Miami – Travel Guide
Miami, a vibrant city on Florida`s southeastern coast, is famous for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and diverse cultural scene. Visitors can explore the iconic South Beach, known for its Art Deco architecture, turquoise waters, and trendy restaurants. The city offers rich cultural experiences, from the colorful streets of Little Havana to the contemporary art at the Perez Art Museum Miami. Outdoor activities include boat tours, water sports, and exploring nearby natural attractions like the Everglades. Miami`s dynamic blend of beach life, art, cuisine, and multicultural energy makes it a captivating destination.
All about Miami
Getting around Miami
By Public Transportation
The massive public transportation system in Miami includes Metrobus, Metrorail elevated light rail, and Metromover trams.
The buses extend from Miami Beach in the east to West Miami-Dade and from the Middle Keys north to the southern reaches of Broward County.
The South Florida Tri-Rail offers visitors service to destinations located along the coast and connects West Palm Beach to Ft. Lauderdale, and Miami, including a stop a the airport.
The Miami Metrorail is a 25-mile elevated rail system, with 23 stations, and 2 lines that provide a fast and inexpensive way to travel around the city, from the Miami International Airport, through Downtown Miami, and all the way to Kendall. The Metrorail provides an easy way for visitors to reach the Civic Center, Hialeah, and northwest Miami-Dade with additional connections to Broward and Palm Beach counties at the Tri-Rail/Metrorail transfer station. The Metrorail Orange Line connects to the Miami Intermodal Center transportation hub and takes the free MIA Mover to the Miami International Airport’s main terminal. The fares cost around $2.25 and tickets can be purchased at any Metrorail station from the ticket vending machine.
The free Metromover in the city operates 21 stations on three different lines in greater Downtown Miami, with a station at roughly every two blocks of Downtown and Brickell. It serves as a connection between Metrorail and Metrobus with three loops; Omni Loop, Inner Loop, and Brickell Loop.
Tri-Rail is a commuter rail system that runs from Miami International Airport northward to West Palm Beach. It offers 18 stops throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.
There are two running Amtrak train lines; the Silver Meteor, and the Silver Star that both terminate in New York City. Miami is the southern terminus of Amtrak’s Atlantic services. The Miami Amtrak Station is located at a centralized location downtown.
Metrobus operates over 90 routes that serve areas that Metrorail and Metromover do not, including Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, and Homestead. There is an express bus service offered during rush hour, and a Route 55 Marlins Shuttle from April to September from Culmer Metrorail Station to loan Depot park so that baseball fans can catch a Miami Marlins baseball game. A bus ride costs around $2.25 per trip, and the easiest way to pay for a bus ride is with an EASY Card, or EASY Ticket that can be purchased online and select stations. Check individual route schedules for all the bus routes on the Go Miami-Dade Transit app.
The Beach Bus Route 150 is an express bus service that runs frequently between the airport and Miami Beach with stops at 41st Street, Alton Road, Collins Avenue, Lincoln Road, and Washington Avenue. Route 120 Beach Max is the bus that goes from the terminal at Aventura, in Aventura to Downtown Miami through Miami Beach, with frequent stops around Miami Beach, Surfside, Bal Harbour, and Haulover Park Marina.
By Car
Yes, renting a car to get around in Miami is easy and convenient with many of the city’s top attractions being spread out requiring multiple transfers on public transport. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and locations throughout the city. The major road routes in Miami are I-395, S.R. 836, and I-95. The downtown streets are divided into NE, NW, SE, and SW at the intersection of north-south Flagler Street and east-west Miami Avenue, where street numbers begin. Having your own car makes it easier to navigate the massive city, other than the crowded area of downtown the city is very car friendly. There are toll roads in Miami-Dade County and these fees vary. Florida’s Turnpike, the Dolphin Expressway, and the Airport Expressway are all toll roads. Toll roads require all drivers to pay a fee either by a SunPass, or toll-by-plate fee.
There are lots of parking lots, parking garages, on-street parking, and curbside valet in Miami. There are 34,000 parking spaces under the Miami Parking Authority, visit miamiparking.com for more information. The easiest way to pay for and find parking is to download the ParkMobile app, and the ParkMe – Miami Beach app.
By Taxi
There are plenty of options for taking a taxi ride when visiting Miami. Many visitors prefer a taxi to public transportation they can easily be found at the airport, at popular tourist destinations, and outside popular hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and nightclubs in the evening. There are also options for Uber and Lyft in Miami. Meters start at around $3 and tipping is expected.
