South Pointe Pier/ Flickr

PAMM Museum

Located a mere 11 minutes from Miami Airport, the Perez Art Museum of Miami or PAMM features some of the best international contemporary art. The PAMM is a great place to visit for anyone who enjoys viewing beautiful works of art or anyone who takes joy in visiting art museums.

The various artworks displayed in the PAMM were created during either the 20th or 21st century and range from various parts of the world. Here you are able to admire contemporary works by various international artists, and you can learn more about the African diaspora and United States Latino culture.

The exhibitions displayed in the PAMM highlight Miami’s diverse community and highlight the pivotal geographic locations at this crossroads of the Americas. You can visit the PAMM any day other than Tuesdays and Wednesdays. You will need to purchase tickets in order to tour the museum, and adult tickets are priced at $16.

See more: Best Oceanfront Hotels in Miami

PAMM Museum/ Flickr

Wynwood Art Walk Block Party

This hidden gem is only available on the second Saturday of every month, so you want to take a visit here if that time falls during your vacation in Miami. With live music, cocktails, and delicious food, Wynwood puts on an amazing party that breaks out all the stops. You also get the chance to visit some fantastic local markets while being surrounded by some of the coolest and most amazing street art that you can find in Miami.

While enjoying some of the local art and food, you can also play some fun games while taking part in the block party. From Jenga to Beer Pong, the Wynwood Art Walk Block Party offers many activities for anyone who comes to the party.

You can enjoy the fun in the outdoors and spend some time with your family and friends. While the event is free, you can RSVP ahead of time and receive a free drink once the party has started.

Wynwood Art Walk Block Party/ Flickr

Everglades Tour

This hidden gem takes you out of the city of Miami, but it is still a great experience to visit if you are in the South Florida area. If you head west inland from Miami, you can take a tour of the Everglades. There are many companies that offer tours of this area, but one of the best and most informational is the Everglades Tour with Buffalo Tiger.

William “Buffalo” Tiger was the last traditional chief of the Miccosukee people who have called the Florida Everglades home for millennia. With this tour, you are given a lesson about the history of the Everglades area and about the traditions of the Miccosukee people.

You are also given a lesson about a special area of the Everglades that is only accessible to the Miccosukee people. You are given the opportunity to get up close to the natural habitat of the Everglades along with the animals, such as alligators , that call the area home.

Everglades Tour/ Flickr

Flagler Memorial Island

If you love participating in activities that truly get your adrenaline pumping, then this is the perfect place and activity for you. Flagler Memorial Island is an amazing area to have a picnic with friends, family, or your significant other. The only way to get to this area is by taking a boat or jumping on a jet ski and zipping your way around to the area.

This getaway is an amazing area where you can experience one of the less popular and less crowded beaches. You can either use your own jet ski, make a friend who owns a jet ski that lets you borrow one, or you can rent a jet ski from Miami Watersports to get around to Flagler Memorial Island. While you are riding a jet ski in this area, you want to be aware of where cruise ships and other boats travel as it is best to avoid these areas for your safety.

Flagler Memorial Island/ Flickr

Stiltsville

Stiltsville is another area that is only accessible by boat. You can find this hidden gem only 5 miles off the shoreline of Miami’s Key Biscayne. This area is very unique from many of the other hidden gems on this list.

The area is known as Stiltsville because it is comprised of various houses that are located on stilts in the waters of Biscayne. You can book a boat tour that will take you throughout the area, and you can enjoy the view of the houses there. You can also imagine what it is like to live in the houses in Stiltsville while you learn about the rich history of the area and the houses.

You can visit this area year-round, and you do not have to pay a fee in order to visit. This is a great place to take a look at while you are in or around Miami.

Stiltsville/ Flickr

Giralda Plaza

Giralda Plaza is located at Giralda Avenue in Coral Gables, Florida. You can get to Giralda Plaza by taking either the subway or a bus. If you want to avoid crowds, Giralda Plaza is definitely a place to visit. Giralda Plaza is considered to be a pretty great relaxing spot in Miami.

There are plenty of shops around the plaza where you can buy some amazing souvenirs from your time in Miami. While you are in Giralda Plaza, you can enjoy the view of some amazing art installations and enjoy live musical performances.

If you are visiting with your family, you can enjoy an outdoor screening of a family-friendly movie in the plaza. Giralda Plaza offers something for everyone who visits. It is probably best to visit this area on the weekends, and Giralda Plaza is a definite stop for those who are traveling with their family.

Giralda Plaza/ Flickr

Palace Bar has been a great place for people to visit along Ocean Drive for over thirty years. With a drag show every night starting at 7 pm and drag brunches every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Palace Bar is a fun place to visit.

You can watch some amazing drag queens perform in some amazing shows, and these queens show off some dance moves that many of us can only dream of being able to pull off. Palace Bar is the perfect place to start your evening or your day in South Beach.

Palace Bar/ Flickr

Wet Willie’s

The typical vacationer in Florida wants to enjoy some relaxing time on one of the various beaches. If you find yourself around South Beach, you may want to pay a visit to Wet Willie’s.

Wet Willie’s offers some of the most delicious drinks you can find around South Beach. You can enjoy one of their many alcohol slushies. These slushies range from classic drinks, such as Sex on the Beach, or some of their more specialty drinks, such as their Supermans.

Once you have your drink, you can head up to the second floor and enjoy the view of the beach while you soak up some sun.

Wet Willie’s/ Flickr

Miami is a city that has many places to dine. Many of the locations have various themes to their foods, such as Cuban cuisine or French cuisine. Otentic is one of the locations that serves some delicious French cuisine.

There is an intimate vibe to this cozy French bistro, and they have a strong focus on fresh foods. Everything that you find on the menu at Otentic is caught, prepared, and baked daily. It is amazing to think that this cozy bistro was at one time Miami’s first bus terminal.

If you do plan on eating at Otentic during your time in Miami, it is best to make a reservation as spots can be taken up quickly, and it may be hard to find a seat at this popular eatery.

Otentic/ Facebook

Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple

You can find Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple at 15200 SW 240th Street in Homstead, Florida. To get here, you can either take the 36-minute ride via the Ronald Regan Turnpike or the 49-minute ride via Krome Avenue when you leave from Miami International Airport.

This tranquil place is considered to be one of the most unusual attractions to visit in Miami. It is also an ideal place to go if you want to get away from the feel of the city. Sitting on an area of approximately 5 acres of rural land, the Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple features some of the most impressive southeastern Asian architecture. The design of the architecture mainly includes horn-like spires known as “chofas”. These chofas tend to shine golden when the sunlight falls upon them.

Inside the temple, you will find a massive 23 ft. tall image of Buddha which was professionally sculpted in Thailand and was later shipped to Miami.

Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple/ Flickr

Jaguar in Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove is Miami’s original neighborhood. Coconut Grove is known to be a laid-back neighborhood, and you can find Jaguar in the middle of this neighborhood. Jaguar is a restaurant that offers many options to eat.

At Jaguar, you have to try ceviche. Ceviche is a Peruvian dish that is typically made from fresh raw fish cured in fresh citrus. Jaguar is known to serve some of the best ceviches in town. There are many different ceviches to choose from, such as Nuevo Shrimp ceviche, Peruano ceviche, and Tiradito Oriental ceviche. Jaguar also offers plenty of non-seafood items that are perfect for people who are vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free.

This is a great place to visit with a group. With the variety available on the menu, everyone can get something different, and everyone can get a taste of foods that they have possibly never tried before. They also serve dulce de leche which is completely delicious.

Jaguar in Coconut Grove/ Flickr

If you are looking for a place to dance or party, Ocean Drive is not the only place to do this in Miami. You may want to pay a visit to Brickell. Brickell is known to be South Florida’s main financial district that turns into a party place once the work day is done.

To get to Brickell, you will need to take a journey south of Miami’s downtown. Here you can find many different restaurants to visit and many different bars where you can grab a drink. The great thing about the bars in Brickell is that they are not as expensive as many of the other bars in the area.

Some of the best places to visit when you are in Brickell are Baru, Blue Martini, and Blackbird Ordinary. Each of these places has unique foods and drinks to try, and you can enjoy the nightlife vibe of the area.

Brickell/ Flickr

Soundscape Park

You can find Soundscape Park adjacent to the New World Center Concert Hall located at 400 17th Street in Miami Beach. Known as an urban oasis, Soundscape Park offers open green spaces, towering palm trees, and some walkways. The design of the park is meant to be soothing to anyone who takes a trip to visit the park, and it is here where you can enjoy a nice calming experience while you are at Miami Beach.

There are often events hosted at the park, including exhibitions and live musical performances. You can spend some time relaxing with your family in the park, and you can take some amazing photos while you are just hanging out.

Soundscape Park/ Flickr

Haulover Beach

You can find Haulover Beach between Bal Harbor and Sunny Isles Beach. It is easy to take a taxi or a bus in order to visit this hidden gem. Haulover Beach is one of the less explored areas in Miami that features abundant parking, concessions, rentals, and restrooms.

The best feature of Haulover Beach is the sandy beach that is along the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. This is also one of the top nude beaches, so it may not be the best place to take children if you are traveling with them. You can also engage in watersports on this beach as well as try deep-sea fishing.

Haulover Beach/ Flickr

Crystal River

Crystal River is a hidden gem that is actually located in Citrus County. You can get to Crystal River easily if you are near the Tampa International Airport. Crystal River is actually a beautiful spring located in Florida. The network of natural springs here originate from King’s Bay and empty out into the Gulf of Mexico.

Crystal River is known as a paradise for water lovers. There are many activities you can do around Crystal River. You can take a walk on one of many nature trails or take a walk along one of the boardwalks. You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the natural habitat as well as see a variety of wildlife, including swimming with some manatees.

Crystal River/ Flickr

Final Thoughts

Miami is one of the best cities to live in or visit when you go on vacation. While there are many well-known and well-trafficked places to visit, you can also enjoy visiting and taking part in some of the hidden gems located around Miami.

Whether you are a party-goer or a beach bum, there is something for everyone to do in this coastal city. These hidden gems are perfect to visit on your own, with friends, with family, or with that someone special.

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36 Miami Hidden Gems Even Locals Don’t Know About

This article has links to products and services we love, which we may make commission from.

In this guide to hidden gems in Miami, we will uncover activities that you can only do in The Magic City, including tours, food, and lesser-known options for socializing. 

Even if you’re a local here, at The Beach, or even in South Florida, you’ll surely discover something new. Please leave us a comment. We love to hear from you!

We’ll look at the alternatives to the most popular tourist attractions so you can get off the beaten path in Miami and avoid the tourist crowds, many of which we have done personally.

You may also like our Miami Bucket List and other useful Miami guides .

Unique Things to Do in Miami

We’re kicking off this article in Downtown Miami ; then, we’ll move to Brickell before heading to Little Havana , Wynwood , Midtown, and the Design District .

Next, we’ll feature cool things to see in Miami’s Coral Gables and Coconut Grove before ending our whirlwind tour at Miami Beach .

Weekends at The Wharf

The Wharf  (114 SW North River Dr) is where you can attend festivals, play games, watch sports, do yoga, or enjoy relaxed drinks and food by the water at the weekend.

The Miami River locates the open-air event space; check out its schedule for up-and-coming events.

Miami Metromover 

Miami has a free mass transit automated train that offers elevated rides above Downtown and Brickell.

Its route connects the Miami-Dade Arena, Bayside Marketplace, and Miami-Dade College.

The modern carriages have air-conditioning and big windows, so you can look down on the city as you travel between landmarks.

The Brickell Loop stops include Brickell, Bayfront Park, College North, Third Street, and the Financial District before returning to Brickell.

The Inner Loop covers Downtown’s Central Business District, and the Omni Loop circles Downtown to Omni’s North Extension.

You can also transfer between the loops.

Miami’s public transport system and road traffic have always been known to be a bit of an annoyance for locals, and while the Miami Metromover doesn’t reach most of the popular neighborhoods, it does save your feet and provide epic views for some.

Biscayne Bay Cruises 

A unique way to see Biscayne Bay, Miami, and Miami Beach is by boat.

This 1.5-hour cruise  set sails from Bayside Marketplace Downtown to Miami’s hidden islands and by the million-dollar homes and their yachts!

The tour has a narration that points out the homes of the rich and famous.

The boat features two levels so that you can enjoy different viewpoints.

There are also big windows if you prefer to step inside on breezy days and a deck with shade.

Or, if you have a need for speed, consider  this Miami speedboat tour .

While everyone knows about the infamous str1p club and event space, E11ven Club Space (934 NE 11th St) is an all-weekender club for those who love EDM.

At Club Space, ginormous disco balls hang alongside plants as international DJs, such as Green Velvet, play to crowds of revelers.

The club has a terrace that lets you see the night turn into the morning, so pack your shades.

Check out our guide to Downtown Miami for more ideas of things to do in this area.

Entertainment and Shopping in Brickell

For those looking to spend some hard-earned cash, Brickell has two shopping areas.

Brickell City Centre (701 South Miami Ave) is where you’ll find stores selling clothes, glasses, jewelry, self-care products, and technology.

You’ll recognize brand names such as Apple, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Levis, spread over four floors and three city blocks.

BCC also organizes events like baby classes, yoga, and live music.

Mary Brickell Village (901 S Miami Ave) is another option for those looking to get a haircut or nails done and then meet friends for food and drinks.

Luxury Cinema Experience 

If you want to impress your date, treat them to a movie at CMX Theater (701 S Miami Ave), hidden on the 4th floor of the Brickell City Centre.

CMX differs from other movie theaters as it has comfortable chairs, a bar with hand-crafted cocktails, and meals served to you!

Miami Circle

One of the most interesting hidden places in Miami was only discovered in 1998!

The Miami Circle National Historic Landmark is an architectural feature thought to have been created by the Tequesta (South Florida Native) People, and it is said to be around 1,700 to 2,000 years old.

This makes it the only known prehistoric permanent structure in the Eastern US, truly one of the most unique places in Miami for history fans.

The 38ft circle is also known as The Miami River Circle, Brickell Point, or the Stonehenge of Miami.

Brickell Key

Brickell Key is a manmade residential island also known as Claughton Island.

On the island, you can walk the 1.2-mile path and enjoy the views over the water and Miami’s mainland.

You’ll find a 21-foot bronze sculpture called El Centinela del Rio located at Three Tequesta Point (848 Brickell Key Dr), which is at the top of the island.

The statue is of a Tequesta Indian blowing into a conch and was designed by the Cuban-born sculptor Mario Carbonell.

Brickell Key is also featured in our guide on things to do in Miami .

La Mar for Waterfront Dining

Brickell Key is also where you’ll find a Peruvian restaurant catered for by chef Gaston Acurio, La Mar (500 Brickell Key Dr).

It overlooks the Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, one of the best things to do at night in Miami .

Dining at Cuban Restaurants 

The most popular and lively place to dine on Cuban cuisine in Little Havana is Versailles (3555 SW 8th St).

This restaurant is also known as the ‘unofficial town square for Miami’s Cuban exiles.’

For one of the more Miami hidden gems restaurants, head to El Palacio De Los Jugos (1545 SW 27th Ave), where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and thirst-quenching fruit juices.

Little Havana Murals

The most photographed street art in this neighborhood is the Little Havana mural (2614 SW 8th St) by Atomik (Adam Vargas).

However, it is a little far from the main touristy Calle Ocho landmarks.

An alternative mural, which is also closer to the likes of Ball & Chain and Domino Park, is at Sushi Sake (1615 SW 8th St).

Live Latin Music

The Ball & Chain  (1513 SW 8th St) and Cafe La Trova (971 SW 8th St) are the most visited bars with live music in Little Havana.

For an alternative option, check out Cubaocho (1465 SW 8th St #106) for salsa dancing lessons and Fonda La Chismosa (981 SW 8th St) for fun fiesta nights.

Little Havana is one of the cool places to visit in Miami for music, food, and Latin American culture.

Free Miami Trolley 

The Miami trolley connects Brickell with Little Havana for free!

Again, most people in Miami hop in a car and endure the traffic or book a taxi through a car share app, but the unique option of the free trolley connects many of the neighborhoods, and it has an app with live tracking.

Wynwood Street Art

Now, we’re moving into the wild world of Wynwood .

This neighborhood changes dramatically by night, so if you’ve spent time here during the day, make sure you add socializing here at night to your Miami itinerary, too.

One of the most visited attractions in Miami is Wynwood Walls , which has an entry fee.

However, if you’re on a budget or you’ve seen the open-air museum already, you can just wander the streets around the official area and check out the colorful murals painted on the buildings, walls, and ground of the neighborhood.

Streets worth adding to maps are NW 2nd Avenue, NW 21st Street, NW 1st Place, NW 23rd Street, NW 26th Street, NW 27th Street, and NW 3rd Avenue.

Or, if you want to find out more about the work, join  this 2-hour walking tour  with an expert guide or this 1-hour buggy tour .

Party at a Speakeasy

In Wynwood, you can eat a burger or tacos, then party the night into the wee hours at two speakeasy locations!

The Mad Butcher (2300 NW 2nd Avenue) and Coyo Tacos (2320 NW 2nd Ave) have secret bars in them, cool things to do in Miami for those who want to dine and drink.

Gramps Christmas Room 

Sleigh bells ring, Mariah sings; it can only mean one thing – it’s Chriiiiiistmas.

And the great news is you don’t have to travel to freezing NYC to experience a festive bar as Wynwood’s Gramps has a back room all wrapped up in Xmas glory.

Expect Christmas tunes, cocktails in Santa mugs, and Elf on the TV.

You may also like our guide to Miami in winte r .

Like the sound of Wynwood day or night?

Check out our guide for more things to do there.

If your soul is in need of a garden hideaway, head to Lagniappe (3425 NE 2nd Ave).

This oasis is tucked away in Midtown and serves grilled food and cold drinks under plants by day and the festoon lights as night falls.

Lagniappe also has a schedule of live music.

Miami’s Design District

Is there anywhere more surreal than Miami’s Design District ?

Located next to Wynwood, the Design District continues our creative art theme from Wynwood and blows it up with its huge art installations like the 10ft SOLO Cup by Paula Crown or the Buckminster Fly Eye Dome located at Palm Court.

You’ll also find many designer stores with cool shop fronts, shaded swings for adults, and a Dior cafe here.

Sliding down a pink chute in a public garage really is one of the weirdest things to do in Miami!

Find out more about all of these delights in our things to do in the Design District guide.

You can get near the Design District from Wynwood via the free Miami trolley, by foot, or by taxi.

It’s unfortunate that one of the most hidden spots in Miami is actually the hardest restaurant to get a table at!

Boia De (5205 NE 2nd Ave) is identified by the neon pink exclamation mark at the Bravo Supermarket Plaza.

The Italian-inspired restaurant menu features baked clams, Luci’s chopped salad, pomodoro, and wine.

Tables are released every 30 days.

Good luck and buon appetito!

Uptown 66 Taqueria

Uptown 66 Taqueria (6600 Biscayne Blvd) is one of the secret places in Miami for taco fans who need a hit at 3am on the weekends!

This compact taqueria offers a succinct menu and outside dining accompanied by a DJ.

It is one of the unique things to do in Miami at night or very early in the morning!

The Anderson 

Ahhhh, The Anderson (709 NE 79th St)!

This unpretentious indoor club and outdoor bar is a favorite with its ridiculously cool interior decor, DJs in the back room, and Mezcal garden.

Venetian Pool 

Our guide to the hidden gems of Miami is hopping over to a neighborhood southwest of Downtown Coral Gables .

Technically, its own city, Coral Gables, is the brainchild of George E. Merrick, whose team built this affluent area.

It is one of the first planned communities in South Florida.

While many will head over to the shores of Miami Beach to cool off, there is a lesser-known spot in Coral Gables called the Venetian Pool.

The pool is built in a quarry, which was created by the extraction of limestone to build Merrick’s City Beautiful.

The Venetian Pool opened to the public in 1924, and you can still take a dip in it today!

Merrick House

Learn more about George E. Merrick and his city designs at the home he built!

Docents and feature stories about the 14-bed house and heritage gardens lead the weekend tours at Merrick House (907 Coral Way).

You can only visit the house as part of a tour, making it one of the more unique experiences in Miami.

Gelato Ice Pops

While every tourist that visits Little Havana knows about the gelato at Azúcar, fewer have built their own Mexican ice pop at Morelia on Coral Gables Miracle Mile (76 Miracle Mile).

There’s a 3-step process to this delicious hidden gem in Miami.

First, you choose your flavor of ice cream; then you decide which sauce to dip it in, finally, you pick your topping.

Delicioso .

Portuguese Bakehouse 

Heading out of Coral Gables and along Coral Way, you’ll come to the Majestic Portuguese Bakehouse (3340 Coral Way).

Here you can savor pastries like pastel de nata, just as you would in Belém, Portugal.

American Museum of the Cuban Diaspora

Learn more about Cuban culture in Miami at the American Museum Cuban Diaspora  (1200 Coral Way).

The museum presents art and design work by Cuban exiles.

Find out more about Coral Gables, Miracle Mile, and Coral Way in our guide.

Black History at Charles Avenue

Did you know that Coconut Grove was the first continuously populated neighborhood in Miami?

Many of its residents came from the Bahamas in the 1880s to work at the first hotel, The Peacock Inn, and the first Black community in mainland South Florida lived at Charles Avenue, which was initially called Evangelist Street.

You can still see The Grove’s first Black millionaire, Ebenezer Woodbury Franklin (E.W.F) Stirrups house (3242 Charles Avenue), which is made from Dade County Pine.

Now, the area known as West Grove is officially called Little Bahamas.

Coconut Grove Trees 

The first thing people comment on when visiting Coconut Grove is the abundance of greenery that shades the area.

Here, you’ll see century-old giant oaks, hardwood hammocks, and banyan trees.

The Grove’s Peacocks

Trees aren’t the only cool things to see in Miami’s Coconut Grove.

The neighborhood also has ostentation of peacocks that roam the residential streets, often causing havoc to million-dollar homes and expensive cars!

Secret Beach in Miami

You don’t have to head to South Beach to sunbathe, as Coconut Grove has its own sandy shores at Matheson Hammock Park (9610 Old Cutler Rd).

This is one of the best-hidden places in Miami for families who are looking for a tropical paradise in the city.

The 630-acre park also has a restaurant, mangroves, and hardwood forests.

Find out more about Coconut Grove in our guide .

Venetian Causeway Walk

Now we’re leaving the mainland to discover fun Miami Beach hidden gems, starting with one of the best ways to get there.

The Venetian Causeway is a series of bridges over Miami’s Venetian Islands.

The Causeway stands were the first bridge that connected the city and The Beach once did.

