Looking for fun things to do in downtown Miami? I visited earlier this month and spent a week exploring the city, along with its renowned (and some hidden) attractions. Having researched all of the possibilities and then experienced them for myself, I’ve collated my top picks from the numerous options.
In this article – I share the 10 best things to do in downtown Miami (no matter what your budget is).
- Bayfront Park
- Bayside Marketplace
- Perez Art Museum
- Maurice A. Ferre Park
- Cruise Port
- Skyview Observation Wheel
- Miami River Walk
- Brickell Key
- Miami River Cruise
- Vizcaya Museum
Let’s explore each of them in more detail…
Bayfront Park
Bayfront Park is at the heart of downtown Miami, overlooking the water. It’s a great open space for walking, biking, or skating surrounded by high-rise skyscrapers. There’s a huge water fountain in the centre, amphitheatre, and war memorial, encircled by numerous pathways to explore this urban park.
If you’re arriving into the city on a cruise ship then it’s a 5 min walk from the terminal. Or it’s directly opposite the Bayfront Park metro mover station if you’re coming from elsewhere in the city.
Bayside Marketplace
Bayside Marketplace is a buzzing restaurant and shopping hub directly next to Bayfront Park. It features big chains you’d expect like Hard Rock Cafe, along with independent places serving up local seafood and Cuban cuisine. There’s a really lively atmosphere and plenty of mall stores for some retail therapy or gift shopping.
Perez Art Museum
Slightly further north you’ll find the Perez Art Museum, one of the highlights of any trip to Miami. It’s also on the waterfront and showcases modern, contemporary art from international artists. It features sculptures, paintings, visual arts, and experiential installations in an impressive glass building. If you’re looking for things to do in Miami while it’s raining, this museum is a great shout.
Maurice A. Ferre Park
This stunning park houses the Perez Art Museum, Philip and Patricia Frost Science Museum, and a very cool Giant Head statue. Its location next to the water makes for some wonderful views across the bay. It’s often overlooked by tourists who flock to Bayfront Marketplace instead, but in our opinion Ferre is a much lovelier park. Museum Park Metro Mover station drops you directly outside.
Cruise Port
The cruise port might sound like an odd recommendation, but hear us out because it makes for a spectacular view…
Miami is the second busiest cruise port in the world (after Port Canaveral) which means there are always several ships docked. The largest and most impressive cruise liners in the world stop here, some carrying up to 9000 passengers and crew each. They truly are a feat of human engineering so it’s worth swinging by the port to marvel at their size and architecture.
Skyview Observation Wheel
Observation wheels are popular in cities around the world, and this one has a particularly impressive location. It’s by the water so allows you to enjoy views across Miami downtown, the port and bay, Kaseya Centre, and towards Miami Beach. If you’re limited on time or exploring on foot isn’t an option, the wheel is a great way to take in 360 degree views of the city.
The Skyview Observation Wheel is located at Bayside Marketplace next to Bayfront Park.
Brickell Key
Brickell Key is a hidden gem and one of my fav places in Miami. It’s a small island which is linked to the downtown area by a road bridge. This means it’s a lot quieter and more open than the mainland, with stunning views across the water.
There are pathways all the way around the circumference of Brickell Key so you can walk or run the entire thing. It feels very safe and there are plenty of other people walking and running at every hour of the day (even at sunrise when I was there).
You might also like… 10 Best Things To Do In Brickell or the Top Brickell Hotels For Every Type of Traveller.
Miami River Cruise
A cruise around the river network is a brilliant way to explore Miami. You can escape the crowds, take in hidden views, and relive those CSI Miami police chase scenes! There are speedboats and tourist ferries that’ll chauffeur you around the rivers and bridges between skyscrapers and millionaires’ mansions.
Miami River Walk
If you’re not a fan of boats, then the Miami River Walk is an alternative option. It’s not very long but gives you a taste of what the boats show you in more depth.
The walkway starts at Bayfront Park and follows the water around. You can take in views of boats, skyscrapers, and palm trees as you stroll along the promenade. The whole thing takes just 10 minutes but you’ll see a whole different side of Miami compared with the Bayfront view.
You might also like… Miami River Walk Guide (coming soon).
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is one the top-rated activities in Miami and located just south of downtown. It’s a bit far to walk (and awkward as the sidewalk periodically disappears) but just a couple of stops on the metro. You’ll be rewarded with a stunning historic estate, impressive mediterranean-style mansion, gorgeous gardens, and sculptures.
FAQs
Yes if you’re heading to Miami it’s worth visiting Downtown for the parks, museums, and waterways.
Yes you can walk around Downtown Miami, the centre is safe and easy to explore on foot. Miami River Walk, Bayfront Park, Bayside Market Place, the Observation Wheel, and Cruise Port are all easily walkable.
Yes, staying in Downtown Miami (especially at one of the boutique hotels) allows you to see the nearby attractions and is a convenient central location for other top sights like Little Havana, Wynwood Walls, and Coconut Grove.