Freebee is a free ride with one of their electric vehicles that can be ordered in the app just like an Uber. They currently operate in Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Doral, Downtown, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach and other neighborhoods.
By Trolley
The Miami trolley is a free way to get around certain areas of the city. The orange and green trolleys operate in Downtown, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Edgewater, Little Havana, Miami Beach, Wynwood, and more. The Transit App allows you to track trolleys in real time with additional features. Trolley services begin at 6:30 am on weekdays and Saturdays and run through 11:00 pm on most routes. It runs from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm on Sundays. You can flag it down from the street or find a marked stop. The free Coral Gables Trolley service operates Monday through Saturday from 6:30 am until 10:00 pm via two routes; Poncede Leon and Grand Avenue. It is also possible to connect to the Coral Gables trolley from Metrorail and the City of Miami trolley routes. Download the Coral Gables Trolley app on your smartphone for more information.
The City of Miami Gardens offers three free trolley routes on Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm with stops at the Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens City Hall, and more locations.
There is a free trolley service in Doral, a neighborhood on the west side of Miami International Airport with three routes and connections to Metrorail. Download the Doral Trolley app.
By Boat
Taking a boat ride when visiting Miami is a must. There are so many ways to travel around the waterways of Miami by boat, including water taxis, ferry services, and boat tours. Water Taxi Miami takes passengers on a scenic cruise through Biscayne Bay to explore the upscale neighborhoods in Downtown Miami and Miami Beach including South of Fifth, and Bayside Marketplace. The ride is around 30 minutes both ways. There are ferry services in Miami that offer day trips to destinations like Ft. Lauderdale, Cocoa Beach, and Little Havana. You can also take boat tours to places like Star Island, a man-made island in Biscayne Bay, or Fisher Island. Other popular boating destinations include Key Biscayne which is a barrier island filled with attractions such as Crandon Park, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, and Stiltsville.
The City of Miami Water Taxi is a great way to travel between Miami Beach and Miami on board a 65-foot catamaran. The scenic voyage across Biscayne Bay takes around 18 minutes with two stops; in Miami Beach at the south side of Maurice Gibb Memorial Park at 18th Street and Purdy Ave and in Miami at the Venetian Marina and Yacht Club, also known as the Sea Isle Marina, located at 1635 N Bayshore Dr. A one way ticket price is around $12 for non-residents, and $6 for seniors 65 years and over, children 12 and under sail for free, and tickets can be purchased on board the water taxi. The water taxi operates daily from 7:30 am until 7:30 pm, departing from the Maurice Gibb Memorial Park every hour on the hour.
The city of Miami is also a popular port, it is the largest cruise ship port in the entire world. It accommodates the largest cruise ships and major cruise lines, as well as a busy cargo port. Miami has the world’s largest amount of cruise line headquarters and is home to Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International.
By Train
There are a few options to travel by train when you are visiting Miami; the Metrorail is a 25-mile elevated train system that runs from Palmetto (north) to Dadeland (south) with stops around every mile. It is a fast, and inexpensive way to get from the Miami International Airport through Downtown Miami all the way to Kendall, as well as a convenient way to reach the Civic Center, Jackson Memorial Hospital area, Hialeah, and northwest Miami-Dade with connections to Broward and Palm Beach counties at the Tri-Rail/Metrorail transfer station. A single trip costs around $2.25 and trips can be purchased via contactless payment, EASY Card, EASY ticket, and on the GO Miami Dade Transit app.
The Metromover is a free, hop-on-hop-off rail option in the city. A great way to explore Downtown Miami, and Brickell that serves as a connection between Metrorail and Metrobus with three loops; Omni Loop, Inner Loop, and Brickell Loop. The Metromover can drop you off near the Kaseya Center, home of the Miami HEAT and major concerts; Maurice A. Ferré Park, home of the Pérez Art Museum Miami and the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science; as well as the Art & Entertainment District, where you’ll find the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.
The bright yellow Brightline is a high-speed train that connects Downtown Miami to Orlando in 3.5 hours. It also offers a good option to get around the Miami area, with stops in Aventura, Ft. Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach ideal for day trips. Ticket prices start around $20 per passenger to Ft. Lauderdale.
On Foot
It is possible to walk around certain neighborhoods and places in the city, but the main attractions and different neighborhoods in Miami are far too spread out to walk to. South Beach for example is a very walkable area, many areas downtown are great for walking to shops, restaurants, and other places. Take a leisurely stroll down one of Miami’s beautiful beaches, walk around the many shopping malls and outdoor shopping areas, and explore the verdant parks on foot.