Set aside around 30 minutes to walk over the bridges and pack water, as there are no stores on the way, just million-dollar homes!

Watch the Cruise Ships at South Pointe Park

Avoid the South Beach crowds at South Pointe Park, which has its own beach, park, and pier.

This is where the cruise ships come in and out, too.

If you are looking for peace, this is one of the most ideal hidden things to do in Miami.

Stone Crabs at Joe’s

South Florida loves its stone crabs, and you can try them at one of the first restaurants in South Beach, Joe’s (11 Washington Ave), which has been serving seafood since 1913.

Stone crabs have their claws removed, and the rest of the crabs are put back in the water.

Like the sound of South Beach?

For the best pool parties, food, and history, check out our guide to things to do in South Beach .

Dine in Versace’s House

You can now stay or dine in the Italian designer Gianni Versace’s mansion on Ocean Drive in South Beach.

This is where Versace was murdered by Andrew Cunanan in 1997.

Today,  Villa Casa Casuarina (1116 Ocean Drive) is a luxury hotel and restaurant where guests can dine by the famous gold-lined pool.

Stay in an Art Deco Hotel 

South Beach is unique to other neighborhoods in Miami Beach as this is where you will find the Art Deco District.

From the 1920s to the 1940s, hotels built in the ‘Tropical Deco’ style sprung up around Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue, and today, guests can stay in these beautifully preserved buildings.

Some of the most popular hotels include The Avalon, The Leslie, and The Tony, formally The Tiffany.

We go into detail about Art Deco in Miami and the designers behind the work in our Art Deco hotels guide .

Other Beaches in Miami Beach 

Again, avoiding South Beach, you can visit a number of the beaches north of SoBe.

Surfside Beach is a public beach with on-site restrooms and a cycle path running from North Beach.

Or, Bal Harbor, once part of America’s Riviera, is another local’s favorite.

Finally, Haulover Nude Beach is, as the name says, Miami Beach’s nude beach.

There are many more cool things to do in Miami Beach in our epic Miami Beach guide.

Key West Day Tour 

If you’ve exhausted all of the hidden gems in Miami, hop aboard this day tour to Key West !

Key West is a fun destination for those who like sun, rum, and Key Lime Pie.

The tour starts early in the morning and arrives back late at night, so you get a full afternoon to visit the top Key West attractions, such as Hemingway’s house, the southernmost point in the continental USA, and lively Duval Street.

You can read an honest tour review in our Key West guide .

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Gemma is an award-winning tourism digital marketer who travels extensively around the East Coast with her partner. A career highlight has to be swimming with manatees in Crystal River, Florida!

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The article says that Joe’s “Stone Crabs”: sells “snow crabs”.

Thanks for the message, Robert! I’ve just had snow crabs in the OBX, having a memory blip here.

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Budget Travel Buff

9 Magical Secret Spots and Hidden Gems in Miami

Miami is usually popular as a place for people but it has a lot more to it than that. Even apart from the crazy and fun nightlife, you can come to Miami to enjoy the scenic views of the pristine beaches, reside at some beautiful places that have amazing opportunities, and enjoy food.

There are some exquisite hidden gems in Miami that you should not miss out on. Did you visit the zoos in Florida , especially Miami, or hidden bungee spots ? If you are planning a vacation and are worried about which Miami hidden gem places to put on your list, you have landed at the best place possible.

This article is specifically designed to help you plan out which places you should visit if you prefer to go for some off-the-beaten-path in Miami. Miami is a vibrant destination in Florida that guarantees non-stop music , legendary DJs, and pretty tide pools . If you are someone who likes to avoid the obvious crowd and go soul-searching in much quieter places, this is going to be your ideal shot.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.

Miami is a popular destination known for its beaches, vibrant culture, and soothing climate. But this article goes beyond that and is going to inform you about the attractions and locations which are pretty unfamiliar and therefore easily missed out by the tourists. Thus, if the idea of discovering those underrated places in Miami interests you, go ahead and give this article a quick read.

9 Best Hidden Gems in Miami

1.  Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple

Location: 15200 SW 240th St, Homestead, FL 33032, USA.

How to Get to Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple : The place is a 36-minute ride from Miami International Airport via Ronald Reagan Turnpike or 49 minutes ride via Krome Ave.

If you’re looking for some of the best unusual Miami attractions, this would be a fine choice. You can enjoy a tranquil setting at Miami’s Wag Buddharangsi Buddhist temple . In case you need a break from the regular hustle and bustle of the city, this would be the ideal place for you to go.

The temple sits on approximately 5 acres of rural land. It features impressive southeastern Asian architectural designs that primarily include “ chofas ” which refers to horn-like spires that shine golden when the sunlight falls on them.

A massive 23-ft tall image of Buddha is placed inside this temple. This was professionally sculpted in Thailand in shining gold and was later shipped to Miami.

Things to do:

• Go for a photoshoot.
• Explore the rich history that the place has to offer.
• This place is considered pretty great for couples which makes it one of the romantic hidden gems in Miami to vacation.
• You can enjoy a rich amount of history in this place.

2. Giralda Plaza

Location: Giralda Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134, USA.

How to Get to Giralda Plaza: You can either take a bus or a subway to this place. The transit lines are:

➔   Bus : 24, 37, CGABLE, MIACOR

➔   Subway : Green, Orange

The Giralda Plaza is undoubtedly one of the best off the beaten track in Miami . It serves as a pretty decent relaxing hangout spot in Miami if you are seeking a place where you can avoid the crowds. This place features plenty of shops and tables as its brick walkways transfer you to the very middle of many other attractions around this place. Thus, if you are planning on taking some souvenirs from Miami , these shops have plenty to offer.

• Pay a visit and explore the art installations.
• Enjoy live musical performances or an outdoor screening of family-friendly films.
• This place will be a very decent and smart choice if you are planning a family trip.
• Try visiting during the weekends.

3.  Soundscape Park

Location: 400 17th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA.

How to Get to Soundscape Park: It is adjacent to the New World Center concert Hall in Miami Beach.

Soundscape Park is undoubtedly one of the best-hidden gems in Miami if you are intended to go for a place that serves as a relaxing retreat from the city. This particular urban oasis is fully packed with open green spaces, towering palm trees, and walkways. This landscape is designed to be positively soothing which makes it a must-visit for tourists who seek to go for an unusual and calming experience.

Planning an escape to the Soundscape park is also one of the most budget-friendly things to do in Miami . Your experience here can also be enhanced with the enchanting sounds of the classical New World Symphony.

• Attend an event hosted or go enjoy an exhibition or musical performance.
• This is a popular place to be visited with family, so engage in a family photoshoot.

Tip: This place is open 24/7 which allows you to pay a visit anytime you feel like it.

4. Stiltsville

Location: Key Biscayne, FL 33149, USA.

How to Get to Stiltsville:

This place is accessible only by boat. It is 5 miles off the shoreline of Miami’s Key Biscayne.

Stiltsville is a must-visit if you are planning on visiting some of the unique places in Miami. It comprises various stilt houses in the waters of Biscayne. The collection of seven houses is approximately a mile off the coast within Biscayne National Park.

• You can enjoy the view of the houses by booking a boat tour throughout the area.
• You can even enjoy learning about their rich history while imagining what it is like to live in a house surrounded by water.
• This is a year-round destination that allows an amazing experience no matter when you visit.
• There is no need for an entry fee for paying a visit to this place. It is worth your visit if you are running short on time.

5. Haulover Beach

Location: 10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33154, USA.

How to Get to Haulover Beach: Haulover Beach is right between Bal Harbor and Sunny Isles beach. You can easily hop on a taxi or ride a bus to reach the spot.

It is one of those less explored places in Miami which is famed throughout the world. It offers a unique combination of natural beauty and tranquility, making it one of the most sought-after quiet beaches in Florida , attracting visitors seeking peaceful seaside retreats. This place features abundant parking, restrooms, concessions, rentals, and a generous sandy beach against the shores of the Atlantic ocean. It is one of the best gay beaches in Florida .

It is one of Florida’s best-known and recognized public nude beaches. You must keep this beach on your Miami itinerary . Some even consider it to be amongst the best weird places in Miami . But this is ranked to be one of the top ten nude beaches in the world.

• Go for a boat tour or book a yacht and enjoy some water sports.
• Try a deep-sea fishing experience.

Tips: In case you are planning to spend your time on a hidden beach in Miami , Haulover Beach serves to be a pretty amazing destination. This place is renowned to be a nude beach in Florida which means you don’t need to wear clothes while you are here.

6. PAMM Museum

Location: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA

How to Get to PAMM Museum: The museum is located at a distance of 11 minutes from Miami Airport.

The PAMM museum is undoubtedly one of the best hidden gems in Miami if you admire art. The Perez Art Museum of Miami or the PAMM is a place that features the best contemporary international art. The diversity of local culture in Miami mimics the perfect blend of the diversity of works in this museum.

The works on display range from various parts of the world and were created during the 20th or 21st centuries. This place serves to be one of the best secret places to visit in Miami , which offers you a day outside the hustle and bustle of the busy streets.

• Admire contemporary artworks made by various international artists.
• You can even discover more about the US Latino, the African diaspora, and much more.
• An all-year-round destination for tourists.
• Particularly the best destination for tourists who admire art.

7. Miami Beach Cinematheque

Location: 1130 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA.

How to Get to Miami Beach Cinematheque: If you are driving from Eastbound 395, continue east on the 5th street till 6 blocks to Washington Avenue. Then, turn left(north) on Washington Avenue and further turn left(west) on Espanola Way. You will discover Miami Beach Cinematheque at 512 Espanola Way.

In case you are listing down the hidden things to do in Miami, make sure this tops your list. Miami Beach Cinematheque is a cinephile’s go-to place in South Beach. Thus, if you have a penchant for films, this is a must-visit. It is popular for showcasing indies and classics. One can simply enjoy their quiet and intimate viewing experience here.

• Attend live performances hosted in addition to multiple art exhibitions.
• You can even pay a visit to the cafe, bookshop, library, and art gallery located inside the cinematheque.
• A year-round good experience is offered especially for the cinephiles which makes it a must-visit no matter when you trip to Miami.
• This place allows seating for only 50 people. So make sure that you book your tickets a bit in advance.

8. South Pointe Pier

Location: 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, Florida 33139, USA

How to Get to South Pointe Pier: The park is right off South Beach right at the tip of the island. You can either go for a metered parking or a parking garage depending upon the length of your stay.

If you are looking for some of the best and most adventurous hidden gems of Florida, you will definitely love South Pointe Pier. It is one of the most relaxing piers that you can visit in Miami. There are plenty of non-touristy things to do in Miami if you are at South Pointe Pier. The lack of serious crowds is what makes this place one of those, where tourists who enjoy quiet choose to walk in.

This place even has much more to offer you if you are interested in fishing. This pier happens to be one of the best spots for fishing. It even offers stations for cutting bait and washing fish. There is extensive seating that allows you to cast out and relax among the beautiful scenic views this place has to offer. Thus, if you are listing the hidden gems in south Miami, make sure this place tops your list.

• Enjoy some adventure or go enjoy a relaxing day while fishing.
• Go for a stroll down the walking paths, grassy knolls while enjoying the sweeping views of the ocean.
• This place is open daily from 7:30 am and 6 pm.
• Parking can get a bit iffy, so make sure where to park.

9. Crystal River

Location: Citrus County, Florida, USA.

How to Get to Crystal River: The Tampa International Airport is the closest to the place, about 74 miles south of Citrus County Florida. The place is exactly 90 minutes north of Tampa Bay .

Beautiful Florida springs are undoubtedly amongst the best assets of nature. Crystal River is one of the most amazing natural springs in Florida . It is a large network of forty natural springs that originates from the King’s Bay and empties into the Gulf of Mexico. It is one of the best-hidden places in Miami which is commonly referred to as a “water lover’s paradise”.  Thus, if you are listing down the unexplored places in Miami, make sure you don’t miss this.

• You can enjoy a multitude of activities here and you will even have a chance to see a variety of wildlife. Go for such natural trails and boardwalks.
• Swim with the manatees . Read y blog on this too!
• Visit Kings Spring and enjoy the experience of an underwater cave best suited for adventurous divers.

Related Post : 11 Best Binoculars for Travel and Hiking: Review & Buyer’s Guide

• The place is open from 8 am. till sundown.
• It is open year-round which allows the tourists to visit there during any season.

Miami is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in Florida . It is an ideally-suited destination for explorers, party people, and beach bums alike.  As you can already see, the place is also packed full of various wonderful attractions that are underrated. That is what makes these destinations your ideal go-to spots if you prefer calm and quiet spots for your Miami holiday .

Starting from secluded state parks to quirky restaurants, from unforgettable wildlife experiences to fascinating fan art museums, Miami has all of it stored when it comes to its hidden gems. This blog has listed some of the best-hidden gems in Miami for you to discover. You can also read this Miami packing list before visiting this magic city. Now all you need is to plan your trip, pack your bags, and go and explore these hidden gems in Miami according to your preferences.

Read Next :

• 14 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Florida
• Best Places to Visit in Florida in February
• 11 Best Places to Live in Central Florida
• Explore Florida’s Coziest Beaches for Winter Sun Seekers

FAQ – Miami Hidden Gems

1. what is the famous strip in miami.

A : Ocean Drive is the most famous strip and is amongst the cool places in Miami. The bustling road runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean and is lined with an array of Art Deco buildings, boutique hotels, shops, cafes, bars, etc.

2. What are the hidden gems in Flagami?

A : Some of the hidden gems to explore in Flagami are the Hollywood beach, Ocean Drive, Hard Rock Stadium, Seminole Hard Rock Casino Hollywood, and Collins Avenue Shopping.

3. What’s the coolest neighborhood in Miami?

A : Coconut Grove which is simply referred to as “The Grove” is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Miami and is generally recognized as the coolest.

4. What are the hidden gems in Wynwood-Edgewater?

A : Some of the hidden gems to explore in Wynwood-Edgewater are the Wynwood Walls, Margaret Pace Park, SoHo Lounge, Frangipani, Wynwell, Nerve Lounge, etc.

5. What parts of Miami should I avoid?

A : The most dangerous neighborhoods in Miami which are recommended to be avoided by the tourists are listed as follows: Overtown, Downtown, Model City, Wynwood, Little Haiti, Upper Eastside, Allapattah.

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The most dangerous neighborhoods in Miami which are recommended to be avoided by the tourists are listed as follows: Overtown, Downtown, Model City, Wynwood, Little Haiti, Upper Eastside, Allapattah.

ALL OF THE ABOVE AREAS WERE COMPLETELY SAFE AND HAVE SOME OF THE BEST FOOD MIAMI HAS TO OFFER- so don’t miss out of your a tourist.

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Miami Itineraries

Miami's Hidden Gems

By Angela Caraway-Carlton

March 27, 2023

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24 Hidden Gems in Miami You Haven’t Heard Of

Posted on Last updated: September 15, 2023

When it comes to hidden gems in Miami , they’ve got everything from unique museums and cultural centers to nature and foodie destinations. Even we’re ready to pack our swimsuits and come to Miami with an empty stomach and open mind to enjoy these Miami secret spots.

So, pull up your Miami trip planner (or grab a paper and pen) and get ready to save some of the most fun and unique experiences you wouldn’t expect to find in Miami!

Boat Out to a Historical Miami Hidden Gem: Stiltsville

A trip to Stiltsville is a step into a unique side of Miami’s history. Starting in the 1930s and reaching its height in the 1960s with 27 buildings, there were social clubs, businesses, family homes, and interesting happenings such as illegal gambling and wild parties out here.

Unfortunately, residents were evicted when the land became part of the Biscayne National Park. While only 6 buildings remain today, they’re accessible by boat tours for curious and adventurous travelers — which is the perfect idea to spend a day out on the water and check out some hidden gems too.

Appreciate Local & International Arts at the PAMM Museum

The PAMM (Pérez Art Museum of Miami) is one of the best Miami hidden gems for art and culture lovers. Not only is a visit to the museum the perfect way to beat the Miami heat, but it’s also a great way to dive into the culture of Miami through art “ that relates to the US Latinx experience, the African diaspora, Latin America, and the Caribbean .”

In addition, PAMM has curated global works for everyone to enjoy, from fun and creative immersive exhibitions to deep and thought-provoking pieces. The architecture is also worth a trip in itself!

Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple

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Built-in 1979, the Wat Buddharangsi Buddist Temple invites you to meet the monks, meditate, and appreciate the magnificent architecture. It’s a great way to experience Thai Buddhism and culture without having to go to Thailand!

Still, the visiting etiquette remains the same, including dressing conservatively (no shorts, tank tops, etc.) when visiting the temple. If you’re interested in meditation, the temple even offers weekly  meditation classes in English and Spanish .

Catch an Independent Flick (or Past Blockbuster Hit) at the Miami Beach Cinematheque

There’s no better way to enjoy an exclusive viewing experience in a historic gem of Miami than at the Miami Beach Cinematheque. Here, you won’t see your latest films but can catch a unique variety of independent films that encapsulate a range of genres.

This isn’t your ordinary theatre experience, and there’s a chance the films that are playing you may never have the opportunity to see elsewhere! So check  their calendar  and pencil in a unique movie night while in Miami!

Get Down at the Wynwood Art Walk Block Party

Without a doubt, you’ll experience the Wynwood Street Art while in Miami — it’s a must-visit! But to take your visit up an extra notch, every second Saturday of the month is the best time to visit because that’s when the Wynwood Art Walk and Black Party happens.

Bring your friends (or just yourself!) and jam to live music, feast on the street eats, and buy some locally made crafts. The area is also home to a lot of the most unique places to stay in Florida.

Take in the Views (or Go Fishing) at the South Pointe Pier

Welcome to one of the best free hidden gems in Miami — South Pointe Pier! South Pointe Pier boasts an iconic and less busy viewing point over the Miami coast and is a great place to cast a fishing line.

In addition, South Pointe Pier is right by other attractions such as South Pointe Park and South Pointe Beach, making it a triple whammy of a destination to catch some rays, take in the views, and rest under shady palms. You can also catch a spectacular Florida sunset from here!

Wander the Ancient Spanish Monastery

When we say the Spanish Monastery has got history, we mean it! Originally finished in 1141 and located in Northern Spain, the Monsatary’s cloisters (open area and walkways, essentially) and outer buildings were taken apart and shipped to the United States in 1925 when it was bought by William Randolf Hurst.

Yet the building was not put together again until the 1960s! Fascinating history aside, the Monastery is a beautiful place to visit to uncover some unusual history and take some one-of-a-kind photos!

Find Your Own Miami Secret Spot at the Kampong Gardens

The Kampong Gardens is THE place to get your tropical dose for the day! Find your own Miami hidden places in this sprawling garden filled with fruit trees, flowering plants, palms, and bamboo! Pair your stroll through the gardens with one of their events, such as chocolate tasting, yoga, or candle making ( check what’s happening here ).

Regardless of what you do, you’re bound to have a wholesome and immersive time at the gardens! You might even meet a local peacock!

Spend a Day at the Deering Estate

The Deering Estate is more than just a place on the US National Register of Historic Places; it’s a stunning 444-acre estate that offers tours, events, and community experiences in Miami. Come along and experience a concert, go on a ghost tour, or kayak the natural scenery. Whatever you’re into, you’re sure to find something to do at the Deering Estate.

Catch a Free Show (or Have a Picnic) at Soundscape Park

Soundscape Park is a creative urban park and gathering space for Miami events such as concerts and movie nights — all of which are free! Even if you visit without the intention of attending an event, you can stroll along the sidewalks, enjoy the bougainvillea flowers, and hang out under a shady tree. If you stay nearby, it’s the ideal place to bring a morning coffee or even your yoga mat to prepare for the day ahead!

Hang Out, Play, and Dine in Brickell

Brickell is your one-stop shop for it all in Miami! Full of hidden gems in Miami, including rooftop bars, green parks, local eateries, and shops, you can indulge all your senses and desires here. There’s even a WeWork if you need an office while traveling in Miami! Check out this  article here  and get the inside scoop on the best things to do (& best places to eat) in Brickell that you may not have expected.

Explore the Marvel of the Coral Castle

Miami’s Coral Castle Museum is one of the most unique hidden Gems in Miami that will not only visually stimulate you but also mentally intrigue you. After all, the Coral Castle is a mysterious wonder, created by Edward Leedskalin, who carved over 1,000 tons of coral rock with only hand tools, into various sculptures. Visit and admire the sculptures, join a tour, and you, too, can immerse yourself in this perplexing destination.

Encounter Wildlife at it’s Best at the Monkey Jungle

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Did you know you can visit adorable monkeys in Miami? The Monkey Jungle is an experience where guests can visit birds, gorillas, and monkeys in a thriving environment. Experience one of  their shows  where guides will interact with the animals (and give you chence as well!), and afterward stroll the grounds to see other exhibits like the birds and the monkey pool. With passionate guides, you’re sure to not only learn a lot about the animals but be impressed with the overall experience.

Enjoy an Afternoon at the Giralda Plaza

Ver esta publicación en Instagram Una publicación compartida por Giralda Plaza Coral Gables (@giraldaplaza)

The Girlada Plaza is a pedestrian walkway brimming with cafes, bars, international cuisine, and art installations that honestly almost feels like Europe – with a twist. Enjoy an afternoon coffee here or come during the evening for an upscale dinner and cocktails — regardless of how you enjoy it, the plaza is the place for a relaxing but fun way to experience local Miami.

Visit the Only World Erotic Art Museum in the United States

Ver esta publicación en Instagram Una publicación compartida por WEAM Wilzig Erotic Art Museum (@wilzigeroticartmuseum)

The Wilzig Erotic Art Museum is the only erotic art museum in the United States — so if the subject interests you, you ought to visit while in Miami! Located in South Beach, the museum houses more than 4,000 works from around the world, and includes photography, art deco, sculptures, and glass pieces. Come along and explore the more intimate side of human nature and creativity in a way you’ll only find here in this Miami hidden spot that is fun and risque!

Lounge and Take a Dip at the Historic Venetian Pool

The Venetian Pool in Miami may be one of the most historical and aesthetic public pools in the United States. Opened in 1924, the Venetian pool embraces Mediterranean architecture. It is filled with spring water from an underground aqueduct, refilled every day for a fresh splash!

To visit, be sure to grab your  pass ahead of time , and don’t forget your sunblock and swimsuit! If you’re not a fan of the ocean and the sand, this pool is the next best thing. If you take some photos, make sure to use these Florida instagram captions when you post them!

Discover Miami Hidden Gems in Coconut Grove

Miami’s Coconut Grove is the perfect escape from the city’s center into a down-to-earth neighborhood with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, shops, beaches, and activities. Come down to the first Miami suburb for the day and enjoy some rays on the beach, relax at a trendy cafe, and maybe even find some live music!

