Relaxing beaches. Vibrant culture. Delicious foods. What’s not to love about the popular group travel destination that is Miami? There is so much to do and see in Miami, the new-comer will feel overwhelmed. If you ever visit the Magic City, with your friends, here are ten things you must have on your to-do list.
10. Appreciate artwork at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
You should, at some point, take a break from your sun bathes to visit this museum. Roam around its temporary exhibits, which feature incredible works of art from both famous and budding artists. You may also view a permanent collection that with imaginative works from Nam June Paik and Louise Bourgeois, to name just a few.
9. Explore the Miami Zoo and Seaquarium.
Make a day out of these two animal-packed adventures. Considered one of the best in the world, the Metro Zoo is home to an impressive 1,200 animals from all continents.
For the fascinating underwater world, head over to the Seaquarium. The main attractions are its 8,000-pound killer whale and the swim with dolphins.
8. Take in the sights of Ocean Drive.
Experience a blast from the past, as you stroll down Ocean Drive. There is something glamorous about the buildings that line this famous Miami Beach street. Among them are Park Central Hotel and the Imperial.
Ocean Drive is the perfect place to kick off a tour of Miami’s Art Deco District, which boasts hundreds of theatrically styled buildings sure to give off an Old Hollywood vibe.
7. Meet tropical birds at Jungle Island.
Known before as the eccentric “Parrot Jungle,” this renovated aviary paradise features some of the world’s most exotic birds. Escape the summer heat to hand-feed a parrot or pose for a picture with one as he perches on your shoulder. Other friendly creature sightings include penguins and lemurs.
6. Channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw at Lincoln Road Mall.
For a shopping experience like no other, make your way over to this pedestrian-only boulevard. The Lincoln Road Mall has trendy boutiques, sidewalk cafes, bars and fine dining. You’ll feel oh-so glamorous as you make your way down the street in style.
5. Enjoy fine cuisine at a famous restaurant.
What’s a vacation without enjoying some exquisite food? Miami is home to some of the country’s most delicious eateries. Allow yourself to splurge at a restaurant fit for the stars. For instance, 15000 or Prime 112 known to serve some of Hollywood’s biggest movie stars.
4. Observe the sunset at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.
If a high touristy area isn’t your thing, this may not be the spot for you. But if you’re into seeing a breathtaking sunset, this stunning 34-room mansion will be worth your time. The massive home, which once belonged to industrialist James Deering in the 1900s, sits among acres of European-esque gardens. The real magic is in the pièce de résistance, a Venetian barge-shaped decorative seawall, carved out of limestone sitting inside the bay.
3. Visit Coral Castle.
Although the Coral Castle is out of Miami, it’s worth the drive to stare in awe at one of America’s strangest attractions. How this castle came to be is still a complete mystery; its creator claimed to not have used any machines to stack up its massive blocks of rock. Legends go he had superpowers. Go investigate for yourself.
2. Hit up a star-studded nightclub.
Miami is home to tons of celebrity-frequented party hot spots. The city has some of the biggest names on the night scene, including Mynt Nightclub, LIV and Mansion. Dance the night away with sexy club-goers and expect bumping into celebrities.
1. Soak up the sun on South Beach.
You can’t enjoy a trip to Miami without spending a day or two on the city’s South Beach. Get your tan on, stare at hot beach bodies, or take some time to surf a few waves. Otherwise, you could visit the top-notch shops and restaurants that surround the place. Whatever you choose to do, it is sure to be a blast.
What do you think of the activities on this list? What is your favorite things to do in Miami? Let talk about it in the comment box below and on social media: Twitter, Facebook, and Google +.
About the author
Bobbi Lee is a regular travel blogger who loves to write about his adventures around the world