Ocean Drive is ranked as one of the most popular streets in the city traversing the length of South Beach. A 1.3-mile stretch pedestrianized strip passing unique art deco hotels, famous restaurants, and popular bars, it’s a great place for people watching with plenty of shops to stop at along the way.
Walk down Calle Ocho, one of the most vibrant streets at the beating heart of Miami’s Cuban culture that runs through Little Havanan which runs east to west. This strip is packed with Cuban restaurants, bars, and cafes serving up delicious Cuban sandwiches and strong dark coffee. The street is also known for its Walk of Fam, a Latin American version of Hollywood that pays tribute to notable Cuban figures and celebrities.
Miami’s Miracle Mile is a ½ mile stretch of Coral Way in the city’s central business district. The palm tree-lined Miral Mile is one of the best shopping destinations in the city home to designer boutiques and more. There is a multitude of things to do along this famous street including the Colonnade Building. Espanola Way is a fully pedestrianized street that was created in the 1920s to instill a sense of Latin culture into South Beach. The street offers a cool array of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shopping options.
By Bicycle
Yes, San Francisco is a bike-friendly city with an extensive bike network covering 448 miles making most sights reachable on two wheels. Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in the city, which has installed better cycling infrastructure over the years such as protected bike lanes, and parking racks. The city offers its visitors and residents a bike-sharing program named Bay Wheels, which was launched in 2013 and is operated by Lyft. It is a popular program offering over 700 traditional bikes and e-bikes that can be hired from stations throughout the city. There are 550 stations scattered throughout downtown San Francisco, and major intersections as well as from East Bay to San Jose. Popular areas to cycle include Ocean Beach, the Marina, the waterfront, and even over the Golden Gate Bridge. Bikes can be rented and found under the Lyft app.
LimeOpens and SpinOpens offer over 5,500 scooters for rent in the city, simply download their app to your phone and search for available motorized scooters nearby.
Miami FAQ
How do I get to Miami?
The Miami International Airport (MIA) is the primary international airport for the Greater Miami Area, one of the busiest airports in the world due to its centric location. The airport is large and sits on over 3,200 acres of land just outside Downtown Miami. The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Palm Beach International Airport also serve the Miami area.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
There are many options at the airport for transportation into the city including rental cars, taxis, buses, metro, and rail.
The free MIA Mover shuttle train transports passengers to the Miami Intermodal transportation hub making it easy for travelers to connect to the car rental center, Metrorail, Tri-Rail, and the bus Terminal. The car rental offices are located on the 3rd level of the airport between the Dolphin and Flamingo garages.
The Metrorail trains depart every 30 minutes during the week and offer more frequent services on the weekends departing every 15 minutes. Take the Green Line if you are traveling to Palmetto, Okeechobee, Hialeah, Tri-Rail, Northside, Dr Martin Luther King, Jr., or Brownsville stations. Take the Orange line if you are traveling to Dadeland North, South Miami, University, Douglas Road, Coconut Grove, Vizcaya, Brickell, Government Center, Historica Overtown/Lyric Theatre, Culmer, Civic Center, Santa Clara, Allapattah, or Earlington Heights stations. The cost of a ride is around $2.25 each way. The Miami Beach Bus offers service every 30 minutes from 6:00 am until 11:40 pm seven days a week. The bus runs from the Miami International Airport station (accessed with a short ride on the free MIA Mover) and Miami Beach (from 41st Street to South Pointe Drive). The cost of a one-way ticket is around $2.25.
Tri-Rail is a commuter train that links Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. The rain can be found on the 3rd Level of the terminal by following the signs to take the MIS Mover to the Miami Central Station.
The Metrobus offers the following routes that service the airport; 37, 42, 57J, 150 Miami Beach Airport Express East-West Connection.
Taxis can be found outside the baggage claim area at the airport, along with Ride-share apps such as Uber, Lyft, and Alto.
There are hotel shuttle buses available to pick up and drop off guests at the Arrivals on Level 1 which is the designated zone.
From the Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach airports, there are rental cars, taxis, buses, and shuttles available to reach Miami. However, the distance can create higher transportation costs. Travelers are urged to download the GO Miami-Dade Transit app. Travelers also need an EASY Card pass to ride on public transit in Miami. There are EASY Card vending machines located in the Miami Central Station.
How do I get around by public transportation?
The massive public transportation system in Miami includes Metrobus, Metrorail elevated light rail, and Metromover trams.
The buses extend from Miami Beach in the east to West Miami-Dade and from the Middle Keys north to the southern reaches of Broward County.
The South Florida Tri-Rail offers visitors service to destinations located along the coast and connects West Palm Beach to Ft. Lauderdale, and Miami, including a stop a the airport.