There’s a range of unique  businesses and things to do  beckoning you to visit them. If you’re planning to visit the Kampang Gardens, which are located in Coconut Grove, make sure to spend some extra time in this special place!

Visit The Circle, Miami’s Most Popular Ancient Site

During an excavation in the 1990s, development was halted when something interesting was discovered: The Circle, a historical site in Miami dating back over 1,000 years. Historians believe the 38-foot diameter limestone circle was created by the Tequesta Native American Tribe and was potentially part of a larger structure.

It’s worth a visit for history lovers, and you can even bring along a picnic to enjoy at the park. After all, it’s quite the contrast to find ancient history in the hustle and bustle of modern Miami!

Dive Down to the Neptune Memorial Reef

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This one’s for all our scuba divers out there: the  Neptune Memorial Reef ! This Miami secret place is 40 feet underwater and over 3 miles offshore. Fun fact: It’s the largest man-made reef in the world and is designed to look like the lost City of Atlantis.

And we’ll admit it, you CAN snorkel here, but being 40 feet underwater, this might be the perfect reason to get scuba certified to visit the reef up close and personal and of course, take some photos to share with family and friends.

Explore Haitian Culture & Food at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex

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A visit to the Little Haiti Cultural Complex is a great way to immerse yourself into a slice of Haiti in Miami. The complex hosts an art center and gallery, theatre, and marketplace (check out their  events here ). Although open almost daily, save time on Saturday to visit during  Carribbean Market Day  and catch live performances, art, and shop local crafts and artisan work.

Indulge on Gelato Treats at POP LOVE

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When people make multiple visits to Italy to create the perfect gelato, you KNOW they’re serious about making the best gelato they can and serving it straight to you! Welcome to one of the best delectable Miami hidden places: POP LOVE.

With two locations in Wynwood and Ave Maria, they serve fruit and milk-based gelato pops hand-crafted with love and little sugar! In addition, they serve up the most delicious-looking milkshakes, drinks, and even Colombian baked goods such as pandebono! It also has a cute and colorful design we love.

Embark on an Everglades Escapade

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Florida’s nature than visiting the Everglades National Park. With over 1,500,000 acres of land, the Everglades is one of the world’s largest wetlands, where you can see a diverse biosphere of life from birds, to plants and animals such as alligators and otters! Go on a  tour  and have it all taken care of for you — from learning about the area to being taken to see the “locals” up close!

Shop and Dine at the Bayside Marketplace

The Bayside Marketplace is one of the best ways to enjoy shopping and dining in Miami — rather than hanging out in an indoor complex, you can hop from shop to shop or from cafe to restaurant while strolling along the open-air market of the Miami Harbor. In addition, if you’re looking to book some tours, you’ll find tour operators along this walk you can visit in person to see what special Miami experiences await you!

Treat Yourself to Baked Goods at the Majestic Portuguese Bakehouse 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram Una publicación compartida por Majestic Portuguese Bakehouse (@majesticbakehouse)

While you’re in Miami, we know you’re bound to be eating the best Cuban and Caribbean food, so let’s share one of the hidden gems in Miami you might not think to check out: The Majestic Portuguese Bakehouse. Serving intricate soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods, your taste buds will thank you! Stop by for a coffee and dessert, or go all in on one of their breakfast or lunch plates. You’ll thank us later.

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8+ Fun Miami Hidden Gems To See On Your Next South Florida Trip

My favorite Miami hidden gems are fun, quirky, historic, tasty, and fascinating. These Miami hidden gems include the oldest building in the US and Western Hemisphere, the smallest US post office, and a cemetery from one of the most famous video scenes of all time.

Most Miami residents and veteran South Florida visitors will not know all of these secret places to visit in Miami so enjoy them and revel in your insider Florida knowledge.

I grew up in Miami, frequently visit, and discover new off-the-beaten places every time I visit. I am happy to share many fun Miami secret places in this article. Some of these are also included in Secret Hidden Gems in South Florida .

Miami Hidden Gems and Secret Places to Visit in South Florida

1. south florida’s funkiest architecture.

Almost 100 years ago, Opa-Locka Florida popped up in Miami as a fantasy town modeled after Arabian Nights. Hurricanes, age, neglect, and other factors destroyed most of the structures but there are still some to see. Opa-Locka City Hall is probably the highlight along with street names like Ali Baba Avenue. For more details, including tips and warnings, see my Opa Locka article.

Other things to do in Opa-Locka Florida include Amelia Earhart park (mountain biking, a watersports facility, hiking, paddling, and more), Opa-Locka/Hialeah Flea Market, and Opa Locka airport—where Amelia Earhart began her RTW journey and later served as a processing center for Cuban refugees. And if you are hungry, see below for one of my favorite fun places to eat in South Florida.

2. Oldest Building in the US

Did you know USA’s oldest building in located in Miami? Actually, it is the oldest building in the entire Western Hemisphere. Head up to North Miami Beach and visit the Spanish Monastery. How old is it? The Spanish Monastery was built in the 12th century (the year 1141). You may be wondering how and who built it in Miami. Ah, I did not say it was built here. Sneaky. For more details and tips, see my Ancient Spanish Monastery article.

3. USA’s Smallest Post Office

Among the plentiful and underrated Miami scenic drives , my favorite is probably heading west on Tamiami Trail from Krome Avenue. About an hour later, you will see one of the most unique places near Miami, the Ochopee historic post office, the smallest post office in the US. My grandparents lived a mile from here and this was their post office for 25 years.

Visit nearby Joanie’s Blue Crab Cafe with its funky bar stools—I am sure my uncles spent much time on them! Drive west another 15 minutes on Tamiami Trail to Everglades City and Chokoloskee (throwback Old Florida and untouched Florida nature spots ). Heading back to Miami, you will see several airboat operators, Shark Valley entrance to Everglades National Park, Loop Road (often 4WD only), and Miccosukee Resort (casino).

4. Florida’s Most Popular Fast Food Restaurant

I learned about this Miami hidden gem when meeting a high school classmate (and now big time city lawyer). The Miami Lakes Pollo Tropical—on NW 67th Avenue just south of the Palmetto Expressway—is the most popular Pollo Tropical location and perhaps Florida’s most popular drive-thru and fast food restaurant.

Traffic lines were so long that the city of Miami Lakes sued the property owner, forcing the building to be redesigned to have two drive up lanes. Pollo Tropical employees walk among cars taking orders to expedite the traffic flow.

5. Gawk at Miami’s Rich and Beautiful (well, at least their homes!)

Most Miami visitors crave celebrity sightings but are lucky to score a glimpse when the beautiful and powerful people enter a private room at a South Beach club. But you can also gawk their palatial residences.

Drive around Star Island and see the front gates and some yard/house views. One Star Island residence sold for $65 million. Wow!

For information and tips to visit Star Island, see Best South Florida Scenic Drives .

McCool Travel tip : Rent a boat and see the other side of the same houses. Your celeb sighting chances will increase from zero in a trillion to to one in a trillion.

6. Film Scenes in Miami

Miami appears in countless movies, TV shows, videos, and photo shoots. One of the movies most identified with Miami is Scarface . Some Scarface scenes include the iconic early scene along Ocean Drive in Miami Beach and the Lopez mansion at 485 West Matheson Drive in Key Biscayne Lopez mansion.

The Birdcage has scenes all along Ocean Drive and in Miami Beach. Also visit the cemetery from Michael Jackson’s Thriller video in Coconut Grove. And Macarthur Causeway and other fun Miami scenic roads appear in Miami Vice , The Birdcage , Fast and Furious , and many other movies and TV shows.

7. Miami Hidden Gem Oasis

Oleta River State Park is truly one of the best Miami hidden gems. It is Florida’s largest urban park with miles of trails (for biking, hiking, and paddling), ancient mangroves, and a magnificent butterfly garden. Oleta River State Park is ideal for fishing, picnics, or just escaping the city. They even have cabins to stay overnight.

8. More Miami Secret Hidden Gems

Perhaps I will write a followup article about the following Miami hidden gems. For now, I will list these Miami secret places to explore and enjoy.

• Miami City Hall , in Coconut Grove, I love the 1930s tile floor from the early Pan Am Airways headquarters
• President Nixon’s Winter White House and Bebe Rebozo’s hideout are on Key Biscayne
• Stltsville are visible from parts of Key Biscayne. It is best to visit Stiltsville by boat.
• Wynwood Walls is an incredible creative section of Miami with colorful street art and wonderful local food
• Musicians Flo Rida and Rick Ross and many pro athletes grew up in Miami Gardens (formerly Carol City). I always drive by a couple of their houses when I visit but I cannot publish those addresses. Sorry! When I grew up in Carol City, a voodoo shop was less than 1/4 mile from my house. Hialeah or the Little Haiti section of Miami might suit your mystical needs (no guarantees).
• Jeff Bezos, the world’s richest person, grew up in South Miami and graduated from Palmetto High School. Visit the local McDonald’s in Pinecrest where Jeff Bezos had his first traditional job.
• Schnebly Winery in Homestead is USA’s southernmost winery. While there sample all their tropical fruit wines. I love the passionfruit, guava, and avocado wines.
• Miami Circle in downtown Miami (on the Miami River) marks the spot of the oldest known human existence in their area.
• Old Cutler Road is the closest thing in South Florida to a country drive. It is gorgeous!
• See Crocodiles! South Florida is the only place in the world to see crocs and gators sharing the same natural space. The southern edge of the Everglades, on the drive from Miami to Key West , is the most common place but you can also see a croc (if lucky) at Greynolds Park in North Miami Beach. Look for the sign and stay back!
• Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is the largest freshwater pool in the US, built in 1920s
• Coral Castle is so quirky, well you just have to visit it
• Deering Estate property along Biscayne Bay contains 444 magnificent acres with a Tequesta burial mound from the 1700s
• Barnacle in Coconut Grove is the oldest Miami house still in its original location
• Hialeah Race Track and Miami Jai Alai Fronton are classic old school Florida throwback sporting venues
• Reno Ranch is undergoing legal appeals and such. It is the family home of Janet Reno (former US attorney general), built by her mother and survived. It likely will anchor a Miami-Dade college campus program one day.

Phew, I feel like I am just getting started. There is so much more to see and do in Miami. If you have any favorites I did not list, let me know.

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15 Hidden Gems Places You Won’t Believe Are In Miami

Miami is renowned for its vibrant beaches, lively nightlife, and cultural diversity.

However, beyond the mainstream attractions lie several hidden spots that are less frequented by tourists but offer equal, if not more, charm and allure.

This metropolis is abundant with off-the-beaten-path locations begging to be explored.

These are places that reflect the depth and dimensions of Miami beyond the obvious clichés.

Whether you’re a local or visitor, an adventurous exploration could lead you to these concealed treasures.

Let’s dive in and unravel these clandestine corners of Miami that are just waiting to impart their unique stories.

1. Española Way

2. venetian pool, 3. deering estate, 4. miami circle park, 5. barnacle historic state park, 6. ancient spanish monastery, 7. the wynwood walls, 8. little havana, 9. coral castle, 10. the kampong botanical garden, 11. vizcaya museum and gardens, 12. monkey jungle, 13. st. bernard de clairvaux church, 14. fairchild tropical botanic garden, 15. matheson hammock park, the bottom line, hidden gems places you won’t believe are in miami.

In the heart of Miami Beach, tucked away from the bustling noise and vibrant nightlife, lays an enchanting treasure known as Española Way .

This charming and atmospheric locale is a unique oasis within the city, oozing with historical significance and brimming with cultural richness.

It is one of the few places in Miami to provide a genuine taste of Old World Europe, evidencing the city’s diverse cultural influences.

The street is a tapestry of colors, with its characteristic Spanish-Mediterranean revival architecture , vivacious energy, and magnetic pull.

The signature pastel-hued buildings, fairy-lit passages, and beautifully crafted mosaics lend the street it’s incomparable, shimmering aesthetic.

This idyllic pedestrian promenade offers a different experience depending on the time of day. During the day, it serves as a haven for shoppers and art lovers, boasting an array of boutiques, galleries, and art studios.

When the sun goes down, the place transforms into a vibrant hub filled with an energetic ambiance and lively music spilling from its numerous restaurants, bars, and jazz clubs.

But the allure of Española Way is not just limited to its aesthetics. The place is famous for captivating cultural events like flamenco shows, salsa nights, and weekly farmers’ markets.

With its unique selection of eateries offering spicy Spanish tapas, authentic Cuban cuisine, and delectable Italian gelatos, this hidden gem proves to be a culinary delight too.

The area is also home to some illustrious hotels that transport you back to the 1920s, adding to the old-world charm of Española Way.

One of the key highlights of this historic district is the opulent Casa Victoria Orchid Hotel, reflecting the architectural elegance of its era.

Taking the time to watch this video, gives a glimpse of the delightful hustle and bustle that unfolds in Española Way on any given night.

It offers a truly immersive experience showcasing the vibrant culture, rich history, and the radiant energy that this gem of Miami embodies.

Exploring Española Way is like embarking on a voyage back in time, offering an escape from the city’s usual high-rise clusters and crowded beachfronts.

A visit to Española Way is an essential experience for anyone looking to discover the true essence of Miami’s cultural and historical kaleidoscope.

Considered a profoundly unique attraction, the Venetian Pool is a location like no other in the city of Miami.

The pool is renowned for its incredible historical significance , having been constructed from a coral rock quarry back in the 1920s.

This has given the facility a remarkable touch of authenticity and charm that has been preserved over the years.

The setting of the Venetian Pool is breathtaking , nestled within a residential area in the city of Coral Gables.

From its Lushly grilled palm trees to its lovely portico and bridge, the architectural impression of the Venetian Pool is a sight to behold.

It is a place that emits an unusual aura of tranquility in the usually bustling city.

Your visit to Miami will not be complete without the experience of the stunning 820,000-gallon pool that offers a mystical chance of a dip, which is fed by a spring of fresh water.

This is a special experience as this pool is one of the largest freshwater pools in the United States.

Therefore, it offers a unique swimming experience you can’t find in many places in Miami or across the country.

Apart from swimming, guests can equally enjoy the two waterfalls and grottos that add to the fun experience.

One of the unbelievable facts about the Venetian Pool is that it is drained and refilled daily during the spring and summer seasons, ensuring the water is always fresh.

Over the years, the Venetian Pool has retained its unique allure and continues to be a crowd’s favorite, attracting locals and tourists alike.

It’s also a popular site for photo shoots and weddings , with its incredible beauty serving as a stunning backdrop.

Anyone visiting Miami and looking to escape from the traditional beach experience will find a perfect substitute in the Venetian Pool.

It is truly a hidden gem that beautifully showcases the city’s history and charm.

Among the many hidden gems in Miami, the Deering Estate is one that truly stands out.

Not only does it boast of a rich history, but it also presents visitors with breathtakingly beautiful views.

Situated on the edge of Biscayne Bay, this stunning property spans across 444 acres of endowment lands, promising a rich and immersive experience for every visitor.

Standing as an environmental, archaeological and historical preservation, the Deering Estate offers an in-depth exploration of South Florida’s abundant past.

This is where you get a taste of Miami’s history , the area’s archaeological significance, and the stunning scenic surroundings that Miami has to offer.

The property, previously owned by Charles Deering, is now a cultural and natural preserve offering a variety of experiences from art exhibits to wildlife spotting.

Charles Deering’s love for art, history, and the environment is still evident throughout the property, which contains a substantial collection of historical artefacts and art pieces.

Much of the Estate’s allure comes from its pristine, unspoiled natural environment that makes it an oasis in bustling Miami.

You can take relaxing nature walks, conduct bird-watching sessions, and even spot rare butterflies and foxes on the grounds.

One unique feature of the Deering Estate is its archaeological significance .

With two archaeological sites, the Cutler Fossil Site and the Tequesta Burial Mound, it offers a rare peek into 10,000 years of human history.

Exploring these sites, you can learn about the Tequesta Indians, one of the first known tribes in South Florida.

By watching this video, you may spot the beauty and diversity of the natural areas in the Deering Estate.

Moreover, it also may provide a closer look at the historical structures and the stunning vistas that overlook Biscayne Bay.

The Deering Estate also offers the chance to explore the art scene in Miami.

The Estate hosts various art events and exhibits throughout the year, displaying the works of local artists and giving you an insight into Miami’s vibrant art culture.

A visit to the Deering Estate is not just a fun day out, but it’s a journey through time, revealing a unique side of Miami’s history, culture and biodiversity.

The Miami Circle Park is undoubtedly one of the hidden gems that Miami has to offer to both locals and tourists alike.

Embedded at the heart of Miami’s bustling downtown, it might seem like an unusual oasis carved out amidst towering skyscrapers and modern design.

This ancient site offers a unique historical perspective to the city often associated with glitz, glamour, and hedonistic beach life.

The circle itself is actually a 2,000-year-old archaeological site, only discovered in 1998 during a routine archaeological survey.

This discovery added an entirely new dimension to Miami’s narrative about its history and origin.

An important finding like this is a rare thing in a city that’s constantly evolving and renovating, and thus, it has been preserved impeccably for future generations to experience and appreciate.

Believed to have been the work of the Tequesta Indians, Miami Circle provides a glimpse into the life of the early indigenous people of the area.

The circle has been interpreted as the remains of a large structure, likely a major building that could have been used for ceremonial purposes or as a council house.

The site has been studied extensively by archaeologists and scholars and it continues to capture the imagination of all those who visit.

Due to its historical significance, Miami Circle has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Despite its prime real estate location, efforts have been made to preserve this piece of history. It has been turned into a park, where visitors can go for a peaceful walk, enjoy the scenery, and reflect on the past.

Complete with displays and informative plaques on various elements of the circle, the park offers educational insights into the culture and lifestyle of the early inhabitants of Miami.

Whether you are a local or a tourist looking for a slightly offbeat attraction, make sure to add Miami Circle Park to your list of must-see places in Miami.

This archaeological park is not only a place of historical significance but also a delightful break from the city’s fast-paced lifestyle.

The park rests along the shores of the Miami River, providing visitors not just a leap back into time, but a tranquil spot to enjoy Miami’s lush beauty as well.

Tucked away in Miami’s urban maze, Miami Circle Park is an unexpected gem that offers something truly unique and spectacular.

So, if the city’s beach parties and swanky nightclubs are a bit overwhelming, look for solace and a piece of intriguing history at this serene park.

The Barnacle Historic State Park stands as a testament to the idyllic, sea-focused life led by its original occupant, Ralph Middleton Munroe.

Indeed, this park is unique as it notably showcases the oldest home in Miami-Dade County that’s still standing in its original location.

Built in 1891, the Barnacle was the home of Munroe, one of Coconut Grove’s most influential pioneers and a notable figure in Miami’s maritime history .

This historic state park provides a rare glimpse into Old Florida , a time before the development boom that drastically transformed much of the state.

The house itself is an architectural marvel, embodying the then-popular Commodore style , complete with adaptations designed to withstand the Florida climate.

These include a main room circled by wide covered verandas that invite a cool sea breeze, and shuttered windows allowing for a mix of shade and light.

Such thoughtful design makes this historic structure an enduring symbol of early Floridian resilience and adaptability.

By watching the video, visitors will gain a closer insight into the rich historical nuances of this property.

The footage will also provide a real-life glimpse into the serene and picturesque surroundings that make the Barnacle Historic State Park a true hidden gem.

What makes the Barnacle Historic State Park even more astonishing is its tranquil setting, tucked away amid the modern, bustling cityscape of Miami.

Aside from the historic house, the five-acre park features lush tropical hardwood hammock – a vital representative of Miami’s native vegetation .

About 2.5 acres of the hammock have been left undisturbed, providing a verdant and authentic snapshot of Miami’s original topography.

From leisurely picnics on the sprawling lawn to a boat tour in the historic boathouse, Barnacle Historic State Park promises a day of fun and learning for the whole family.

Moreover, it is a captivating site for history buffs, nature lovers, and adventurers alike, as it provides an opportunity to step back in time and experience early Florida living .

The Barnacle Historic State Park is therefore one of Miami’s hidden gems that leisures and adventures are treasured between majestic royal palms, vibrant butterflies, and perhaps the occasional dolphin sighting off Biscayne Bay.

Nestled in the heart of Miami is the Ancient Spanish Monastery , a hidden gem steeped in history and breathtaking beauty.

Originally built in the 12th century in Segovia, Spain, this awe-inspiring structure was painstakingly disassembled and rebuilt in Miami in the 20th century.

It stands today as the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere and serves as a testament to architectural resilience and devotion.

Surrounded by serene gardens and ancient trees, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

This statement effortlessly captures the spiritual ambience and tranquility that spans throughout the monastery’s lush landscape.

Each nook and corner of this monastery seems to whisper tales of the past , engulfing visitors in a wave of calm and reverence.

It is not just a living history museum, but also a vibrant cultural venue that hosts concerts, weddings, and photography shoots.

Stepping through the monastery’s carved archways, visitors can appreciate the meticulous stonework and intricate designs that mirror the original Spanish architecture.

This marvel of construction and preservation is a tribute to the men and women who dedicated their lives to its creation and subsequent restoration .

The Ancient Spanish Monastery is home to the St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church, where active religious services are still held weekly.

This adds another layer of depth to the visitor’s experience, breathing life into the centuries-old stones .

When talking about Miami, people generally think about beaches, nightclubs, and high-rise buildings.

However, hidden gems like the Ancient Spanish Monastery disprove that stereotype, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural diversity .

Visiting the Ancient Spanish Monastery is like stepping back in time, stripping away the layers of modern Miami to reveal a past that is as compelling as it is tranquil.

It is indeed one of the most unique and unforgettable landmarks in Miami that any visitor should not miss.

A visit to the ancient Spanish Monastery is more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s a sensory journey that engages and stimulates on multiple levels.

It truly is a hidden gem that has stood the test of time and continues to enchant and inspire visitors today.

Among Miami’s array of attractions, one place stands uniquely vibrant – The Wynwood Walls .

This isn’t your typical art museum, but an urban graffiti and street art project that spans more than 80,000 square feet of walls.

Established in 2009 by the late Tony Goldman, this open-air gallery is free to the public and showcases the work of artists from around the globe.

The Wynwood Art District, where the Wynwood Walls are located, was once a neglected area with abandoned warehouses.

Now it’s transformed into an internationally recognized cultural hub .

Step into Wynwood Walls, and you’ll feel almost overwhelmed by color and creativity on display.

Artistic expressions range from simple messages to complex statements, all vividly presented on large murals.

The artists’ creativity provides a unique visual exploration of various cultures, styles, and themes.

The Wynwood Walls continue to evolve and expand , breathing fresh life into the urban milieu.

