Best Things To Do In Miami - Top Attractions in Miami

Written by Muhammad Qadeer

Miami is one of the most picturesque cities in the US. Known for its sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife and Hispanic diaspora, the city has numerous attractions that pull people not only from the US but all over the globe. What truly sets Miami apart is that it has something for everyone. So, in this blog, we look at some of the best attractions that Miami has to offer.

1. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a romantic Italianate museum overlooking the scenic Biscayne Bay in Coconut Grove. The gargantuan villa comprises sprawling gardens, a historic museum and breathtaking architecture from the bygone years. The estate was constructed by renowned industrialist James Deering as a winter home for himself and included a mix of historical and contemporary elements; such as a telephone switching system (a rare commodity those days), and a central vacuum system.

After Deering’s demise, the estate was inherited by his half-brother Charles who further refined the appearance and amenities of the place. The highlights at Vizcaya include incredible paintings from the past, formal gardens with thick columns, lush mazes and classical effigies as well as stunning interior consisting of more than 70 rooms that overflow with treasures dating all the way back to the 15th century.

2. Art Deco Historic District

Art Deco Historic District

The Art Deco Historic District comprises the nation’s largest collection of historic buildings. From brutalist architecture and Art Deco to Mediterranean Revival and MiMo (Miami Modern), the district is the best place to witness the evolution of architecture in Miami and the US. Guided tours are provided to tourists that offer better insights into the history of the city’s architecture. There is also an Art Deco museum that features culturally significant artefacts from all the way to the city's beginnings. Also on display are audio and visual memoirs from individuals who have been part of Miami’s story.

3. Venetian Pool

Venetian Pool

Widely hailed as the best pool you’ve never heard of, the Venetian Pool is carved out of coral rock and features archaic caves, stone bridges, waterfalls, among other fascinating features. With a unique, sea-green colour, the pool receives 820,000 gallons of water from an underground aquifer. The beauty of the pool is further enriched by its loggias, porticos, towering palm trees, and bridges in classic Venetian style. Furthermore, there is an exclusive spa pool just beside Canyon Ranch + spa for peaceful retreat. Venetia Pool is at 2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables.

4. Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls is a heaven for admirers of abstract art forms. It has become a hangout spot for people with a penchant for art. Located a few blocks from Downtown Miami, the Wynwood neighbourhood features walls adorned with graffiti art and elaborate visual depictions of contemporary and historical art pieces by artists from around the globe. The place has an interesting history; as Wynwood Walls was a collection of redundant warehouses. At that point, entrepreneur and hotelier, Tony Goldman seized the opportunity to carve a colourful art complex out of a failing neighbourhood. Wynwood Walls is located at 266 NW 26th.

5. Miami Zoo

Miami Zoo

Miami Zoo pulls people from all over the U.S due to it being a sanctuary for some of the most exotic flora and fauna in the entire North America. Spanning over 3,000 acres, this is also one of the best attractions to visit with children as there are guided tours and educational workshops and exhibitions featuring koalas, elephants, flamingos etc. Visitors can also embark on a journey exploring the zoo by renting a Safari Cycle, a monorail or a tram tour around the facility. There are also facilities available to celebrate birthdays, weddings and get-togethers. Miami Zoo is located at 12400 SW 152nd St.

6. Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Having opened in 2017, Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is almost like an experiment lab, where people can not only gaze at the marvels of science but also meddle in science experiments themselves. Spanning a massive 250,000 square feet, the museum’s notable features include an incredible planetarium experience, a cutting-edge aquarium, multiple telescopes for stargazing and an urban garden. This is another of those places, which one should visit with kids. This unique marvelous museum is located at 1101 Biscayne Blvd.

7. Little Havana

Little Havana

Little Havana is a lively neighbourhood in Miami with a rich cultural heritage. It is a community composed mostly of Cuban diaspora - who migrated to the city during the Cuban revolution. As an archetype of Cuban and hispanic culture, there is always something interesting happening in the chic neighbourhood. The most notable attractions include the Walk of Fame that pays homage to Cuban megastars, numerous street-side “ventanitas”, and the art gallery at Futurama. Little Havana is centered around Calle Ocho.