The Miami Metrorail is a 25-mile elevated rail system, with 23 stations, and 2 lines that provide a fast and inexpensive way to travel around the city, from the Miami International Airport, through Downtown Miami, and all the way to Kendall. The Metrorail provides an easy way for visitors to reach the Civic Center, Hialeah, and northwest Miami-Dade with additional connections to Broward and Palm Beach counties at the Tri-Rail/Metrorail transfer station. The Metrorail Orange Line connects to the Miami Intermodal Center transportation hub and takes the free MIA Mover to the Miami International Airport’s main terminal. The fares cost around $2.25 and tickets can be purchased at any Metrorail station from the ticket vending machine.
The free Metromover in the city operates 21 stations on three different lines in greater Downtown Miami, with a station at roughly every two blocks of Downtown and Brickell. It serves as a connection between Metrorail and Metrobus with three loops; Omni Loop, Inner Loop, and Brickell Loop.
Tri-Rail is a commuter rail system that runs from Miami International Airport northward to West Palm Beach. It offers 18 stops throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.
There are two running Amtrak train lines; the Silver Meteor, and the Silver Star that both terminate in New York City. Miami is the southern terminus of Amtrak’s Atlantic services. The Miami Amtrak Station is located at a centralized location downtown.
Metrobus operates over 90 routes that serve areas that Metrorail and Metromover do not, including Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, and Homestead. There is an express bus service offered during rush hour, and a Route 55 Marlins Shuttle from April to September from Culmer Metrorail Station to loan Depot park so that baseball fans can catch a Miami Marlins baseball game. A bus ride costs around $2.25 per trip, and the easiest way to pay for a bus ride is with an EASY Card, or EASY Ticket that can be purchased online and select stations. Check individual route schedules for all the bus routes on the Go Miami-Dade Transit app.
The Beach Bus Route 150 is an express bus service that runs frequently between the airport and Miami Beach with stops at 41st Street, Alton Road, Collins Avenue, Lincoln Road, and Washington Avenue. Route 120 Beach Max is the bus that goes from the terminal at Aventura, in Aventura to Downtown Miami through Miami Beach, with frequent stops around Miami Beach, Surfside, Bal Harbour, and Haulover Park Marina.
How do I call or hail a taxi?
There are plenty of options for taking a taxi ride when visiting Miami. Many visitors prefer a taxi to public transportation they can easily be found at the airport, at popular tourist destinations, and outside popular hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and nightclubs in the evening. There are also options for Uber and Lyft in Miami. Meters start at around $3 and tipping is expected.
Freebee is a free ride with one of their electric vehicles that can be ordered in the app just like an Uber. They currently operate in Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Doral, Downtown, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach and other neighborhoods.
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Can I take a boat ride in Miami?
Taking a boat ride when visiting Miami is a must. There are so many ways to travel around the waterways of Miami by boat, including water taxis, ferry services, and boat tours. Water Taxi Miami takes passengers on a scenic cruise through Biscayne Bay to explore the upscale neighborhoods in Downtown Miami and Miami Beach including South of Fifth, and Bayside Marketplace. The ride is around 30 minutes both ways. There are ferry services in Miami that offer day trips to destinations like Ft. Lauderdale, Cocoa Beach, and Little Havana. You can also take boat tours to places like Star Island, a man-made island in Biscayne Bay, or Fisher Island. Other popular boating destinations include Key Biscayne which is a barrier island filled with attractions such as Crandon Park, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, and Stiltsville.
The City of Miami Water Taxi is a great way to travel between Miami Beach and Miami on board a 65-foot catamaran. The scenic voyage across Biscayne Bay takes around 18 minutes with two stops; in Miami Beach at the south side of Maurice Gibb Memorial Park at 18th Street and Purdy Ave and in Miami at the Venetian Marina and Yacht Club, also known as the Sea Isle Marina, located at 1635 N Bayshore Dr. A one way ticket price is around $12 for non-residents, and $6 for seniors 65 years and over, children 12 and under sail for free, and tickets can be purchased on board the water taxi. The water taxi operates daily from 7:30 am until 7:30 pm, departing from the Maurice Gibb Memorial Park every hour on the hour.
The city of Miami is also a popular port, it is the largest cruise ship port in the entire world. It accommodates the largest cruise ships and major cruise lines, as well as a busy cargo port. Miami has the world’s largest amount of cruise line headquarters and is home to Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International.
Can I take a train ride in Miami?