It’s an authentic testament to the transformative power of art.

The colorful murals and surrounding galleries, boutiques, and trendy eateries make Wynwood a must-see Miami destination.

Clicking on this link will lead you to a wonderful walking tour of the vibrant Wynwood Walls.

It’s an invigorating reminder of the thriving art culture you can discover when you go beyond the typical Miami beachfronts and nightclubs.

Every time you follow these lanes, and every time you come back, you’ll find something fresh and inspiring .

No trip to Miami is complete without a stop at Wynwood Walls, and you really have to see it to believe it.

So, why not stray a little off the beaten path? Miami is full of surprises like this one, just waiting to be discovered.

In the heart of Miami, lies an incredible enclave of Cuban culture , known as Little Havana.

This vibrant neighborhood offers a distinct Latin spirit , best characterized by the robust aromas of traditional Cuban dishes wafting from street-side kitchens, the melodious rhythms of salsa pouring out from live music venues, and the animated chatter in Spanish from locals and visitors alike.

Brimming with authenticity, Little Havana attracts countless visitors from around the world by its old-world charm and cultural significance .

A universally affirmed symbol of Little Havana is Calle Ocho, a vivid street lined with Cuban restaurants, vibrant murals, and cigar shops .

Walking on the outspread boulevard gives one a distinct feeling of stepping into Cuba without ever leaving Miami .

At the heart of Calle Ocho, you’ll find Domino Park, a popular spot where locals gather for intense games of dominos, offering a fascinating glimpse into Miami’s Cuban culture.

This snapshot of daily life in Miami is classic, giving visitors an unfiltered look at the city’s vibrant Cuban community.

Domino Park serves as a vibrant community hub , where people enjoy fellowship and camaraderie while playing a beloved traditional game.

Another iconic symbol of Little Havana is the Tower Theater , an important cultural and social landmark for the Hispanic community.

The theatre, a 1926 Art Deco landmark, has been a glamorous stage for countless Hispanic arts and film presentations.

Lastly, no trip to Little Havana would be complete without sampling some authentic Cuban food .

Across the many Cuban restaurants in Little Havana, it’s not uncommon to stumble upon spectacular showcases of traditional Cuban dishes like ropa vieja, Cuban sandwiches, and café Cubano.

Whether savored in a high-end restaurant or a quaint street-side eatery , the gastronomic experience offers vibrant tastes that linger in your memory long after you’ve left.

Consider a visit to Little Havana when in Miami as it presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant Latin atmosphere , filled with colorful murals, authentic cuisine, lively music, and the welcoming spirit of the Cuban population.

While Miami is famous for its trendy nightlife and beautiful beaches, Little Havana offers a unique cultural experience that few other places in the city can match.

Beneath the glamorous surface of Miami, amidst the glitz of South Beach and the vibrant energy of Little Havana, there exists a hidden gem few tourists ever discover – The Coral Castle.

Located in Homestead, this extraordinary monument is the work of a single man, named Edward Leedskalnin.

Built entirely by hand over the course of 28 years, the Coral Castle displays an astonishing level of precision and craftsmanship.

Comprised of numerous megalithic stones , each weighing several tons, the Castle is a marvel of engineering.

The mystery surrounding its creation – how a single man was able to lift and maneuver massive blocks of coral without modern machinery – continues to baffle experts today.

Leedskalnin, who reportedly worked only at night, claimed to know the secrets of the Egyptians and to have discovered the ‘secret of weight and leverage.’

Within the Coral Castle, visitors will discover a myriad of fascinating features – a nine-ton gate that opens with a slight push, a Polaris telescope, sundials, and even rocking chairs made entirely of stone.

These features exemplify Edward’s incredible prowess as an engineer, only deepening the bewilderment surrounding how this self-taught Latvian immigrant was able to accomplish such a feat.

His story and the mystery of his creation have spurred countless theories, including the speculation that Edward had unearthed an ancient wisdom or science thought to be lost to time.

Today, the Coral Castle Museum continues to captivate visitors from around the world, who flock to Miami with the hope of uncovering its deep-rooted secrets.

In viewing this video, you may gain a visual understanding of the sheer magnitude of the Coral Castle and its astonishingly intricate details.

It provides an insight into the life of Edward Leedskalnin while highlighting the mystique and allure that continue to surround this unique Miami landmark.

For those in search of something truly unique and off the beaten path, a visit to the Coral Castle should high on the list.

Despite the many theories and speculations, the truth behind the construction of this wondrous edifice remains as elusive as ever, adding to its intrigue and charm.

This Miami gem imparts a sense of timelessness and wonder , making it a must-visit for all those who wish to uncover the unfamiliar, hidden side of Miami.

A hidden gem amidst the urban sprawl of Miami, The Kampong Botanical Garden boasts a collection of tropical fruit cultivars and flowering trees.

Located in the quaint and quiet neighborhood of Coconut Grove, it provides a serene sanctuary away from the bustling city life.

The garden is named ‘Kampong’, which in Malay means village, reflecting the Southeast Asian influence on its landscape design.

It’s a part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, highlighting its significance in the realm of plant conservation and horticulture.

The garden houses rare and exotic plants that are collected from tropical regions around the world, making it an enticing spot for horticulturists and plant enthusiasts.

This collection includes the largest baobab tree in the United States and unusual fruits like mangosteens and candle fruits.

The ambiance of the garden is further enhanced by the historical buildings that are well-preserved on the property.

Among these structures is the personal home of Dr. David Fairchild and his wife Marian, the landscape artist who envisioned and created this paradise.

Their home, named ‘The Kampong’, is built in a classical revival style and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Kampong offers guided tours of the garden and the historic home, helping visitors to understand the rich botanical heritage and history of the place.

Moreover, its site by the ocean and year-round tropical climate provides an ideal environment for these sensitive plant species.

Visiting The Kampong, you may feel like you’ve stepped into an enchanting tropical oasis teeming with vibrant life and colors.

The fragrance from the flowering trees, the refreshing sea breezes, and the tranquil vicinity provide an unmatched sensory experience.

But remember, it’s not a commercially popular place and hence, you need a prior appointment to visit this garden.

Overall, The Kampong Botanical Garden offers a unique blend of natural, historical, and cultural facets, speculating the intriguing experiences it holds for the explorers.

Among a city brimming with vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan flair, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens rests as a serene hidden gem in Miami’s bustling landscape.

Once the winter residence for businessman James Deering, this stunningly preserved piece of history now opens its doors to the public.

The museum houses an exquisite collection of European antiques and decorative works from the 15th to early 19th centuries, providing a fascinating glimpse into the era.

Countless rooms are adorned with impeccably maintained antique furniture, European art, and ornate architectural details that elegantly reflect the past.

Art enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate the timeless beauty and craftsmanship embodied in each artifact and architecture.

Vizcaya’s beautifully maintained gardens provide a tranquil retreat, offering a stunning vista of ornamental plants, historic statues, and a beautiful view of Biscayne Bay .

The gardens were designed in the style of Italian and French royal gardens , meticulously constructed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding subtropical woodland.

Visitors can spend delightful hours strolling through lush, formal landscapes interspersed with sprawling pastures and shady groves .

Vizcaya’s wealth of history, art, and nature offers even more in-depth understanding for those who seek it.

The video will provide a virtual tour of the museum and its gardens, allowing you to appreciate the rich history and stunning details of Vizcaya without leaving your seat.

You will also get a chance to see the beautifully restored rooms and historic artifacts up-close and learn about their significance.

Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or a nature enthusiast, Vizcaya has something to offer .

The museum’s extensive collection of arts and relics, coupled with its serene gardens, create a unique experience you won’t find elsewhere in Miami.

This marvelous estate extends a true reflection of Miami’s rich history and artistic grandeur.

No visit to Miami is complete without a stop at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens , one of the city’s most enchanting hidden treasures.

Located in the southern part of Miami, Monkey Jungle is a zoological park completely contrary to a conventional zoo.

Here, it’s the humans that are caged in walkways, while the monkeys move around freely.

This has created a safe jungle habitat for the monkeys which extends over 30 acres.

The park is home to around 400 primates that hail from 4 different species .

Notably, most of these primates were brought in from Asia, South America, and Africa.

Monkey Jungle prides itself on being one of the few places in the US where endangered primates species such as Orangutan can be observed up close, due to its ‘humans in cages and monkeys run wild’ philosophy.

It helps show visitors the natural behavior of these creatures without disturbing them.

The entire experience grants a new layer of respect and admiration for these intelligent creatures in their natural habitats.

Aside from the primates, Monkey Jungle also houses a large bird aviary .

You can see these beautiful birds stretching their wings in all their glory as you amble through the park.

Another important feature of Monkey Jungle is their dedication to wildlife conservation and education .

They conduct regular educational programs and activities to spread the word about the importance of protecting these creatures.

Besides this, there’s an opportunity to learn about the research conducted at their DU/MJ Orangutan Habitat Conservation project in Indonesia.

With a special emphasis on orangutan conservation, the project shows how preserving wildlife in the urban jungle setting is possible.

Overall, as a hidden gem that Miami offers, Monkey Jungle is a must-visit for anyone interested in wildlife, nature or simply unique experiences.

One of Miami’s most intriguing hidden gems, St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church , is not just a place of serenity, but also a structure laden with historical significance.

The church was originally built in the early 12th century in Segovia, Spain and is a stunning example of medieval architecture.

Transported stone-by-stone to the United States , the ancient Spanish Monastery is a testament to the extraordinary lengths people will go to preserve history.

The reassembly of the church in North Miami Beach took nearly two decades and involved a considerable number of workers.

Walking within the hallowed walls of the monastery, one can experience an awe-inspiring fusion of history, architecture, and beauty.

Every corner of the St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church whispers tales of its historic religious significance, resounding ancient Spanish melodies, stories of conquests, and enduring human spirit.

This is why, upon visiting, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time to medieval Spain.

Whether you are attracted to the allure of the church’s age-old history or its stunning cloisters adorned with lush greenery, the serene ambiance will draw you in.

This verdant space, hidden in a bustling city, provides an idyllic backdrop for the historically rich structure.

Watching the video will give a better understanding of the magnificent architectural details of St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church.

It will also provide a visual tour of the beautiful garden surrounding it.

St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church, with its remarkable history and exceptional beauty, is a rare artifact that truly makes Miami a fascinating city.

For anyone seeking places off the beaten path, this hidden gem is certainly a must-visit.

Not only does it hold religious significance, but it also serves as a reminder of the enduring potence of human craftsmanship and the desire to preserve ancient structures.

As one of the premier conservatories in the United States, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden represents an underappreciated jewel of Miami’s cultural legacy.

Nestled within the bustling metropolis, the garden offers a tranquil refuge from the hectic city life.

Boasting an extensive range of rare tropical plants , the garden is a haven for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The history of the Garden exemplifies the deep-rooted love and appreciation for nature that defines this part of the world.

As one of the world’s oldest and most renowned botanical gardens, the Garden exudes a timeless charm with its centuries-old trees, native wildlife, and a serene lake capturing Miami’s natural beauty.

The sprawling 83-acre Garden is designed to educate, inspire, and encourage the protection and understanding of tropical plants.

Visitors to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden are treated to a wide array of experiences, from expert-guided tours to interactive exhibits and workshops.

These diverse offerings provide visitors with a hands-on understanding of the flora, providing a rare opportunity to be immersed in the diverse ecosystems that thrive within the Garden’s bounds.

Moreover, the Garden’s dedication to conservation and the promotion of tropical plant diversity is manifested in its numerous species preservation programs.

Indeed, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden serves as an important center for scientific research in botany and horticulture.

The Garden is not only a visual and sensory feast, but it also offers a variety of seasonal events that offer unique glimpses into the world of plants.

From the annual International Mango Festival to the annual Butterfly Day, there is always something new and exciting to explore at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden .

Whether you’re a fan of exotic flowers, bird-watching, or just quiet strolls in nature, the Garden caters to a wide range of interests and offers something for everyone.

It’s easy to see, then, why the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is considered a hidden gem in the heart of Miami – a veritable treasure trove of natural wonders awaiting discovery.

Located in the picturesque city of Coral Gables, Matheson Hammock Park is truly one of Miami’s hidden gems.

This tropical oasis offers a peaceful retreat and is packed with natural beauty and unique features that make it a must-visit when in Miami.

It is particularly well-known for its man-made atoll pool, which is flushed naturally with saltwater by Biscayne Bay’s tidal action.

It’s a perfect place for swimming, picnicking, or just basking in the splendid Florida sunshine .

Beyond the pool, the park also boasts lush nature trails and prime spots for bird-watching.

Each corner of the Matheson Hammock Park unfolds like a painted scene , photogenic and unashamedly beautiful.

Mingling with the local fauna, admiring the native flora, or simply immersing in the tranquil atmosphere , here, is an unforgettable experience.

The park showcases Miami’s natural beauty, and emphasizes the city’s commitment to preserving unique outdoor spaces.

It also hosts a full-service marina, a snack bar, and a seafood restaurant, which offers magnificent views of the city’s skyline .

If you love outdoor sports, there are opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing .

You’ll love exploring this stunning park; each moment spent in Matheson Hammock Park is a moment savoured.

This drone footage gives a bird’s eye view of this remarkable park. From the atoll pool to the forest trails, you can get a taste of what Matheson Hammock Park has to offer.

Get a glimpse of this amazing hidden gem. You’ll see why Matheson Hammock Park is a must-visit in Miami.

Plunging into Miami’s treasure trove of hidden gems offers a unique blend of history, culture, art and nature.

From strolling along the renowned Española Way, soaking up the beauty of the Venetian Pool and succumbing to the allure of the Deering Estate, there’s so much to enthrall one’s senses.

The ancient mystique of Miami Circle Park, Barnacle Historic State Park, Ancient Spanish Monastery and the Coral Castle beckon with their rich past.

Art lovers can lose themselves in The Wynwood Walls and cultural buffs can immerse in the vibrant spirit of Little Havana.

For those seeking respite in nature, The Kampong Botanical Garden, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Monkey Jungle, Matheson Hammock Park and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden provide charming green havens.

Lastly, the tranquillity of St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church adds to the diverse charm of Miami’s lesser-known attractions, ensuring a rich experience beyond its stereotypical glitz and glam.

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21 Hidden Secrets & Things to do in Miami, USA

Apr. 16, 2019 by Matt van Vuuren

These are my carefully selected 21 hidden secrets & best places in Miami which I've visited 4x times and includes gems like Scuba diving, Jet-skiing, Eating Alligator, Lock & Load and tips for the neon Miami nightlife.

• Why:  Most epic city in the United States
• YouTube channel:   Reformatt Show
• Accommodation:  Stay near Wynwood or at Miami Beach ( Booking.com )
• Weather:  Great weather throughout the year, November is my favorite month.
• Notes:  Get inspired by watching all my episodes from the USA.
• Tip:  If you want an all-in-one experience, book the Miami SUPER tour ONLY $59 USD !
• Extra:  Do you need tips for the Miami Nightlife ?

Buy Tickets for Miami

Too many boring travel guides are available these days for Miami and sadly are mostly all the same, that's why I dug deep into this city to bring you the best hidden spots.

• Miami Nightlife Guide: TOP 12 Bars & Clubs
• 3 Must-See Scuba Diving Sites in Miami, Florida

Best Places for Travel in Miami

1. Panther Coffee

Start off with the best hand roasted coffee in Miami and browse through the nearby Wynwood Art District. Map

2. Suviche Wynwood

Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant with affordable lunch or dinner tapas. Map

3. Scuba Diving

Miami is famous for its gorgeous dive sites like Molasses Reef & Neptune Memorial and starts around $600 for a PADI open water license. Map

4. Eating Alligator

Florida is famous for its alligators, in Miami you can even eat them. Order the alligator bites from KUSH restaurant in Wynwood. Map

5. Jetskiing

Rent a jetski for $80 per 30 minutes at the Mondrian hotel to explore the Miami bay & Star island. Map

6. Mondrian Hotel

The best swimming pool in the city can be found at the Mondrian hotel with its incredible views of Miami bay and its sunsets. Map

The places featured in my detailed video above are organized from the morning, afternoon towards the evening and nightlife so you can make the best out of your days in Miami.

7. Spa Standard Hotel

Another gorgeous pool located on the Venetian islands, I was able to get to the pool for free. Map

8. Lincoln Road Parking Deck

Take the elevator to the top floor for mesmerizing views of Miami South Beach, great for selfies and sunsets. Map

9. Art Deco

Tour around Lincoln Road and Ocean Drive to witness its historic Art Deco architecture, world's largest collection like the Breakwater, Delano and Colony Theatre. Map

10. Ocean Drive

Grab a freshly cut coconut on the boulevard and go people watching on Ocean Drive, not quite a secret but still a great walk! Map

11. Wet Willies

The most unique bar on Ocean Drive for its wild alcoholic slussies like the famous Call-A-Cab and Attitude Improvement. Map

12. Lock & Load

Shoot heavy machine guns at Lock & Load, the largest gun range downtown Miami with the widest selection of weapons. Map

Miami can be very expensive if you don't know what you are doing but luckily there are some FREE things to do as well, like the Lincoln Parking deck view or sneaking into the Mondrian or Spa Standard Hotel to observe their gorgeous pools.

13. Stone Crab Claws

Famous in Florida are the delicious stone crab claws, a must-try in Miami and combine it with a slice of Key Lime pie. Map

14. Soho Beach Club

Instead of staying on the touristy beaches near Ocean Drive, head north to Soho for its seclusive gorgeous beaches and celebrity spotting. Map

15. Hyde Beach

If you prefer the pool over the beach than head over to Hyde Beach, the best pool party in Miami with lots of sexy people. Map

16. Sylvanos

Don't get ripped off on Ocean Drive for dinner thus head towards the most affordable places uptown like Sylvanos. Map

17. Espanola Way

Little Spain in Miami, grab dinner at their trademark restaurant: Hosteria Romana. Map

18. 4D Gelato

Having a sweet-tooth? Grab the best gelato in town at 4D Gelateria on Lincoln Road. Map

I personally recommend going all out because there are so many amazing things to do you do not want to cheap-out, saving up a few months extra will be worth every penny in the end. A very-rough budget for 1 awesome week per person would be around a $500 flight, $500 AirBnB and $1500 for Uber, shopping, food, events, museums & night time party = around $2500 to start.

19. NaiYaRa

Famous Thai-Japanese fusion restaurant and voted best restaurant in Miami. They even fly in their fish from all over the world. A must-try in Miami! Map

20. Ocean Drive Neon Nightlife

When the evening approaches go to Ocean Drive for its fascinating 80's feel & neon lights. Great bars are the new VooDoo and Clevelander. Map

21. Miami Nightlife

Miami has the best nightclubs in the USA ranging from Bodega, Rickies, Ora, LIV, Hyde, Story & e11even. Map

Miami very widespread with many districts from Miami South Beach, which is its own peninsula, to the Wynwood Art District. Split up your days by having 2 days in Miami South Beach to visit Ocean Drive, Espanola Way and Lincoln Road. Spend the other days on day trips to downtown Miami, Wynwood, the Florida Keys and the incredible Everglades.

My favorite way to explore a city is by jogging, you'll be surprised as to what you may find. A few of these photos where taken at places I randomly walked into, places you will never see on a guided tour.

Besides great hidden attractions; Miami also offers amazing restaurants like Sylvanos, great Italian cuisine at afforable prices and NaiYara, voted the best restaurant in Miami South Beach offering Thai-Japanese fusion cuisine with dishes like freshy made beef jerky, salmon tacos and ultra fresh Sashimi. Try a piece of Ootoro (Blue fin tuna belly) sashimi before leaving! You won't regret it. 

Miami has many incredible pools but the ones that truly stand out is the infinity pool at the Spa Standard Hotel and the pool at the Mondrian Hotel visit these pools in combination with doing an Art Deco tour of Miami South Beach with places such as the Delano, Colony Theatre, the Carlyle and Breakwater.

I would love to know if my article was helpful and if so, please leave a comment below and let me know which place seems most interesting to you? Or let me know if you want more information about a specific place I mentioned.

• Swim with Dolphins at the Miami Seaquarium.
• Take a day trip to the Everglades National Park and jump on an Airboat to see hungry alligators.
• Additional tips in my 2012 Miami Guide .
• Feast on the best burger in town at Shake Shack .
• Do not miss a Miami Heat basketball game at the American Airlines Arena, one of the most popular sports in the USA.
• Avoid touching the blue looking jelly fish on the beach, these are Portuguese man o' war and poisonous.
• Sriracha House , for the best after party food in Miami.
• or Pizza Rustica , Miami's #1 pizza in town.

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24 Hours in Miami: Unforgettable Hotspots & Hidden Gems in Miami

A lucky visitor to Miami could easily spend a few days or even a few weeks exploring this metropolitan area. However, if you’re a bit stuck for time and only have 24 hours in Miami, fear not! We have compiled the ultimate one-day itinerary for Miami so that you get to experience everything that Miami has to offer in just 24 hours. 

So, whether you’re in Miami for a quick layover before continuing on your adventures, enjoying the area before  hopping on a cruise , or just happen to have 24 hours to kill in this incredible city, then this is the itinerary for you. 

Ready to plan your 24 hours in Miami? From iconic hotspots to the best-hidden gems in Miami, here is your guide to one unforgettable day in the Magic City.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Please read our full  disclosure policy   for more information.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Miami

If you’re looking to get active outdoors , the cooler winter months are the best time to visit Miami . It’s one of the country’s warmest winter destinations, with temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees F.

Meanwhile, during the summer, you’ll find the mercury rising to 95 degrees F and beyond. With a high level of humidity and intense sun, the heat index often rises above 105 degrees F.

Though that can be fantastic beach weather, if you’re looking to spend a low-key 24 hours in Miami, it’ll leave you drenched in sweat if your itinerary has you on the go. So, plan accordingly: apply sunscreen like the se regularly (at least SPF 30), and be sure to stay hydrated!

Planning the Perfect 24 Hours in Miami

Ready for a whirlwind day exploring the Magic City? Here is your guide to the best things to do if you only have one day to explore Miami.

Disclaimer: Try as you might; you aren’t going to make it to every spot on this list — nor should you try! One of the most beautiful things about Miami is its vibrant lifestyle. Although there are countless  things to do in Miami , forget about rushing around to try to see them all.

Keep reading here to see what catches your interest, then save this post, so you’ve always got ideas on hand. Once you’re inspired and have some ideas in mind, just see where the day takes you.

Morning in Downtown Miami

The best place to start your day is in downtown Miami. You’ll find some of the best hotels in the city right here in the heart of it all. If you can make it work, spend the night here, then start bright and early to make the very most of your one day in Miami.

Getting to Downtown Miami

Flying into the city? Getting from Miami International Airport to downtown Miami is as easy as can be. While it is rare to see, the cheapest option, the Metrorail train system is actually one of the most desirable options for getting into the city.

Between the Dolphin and Flamingo Garages, head up to third-level Skytrain to connect to the MIA Mover station. Jump on the Metrorail Orange line and take it down to the Government Center train station. With 15 minutes and for just under $3 bucks, you’ll be in the heart of the city.

Insider Tip :  Leave the car keys at home! If you’re only in Miami for 24 hours, or even a few days, there is no need for a car. You’ll just add stress to your vacation by trying to track down parking spots and dealing with the notorious Miami traffic.

Getting Around Miami

If you’re up for it, renting a Citi Bike Miami is a great way to get around the city while enjoying the weather.

Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Pounding the pavement is one of the best ways to see the city, and you can always hop in a taxi, use a rideshare service, or check out Miami’s public transportation options.

Before you go, download the  Miami-Dade Transit app , so you have it handy, and be sure to download an offline map on Google Maps, so you always know the best way to get from point A to B.

What to Do in Downtown Miami

Downtown Miami is the prime place to start your adventure. Along Biscayne Bay, you will find Miami’s first community gathering space at Bayfront Park . With open green spaces, a tropical rock garden, and picturesque bay walkway views, the 32-acre park is the perfect place to wander around and take in the atmosphere.

Once you have explored the park, head to neighboring Bayside Marketplace to shop for souvenirs (which has a great selection of restaurants, too, including the Hard Rock Café experience .

Bayside Marketplace is one of Miami’s most visited attractions. This outdoor mall of shops, entertainment venues, and restaurants is situated along Biscayne Bay. This is also a good place to arrange a boat tour of the striking city views that can only be seen from the water.

Best Tours in Miami

Want to grab a tour from downtown Miami to get a more widespread view of the city? For an unforgettable vantage point (and perfect selfie spot), check out the  Millionaire’s Row Cruise . This 90-minute tour is an ideal way to get off your feet for a bit while snapping postcard-perfect pics. 

Another great way to explore and get the lay of the land is with the  Big Bus Miami Tour . I always find hop-off hop-off buses like this the best option for seeing as much as possible in a short time. Only got one day in Miami during a blazing hot summer day? Hop on board to cruise the city while enjoying that oh-so-sweet air conditioning.

24 Hours in Miami: Exploring Wynwood

Hop on the free City of Miami trolley  and head to the city’s epic center of art and culture, Wynwood Art District . Easily one of our favorite neighborhoods in Miami, Wynwood is a hotspot amongst locals and tourists alike.

This lively area is located just north of downtown Miami, and it’s an absolute must for any art lover, foodie, beer fan, or just anybody looking to soak in the local vibe. 

If you can only visit one spot in the district, check out the Wynwood Walls. Another one of Miami’s best selfie spots, this fascinating outdoor museum has work from local and international artists. 

You’ll find a wide range of street art tours that are amazing. When you’ve only got one day in Miami, this guided  Wynwood Art District Walking tour  is a perfect pick.

For a more in-depth look at the art, be sure to check out the  Museum of Graffiti . It’s the world’s very first museum dedicated to graffiti. We recommend this museum even if you’re not really into street art. It’s an engaging look at art, culture, and the uniquely Miami-style point of view.

Wynwood for Foodies and Craft Beer Lovers

While Wynwood is famous for its art, that is just the pretty surface. Look a bit deeper, and you’ll find some of the best restaurants and craft breweries in Florida.

To sample the best eats and tastiest beers, I’d highly recommend checking out the  Wynwood Art, Beer, and Tacos Tour . While we’re sure you’ve had tacos and beers before, you have never had them like this! Sample authentic flavors and sauces that’ll knock your flip flops off, then wash it all down with one of the award-winning local brews.  

A bit too early for a drink? Check out the  Wynwood Food and Art Tour . After getting an insider’s look at art and culture, this flavor-packed tour will bring you through all of the very best eateries in the neighborhood. It’s the perfect opportunity to sample a bit of everything without having to commit to a full meal anywhere.

Planning Tip: The Wynwood Art District can get crazy busy, particularly on the weekends. To avoid the large crowds and have the best chance to take uninterrupted photos, visit in the morning, ideally during the week. 

RELATED: More tours and activities  to add to your Wynwood itinerary

Best craft breweries in wynwood.

Want to skip the art and grab a beer? Well, you have most certainly come to the right place. Wynwood breweries are amongst the best in the US, if not the world. From blonde ales to sours, there is absolutely nothing that you can’t find here in this beer lover’s paradise.

Looking for a trendy hotspot to mingle with locals?  Veza Sur Brewing  is the place for you. It’s got a spacious, chill outdoor area with a food truck perfect for appetizers or a light dinner.

Last but certainly not least,  J. Wakefield Brewing  is a brewery unlike no other. With one-of-a-kind local blends using local ingredients, you’ll find beers with everything from grapes to peaches to mangos here. 

Foodie Faves: Best Places to Eat in Wynwood

When it comes to mouth-watering dishes, Wynwood delivers on the culinary delights. While you can walk into any random spot that catches your eye and get a Michelin-star meal, here are a few standouts. 

• bartaco is the perfect combination of delicious ultra-fresh food, scrumptious drinks, and a lively indoor and outdoor vibe with feel-good eats.
• Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop  aka Enriqueta’s con Sabor: Think a sandwich is just a sandwich? Try this spot’s take on the Cuban sandwich. 
• The Taco Stand : Love Mexican food? Take your relationship to the next level with tacos that’ll inspire you to grab your sombrero. 
• 1-800 Lucky : This swanky Asian market is Miami’s first and only Asian food hall. 
• The Salty : Got a sweet tooth? You can thank us later for these world-changing donuts.

For more options, check out our Insider’s Guide to the Best Wynwood Restaurants .

Miami’s Best Neighborhood for Walking: Little Havana, Calle Ocho

Okay, so you’re stuffed after your lunch in Wynwood; now it’s time to take a walk through the famous  Little Havana neighborhood . If you want to see what makes this area special, get to Calle Ocho.

Watch locals play dominoes at Maximo Gomez Park or Dominio Park as it’s known locally, then check out the calendar at the CubaOcho Museum & Performing Art Center   to see what’s coming up today. 

Walk down the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame, then fuel up at one of the  Cuban coffee windows , or ventanitas, as known locally. If you’re looking to cool down instead, get over to Azucar Ice Cream shop.

As you’re wandering around, you’ll see the cigar shops that this district is so famous for. Smoke ’em or not, stop into at least one store to see what it’s all about. 

If you want to stick around into the evening, check out Ball & Chain for live music. It is one of those places that is always buzzing with energy.

You’ll find live performers both during the day and evening. You can watch the pros’ salsa dance, then try a few moves once you feel inspired.  Pro tip:  Order the mojito. Sure, they are a bit pricey, but they are one of the best in town (which says a lot in Miami).

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Where to Eat in Little Havana, Calle Ocho

Thinking about sticking around for a late lunch or dinner? Here are some of the very best places to eat in Little Havana:

• Sanguich de Miami : Want to eat and run? This walk-up window has some of the best Cuban-inspired sandwiches on this side of town. 
• Mi Rinconcito Mexicano : Grab a horchata, then try some of the best tacos in town. 
• El Rey de las Fritas : For more than 40 years, this place has been serving up the Original Cuban Burger.
• Doce Provisions : You’ll love the update on modern classics made here with locally sourced food. 
• Los Pinarenos Fruteria : Visit this old-school market for fresh juice, exotic fruit, and a chance to meet the resident pot-bellied Vietnamese pig, Chucha. 

Planning Tip:  Trust us; we know choosing the best place to eat in Little Havana is no easy task! If you want to sample all of the best world-class Cuban, arrange your Little Havana Walking Food Tour online here !

Evening in South Beach

The nightlife in Miami is centered around South Beach — but we’d highly recommend getting there in the late afternoon if you can swing it.

Insider Tip:  Rent a bike to get around South Beach. It’s easy to get around, and it’s an all-around captivating place to explore. 

Did you know that Miami Beach has the  world’s biggest collection of art deco architecture ? Explore the Art Deco District solo or, if you can come in early in the day, join an  MDPL Art Deco Walking Tour  (and they’ve got a Miami Vice tour too!). 

Once you’ve taken in the impressive buildings, head over to Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, Espanola Way, or Lincoln Road for a bit of retail therapy. Or, if you’re in the neighborhood before 5 p.m., purchase your Duck Tour tickets online and jump aboard to see Miami landmarks from land and sea.

Best Sunset in Miami

As the sun starts to lower, make your way to South Pointe Park. This picture-perfect park has one of the most stunning sunset vistas you will find in South Beach. Oh, and it is one of the best  free things to do in Miami !

This scenic pathway is a must-see for visitors to Miami, stretching some 40 blocks from South Beach northward along the shore. With ocean views on one side and vintage architecture on the other, it’s a quintessential Miami experience.

Where to Eat in South Beach

Worked up an appetite? South Beach is the place for dinner, especially if you want to soak in the high-energy nightlife afterward. Here are a few of the spots you’re sure to love.

• Joe’s Stone Crab : Miami may be famous for its Latin food, but the seafood is second to none! The fried chicken is the real secret here!
• Havana 1957 : Because you’ve got to squeeze in one more Cuban meal before you go! 
• Yardbird Southern Table & Bar : After a long day of exploring, there is nothing like good old fashion stick-to-your-ribs Southern comfort food . You can’t go wrong with the chicken & waffles here!
• Juvia : For dinner with a view, it’s all about this rooftop restaurant and lounge. 
• Bodega Taqueria y Tequila : Come for the Mexican street food and stay for the tequila in this buzzing nightlife hotspot.
• Insider Tip:  To stay energized for a wild night out, do what the locals do. Get to  Front Porch Café  for the famous Kill Devil Coffee Roasters.

South Beach Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife in Miami , you will be spoiled for choices in South Beach. Get started on a night out you’ll never forget with a visit to The Clevelander  in the middle of the Art Deco District. Whether you want to chill poolside or dance the night away, this hotel has you covered. 

Swing for a salsa lesson at  Mangos Tropical Café   or sit back and enjoy the entertainment, then go for drinks at the ultra-swanky  STORY Nightclub . 

Ranked one of the best nightclubs on the planet,  LIV  is the place to see and be seen in Miami Beach if you can make it past the bouncers.

So, my fellow explorers, are you feeling ready to explore Miami? Are you looking forward to digging into Miami’s hidden gems, or are you dying to see the iconic sites? Whatever you decide to do, I can promise you that these will be 24 hours you’ll never forget.

Feeling inspired to extend your trip? Check out our insider’s guide to 48-hours in Miami .

24 Hours in Miami Itinerary Map

Save this map to your phone and use it to plan your one-day in Miami itinerary.

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22 Hidden Gems in Miami You Don’t Want to Miss

Did you know that I lived and worked in Miami for four months? It’s true – right on South Beach! This Canadian with her ice heart flew south for a work term during my university days. It was in the summer no less! Little did I know just  how hot it was going to be as I made Miami home from May to August. I braved the heat as I explored as much as I could outside my 9-5 job. When Hotels.com asked me to share some of my favourite hidden gems in Miami, I couldn’t say no! These things to do in Miami are what I miss most about living here and would be my must-dos of the city.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Miami

Miami may be known as a party people kind of place but it has much more to offer than just top-notch nightlife. Pristine beaches, amazing food and more await! So what all do you need to see in Miami? Let’s dive in!

Indulge in an Adult Slushie at Wet Willie’s

You’re on vacation, right? Sit back, relax and put your feet up with some of the most delicious yet dangerous drinks you’ll enjoy in South Beach. Wet Willie’s is the best way to start the afternoon. Grab one of their Supermans or the cliché Sex on the Beach (it is incredibly delicious) and head up to the second floor. Pull up a chair and just watch the characters of Ocean Drive while soaking up the sun.

Believe it or not there ARE quiet stretches of beach – definitely one of the hidden gems in Miami!

Sunbathe Between 3 rd and 10 th Street Along Miami Beach

It took me a month of living in South Beach to realize that each street had its own vibe along the beach. The further south you go the better, though my favourite was right around 7th street. I never had a problem finding a spot to set up for a few hours of fun in the sun, even on busy weekends! However, you’ll want to  avoid 16 th Street aka Lincoln Road Mall at all costs . It’s way too busy with too many people and not a pleasant experience. Walk the few blocks and you’ll be rewarded.

Treat Yourself to French Cuisine at Otentic

There are more amazing places to eat at in Miami than you can shake a stick at, but Otentic is seriously next level. This cozy French bistro has an intimate vibe (a rare find here in my opinion) and their focus on fresh food is evident. Everything on the menu is caught, baked and prepared daily. You’d never guess that this pink checkerboard cafe with its intimate dining room was once Miami Beach’s very first bus terminal! I’d strongly recommend a reservation (especially if you want a seat on their outdoor patio) and while you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, I recommend the Otentic pasta. My mouth is watering just remembering it!

Catch the Sunset at South Pointe Park

You never forget your first Miami sunset and South Pointe Park has a special place in my heart for that reason. Enjoy the gorgeous trails and let the kids play in the splash pad as you await those beautiful colours. Take a stroll out to the pier and say goodbye to yet another beautiful day in Miami as the sky lights up with oranges and reds.

The iconic buildings of Brickell in Miami

Eat Ceviche by the Spoonful at Jaguar

Ceviche is abundant in Miami but good ceviche is a little harder to find. In order to find what I’d argue is some of the best ceviche in town, you have to head to Miami’s original neighbourhood – Coconut Grove. In the middle of this laid-back neighbourhood you’ll find Jaguar. Here you can enjoy ceviche by the spoonful as you enjoy iconic tropical flavours. It’s also a great place to go with a group as they have plenty of non-seafood items to choose from along with vegan and gluten-free options. Be sure to save a little room for dessert as you can get them by the spoonful too. Their dulce de leche is honestly life-changing.

Hit the Dance Floor in Brickell

Ocean Drive isn’t the only place for a dance party. Unless you’re with your girls and get an invite to an open bar (it does happen!), you don’t want to spend an arm and a leg to drink and dance. Luckily Brickell’s got your back! It may be South Florida’s main financial district but as 5:00pm hits… it’s party time.

Just south of downtown Miami, you’ll find a number of fantastic restaurants and bars waiting for you. Some of my favourites include Barú, Blue Martini and the ever amazing Blackbird Ordinary. At Blackbird, I highly recommend ordering their ‘blue motorcycle’ – it’s a little pricey but there’s so much booze in it that I promise you’ll only need one. Though I am heartbroken to hear my old haunt Fado has permanently closed! Let’s just say that when the DJ played your song as soon as you entered the door, you know you went too often. True story.

Revel in Home Cooked Cuban Cuisine at Las Olas Cafe

On the corner of 6th and Euclid, you’ll find some of the best home cooking on South Beach. If more food than you can eat that doesn’t break the bank sounds right up your alley, you need to visit Las Olas Cafe. This cafeteria-style restaurant has rotating options daily along with classics like empanadas, pastelitos and more. Need a caffeine boost to get you through the day? Head up to their window right on the corner and order a café con leche. I went to Las Olas at least once a week while living in South Beach. It’s also the perfect hangover cure after a wild night and that’s necessary for any list of hidden gems in Miami!

A take out meal from Las Olas Cafe can easily feed two people!

Stroll Along the Miami Beach Boardwalk

Leave the party people behind in South Beach and head north to enjoy the tranquillity of the ocean along the Miami Beach Boardwalk. A favourite of cyclists and runners alike, it’s the perfect place for a breath of fresh air. There are a number of beach accesses as well if you want to dip your toes in the warm Florida waters. If you really want peace and quiet, head here on a Sunday morning.

Take Advantage of Lincoln Road Mall’s Happy Hours

If there’s anywhere that’s the king of happy hour, I’d say it’s Lincoln Road Mall. Seriously, they’re incredible and plentiful. I’m pretty sure I scoured every single happy hour available during my four months. The things I do for you. Anyway,  these are my Miami restaurant faves: Doraku (delicious sushi and Japanese cuisine), Segafredo (Italian food and amazing drink specials) and D’Vine Lounge (solely for their beergaritas). Be sure to scope out the deals earlier in the day while perusing Lincoln Road. It’s a cheap way to kick off your night and enjoy some pricier establishments while making your wallet happy!

Enjoy Some of the Best Views of Miami Beach from Juvia

Head to Lenox Avenue along Lincoln Road and take the private elevator up to Juvia. Here you’ll be treated to a mix of French, Japanese and Peruvian cuisine at this rooftop restaurant. With a living wall and some of the best views of Miami Beach waiting for you, it’s guaranteed to be a memorable experience! I’ll tell you straight up that Juvia is a little on the fancy side (and has a higher price tag that comes with that) so if you’re on a tight budget just head up for a cocktail to enjoy the views and continue on your way. If you do plan to eat, I highly recommend making a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment!

Loving these views across South Beach Miami!

Partake in the Sassiest Brunch Ever at the Palace Bar

For over three decades, the Palace Bar has been an iconic staple along Ocean Drive. While they feature a drag show every night at 7:00pm, you can’t miss their drag brunch Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. These incredible queens show off dance moves that will make your jaw drop! I wish I could dance half as well as them – in 4 inch heels no less! Pair their sassy flair with unlimited mimosas and you’ve got the recipe for the perfect start to your day on South Beach.

Hop on a Jet Ski & Check Out Flagler Memorial Island

Looking for a little adrenaline to spice up your Miami trip? Grab a jet ski and hit the water! Zip your way around and take a peek at the mansions found along the Venetian Islands. If you have a dry bag on hand , pack a picnic to enjoy along the shores of Flagler Memorial Island. Only accessible by boat, it makes a great getaway and one of the lesser-populated beaches… a true hidden gem in Miami. If you don’t make friends with a local that has a jet ski, you can rent one from Miami Watersports . Just be aware that certain waterways like those near the cruise ships are to be avoided for your safety.

Enjoy the Live Band at Bayside & Check Out Bayfront Park

So I had no idea until I started researching this post that Bayside Marketplace was a top attraction in Miami. Every time I would go after work, this two-storey open air mall never felt overly busy. Whether you choose to go shopping is up to you, but there are two things I love about it. The first is the gorgeous sunsets over Biscayne Bay and the second is the live music that runs from noon until 1:00am every day. I also really miss the sugar cane juice there as it saved my butt from dehydration more than once!

If it does get a little too busy for your liking, head next door to Bayfront Park. Here you’ll find a number of benches and even some Muskoka chairs where you can put your feet up and relax.

Gotta love the huge palms at Bayfront Park in Miami!

Escape the City at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden

When you’re inside surrounded by beautiful tropical plant life, you’ll completely forget that you’re in the heart of South Beach. This is one of the most tranquil hidden gems in Miami! Stop and smell the roses… err, Ylang Ylang trees, as you explore the 2.6 acres. Be sure not to miss the tranquil Japanese garden as you watch butterflies and dragonflies flutter from plant to plant. Just thinking about it sounds so relaxing! I didn’t spend nearly enough time here in this little slice of paradise.

Go Parasailing & Admire the Miami Skyline

What better way to enjoy the Miami skyline than with a parasailing adventure! Throw on your bathing suit and an outfit you’re okay with getting wet and take to the skies. Never parasailed before? No problem, I hadn’t either! It requires no skill and no experience. Just listen to your guides and you’re in for a fabulous and calming ride! Even this gal with vertigo survived and had an awesome time. Booking a parasailing tour  is a must-do for any Miami itinerary!

Hit Up a Wynwood Art Walk Block Party

Okay so this isn’t much of a ‘hidden’ gem but it’s seriously so much fun. On the second Saturday of every month, Wynwood puts its party pants on as they break out all the stops. You’ve got live music, delicious food, incredible cocktails, a fantastic local market and more! Enjoy all of this while being surrounded by some of the coolest street art you’ll ever feast your eyes on. Oh and if you RSVP in advance you get a free drink !

Just a small taste of the incredible art you’ll find in Wynwood, Miami!

Dance the Night Away at Club Space

I mean this literally. When a club doesn’t open until 10:00pm, you know you’re going to be there until the sun rises. This world-renown night club has four rooms spinning beats from a number of genres including techno, house, hip hop, EDM (my personal favourite) and more. It’s not uncommon to hear some big names coming through like Diplo, Nora en Pure, Eric Prydz and more. What is guaranteed is plenty of shenanigans, a messed-up sleep schedule and one seriously good night.

Take a Tour of the Everglades with Buffalo Tiger

Okay so this technically is outside of town but this is a must for any South Florida trip. Head west inland and take a tour of the Everglades with Buffalo Tiger. There are a number of companies that offer tours but hands down Buffalo Tiger is the best for a number of reasons. Founded by William “Buffalo” Tiger, the last traditional chief for the Miccosukee people, he had a vision to educate others about the Miccosukee People. They have called the Florida Everglades home for millennia, long before settlers laid foot on this land.

By touring with Buffalo Tiger, you’ll not only learn about their history and traditions but also about a special area within the Everglades which only Miccosukee People can access. You’ll be blown away by the amazing views while getting up close and personal with alligators. It’s guaranteed to be a wild ride! Buffalo Tiger offers tours from 45 minutes to 6 hours as well as sunset tours but you must call ahead. For their general tours, no reservation is required. Show up and they’ll get you on a tour in no time! You can combine your  tour of the Everglades with a seaplane tour for an even more memorable experience.

Glide across the surface of the Everglades with Buffalo Tiger

Additional Things to Do in Miami

Even though I lived in the city for four months, I didn’t get to do everything I wanted to in Miami. This city truly is massive with new things being added all the time. Plus I wasn’t nearly the traveller then like I am today! Here are my additional things to do in Miami that I’ll be looking to check off my list next visit.

Scuba Diving

This probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Miami. What you may not realize is that Miami Beach is actually a barrier island! It’s made of limestone coral rock… and therefore makes a fantastic dive destination. Now that I’m a PADI certified open water diver, I’d love to return and explore the underwater world!

Wander the Streets of Little Havana

Despite living on Miami Beach for 4 months, I never made it to Little Havana. Shame on me! I wasn’t nearly as experienced back then as I am now, otherwise I would have checked out a foodie walking tour . I think that’s a fantastic way to get to know any area! Next time I visit, I’ll be sure to explore Calle Ocho and some of the locally-owned shops and eateries.

Hang Out With the Manatees

I’m kicking myself that I didn’t check this out during my time in Florida. Hop on a kayak (or paddleboard) tour with the Virginia Key Outdoor Centre and say hello to the manatees! If you’re lucky, you might even see babies as manatees make Florida their home in the winter months. While they are adorable, remember that these animals are protected and it’s illegal to harass them, even if it’s just for a hug.