There are a few options to travel by train when you are visiting Miami; the Metrorail is a 25-mile elevated train system that runs from Palmetto (north) to Dadeland (south) with stops around every mile. It is a fast, and inexpensive way to get from the Miami International Airport through Downtown Miami all the way to Kendall, as well as a convenient way to reach the Civic Center, Jackson Memorial Hospital area, Hialeah, and northwest Miami-Dade with connections to Broward and Palm Beach counties at the Tri-Rail/Metrorail transfer station. A single trip costs around $2.25 and trips can be purchased via contactless payment, EASY Card, EASY ticket, and on the GO Miami Dade Transit app.
The Metromover is a free, hop-on-hop-off rail option in the city. A great way to explore Downtown Miami, and Brickell that serves as a connection between Metrorail and Metrobus with three loops; Omni Loop, Inner Loop, and Brickell Loop. The Metromover can drop you off near the Kaseya Center, home of the Miami HEAT and major concerts; Maurice A. Ferré Park, home of the Pérez Art Museum Miami and the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science; as well as the Art & Entertainment District, where you’ll find the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.
The bright yellow Brightline is a high-speed train that connects Downtown Miami to Orlando in 3.5 hours. It also offers a good option to get around the Miami area, with stops in Aventura, Ft. Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach ideal for day trips. Ticket prices start around $20 per passenger to Ft. Lauderdale.
Where can I take a trolley ride in Miami?
The Miami trolley is a free way to get around certain areas of the city. The orange and green trolleys operate in Downtown, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Edgewater, Little Havana, Miami Beach, Wynwood, and more. The Transit App allows you to track trolleys in real time with additional features. Trolley services begin at 6:30 am on weekdays and Saturdays and run through 11:00 pm on most routes. It runs from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm on Sundays. You can flag it down from the street or find a marked stop. The free Coral Gables Trolley service operates Monday through Saturday from 6:30 am until 10:00 pm via two routes; Poncede Leon and Grand Avenue. It is also possible to connect to the Coral Gables trolley from Metrorail and the City of Miami trolley routes. Download the Coral Gables Trolley app on your smartphone for more information.
The City of Miami Gardens offers three free trolley routes on Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm with stops at the Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens City Hall, and more locations.
There is a free trolley service in Doral, a neighborhood on the west side of Miami International Airport with three routes and connections to Metrorail. Download the Doral Trolley app.
Should I rent a car to visit Miami?
Yes, renting a car to get around in Miami is easy and convenient with many of the city’s top attractions being spread out requiring multiple transfers on public transport. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and locations throughout the city. The major road routes in Miami are I-395, S.R. 836, and I-95. The downtown streets are divided into NE, NW, SE, and SW at the intersection of north-south Flagler Street and east-west Miami Avenue, where street numbers begin. Having your own car makes it easier to navigate the massive city, other than the crowded area of downtown the city is very car friendly. There are toll roads in Miami-Dade County and these fees vary. Florida’s Turnpike, the Dolphin Expressway, and the Airport Expressway are all toll roads. Toll roads require all drivers to pay a fee either by a SunPass, or toll-by-plate fee.
There are lots of parking lots, parking garages, on-street parking, and curbside valet in Miami. There are 34,000 parking spaces under the Miami Parking Authority, visit miamiparking.com for more information. The easiest way to pay for and find parking is to download the ParkMobile app, and the ParkMe – Miami Beach app.
Is Miami a walking city?
It is possible to walk around certain neighborhoods and places in the city, but the main attractions and different neighborhoods in Miami are far too spread out to walk to. South Beach for example is a very walkable area, many areas downtown are great for walking to shops, restaurants, and other places. Take a leisurely stroll down one of Miami’s beautiful beaches, walk around the many shopping malls and outdoor shopping areas, and explore the verdant parks on foot.
Ocean Drive is ranked as one of the most popular streets in the city traversing the length of South Beach. A 1.3-mile stretch pedestrianized strip passing unique art deco hotels, famous restaurants, and popular bars, it’s a great place for people watching with plenty of shops to stop at along the way.
Walk down Calle Ocho, one of the most vibrant streets at the beating heart of Miami’s Cuban culture that runs through Little Havanan which runs east to west. This strip is packed with Cuban restaurants, bars, and cafes serving up delicious Cuban sandwiches and strong dark coffee. The street is also known for its Walk of Fam, a Latin American version of Hollywood that pays tribute to notable Cuban figures and celebrities.