Explore the Coral Castle

No, this isn’t a level from Super Mario. For 28 years, Edward Leedskalnin built hundreds of sculptures from 1923 to 1951. While many mistake it for coral, he actually used oolitic limestone, a sedimentary rock that has a resemblance to coral. It is said Leedskalnin crafted it to deal with the rejection of his fiancée just one day before they were set to marry. Coral Castle may sound foreign but it actually just might be familiar! It’s been referenced a number of times in pop culture including the 1966 film Jimmy, the Boy Wonder and Billy Idol’s 1986 classic Sweet Sixteen. I had no idea Coral Castle even existed but I won’t be missing “Florida’s Stonehenge” next time I visit!

The iconic Ocean Drive is a must-see at night [stock photo, click for source]

Where to Stay in Miami

Unfortunately, I’m no expert in this field as I had my own place since I was in Miami for four months. Luckily Hotels.com has some great suggestions for hotels! When I plan my next adventure, here are a few of the hidden gem places to stay that I’ll be looking at:

Beacon Hotel South Beach – They had me hooked with their brightly coloured Muskoka chairs and beautifully decorated patios. The Beacon Hotel South Beach is right on Ocean Drive with the idyllic Miami beach just steps away. Amenities include breakfast, valet parking and a fitness room… not that you’ll need it with the ocean right there!

The Clevelander Hotel – While I’ve never stayed at this property, if it’s anything like their rooftop bar (which I’m sure it is) then you’re in for a treat! This adults-only hotel features bright and beautiful rooms, an on-site restaurant and a continental breakfast included with your stay. Lounge all day on their rooftop terrace and then rip up the dance floor until the wee hours of the morning.

Delfino Suites South Beach – Planning on a longer stay? Delfino Suites has full apartments available with all the creature comforts of home. Not only is it very affordable by South Beach standards (I’ve seen it as cheap as $170/night on sale!) but you’ll have a fridge, microwave, oven – the whole shebang. If you’re someone who’s looking to keep costs low by cooking instead of eating out all the time, this is a fantastic option. It’s also on the western side of Miami Beach so you won’t have the Ocean Drive insanity to contend with.

Blanc Kara – Minimalist chic with pops of tropical colours will make you fall in love with these apartment suites. This is another fantastic longer-stay option but this time located towards the southern point of South Beach. I was surprised to see how affordable it was as well for the location! However, I have to say sorry families – this one’s adults-only too.

As you can imagine, there is no shortage of choices for accommodation in Miami. Your biggest problem will be trying to decide which hotel to choose!

Wishing you were strolling along this boardwalk? I know I am!

Ready to Explore These Hidden Gems in Miami?

Miami is truly a destination for explorers, beach bums and party people alike. To recap, these are the hidden gems in Miami you don’t want to skip out on:

• Indulge in an adult slushie
• Catch some rays between 3 rd and 10 th in Miami Beach
• Treat yourself to amazing French cuisine
• Watch the sunset at South Pointe Park
• Hit the dance floor in Brickell
• Eat ceviche by the spoonful
• Reven in home-cooked Cuban cuisine
• Stroll along the Miami Beach Boardwalk
• Take advantage of Lincoln Road Mall’s happy hours
• Enjoy the incredible views from Juvia
• Partake in the sassiest brunch ever at the Palace Bar
• Hop on a jetski to Flagler Memorial Island
• Enjoy the live music at Bayside
• Escape the city at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden
• Go parasailing and enjoy the Miami skyline
• Hit up a Wynwood Art Walk Block Party
• Dance the night away at Club Space… literally
• Take a tour of the Florida Everglades with Buffalo Tiger
• Go scuba diving
• Wander the streets of Little Havana and Calle Ocho
• Hang out with the manatees
• Explore Coral Castle

Whether you’re a solo adventurer like myself or heading down with a group of friends, don’t miss out on all the hidden gems that Miami has to offer!

Disclaimer This post is sponsored by Hotels.com and contains affiliate links where I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. Read more in IBB’s  disclaimer and privacy policy .

Don’t forget these lesser-known spots in Miami & pin it for later!

22 Comments

Stephanie mayo.

Can you believe I’ve never been! But I’m sold! Dancing, street art, gardens, and epic views – sounds like all the best things to do in Miami!

Lindz author

You nailed it friend – it’s a combo that’s guaranteed to make a memorable trip!

I will be there for Drag Brunch as much as possible! LOL, although I suspect I’d be slightly jealous of their superior flexibility, while I’m stuffing my face with food!

Haha oh yes, this was 100% my thoughts – especially since I can’t walk in heels, let alone dance in them!

Great post! I’ve never been to Miami because I thought it was all beaches and partying, but your post makes me realize that it has so much more to offer! The boardwalk and food looks delicious.

There is SO much amazing food, especially the ceviche! I’m craving it now just thinking about it haha!

I’ve never been to Miami. There seems to be loads of things to do. Thanks for the inspiration.

You’re welcome! I hope you’re able to visit soon! 🙂

Wait whaaat!? I had no idea that you’d lived in Miami! I am so used to thinking of you surrounded by Canadian ice and waterfalls, that I never thought of you relaxing at the beach! This is a fab guide. I had no idea I could meet manatees! That sounds amaaaaazing. If you have to go back to do this, take me with you.

p.s. I am glad you included the possibility of a sassy lunch! <3

HAHA I know right?! I feel like I’ve been trying to balance out all the sun with my winter adventures since then LOL. At first I wasn’t 100% sold on Miami but after a few weeks I understood the draw. It really is a great spot to visit 🙂

These are great ideas! I haven’t been to Miami yet, but hopefully someday 🙂

Fingers crossed for you that you get to visit soon! 😀

Katie Diederichs

I used to live in Miami, and many of these things bring me back to my old “home”, especially “experiencing the manatees”. My apartment had a balcony that overlooked a canal that went out to the ocean, and every couple of days we would spot manatees from above!

Oh wow, this sounds incredible! I think kayaking with the manatees will be the top of my list next time I visit… I need to balance out all the food I’ll eat with some exercise, haha!

It was great reading these tips from someone who knows Miami well, especially the best beach tips and foodie experiences!

Thank you! I hope you found them helpful! 🙂

Great post! I’ve been to Florida, but never to Miami. It’s definitely on my list.

I hope you’re able to visit soon! I’d love to get back to Florida, it’s been a while and I could definitely use some sun haha!

These are all great ideas! I can’t believe in all the times I’ve been to Miami I’ve never gone to little Havana, definitely have to check it out next time 😁

Haha right?! To be fair I only went once and that’s a shame! I need to revisit it when I return!

Neil Hutchinson

I visited Miami on a day trip from Weston back in 2010 and couldn’t wait to go and stay there. I’ve been four times so far and was due to go in 2020 back couldn’t because of covid. Can’t wait to return asap and from Miami down to Key West I just love it. This post about Miami is fantastic for new visitors and folks like me. Well done Lindz…

Thank you so much for your comment Neil, it truly warms my heart! I too look forward to the day when I can return and discover more great spots in Miami. Stay safe and healthy! 🙂

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What are the best places to walk and explore in miami.

Miami, Florida, is a vibrant, bustling city full of culture, color, and energy. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s always something new and exciting to explore in the Magic City. From its sandy beaches to its lively downtown, there are many walking spots and areas to discover that will leave you breathless. At Primal Organic, we believe in the importance of combining healthy eating with an active lifestyle. With that in mind, we present our top walking and exploring spots in Miami.

South Beach (SoBe) and Ocean Drive

South Beach, or SoBe, is the epitome of Miami’s beach scene. This iconic area features the famous Ocean Drive, lined with historic Art Deco buildings, trendy shops, and vibrant restaurants. Stroll along the sidewalk, admiring the colorful architecture and taking in the energetic atmosphere. Then, step onto the white sandy beach and walk along the shore, enjoying the turquoise waves and the warm sun. For a more relaxed experience, head to the nearby South Pointe Park for a gentle walk with stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline.

The Miami Design District

The Miami Design District is a creative neighborhood filled with art galleries, high-end boutiques, and innovative dining experiences. This area is perfect for a leisurely walk, where you can marvel at the modern architecture, colorful murals, and unique sculptures. A must-see is the Palm Court, an outdoor plaza surrounded by luxury retail shops and featuring the iconic Fly’s Eye Dome, a geodesic dome designed by Buckminster Fuller. The Miami Design District is an excellent destination for art enthusiasts and those seeking a cultural experience.

Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove, one of Miami’s oldest neighborhoods, is a lush oasis filled with tropical vegetation, charming streets, and historic homes. Walk along the picturesque streets of this neighborhood, lined with beautiful homes and old trees, creating a canopy that offers a cool respite from the Miami heat. Visit The Barnacle Historic State Park, the oldest home in Miami-Dade County, or take a stroll through the Kampong, a lush botanical garden featuring exotic plants and flowers from around the world.

Brickell Key

Brickell Key is a small, man-made island located just off the mainland of Miami’s financial district. This exclusive neighborhood offers a peaceful walking path along the island’s perimeter, with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet and scenic walk, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Wynwood Walls

The Wynwood Walls, located in Miami’s thriving arts district, is an outdoor museum showcasing large-scale murals by some of the world’s most renowned street artists. Wander through the colorful alleys and be amazed by the vibrant and thought-provoking artworks that adorn the walls of the surrounding buildings. After your walk, grab a bite at one of the trendy cafes or food trucks, or visit one of the many galleries and boutiques in the area.

Coral Gables and the Venetian Pool

Coral Gables is a Mediterranean-inspired city known for its tree-lined avenues, historic landmarks, and elegant architecture. Take a leisurely walk through the residential streets, admiring the lavish homes and lush gardens. Don’t forget to visit the Venetian Pool, a historic public swimming pool designed to resemble a Venetian lagoon. The pool is surrounded by coral rock and features waterfalls, caves, and a picturesque walking path.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Located at the southern tip of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a natural haven offering beautiful beaches, nature trails, and a historic lighthouse. For a serene walk, explore the park’s many trails, which take you through mangroves, coastal hammocks, and along the beach. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including ospreys, raccoons, and even manatees. Be sure to visit the Cape Florida Lighthouse, the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County, and climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Little Havana

Immerse yourself in Miami’s vibrant Cuban culture by taking a walk through Little Havana. Stroll along Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street), the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, and experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of Cuba. Visit the numerous art galleries, watch skilled craftsmen roll cigars, and indulge in delicious Cuban cuisine at one of the many cafés and restaurants. Don’t forget to stop by Domino Park, where locals gather to play dominos, share stories, and enjoy the warm Miami sun.

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and Museum Park

Located in downtown Miami, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is a contemporary art museum featuring works by international artists. The museum is surrounded by Museum Park, a 30-acre public park that offers a beautiful walking path along Biscayne Bay. The park features lush landscaping, public art installations, and plenty of benches to sit and admire the views of the bay and the city skyline.

Matheson Hammock Park

Matheson Hammock Park is a tranquil oasis located in Coral Gables. This park features a beautiful atoll pool, nature trails, and a marina. Take a leisurely walk through the park’s lush vegetation, explore the winding nature trails, or enjoy a peaceful stroll along the water’s edge. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching, as it is home to a variety of native and migratory birds.

Best places to walk in Miami

Miami is a city full of culture, natural beauty, and endless opportunities for exploration. With its diverse neighborhoods and scenic walking spots, there is always something new to discover in the Magic City. As you enjoy these fantastic walking areas, don’t forget to nourish your body with Primal Organic’s delicious and healthy meal plan options , delivered right to your door. With our help, you can fuel your adventures and embrace the active lifestyle that Miami has to offer.

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The Hidden Secrets of Miami

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The 500 Hidden Secrets of Miami reveals off-the-beaten-track places and interesting details for anyone who's keen to explore Miami's best-kept secrets.

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Hidden gems in Miami- 19 amazing places in Miami off the beaten track

Miami is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the US and it always ranks in the top 10 most visited cities in the country. And with all of its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and interesting landmarks, this should come as no surprise. However, with so many things to see and do, there are always some hidden gems in Miami that remain under most tourists’ radars. And this article is all about that. So, if you’re planning to get off the beaten track in Miami, keep reading, this post will give you a lot of useful suggestions that will allow you to experience a whole new side of the city you never knew existed.  

Helpful Resources For Visiting Miami

Are you looking for a cheap flight to Miami? Check out this  special offer  by Qatar Airways and save up to 15% on your flight.

For some budget accommodation deals, use our  Booking discount code  to save 15% on all properties in Miami. If you’re looking for flats, apartments or other similar accommodation options, you can also get $55 off your booking when using  our Vrbo affiliate link .

If you want to get off the beaten track in Miami and discover some of the hidden gems on this list, it’s probably a good idea to  rent a car (this link gets you 10% off) and drive on your own.

Last but not least, you should get travel insurance before your trip. Personally, I always use  SafetyWing . It might be a bit more expensive than most other travel insurance providers but their plans have you covered in all potentially unwanted situations that might happen to you on the road. Travel insurance is one thing you shouldn’t try to save money on because the cheaper plans generally don’t cover many of the things SafetyWing does and in some instances, it’s better not to have them.

O Cinema South Beach

If you are passionate about films and theater, you should definitely consider visiting the O Cinema South Beach. In the past, this place served as the city hall but today, it’s been turned into a classy space for national & international films, with its own bookstore and a café. The venue is run by the Miami Beach Film Society and it has a seating capacity of 50 people which makes up for a nice and intimate viewing experience. In addition to showing films, the venue occasionally hosts while performances and art exhibitions.

Stiltsville

Stiltsville is one of Florida’s most charming neighborhoods (well, sort of). It consists of 7 wood-stilt houses lying off the southern coast of Cape Florida. The Stiltsville houses were built in the 1930s and most of them were used as venues for social clubs but since 1985, Stiltsville is a part of Biscayne National Park . This is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Miami and if you want to visit, I recommend going for a  cruise that includes a guided tour  narrating the history of Stiltsville.

Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple

You probably didn’t expect to see a Buddhist temple on this list but that just serves as proof that Miami has something in store for everyone. A perfect retreat for people looking to get away from the city’s busy streets, Miami’s largest Buddhist temple sits on 5 acres of rural lands decorated with impressive Asian architectural elements. Inside, you’ll find a 23-foot tall statue of Buddha in shining, sculpted by a professional sculptor in Thailand before being shipped to Miami.

Little Haiti Cultural Complex

If you like exploring foreign cultures while traveling, you’ll surely love The Little Haiti Cultural Complex. It’s one of my personal hidden gems in Miami and here, you can learn a lot about Haitian culture and cuisine. The center is located in Miami’s Little Haiti and it often hosts live musical performances by Haitian artists playing traditional melodies. You can also try some delicious Haitian food, shop for fresh cooking ingredients, and even join a Haitian drum class, one of the visitors’ favorites.

If you’re looking for a great tour of the area, I suggest you check out this amazing  Little Haiti tour .

Deering Estate

The Deering Estate is a beautiful property in Miami that was designed to preserve the property of Charles Deering, a famous local preservationist and art collector. The property is located along the South Dade coast, away from Miami’s hustle and bustle and it features historical buildings, mangrove forests, tropical vibes, and much more. Visitors can also indulge in canoe tours, butterfly walks , guided museum tours, and natural (walking) tours. This estate is also a part of the National Register of Historic Places.

Rubell Family Collection Museum

Even though it was established in 1964 in  New York , the collection was moved to Miami in 1993 in a 45,000 square-foot museum that was once a property of the DEA. The contemporary art museum is home to a fascinating collection of internationally recognized artists. The collection in the museum is one of the largest privately-owned collections in the world that’s open to the public but during my visit, I was under the impression that this museum remains under most tourists’ radar.

And speaking of art-related hidden gems in Miami, another place you should really check out is…

Wynwood District

Wynwood is one of Miami’s most colorful districts and a great place for visitors who enjoy art and want to see a different side of Miami’s vibrant culture. Here, you’ll find some of the best street art in Miami and if you have the chance, I personally recommend taking the Second Saturday Art Walk (taking place every second Saturday of the month). It’s an  exciting tour  that brings hundreds of visitors together to show them some incredible art, teach them about Miami’s alternative culture, and share some delicious local food .

As was the case with art districts of many other cities, Wynwood used to be a largely forgotten industrial warehouse district. However, the place saw some dramatic changes over the last few years and now, it’s even been listed as one of the top hipster destinations in the US by Trip Advisor which makes it a perfect fit for our list of hidden gems in Miami.  

Gold Coast Railroad Museum & The Magellan Railcar

The Gold Coast Railroad Museum is certainly not one of Miami’s most popular but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. Located in South Florida since 1957, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is still one of the best hidden gems in Miami. Inside, you’ll find an authentic retro atmosphere with music from the 1930s and 1940s that enriches the whole experience. The museum is home to more than 40 historic railcars and other interesting monuments but perhaps the highlight of the museum is the Ferdinand Magellan railcar.

This railcar was purchased by the US government in 1928 and was used by several different US presidents, including F. Roosevelt, H. Truman, D. Eisenhower, and R. Reagan. Inside, the railcar was equipped with a medical department and a presidential suite with two separate bedrooms, two guest rooms, a conference room, and a lounge.

The Fernando Magellan also happens to be the only passenger railcar to become a designated National Historic Landmark of the United States. 

The Kampong

If you’re a nature lover, The Kampong is one of the places in Miami you should definitely visit. The Kampong is a beautiful botanical garden located in Coconut Grove (similar to Leu Garden in Orlando , just a bit smaller) populated with thousands of tropical plants from different corners of the world. This garden is more than 150 years old and was founded by famous plant explorer, Dr. David Fairchild who introduced most of the early varieties of tropical fruits, spices, and grains to the United States .

Today, The Kampong is home to more than 1,000 varieties of unusual plants and trees and it stretches across 9 acres of lush tropical wilderness and is open to visitors (with advance reservation) Tuesday through Friday. 

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our list of the most remote places in the USA .

Center for Subtropical Affairs

Speaking of hidden gems in Miami, we just can’t forget the Center for Subtropical Affairs. This is an ecological learning center in Miami’s Little River that provides jobs in sustainable development to the community. The center works with people of all ages who want to advance in environmental education, resource conservation, and overall environmental health. The place has a nice tropical vibe and an amazing atmosphere, so if you’re a social traveler that likes supporting local eco-initiatives, I think you’ll definitely like the Center for Subtropical Affairs.

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our list of relaxing things to do in Orlando .

Coral Castle

If you’re an art lover, you should also check out the Coral Castle; a fascinating park filled with hundreds of sculptures sculpted by Edward Leedskalnin between 1923 and 1951. The name of the place is not the most appropriate because the sculptures are actually made of oolitic limestones and not corals (even though the two are very similar in appearance). Locals often refer to it as Florida’s Stonehenge and the park was featured in Billy Idol’s “Sweet Sixteen” but yet still tourists (until recently also including yours truly) aren’t aware it exists. So, next time you visit and are looking for hidden gems in Miami, make sure to check it out.

Neptune Memorial Reef

Neptune Memorial Reef is an undersea cemetery that’s designed to look like the lost city of Atlantis. A couple of carved lions mark the entry to the “lost city” that lies 40 feet below and stretches across 16 acres of concrete bronze and steel. The cemetery was intentionally designed to create a marine environment for fish and coral by the Neptune Society (a cremation company) and today is inhabited by a handful of endangered species. This site is accessible only by boat and is open to all divers and there isn’t an entrance fee.

Ancient Spanish Monastery

The Ancient Spanish Monastery in Miami consists of cloisters that were a part of an old monastery in Spain (St Bernard de Clairvaux Episcopal Church)built in the 1130s AD. The cloisters were sold and brought to Florida in the 1830s during the First Carlist War in Spain. This iconic monument arrived in the United States separated in 11,000 separate boxes.

However, the person who bought them (William Randolph Hearst) was forced to sell all of his belongings. The buyers bought the cloisters for 1.5 million dollars, somehow managed to reconstruct them (it took them 19 months), and turn them into a tourist attraction. Despite being one of the oldest structures in the US, the “monastery” never became a major attraction but at least it made it to this list of the best hidden gems in Miami.

World Erotic Art Museum

As you can probably tell from its name, The World Erotic Art Museum is one of the quirkiest museums in Miami. It’s located on South Beach and it was opened in 2006. The owner of the collection has been collecting samples of erotic art for years and the collection has art pieces dating back to as early as the Roman Era but there are also some pieces from modern artists as well.

In the beginning, the owner (Naomi Wilzig) kept her collection in her home but at one point, the collection has grown so much that Naomi decided to buy a whole building for her collection. Today, the museum consists of 12,000 square feet of artwork stored in 20 different rooms. Some of the most famous exhibits include the male appendage used in Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange” and a one-tonne Kama Sutra bed decorated with more than 100 Kama Sutra positions.

The area surrounding Circle National Historic Landmark was supposed to be a luxurious apartment complex but unfortunately for the landowner, during a routine archaeological inspection, hundreds of mysterious holes were discovered. Because of this, all construction work was stopped and after further excavation, many historical artifacts were discovered, including ancient tools, human remains, and wooden constructions more than 2,000 years old.

To this day, Miami’s Circle remains the only place in the United States to have a prehistoric structure built into bedrock. According to historians, the area was likely inhabited by the Tequesta Indians and the holes in the ground were probably the foundation of a ceremonial/religious structure…

The Wolfsonian

Our list of hidden gems in Miami wouldn’t be complete without the Wolfsonian; a fascinating museum in Art Deco District with a mission to “illustrate the persuasive power of art and design and to tell the story of political, social, and technological changes that have transformed our world”. The museum’s collection consists of more than 100,000 artifacts that cover the period between the Industrial Revolution and WWII. Within the collection, you’ll find rare books, ephemera, paintings, metals, textiles, periodicals, etc.

The museum was open to visitors in 1995 and is often endorsed by famous collectors, scholars, and educators for its fascinating collection of art and design and for presenting the ways in which it influences societal and cultural change.

Pro tip:  Admission is free Friday evenings between 6 and 9 PM.

To complete this list of hidden gems in Miami, we have a couple of more places that are near Miami and deserve a mention.

Everglades National Park

If you’re in Southern Florida, your trip wouldn’t be complete without the Everglades National Park. The Everglades is a natural region of tropical wetlands that consists of the southern half of a large drainage basin within the Neotropical realm, an ecosystem that can’t be found anywhere else on our planet. Within the park, there are several different ecosystems, including Sawgrass marshes and sloughs, cypress, tropical hardwood hammock, mangrove, and coastal prairie Flatwoods, and pineland.

The park stretches across 7,800 square miles and if you want to visit, I suggest you take a tour. My personal recommendation is this  Everglades Airboat Adventure and Wildlife Encounter .

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our list of abandoned places in Orlando .

Coral Gables & Venetian Pool

Coral Gables is a town located roughly 5 miles out of Miami known as “The City Beautiful”. It’s a picturesque city dotted with tree-lined streets and a perfect getaway from Miami’s hustle and bustle. The city resembles a European city with its historic plazas, beautiful fountains, and classical architecture but the real gem of Coral Gables is the Venetian Pool.

The Venetian Pool is the only pool in the US listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This pool is emptied and refilled every day with natural spring water from an underground aquifer. It was built in 1923 from a coral rock quarry, modeled after a Venetian grotto with a goal to bring a slice of the Mediterranean to Florida’s coast. If you’re planning to visit, try to get there early because the pool stops accepting visitors once its capacity is reached. Also, note that there’s a $13 entrance fee.

Looking for some more hidden gems in the US ? You might also be interested in the following articles.

Hidden gems in Orlando

Hidden gems in Atlanta

Hidden gems in Los Angeles

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Hidden gems in Minnesota

Hidden gems in New Jersey

Hidden gems in San Diego

Hidden gems in Sacramento

Did you ever visit Miami? How did you like this list of hidden gems in Miami? Do you think there are some other places we should have mentioned but didn’t? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.

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The Best 24 Secret Beaches in Miami

Welcome to the beautiful shores of Miami, where a wealth of hidden treasures await to be discovered.

In this article we will guide you through Miami’s lesser-known beaches, revealing the city’s best-kept secrets. Let’s explore the best secret beaches in Miami , allowing you to discover your own personal oasis of tranquility.

What's in this article?

The Charm of Secret Beaches in Miami

There’s something undeniably alluring about secret beaches. They hold an irresistible charm, offering a respite from the popular tourist spots and a chance to reconnect with nature in a more intimate setting.

Miami, known for its vibrant energy, is also home to several hidden gems that epitomize tranquility and natural beauty.

These secret beaches beckon you to explore their shores, promising an unforgettable experience away from the beaten path. Let’s delve into the wonders that await.

Quiet Beaches in Miami

If you’re seeking a peaceful retreat to unwind and soak up the sun in blissful silence, Miami has an array of quiet beaches that will captivate your senses.

Picture yourself strolling along pristine shores, the gentle sound of lapping waves serenading your thoughts. Here are a few secret beaches in Miami that offer serenity at its finest:

North Shore Beach

Tucked away from the bustling crowds, North Shore Beach is a hidden gem known for its tranquil atmosphere.

With its soft sands and crystal-clear waters, this secluded spot invites you to relax and enjoy the soothing sounds of nature.

Bal Harbour Beach

For those in search of sophistication and tranquility, Bal Harbour Beach offers a perfect sanctuary. This pristine stretch of shoreline exudes elegance, with its upscale resorts and pristine sands.

Take a leisurely stroll and let the gentle ocean breeze wash away your worries.

Sunny Isle Beach

Sunny Isle Beach is a serene oasis where you can bask in the sun and revel in the tranquility of the surroundings.

The calm waters provide an ideal spot for swimming, while the golden sands invite you to unwind and soak up the rays.

Hobe Island Beach Park

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Hobe Island Beach Park. This hidden Miami gem showcases the unspoiled beauty of the coastline.

Explore the nature trails, marvel at the diverse wildlife, and revel in the secluded beaches that await your discovery.

Hidden Beaches for Families

Miami’s secret beaches not only offer a tranquil escape for adults but also provide an ideal playground for families.

If you’re traveling with little ones, these family-friendly secret beaches in Miami are perfect for creating lasting memories:

Matheson Hammock Park

Nestled amidst lush greenery, Matheson Hammock Park boasts a picturesque beach with calm waters, making it an excellent choice for families with young children.

The park also offers picnic areas, walking trails, and a man-made atoll pool, providing endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.

Hollywood North Beach Park

Located just north of Miami, Hollywood North Beach Park offers a family-friendly atmosphere with its wide sandy beaches and shallow waters.

Let the kids build sandcastles, splash in the gentle waves, and enjoy a day of sun-drenched adventures.

West Palm Beach

Although slightly further from downtown Miami , West Palm Beach is worth the journey for families seeking a hidden gem.

This pristine beach offers ample space for kids to run and play, while parents can relax under swaying palm trees and revel in the peaceful ambiance.

Virginia Key Beach Park

Virginia Key Beach Park, with its calm waters and gentle surf, is an ideal destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Explore the nature trails, engage in water sports activities, or simply enjoy a leisurely picnic on the beach.

Top Secret Beaches in Miami

As we continue our exploration of the secret beaches in Miami , we invite you to discover more hidden coastal gems that are sure to leave you in awe.

These top secret beaches offer a combination of breathtaking beauty, pristine sands, and a sense of exclusivity that will make your visit truly unforgettable.

Crandon Park Beach

Located on Key Biscayne, Crandon Park Beach is a hidden paradise that showcases the natural splendor of Miami. With its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands, this secluded beach provides a peaceful retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Explore the nature trails, enjoy a picnic under the shade of palm trees, or simply bask in the sun while admiring the stunning panoramic views.

Haulover Beach Park

Haulover Beach Park is not only famous for its clothing-optional section but also for its hidden gem: a secluded beach area known for its tranquil ambiance. Leave the crowds behind and find solace in the serene beauty of this secret beach.

Take a leisurely swim, indulge in a beachfront picnic, or simply unwind and revel in the soothing sounds of the ocean waves.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

For a taste of history combined with natural beauty, head to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Nestled on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, this hidden gem boasts a picturesque lighthouse and stretches of untouched coastline.

Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, explore the historic grounds, or climb to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views.

Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach offers a tranquil escape with its pristine sands and gentle surf. This secret beach is ideal for those seeking a serene atmosphere and a chance to soak up the sun in peace.

Unwind with a good book, take a refreshing dip in the ocean, or simply lie back and let the worries of the world drift away.

Exploring Miami’s Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known beaches, Miami hides a treasure trove of secret beach destinations that are waiting to be discovered . These lesser-known gems showcase the natural wonders of South Florida, but also offer unusual things to do for adventurous travelers ..

Oleta River State Park

Oleta River State Park is a hidden oasis nestled in the heart of Miami. This expansive park offers not only beautiful secret beaches but also opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring scenic trails.

Immerse yourself in nature as you navigate the tranquil waters or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the park’s picturesque paths.

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park

Just a short drive north of Miami, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park offers a serene escape from the city. Explore its hidden beach and revel in the untouched beauty of the coastline.

With nature trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, this hidden gem provides a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Oceanfront Park Beach

Located in Boynton Beach, Oceanfront Park Beach is a lesser-known gem that offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. With its soft sands and clear waters, this secret beach is a haven for those seeking peace and quiet.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll, marvel at the colorful seashells, or simply savor the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Bahia Honda

A short drive south of Miami lies Bahia Honda, a hidden paradise renowned for its stunning beaches and pristine waters. This remote gem offers an idyllic setting for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding on the sugary sands.

With its untouched beauty, Bahia Honda transports you to a world of tropical bliss.

Unveiling South Florida’s Hidden Treasures

Beyond the borders of Miami, South Florida holds a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored. These secret beach destinations near Miami showcase the diverse beauty of the region and offer a chance to discover lesser-known coastal wonders.

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

Situated on the historic Virginia Key, this beach park is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty with cultural significance. Take a stroll along the shoreline and learn about the park’s rich history, which played a vital role in Miami’s civil rights movement.

With its serene atmosphere and stunning views, Historic Virginia Key Beach Park is a testament to the region’s past and present.

North Shore Open Space Park

Just a short distance from the bustling cityscape of Miami Beach, North Shore Open Space Park provides a refreshing escape into nature.

This hidden gem offers a vast expanse of greenery and a secluded beach where you can relax, take a leisurely walk, or simply enjoy a picnic while surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Von D. Mizell and Eula Johnson State Park

Located along the coastline of Dania Beach, Von D. Mizell and Eula Johnson State Park offers a pristine and secluded beach experience. Explore the tranquil waters, indulge in some birdwatching, or simply savor the peaceful ambiance of this hidden gem.

With its unspoiled beauty and abundance of wildlife, this park is a true natural treasure.

Dania Beach

Dania Beach is a small coastal town located just south of Fort Lauderdale, offering a hidden beach escape for those in search of tranquility. With its soft sands and calm waters, this secret beach is an ideal spot for relaxation and solitude.

Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, soak up the sun, or marvel at the vibrant colors of the sunset.

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

While not a traditional beach, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a hidden oasis that deserves a mention. Located in the heart of Miami Beach, this lush garden provides a serene and peaceful retreat from the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, admire the diverse plant species, and find solace amidst the tranquil surroundings.

Miami Beach Cinematheque

For art enthusiasts seeking a unique experience, the Miami Beach Cinematheque offers a hidden gem in the form of an art-house cinema. Located in the historic Miami Beach City Hall, this cultural hotspot showcases a curated selection of independent and foreign films.

Immerse yourself in the world of cinema and enjoy thought-provoking movies in an intimate setting.

South Pointe Pier

South Pointe Pier is a lesser-known gem that offers panoramic views of the Miami skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. Take a leisurely stroll along the pier, soak in the breathtaking vistas, and feel the refreshing ocean breeze against your skin.

This hidden spot is perfect for a peaceful escape and a chance to admire Miami’s natural and architectural beauty.

Municipal Beach

Nestled in the town of Surfside, Municipal Beach is a serene stretch of sand that offers a quiet retreat for beach lovers. With its calm waters and uncrowded shores, this hidden gem provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Unwind on the soft sands, take a dip in the inviting ocean, or simply bask in the serenity of the surroundings.

Final Thoughts

As our journey through Miami’s secret beaches comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the beauty and allure of these hidden coastal treasures.

Remember, while Miami may be known for its popular beaches, the real magic lies in the exploration of its secret gems. So, venture off the beaten path, uncover the hidden wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The secret beaches of Miami are waiting to be discovered.

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Best Hidden Gems in Miami

Everyone knows that beautiful Miami is among the best places to visit in Florida . Famous for its pristine beaches and tropical climate, this coastal metropolis dazzles visitors with fantastic shopping, dynamic nightlife, beautiful Art Deco architecture, high-end hotels, and a fascinating skyline.  

While the standard attractions are all worth a visit, some people seek a more unique stay. If you’re one of them, read on as we’ve dug up some of the best-hidden gems in Miami for you.  

1. Boat to Stiltsville

If you hope to avoid the crowds, head over to one of the hidden gems in Miami, Stiltsville. Only accessible by boat, this chill hangout spot can be found about 5 miles off the shoreline of Miami’s Key Biscayne.  

Composed of seven different stilt houses in water, you can visit this year-round destination for free, swim in the area, explore the different houses, and learn about their history.  

2. Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple

About a 40-minute ride from Miami International Airport, the Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple in Homestead, Florida, sits on 5 acres of rural land and features an impressive 23-ft tall image of Buddha.  

You can marvel at the intricate South East Asian architectural designs that include “chofas”, which are Lao and Thai architectural decorative ornaments that traditionally adorn palace roofs. Professionally sculpted in Thailand, these golden horn-like spires were later shipped to Miami.

Learn about the temple’s rich history and take some pictures with your family or friends in one of the hidden gems in Miami.  

3. Visit Deering Estate

A breathtaking place of opulent grandeur, the Deering Estate in Miami features historical buildings, mangrove forests, tropical Rockland, and much more. Located on the South Dade Coast, this picturesque 21st-century house museum is an environmental preserve listed on the National Register of Historic Places, owned by the State of Florida, and managed by Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Department.

  It provides excellent recreational and cultural activities for guests, including canoe tours, butterfly walks, and guided museum and outdoor area tours. The Deering Estate is one of the hidden gems in Miami that can be enjoyed by the whole family.  

4. Enjoy a Day at Giralda Plaza

While you’ve most likely seen pictures of Giralda Plaza and its different art installations, it’s not usually overrun with tourists. If you don’t have a rental car, take a bus or subway to the Giralda Plaza in Coral Gables to enjoy a musical performance, an outdoor screening of a family-friendly film, an art installation, or simply shop and dine in a less crowded place in Miami. The Plaza features the infamous colorful umbrella ceiling art installation which is a popular picture-taking spot for tourists and locals alike.  

5. Go on a Clear-Bottom Kayak Tour  

Miami is vibrant and exciting, but sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find some peace and quiet in nature. Kayaking in Miami is one of the best ways to do this. During our guided tour in a clear-bottom kayak, you get to venture through enchanting mangrove tunnels and relax among lush green and fascinating wildlife.  

Starting in East Greynolds Park, the trip leads through beautiful waterways where you get to see local wildlife and marine life up-close and personal. Since the waters are shallow and the kayak clear, you’ll be able to see right into the water beneath you. Look out for manatees, different species of birds, fish, rays, iguanas, and more!  

Great for a light workout, for relaxing in nature, and for beautiful photo opportunities, this kayak adventure is one of the hidden gems in Miami.  

6. Miami Beach Cinematheque

When you travel to Florida and want your trip to lead you to all the hidden gems in Miami, you can’t miss out on the Miami Beach Cinematheque: a lovely place for movie lovers to watch art films and classics in South Beach.  

Perfect for a romantic date, this charming movie theatre is located in the historic Miami Beach City Hall building.  

7. Watch the Sunset at South Pointe Park

Miami sunsets are breathtaking and South Pointe Park is an excellent place to watch them. Go for a hike along the local trails, take a picture with the South Pointe Park Lighthouse and let your kids enjoy the splash pad while you bask in the rainbow of colors of the setting sun.  

8. Dance the Night Away in Brickell

Miami is infamously pricey for a night out on the dance floor, but you don’t have to go to Ocean Drive to have fun with your friends.  

South Florida’s financial district Brickell features a number of excellent restaurants and bars, including Blue Martini, Barú, and Blackbird Ordinary where you can order the ‘blue motorcycle,’ a pricey but excellent cocktail that’ll most likely be the only thing you drink all night.  

Explore Miami off the Beaten Track

If you’re headed to Miami with your lover, friends, or family, you’ll surely want to check out the famous Ocean Drive, bask in the sun in South Beach, and explore all the popular tourist attractions.  

However, there’s more to see and experience in Miami, away from the busy tourist attractions and crowded city. From kayaking in Florida to art installations in Coral Gables and dance parties in Brickell, go try something new and different by enjoying all the best hidden gems in Miami.  

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• Miami Beach

THE 10 BEST Hidden Gem Activities in Miami Beach

Best miami beach hidden gem attractions.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• City Center
• Flamingo / Lummus
• South Pointe
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Jewish Museum of Florida - FIU

2. Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Recommended Hidden Gems (90)

3. The Wolfsonian - Florida International University

4. Art Deco Tours

5. The Official Art Deco Walking Tour by the Miami Design Preservation League

6. Ocean Force Adventures

7. Miami Food Tours

8. Food Tours in Miami

9. Art Deco Walks

10. City Tour in an Antique Car

11. Miami Native Tours

12. Sandbar MIA

13. South Beach Kayak

14. Miami Beach Flyboard and Watersports

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10 Great Places in Miami only Locals Know

Discover hidden gems in miami.

Miami is one of the most popular cities in the world but even regular visitors tend to overlook some of its hidden gems. Some may find themselves unsatisfied with only hitting the hot spots in town. There are other great places worth discovering in Miami other than the usual attractions.

Sometimes, you'll find a unique experience exploring Miami’s lesser-known spots, ranging from entertainment hubs to tranquil temples and curious sights in the waters of Biscayne Bay. Here are great places in Miami that only locals know about and you ought to discover on your next visit.

Miami Beach Cinematheque

A cinephile's go-to in south beach.

Miami Beach Cinematheque is a must-visit if you have a penchant for the movies. This intimate South Beach theater is run by the Miami Beach Film Society, and it showcases indies and classics with seating for only 50 people, which makes for a quiet and intimate viewing experience.

Showing films is just the beginning though, as this place also occasionally hosts live performances in addition to art exhibitions. You'll also find a café, bookstore, art gallery, and library in the cinematheque.

Location: 1130 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA

Phone: +1 786-471-3269

Stiltsville

The remnants of a sea community.

Stiltsville is one of the more curious destinations in Miami, comprising stilt houses in the waters of Biscayne. The collection of 7 houses are about a mile off the coast within Biscayne National Park.

The houses tower over the water, protected from being submerged thanks to long stilts. You can see them up close by booking a boat tour through the area. You can learn about their fascinating history while imagining what it's like to live in a house surrounded by water and supported by stilts tall enough to protect the floor from waves.

Location: Key Biscayne, FL 33149, USA

Phone: +1 305-230-1144

Key Biscayne Beach near Miami

7 Best Family Things to Do in Miami Beach

Coral Gables in Miami

Wag buddharangsi buddhist temple, a tranquil oasis within the big city.

At Miami’s Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple, you'll find a tranquil setting that is perfect if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The temple sits on about 5 acres of rural land and boasts impressive southeastern Asian architectural designs including chofas , which are horn-like spires that shine gold in the sunlight.

Inside the temple, you'll be met with a massive 23-ft-tall image of Buddha in shining gold that was professionally sculpted in Thailand before being shipped to Miami.

Location: 15200 SW 240th St, Homestead, FL 33032, USA

Phone: +1 305-245-2702

PAMM Museum

Admire contemporary artworks by international artists.

The Perez Art Museum of Miami, or PAMM, is one of the places where you’ll find some of the best contemporary international art around. Miami is a particularly fitting destination for this establishment, as the diversity of the local culture mimics the diversity of works you'll find within the museum.

The works on display hail from all over the world and were created in the 20 th or 21 st centuries. You'll even find numerous educational programs that let you learn more about the African diaspora, the US Latino experience, and more.

Location: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA

Phone: +1 305-375-3000

Giralda Plaza

A relaxing hangout spot in miami.

Giralda Plaza is a quaint and relaxing place to hang out in Miami if you're looking for fun without the crowds. This lovely plaza features numerous shops and tables as its brick walkways put you right in the middle of several other attractions.

Art installations are also popular here thanks to the Umbrella Sky that was set up in 2018. Visit during the weekend, and you may even find live musical performances being held here or an outdoor screening of a family-friendly movie. Whatever the case may be, this plaza is a destination the whole family can enjoy.

Location: Giralda Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134, USA

Soundscape Park

A green urban oasis.

SoundScape Park is located next to the New World Center in Miami and serves as a relaxing retreat from the city. This urban oasis is packed full of open green spaces, walkways, and towering palm trees.

Not only is the landscape design positively soothing, but your relaxation here can be further enhanced by the enchanting sounds of the classical New World Symphony. The park frequently hosts events and your visit might coincide with an exhibition or musical performance.

Location: 400 17th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA

Little Haiti Cultural Complex

Learn about haitian culture and cuisine.

The Little Haiti Cultural Complex is an exciting place where you can explore Haitian culture and cuisine while being surrounded by vibrant Caribbean architecture. You can find the complex in the Miami community of Little Haiti.

You can enjoy the local market days by perusing high-quality food and ingredients, or you can stop by for a musical performance as Haitian artists play traditional melodies. There's even a drum class held here that's particularly popular with visitors.

Location: 212 NE 59th Terrace, Miami, FL 33137, USA

Open: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm

Phone: +1 305-960-2969

South Pointe Pier

One of miami's most relaxing piers.

South Pointe Pier is one of the most relaxing of the many piers that you can find around Miami. This is thanks in large part to the lack of any serious crowds here. Even so, there's still plenty to enjoy along the pier.

If you're interested in fishing, this pier is one of the best spots in the city. Not only do fish bite quite a bit in this area, but the pier offers stations for cutting bait and washing fish. There's even extensive seating that lets you cast out and relax among the scenic views.

Location: 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA

Open: Daily from 7.30 am to 6 pm

Phone: +1 305-673-7779

Holocaust Memorial

A grim reminder of a dark chapter in human history.

The Holocaust Memorial in Miami serves as a somber and grim reminder of one of the darkest chapters in human history. Visiting this immaculately designed memorial puts into perspective the events that touched countless lives all across the world. 

The memorial itself features a massive outstretched hand sculpture protruding from the earth decorated with life-size models of emaciated and anguished victims. Surrounding the central monument is a pool of water and information plaques and tablets offering essential perspective into the events that took place in the '30s and '40s.

Location: 1933-1945 Meridian Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA

Open: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm

Phone: +1 305-538-1663

Bayside Marketplace

Shopping, views, and more.

While Bayside Marketplace may seem like your typical shopping mall at first sight, it's actually much more. While it does feature more than 120 stores to explore, this mall also offers special features like frequent live music, delicious restaurants, and bars. 

Additionally, you can enjoy the mall's open container policy and picturesque waterfront views. Keep in mind, however, that this mall is not strictly adult-oriented. In fact, there are many family events that are held here as well, so it offers a wide variety of experiences to enjoy.

Location: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA

Open: Monday–Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm, Friday–Sunday from 11 am to 9 pm

Phone: +1 305-577-3344

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Heading to Miami? A local wants you to know these 10 things

Apr 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Things get going late in Miami. If you’re here to party, count on staying out until the wee hours © Jeff Greenberg / Universal Images Group / Getty Images

Like many South Florida residents, I came first as a tourist before my family made the leap and moved here.

But don’t lump me in with the new wave. I planted my roots in Miami back in 2009 – meaning I’ve been observing Miami’s distinct culture since well before the city’s recent trendiness. Getting to know Miami can be measured in more than years, though: my overuse of words like “bro”, “literally” and “super” – not to mention all sorts of Spanglish – marks me as a local. 

If you’ve got Florida on your vacation radar (and who doesn’t?), allow me to share all the things you should know before your visit to marvelous Miami. 

Visiting for the weekend? We have the itinerary for you

1. There’s more to Miami than the beach 

We don’t blame tourists for coming to Miami for our beautiful beaches – but it would be a shame if you were to only stick to the sand. Outdoorsy travelers will find plenty to keep themselves busy, with a handful of nearby state parks and even two national parks  within easy distance to explore. And in town, Miami’s sensational neighborhoods – from Downtown to Wynwood – are worth savoring.

What really makes Miami stand out? Its unique blend of international influences, especially from the Caribbean and Latin America. So don’t miss out on perusing neighborhoods like Little Havana and Little Haiti.

Save our top neighborhood picks in Miami

2. Avoid visiting during spring break

Miami is a great destination year-round – with one exception: spring-break season. In recent years, spring break has become insufferably crowded, overpriced and in some cases even dangerous. Local authorities in Miami Beach have started cracking down by imposing curfews, enacting stricter rules around alcohol sales and increasing parking fees to as much as $100. In short, during spring break, you won’t get to fully experience Miami Beach – which I’d say is a must-see spot for first-time visitors. If spring break is the only time that works for you, then I suggest avoiding hotels in Miami Beach, and especially South Beach . 