Miami’s Miracle Mile is a ½ mile stretch of Coral Way in the city’s central business district. The palm tree-lined Miral Mile is one of the best shopping destinations in the city home to designer boutiques and more. There is a multitude of things to do along this famous street including the Colonnade Building. Espanola Way is a fully pedestrianized street that was created in the 1920st insect a sense of Latin culture into South Beach. The street offers a cool array of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shopping options.
Can I ride a bike in Miami?
Miami is the perfect place to hop on a bicycle and explore the city. There are plenty of bicycle rental shops in the city along with many hotels that include bicycle rentals in their room rates. There are some great locations to ride bikes in Miami including the 444-acre Deering Estate in South Dade which offers eco-bike tours along historic limestone trails. Cycling along the edge of Biscayne Bay is a spectacular way to see the beautiful bay. There is a great collection of biking trails, paths, beaches, and greenways in the city to choose from like Oleta River State Park near Sunny Isles Beach which offers over 14 miles of mountain bike trails, Virginia Key Beach North Point Park is another great option. A stunning bike ride along Old Cutler Road from Sunset Drive to Matheson Hammock Park is one of the prettiest neighborhood rides.
Citi Bike is Miami’s solar-powered bike-sharing system with dozens of stations offering visitors hop-on-hop-off bike rides. The blue-branded bikes and docking stations are easily recognizable and readily available. The cost is around $5.75 for 30 minutes, $8 for an hour, or about $24 for the entire day. Simply unlock a bike from any station, ride wherever you want, and return to any station. Many of Miami’s neighborhoods are bike-friendly with dedicated bicycle lanes.
Is Miami a dangerous destination, is there anything I should be aware of?
Miami is considered a very safe destination to visit. Take the necessary precautions when sightseeing, use common sense, and keep your valuables out of sight from pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like tourist attractions. Make sure you do not leave any valuables within sight in the car when you park. At night stay in well-lit and populated areas, and use reputable transportation companies instead of taking rides from strangers.
What are some popular areas for shopping?
The massive city of Miami is a shopping metropolis with dozens of different neighborhoods packed with huge shopping malls, alfresco shopping centers, designer boutiques, flea markets, and other luxury flagship stores the shopping possibilities in Miami are literally endless. If you came to Miami to shop then you are in the right place, the city is home to the largest shopping mall in Florida. There is plenty to explore when it comes to shopping with renowned brand names that line streets of bustling districts such as Lincoln Road, charming local boutiques, and a treasure trove of other shops.
Lincoln Road Mall is an outdoor shopping mall located in Miami Beach. This sprawling shopping center is filled with some great shops, and dining options right in the heart of South Beach. Shoppers can find popular retailers such as Athleta, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Gap, Urban Outfitters, and Victoria’s Secret.
Bal Harbour Shops opened in 1965 and is the original Indoor/outdoor luxury shopping destination in Miami, anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus with other beloved designer shops such as Chanel, Prada, and Tiffany and Co. A ritzy mall where the celebrities shop, a luxury shopper’s dream. The Miracle Mile Shopping District is located in the posh neighborhood of Coral Gables. A great outdoor shopping area home to a range of fine shops, luxury boutiques, colorful galleries, and delicious restaurants along the tree-lined streets.
The Dadeland Mall is a large indoor shopping mall featuring mid-range stores with anchors like Macy’s and Saks.
Aventura Mall is the largest mall in Florida, a chic, three-story mall anchored with Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. It boasts over 300 stores such as Balenciaga, Burberry, Cartier, Fendi, Gucci, and Hermes.
Dolphin Mall features over 240 retailers, an entertainment center, and a movie theater. The Falls is an outdoor mall with a path winding through the waterfalls, it features mid-range stores. The Miami Design District is on the rise as one of the newest luxury shopping designations in Miami. It features upscale boutiques from Hermes to Cartier, and the surroundings areas cutting-edge architecture making it a unique experience.
What is the language spoken in Miami?
The official language spoken in Miami is English. Many people speak fluent English, especially in hotels and restaurants. We recommend getting a good English guidebook and learning the basic questions like please, thank you, and numbers 1-10.
What is the best time to visit Miami?
Miami features a tropical monsoon climate with very hot, humid summers, and warm, dry winters. The city’s coastal location just above the Tropic of Cancer and its proximity to the Gulf Stream shape its climate. The average temperatures from December to March (winter) range from 76-84 F, and from April to November (summer) temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s, sometimes reaching triple digits. Miami has two seasons; the hot and wet season from May through October, and the warm, dry season from November through April. Daily afternoon thunderstorms occur during the hot humid wet season, which is welcomed as it cools things down. Florida’s hurricane season begins on June 1st and ends on November 30th, the most common time for Miami to be hit is during the peak of the Cape Verde season in mid-August through the end of September.
What are some popular beaches in Miami?
The city of Miami located on the southern tip of the Sunshine State is known for many things, but most of all it is popular for its many spectacular beaches. The soft white sands, warm turquoise waters, and gentle sea breezes attract beachgoers and holidaymakers from all over the globe. Beach bums can relax at many different beach locations in the city, there are some hidden gems, nude beaches, beach clubs, world-famous beaches like South Beach, and family-friendly stretches of sand to satisfy everyone. The number one draw in this marvelous metropolis is its natural, sparkling beaches.
South Beach is a legendary stretch of sand in Miami, it runs from the southern tip of Miami Beach to 23rd Street. This beach has been celebrated in television shows and films, it stretches for just over 2 miles and boasts a wide strip of sand flanked by beautiful Art Deco hotels. The most popular part of the beach runs from 5th to 15th streets along the lively famed Ocean Drive. From 5th Street to 14th Placeon Ocean Drive is the lovely Lummus Park which features playgrounds, bike rentals, and beach chaise and umbrella rentals for the perfect day outdoors.
Mid Beach and North Beach are located just north of South Beach, these beaches are quieter than their neighbor and offer visitors the best of both worlds with a distinctly low-key vibe, and lots of space to relax and sunbathe. Take a stroll along the sandy shoreline and check out the most stylish resorts and hotels that line Collins Avenue between 23rd Street and 46th Street.
Surfside Beach is known as Miami’s Uptown Beach Town, nestled between North Beach and Bal Harbour, a retro-style community decorated with upscale resorts. The pristine stretch of sand stretches for a mile and offers a quiet, luxurious vibe for a relaxed, tranquil day in the sun. There are paved beachside paths here great for walking, biking, and running. The waters here are filled with paddleboarders and kite surfers zipping across the Atlantic. The Surf Club at the Four Seasons Hotel is located here and was a favorite amongst celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra. Crandon Park Beach is located on the beautiful Key Biscayne at the northern end and attracts those seeking some outdoor thrills. The beach stretches for 2 miles and amenities include a tennis center, a golf course, volleyball courts, cabanas, and picnic tables. There are trails that cross a mangrove boardwalk to a fossilized coral reef and nature tours are available. There is a famous sand bar here that is constantly changing due to the wind and tides.
The breathtaking stretch of beachfront at Bal Harbour Beach is one of the poshest beaches and neighborhoods in all of South Florida. The pristine white sand beach here is great for relaxing and sunbathing with plenty of people donning designer bikinis and bathing suites. This popular beach has easy access to upmarket shopping, 5-star restaurants, and stunning accommodations such as the St. Regis Bar Harbour Resort.
What is the currency in Miami?
The currency of Miami is the US dollar. You should either exchange your currency for US dollars. Cash is preferred, there are ATMs found at the airport and locations in the city, tipping is discretionary and appreciated, and cash is usually preferred.
What is the food like?
Miami is an extremely diverse city and this is reflected in the city’s famous cuisine with heavy influences from Latin America, Caribbean, Soul, and Jewish. Combined with mainstream American cuisine, Miami has generated a unique South Florida cooking style known as Floribbean cuisine. This new cuisine twist can be found throughout Miami and South Florida in chain restaurants such as Pollo Tropical. The coastal city of Miami is also known for its long history as a seaport, and for its fresh seafood, there is an abundance of seafood restaurants dotted along the Miami River, and around Biscayne Bay.
There are so many different types of restaurants to choose from in this sparkling city with high-end restaurants housed in glitzy hotels, think Prime 54 at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, outdoor dining at posh shopping malls, food trucks on iconic streets, and oceanfront beach clubs, celebrity chef ran restaurants, and waterfront bars along the famous shoreline. The diverse selection of gastronomic experiences in Miami is waiting for you.
Foodies can explore the city’s authentic Latin and Caribbean cuisine and culture in iconic neighborhoods such as Little Havana, and Little Haiti. Food lovers are encouraged to try a few of Miami’s staples such as the Cuban Sandwich, cafe con Leche, Bistec de Palomilla, and Croquetas, these are increasingly popular due to the influx of Cuban immigrants in the 1960s. There are some landmark eateries in the city such as the MICHELIN-recommended Versailles restaurant in Little Havana since 1971, it’s an iconic establishment well worth a visit. Other classic dishes to sample in Miami include Peruvian ceviche and Haitian griot pork stew.