3. Don’t be surprised by the summer rain

Speaking of seasons, I’d be failing as your guide if I didn’t mention the rainy season. One summer, I met a Miami transplant who had recently moved from Ohio . He expressed his disappointment that it rained almost every day. I told him to count on rain every day from 2pm to 4pm during the summer – and plan accordingly. As we sat in that co-working cafe, it rained during that exact time frame, and I felt like a weather-controlling sorcerer.

Bottom line: South Florida is a tropical destination, so afternoon showers are the summertime norm. Don’t worry, though. Once the (sometimes apocalyptic) rain stops, things turn immediately bright and sunny again.

4. Public transportation is limited…

Greater Miami sprawls across thousands of square miles. And since the city was developed around cars, you can expect points of interest to be spread out, with little to no public transportation to get you there . Miami International Airport, luckily, is directly connected to Downtown via the recently expanded Tri-Rail train service. 

Within Downtown Miami and its surrounding areas, you’ll find the Metrorail , as well as the free Metromover , a small train system whose lines circle and extend slightly north and south of the city’s core. Those are fairly reliable, but limited: the moment you want to go a little bit west or east to the beach, things get complicated. You can take the bus; some neighborhoods also offer low-cost trolleys or even free shuttles via the Freebee app . But it’s the connectivity between different areas that’s tricky – and above all, really time-consuming.

5. …but drive at your own risk

So since public transportation isn’t great, you should rent your own car, right? Let me pump the brakes on that idea. Unless you’re moving around a lot in a day or venturing to farther places like the Everglades , you’re probably better off using a rideshare app. Not only because hiring a ride is more cost-effective, but also because Miami drivers are aggressive . Driving well over the speed limit is expected, and using a turn signal is like divulging your war plan to the enemy. (Seriously, I once had someone purposely block me from switching out of a lane that was closing.) If you’re not used to Grand Theft Auto –style driving, then leave it to the locals, who wouldn’t flinch at anything I just described.

If you’re thinking, “Fine! I’ll just walk!”: please don’t do that either. A stroll within one neighborhood is fine, but if you set out on foot from one area to the next, you might find yourself on the side of a highway, or in some not-so-great neighborhoods.

Navigate Miami like a local with these tips for getting around

6. Spanglish is Miami’s unofficial language

Miami is known as the “capital of Latin America” – and with good reason. More than half of the residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, and Spanish is spoken everywhere. In fact, you might come across a situation – say, at a restaurant or with a rideshare driver – where your service provider doesn’t speak English at all. Don’t fret. With the power of a translation app or good-old pointing and charades, you’ll get through. Or someone will step in to translate. We’re used to these scenarios here.

7. Review your restaurant bill carefully 

Miami attracts visitors from all around the world, and with different cultures come differing expectations about tipping. To make sure waiters aren’t missing out on essential income, many restaurants in the most touristy areas of Miami (think South Beach and Downtown) will often automatically add 18–20% gratuity to your bill. If you’d like to add an extra tip on top of that, it will certainly be well received, but it’s not expected or necessary. So look over your restaurant bill carefully, keeping in mind that sometimes this automatic gratuity is listed as a “service charge.”

While on the topic of restaurants: don’t ever order something that doesn’t have a price on the menu, especially those big, fancy drinks in South Beach. You might get lured in by “happy hour” – only to find out that the one drink in that two-for-one special costs $50.

8. That tiny coffee is stronger than you think

One of the best parts of visiting Miami is tasting food from around the world, especially Latin America. I encourage you to try new dishes you’ve never heard of. You especially can’t leave without having a Cuban meal – or at least a favorite Cuban snack: pastelitos (pastries usually filled with guava and/or cheese) y cafécito . Cuban coffee is a big deal served in a little cup – but don’t get greedy. That tiny coffee packs a huge caffeinated punch. Drink wisely. As in, two cups max.

These are the best spots to sip Cuban coffee in Miami

9. Mind the dress code if you want to get into the club 

Miami’s nightclubs and lounges typically have a strict dress code, especially in Downtown and South Beach. And if the doorman decides your outfit doesn’t make the grade, then you’re not getting in. Believe me: I’ve seen it happen.

For major nightclubs like LIV or M2 , that typically means no tank tops, sleeveless shirts, shorts, “excessive baggy clothing,” sandals, flip flops or flats. Neighborhoods like Wynwood and up-and-comer Little River tend to be more casual – but even then, there are exceptions. So check the websites of the specific places you’re interested in. And dress to impress.

10. The party gets going extra late

Who says New York is the only City That Never Sleeps? Whether it’s the Latin American influence or the fact that people are on the beach until sunset, everything runs late into the evenings in Miami, from dinner (9pm is a perfectly normal mealtime) to the actual nightlife. You can do pre-party drinks anywhere from 10pm to midnight...but count on getting to the club late . The best ones don’t really get going until after midnight. And with some places open 24 hours, don’t be surprised to see people heading home with the sunrise.

Ready to plan more of your trip to Miami?

Add these top experiences to your itinerary Figure out the best time to visit Check out our favorite beaches  – beyond South Beach All of these day trips are less than two hours away

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20 Secret Places In Florida That Only Locals Know

A leader in the travel and tourism industry, Kara Franker has served in executive leadership roles for several destination organizations. A seasoned journalist, Kara has been featured as a travel expert for Southern Living, Coastal Living, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Travel Channel, Travelocity, Orbitz, HGTV, Huffington Post and more. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of several luxury lifestyle print magazines in the Miami, Palm Beach and Aspen markets for Modern Luxury.

Courtesy of the City of West Palm Beach

Ready for an adventure? Forget following the crowds. It's best to listen to the locals who know where to find the best pubs, fish houses, hikes, and shops⁠—from the Florida panhandle all the way down to the keys. These tucked-away places aren't in the first chapter of your guidebook⁠—and might not be in it at all⁠—and that's how many of us like it. These special spots may be hidden, but they are a favorite for year-round residents in Florida for good reason. From secret gardens to quirky restaurants to wildlife havens, here are 20 must-visit secret spots in Florida.

Ocala National Forest, Silver Springs

Florida's beaches get more attention than its forests, but you can enjoy both (and lots more) at this incredible park north of Orlando. The area is home to 600 lakes and rivers for all sorts of water sports and activities, wooded walking and hiking trails, Lake George and Lake Kerr for fishing, and special trails for motorcycles and ATVs. There's also the Doe Lake Recreation Area, a separate area for horses and horseback riding.

3199 NE Hwy. 315 Silver Springs, Florida 34488

Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales

This public garden is unique for many reasons, namely because it was designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., and because it is home to an eight-story structure called the Singing Tower . Inside the tower is a carillon, a rare instrument that contains at least 23 specially tuned bells that are played with a keyboard. There is so much to explore here, from seasonally blooming flowers to a 1930s-era Spanish-style mansion to nature trails.

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853

Little Moir's Food Shack, Jupiter

Little Moir's Food Shack

When you call your restaurant a shack, the culinary bar isn't set very high. Unsuspecting visitors might bypass Little Moir's Food Shack , but locals are more than happy to wait for a table. One look at the menu and it's clear this place isn't a dive. Locally-caught seafood is the star here, with dishes like the Fried Tuna and Basil Roll with a Mixed Melon Salad, and Sweet Potato-Crusted Pompano with greens, seasonal fruit, green beans, red onions, tomatoes, and a Key lime garlic dressing. The menu changes daily, so there's always a new reason to go back to the shack.

103 S. U.S. Hwy. 1 Ste. D3 Jupiter, Florida 33477

Walker's Landing, Amelia Island

Walker's Landing is a stunning secret spot to watch a sunset. Wood benches and swings overlook the salt marsh and dock where residents keep kayaks. There's also an elegant-meets-rustic lodge that can be rented out for events and weddings through the neighborhood association or Omni Amelia Island Resort .

70 Marsh Creek Road, Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, West Palm Beach

Ann Norton Sculpture Garden

This lush garden located near the Lake Worth Lagoon across from Palm Beach doesn't have a big sign, so it's easy to miss. But locals know that property, which is filled with rare plants and sculptures, is always worth a visit. As the former studio and residence of the late sculptor Ann Weaver Norton , it primarily showcases her large-scale work, but other artists display their pieces throughout the year as well.

253 Barcelona Road, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401

No Name Pub, Big Pine Key

Everyone knows that Key West is home to some of the most colorful and historic watering holes in the Sunshine State. But in-the-know travelers start the pub crawl a few islands up the chain on unassuming Big Pine Key, home of the National Key Deer Refuge. No Name Pub got its start in 1931 as a general store and bait and tackle shop. In 1936, the owners added the bar, and patrons started hanging dollar bills on the ceiling and walls. As the locals like to say, "It's a nice place, if you can find it."

30813 Watson Boulevard, Big Pine Key, Florida 33043

El Palacio De Los Jugos, Miami

 El Palacio De Los Jugos

What started as a small takeaway shop selling chicharrones and fruit juices back in 1977, has blossomed into a mini-empire of restaurants with locations throughout Miami. Yes, the juices are fresh and the Cuban food is delicious. But what's made El Palacio a success is its loyal fanbase of locals. Inside each one, there is a bodega, a small shop with tropical fruit and other groceries.

Multiple locations

Peanut Island, Riviera Beach

This tiny island is a prime spot for snorkeling and spotting tropical fish, but it's not on the radar of many tourists, who typically opt for the other beaches in Palm Beach County. You'll need a kayak or a boat to get to Peanut Island ( water taxis  at  Riviera Beach Marina Village  run every 20 minutes), but once you're there, you'll feel like you've discovered a little slice of paradise.

Riviera Beach, Florida 33404

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, Vero Beach

Home to bird rookeries, fish spawning sites, a butterfly garden, and juvenile sea turtle nurseries, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge consists of 5,400-plus acres of protected lagoons and marshes frequented by endangered species. This National Historic Landmark became the first federal area set aside specifically to protect wildlife. Join a guided nature walk or explore on your own and keep an eye out for bobcats, river otters, manatees, dolphins, and more.

4055 Wildlife Way, Vero Beach, Florida 32963

Airstream Row, Seaside

By design, the community of Seaside is more elegant than eclectic. Everything here looks perfectly planned—because it was. One exception to this is Airstream Row, a collection of funky airstream trailers-turned food trucks, just off the main park. For years, this has been a tradition in the beach town. Today's offerings include Wild Bill's Beach Dogs, Meltdown on 30A (sandwiches), and Frost Bites (shaved ice).

Cortez Historic Fishing Village, Cortez

Located on a little-known peninsula that juts off the coast of Bradenton, the Cortez Historic Fishing Village is where you'll find one of the few remaining commercial fishing fleets on the waterfront in Florida. Head to a 1920s-era fish house called Star Fish Company where you'll find a dockside, hole-in-the-wall-style eatery and market where the catch of the day was swimming just minutes before hitting your plate.

12306 46th Avenue W., Cortez, FL 34215

The Kampong Botanical Garden in Coconut Grove

Most of Miami has no idea that The Kampong secret garden exists (it's camouflaged by layers of rare and exotic plants and guarded by a red gate) in the quirky Coconut Grove neighborhood on Biscayne Bay. Sprawling over 11 lush acres, towering palms and moss-draped oaks provide an umbrella to the former home of Dr. David Fairchild (1869-1954), one of the most famous horticulturists in history. As you explore the Asian-inspired main house, cottages, and grounds, you'll take a step back into time and maybe even find a little Zen along the way.

4013 Douglas Road, Miami, Florida 33133

The Banyan Tree, Islamorada

Tucked away in a tropical garden with orchids, succulents, and a towering Banyan tree, The Banyan Tree is a hidden oasis in Islamorada . Wander through the garden, shop for a Florida Keys-inspired outfit, or take a painting class. The boutique and gardens feature clothing, accessories, jewelry, home décor, and more. On the second Thursday of every month, show up for Creative Plant Night, where you can design terrariums and flower arrangements with friends.

81197 Overseas Highway (Mile Marker 81.2) Islamorada, Florida 33036

Grayton Beer Company, Santa Rosa Beach

Capitalizing on that easy-going, Gulf-Coast state of mind, Grayton Beer Company's taproom features a 25-tap draft wall of their small-batch brews that are all handcrafted on site. Not sure where to start? We love their Beach Blonde Ale. On Saturdays, there's a killer food truck line-up, live music, and a great group of fun-loving folks.

217 Serenoa Road, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Historic Sponge Docks, Tarpon Springs

Located north of Clearwater, Tarpon Springs is a hotbed of Greek culture and a sponge-harvesting industry that dates back more than a century. At the historic Sponge Docks, you'll find shops and a collection of authentic Greek restaurants. Pop into the Spongeroama Sponge Factory, where you'll find a large selection of natural sea sponges, Greek gifts, a museum, and boat tours.

510 Dodecanese Boulevard, Tarpon Springs, Florida 34689

Gordon River Greenway, Naples

In Naples , locals know and love the Gordon River Greenway, an elevated nature trail and one of the last unspoiled areas in the region. Weaving through the mangroves, the Greenway features paved pathways, canoe and kayak launches, scenic overlooks for wildlife viewing, and a hidden entrance near the Naples Zoo and Conservancy of Southwest Florida.

1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples, Florida 34102

Robert Is Here, Homestead

If there's a fruit or vegetable grown in the tropics, chances are you'll find it at Robert Is Here . South Floridians know that this humble roadside market is bursting with the best produce, from mangoes, bananas, and avocados, to rarer delights like passion fruit. Whatever you're looking for, don't leave without one of their famous milkshakes which can be made with just about every type of fruit you can imagine.

19200 SW 344th Street, Homestead, Florida 33034

Shiny Fish Emporium, Anna Maria Island

Find your inner artist at Shiny Fish Emporium in Anna Maria Island, where you can decorate sand dollars with owners Rebecca and Dan. You'll get the perfect keepsake to take home from vacation, and it's a great activity for the whole family. Equal parts artisan haven and tropical boutique, you could spend hours shopping for unique gifts like colorful kimonos and funky ukuleles.

306 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, Florida 34216

Morikami Museum And Japanese Gardens, Delray Beach

A 16-acre Japanese garden in South Florida might seem odd to some, but if you live in Delray Beach , you know that the Morikami is a local treasure. In addition to the beautiful grounds, there is a museum centered on Japanese art and artifacts, (with permanent and temporary exhibits) a theater, a cafe, and a tea house (visitors can participate in a traditional tea ceremony). Spending a day here is a complete change of pace, in the best possible way.

West Palm Beach GreenMarket

USA Today readers named this lively farmers' market the best in the United States for three years in a row . And while it does attract its fair share of visitors, it's a Saturday morning ritual for many West Palm Beach residents. In addition to seasonal produce, you'll find a greenhouse worth of orchids and plants, a Cuban coffee stand, locally-made baked goods and condiments, and a lot of happy shoppers and their dogs.

101 S Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401

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I’ve Been to Miami 20 Times—These Are the Best Places to Stay

By Andrea Navarro

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Looking for the best places to stay in Miami? Whether you're planning a girls trip , eyeing a romantic getaway , or prepping for a babymoon , Miami is a mixtape of neighborhoods, each with its own flavor. From the ocean breeze of South Beach to the chill and secluded vibes of Key Biscayne and the art-filled streets of Wynwood, there's a perfect match for your trip. So, no matter what you're visiting the 305 for, our guide to Magic City will make sure your stay is just as relaxing or as party-filled as you want it to be. Just don't forget your favorite bikini and sunscreen .

Top hotels:

• Best Luxury Hotel in Miami Beach : The Setai Miami Beach
• Best Hotel in Brickell : East Miami
• Best Hotel in Wynwood : Arlo Wynwood Miami
• Best Hotel in Key Biscayne : The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
• Best Hotel in Coral Gables : The Biltmore Hotel Miami
• Best Hotel in Coconut Grove : Mr. C Coconut Grove
• Best Hotel in South Beach : Loews South Beach

Save when booking your next Miami trip with promo codes from Booking.com , Expedia , Travelocity , and TripAdvisor .

Miami Beach

Photo courtesy of the Setai Miami Beach

If one of your requirements is being beachside, the Setai is a great place to book your stay. Situated in buzzy Miami Beach, it's easily the most luxurious property in the area. There are stunning Art Deco vibes mixed with Asian influence throughout the architecture and decor. It has a gorgeous courtyard perfect for reading and sunbathing and three infinity pools that each have a different temp. Heading to Miami without a car? The Setai's only a few steps away from the sandy beach, where you can rent private chairs and umbrellas. As for the rooms, they're spacious and have oversized windows to let in the Floridian sun, and there are large soaking tubs for late-night bubble baths or a relaxing rainfall shower (seriously, the water pressure is no joke). Hungry? Don't skip the salmon sashimi at Jaya , or if you're looking for a meal with a view, Ocean Grill is a great spot for couples. Looking to unwind after an evening at the clubs? Grab a wellness treatment like the Luminosity of Ice facial, which uses reflexology to help get you back to even.

What it’s ideal for: Folks looking for a high-end beachfront escape with fine dining

South Beach

Photo courtesy of Loews Miami Beach

The ultimate hangout, located steps from the ocean (no car needed!), the Loews Miami Beach is a friendly hotel that offers a great pool scene (you'll want to be there when they roll out the popcorn and snow cone machines), but if you prefer the sand, you can rent pool chairs with umbrellas or splurge on a cabana. Either way, the spots are full service, so you don't have to run to the pool bar to replenish your Miami Vice supply. They also have the Floridian outpost of the NYC-famous Rao's for a truly memorable Italian feast.

What it’s ideal for: Central beach-front location; great for families looking to eat well without having to leave the property

Photo courtesy of EAST Miami

East Miami is located right in the heart of the financial district. This modern and vibrantly decorated property is a stone's throw away from the Brickell City Centre, which has some of the city's best shopping and dining options. This hotel is perfect for business travelers, couples, and young adult vacationers alike. It offers rooms with views of the MIA skyline and a 20,000-square-foot outdoor pool deck, plus a high-energy rooftop bar, Sugar, which has range of tasty Asian dishes like sushi, bao buns, and yakitori. While it's not near the beach, it's only a short drive if hitting the shore is on your itinerary.

What it’s ideal for: A stylish urban retreat and a vibrant nightlife scene

Photo courtesy of Arlo Wynwood

By Valentine Servant-Ulgu

By Emily Tannenbaum

By Astro All-Starz

Want to capture Wynwood's vibrant art scene? Head over to the Arlo. This hotel, the first to open in Miami's celebrated art district, mirrors the creativity of the surrounding galleries and boutiques. Each room is designed with an artistic touch, featuring murals by local artists, and the communal spaces encourage interaction with other travelers and guests. Its rooftop bar also has a scenic backdrop for evening drinks and relaxation. And because Wynwood is one of the more walkable districts in the city, you can check out neighboring restaurants and bars on foot.

What it’s ideal for: Surrounding yourself with galleries, boutiques, and dining

Key Biscayne

Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne

For those seeking a more secluded stay in Miami, the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne offers just that, with a luxurious spin. Located on a barrier island just a short drive from downtown Miami, this resort is a tranquil retreat with its pristine beaches, tennis facilities, and a world-class spa. The property features rooms and suites with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean or the tropical gardens, and several different dining options that include the renowned Cantina Beach for authentic Mexican cuisine and Dune Burgers on the Beach for a casual outdoor setting.

What it’s ideal for: A tranquil getaway with pristine beaches and family-friendly activities

Coral Gables

Photo courtesy of the Biltmore Hotel Miami

The Biltmore Hotel Miami is a historic luxury hotel located in the exclusive Coral Gables area, known for its classic Mediterranean architecture and lush landscapes. This iconic hotel boasts one of the largest hotel pools in the country, an 18-hole golf course, and a full-service spa. Dining at the Biltmore is an experience in itself, with several restaurants offering everything from its famous Sunday brunch event to fine dining at the Fontana, and there's a bakery, Posto Dolce, on site for those with a sweet tooth.

What it’s ideal for: Enjoying classic luxury, stunning architecture, and a prestigious golf course

Coconut Grove

Photo courtesy of Mr. C Coconut Grove

Mr. C Coconut Grove brings a touch of modern architecture to the otherwise bohemian vibe of Coconut Grove. This boutique hotel, from the fourth generation of the Cipriani family, offers panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. The design alone sets it apart from other hotels in the area, with its iconic round windows making it photo-worthy for an Instagram post. The hotel's signature restaurant, Bellini, serves classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, and there's also a Bellini bar, plus beachside access behind the hotel.

What it’s ideal for: Panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and a modern design

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By Juliet Izon

By Jessica Radloff

Its name is ‘Pirate Island’ for a reason — and its bungalows are for sale in Florida

“ They rob the poor under the cover of law, forsooth, and we plunder the rich under the protection of our own courage. ”

Samuel Bellamy had a reputation on the high seas, once upon a time.

It wasn’t the usual reputation of violence and thievery that pirates in the 1700s tended to receive. The man known as Black Sam was a hero of sorts who treated his crew equally and just, and would only rob the rich. Today, he’s known as the “Robin Hood of the Sea” who would “fight smart, harm few, score big.”

And now there are prime real estate opportunities on the island named in his honor in Gulf County, Florida. Nicknamed “Pirate Island,” the secluded place has a lot to offer.

“Welcome to Black’s Island, an intimate private island retreat where relaxation and recreation meet nature’s splendor. Located in the heart of St Joseph’s Bay, situated amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Gulf Coast, this seven-acre private island features waterfront bungalows for optimal seclusion; this is your opportunity to own a private island bungalow,” the listing on Jon Kohler & Associates says. “At Black’s Island, the perfect blend of coastal charm and modern comfort beckons you to experience island living at its finest.”

While the entire island has 26 private bungalows on the seven-acre beach, 11 are up for sale, with one-story bungalows listed for $1.5 million while the two-story ones are $1.6 million.

Features in the one-story bungalows include:

Two bedrooms with king-sized beds

Loft area with full bed

Two bathrooms

Living room

Dining area

Laundry room

1,225 square feet

Features in the two-story bungalows include:

1,425 square feet

Third bedroom with bunkbeds

One half-bathroom

Dining room

“Offering the perfect blend of comfort and a nature-forward design aesthetic, these rich, wood-toned bungalows provide the ultimate retreat for adventure, relaxation, and rejuvenation with beautiful panoramic views of the Gulf,” the listing says.

The listing is held by Jon Kohler, JD, Erica Kohler, and Lori Bembry Weldon.

Gulf County is about a 100-mile drive southwest of Tallahassee.

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