The dining options are endless in Miami’s large collection of neighborhoods like Wynwood and the Miami Design District which are both home to some of the most exciting restaurants in the city. Wynwood is the place to dine al fresco with an assortment of open-air restaurants, lounges, and craft breweries. Award-winning celebrity chef James Beard put Miami’s Design District on the map over a century ago along with Michelle Bernstein (Chef from Miami) and longtime collaborator Julio Cabrera (mixologist, master bartender) who all came together to open Cafe La Trova in Little Havana. This festive and stylish restaurant is the place to go for elevated Cuban cuisine accompanied by live music. It also has a MICHELIN recommendation. Other neighborhood hot spots here include Swan & Bar Bevy located in the heart of the Design District, this indoor/outdoor dining experience is owned by music superstar Pharrell Williams and David Grutman.
What is the nightlife like?
Miami has a magical nightlife scene, it ranks among some of the best in the world, when the sun sets in Miami the stars come out. Miami’s hot, late-night energy and entertainment opportunities are endless with several popular neighborhoods overflowing with restaurants, bars, nightclubs, beach clubs, and more. Miami has a very distinct nightlife scene with an amazing diversity of options, styles, and vibes to choose from, there are salsa clubs, rooftop bars with views of the city’s famed skyline and spectacular sunsets, late-night clubs, and a pulsating music scene. Miami Beach made the nightlife scene famous in Miami and is home to some of the prime destinations for a night on the town. Think LIV located at the Fontainebleau in Mid Beach, or Twist South Beach which has been a must-visit LGBTQ+ nightlife spot for over 25 years, Hotel Gaythering on the iconic Lincoln Road is known for its nightly themes. Downtown Miami is another popular neighborhood for nightlife home to the extravagant E11EVEN Miami, an ultra club open 24/7 along with other great clubs, hip bars, and endless entertainment venues like the Kaseya Center, and the Adrienne Arsht Center for Performing Arts.
What better way to celebrate a sun-soaked beach day or day of retail than sipping a tropical beverage on the sand, Miami is the host of so many beautiful beaches lined with iconic beach clubs and resorts, beachfront bars and restaurants, and waterfront dining all with spectacular views. Vacationers should be sure not to miss happy hour at popular spots throughout the city and its beaches, Happy Hour is the perfect way to begin your night out with 2-for-1 drinks you can’t go wrong. There is always something new popping up in Miami with places such as Dante’s HiFi which is a sophisticated “vinyl listening bar” for music and cocktails in a sleek comfortable environment. Bad Bunny recently opened Gekko, a Japanese-inspired steakhouse and lounge with local nightlife impresario David Grutman which is quickly becoming one of the hottest scenes in Brickell.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
In case of an emergency dial 911 for police, ambulance, and fire.
Hospitals: HCA Florida Mercy Hospital tel. 305-854-4400
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital tel. 800-432-6837
Mount Sinai Medical Center tel. 305-674-2121
Jackson Memorial Hospital tel. 305-585-1111
Top Attractions
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the Miami estate of agricultural industrialist James Deering.
Perez Art Museum
Exhibitions highlight Miami`s diverse community and pivotal geographic location at the crossroads of the Americas.
Jungle Island
Is an eco-adventure park between Downtown Miami and South Beach. It continues to expand its offerings to provide guests a variety of real-life jungle adventures.
Wynwood Walls
It is an unique outdoor destination featuring huge, colorful street murals by artists from around the globe.
Unique Experiences
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Miami Combo: City Tour, Biscayne Bay Cruise and Everglades Airboat Ride: This exciting full-day combo package includes a coach tour around downtown Miami and beyond, a boat ride on the Everglades, plus a cruise on the crystal clear waters of Biscayne Bay.
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Parasailing with Miami Watersports: For the perfect combination of adventure sports and sightseeing, thrill seekers shouldn`t miss the chance try parasailing in Miami. On this beginner-friendly experience, head out into the bay to enjoy unparalleled views of the city.
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Speedboat Sightseeing Adventure of Miami: Settle in to your plush seat as your expert captain pilots the speedboat down the sandy shoreline, where you can view Fisher Island and Star Island`s collection of multi-millionaire and celebrity homes.
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Sunset Miami Private Helicopter Experience: See Miami from the air during sunset with this private sightseeing tour. Take off on a scenic flight that coincides with sunset and get a birds eye view of Key Biscayne, South Beach, Fisher Island, Bal Harbour, and the Port of Miami.
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Wynwood Street Art: Explore a former warehouse district that`s been transformed by street art and galleries on a guided walking tour of Wynwood, one of greater Miami`s most creative destinations. Get an insiders view of the art scene at cutting-edge galleries.
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What to expect while traveling
