The best things to do in Miami for locals and tourists

What is it? This huge haunted experience is one of the largest of its kind in South Florida, and this season is stacking up to be the most epic yet, featuring five brand-new haunted attractions and Florida’s only 3D haunted house.

Why go? Set inside the abandoned Sears at Miami International Mall, House of Horror 2025 spans more than 100,000 square feet of immersive, Florida-inspired nightmares (so you know it's going to be twisted), from cursed swamps and haunted farmlands to post-apocalyptic wastelands and twisted clown funhouses. Outside, two new scare zones—The Harvest and Midway Mayhem—transform the midway into a spooky realm where scare actors and creepy carnival characters lurk. Tickets include unlimited carnival rides (like the Scarecoaster, South Florida’s only haunted roller coaster) and classic midway games. 

Time Out tip: While you're there, explore over 20 food and beverage options, including Halloween-themed treats and liquid courage in the form of beer from Cervecería La Tropical.

What is it? The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) returns from October 29th to November 2nd, marking another edition of the world’s largest in-water boat show. Spanning seven locations and nearly 90 acres, the five-day event beckons more than 100,000 attendees and 1,000 global exhibitors, all there to flex on the water and gawk at the 1,300 boats on display—from superyachts and sportfishers to tenders, water toys and even luxury cars.

Why go? Highlights include the Superyacht Village at Pier Sixty-Six, boasting some of the grandest vessels at the show, plus activations from top yacht builders and a collection of exotic vehicles. General admission grants access to all seven show locations (connected by water shuttles and buses), with food and drink available throughout, from satellite bars to floating barges.

Time Out tip: Expect everything from vegan and gluten-free bites to a Dark ’n’ Stormy at the Goslings Island Bar or a cold one at the Stella Artois Barge. The show's highest rollers will be found at the Windward VIP Club at Hall of Fame Marina, complete with premium open bars, gourmet dining, luxury activations and private lounge space.

What is it? Let's talk about sex, baby. In particular, the after-hours debut of Erotica by Nocturna at the Museum of Sex. Opening Saturday, September 20th, this limited-run cabaret in Allapattah blends burlesque, aerials, fire and aquatic acrobatics into a steamy, late-night spectacle.

Why go? Book the 9:30pm slot ($79) for a guided tour of current exhibitions (Modern Sex: 100 Years of Design and Decency and Hajime Sorayama: Desire Machines), plus entry to Super Funland: Journey into the Erotic Carnival with interactive games and cocktails before the show.

Time Out tip: Those arriving for the 10:45pm slot ($55) skip straight to the main event: a hot and high-energy (and 21-plus) performance that lasts around one hour.

What is it? Move over, Miracle in Miami. Spooky season is upon us, and its growing legion of devotees has a brand new Halloween-themed haunt in Miami this year. The New Orleans-born Black Lagoon pop-up bar is taking over Better Days throughout October. Brainchild of bar pros Kelsey Ramage and Erin Hayes, the month-long experience transforms the late-night Brickell watering hole into a moody, immersive den of cobwebbed décor and boozy potions.

Why go? Launched in 2021, Black Lagoon has since grown into a North American phenomenon. For 2025, it returns bigger than ever with 39 locations across the U.S. and Canada—including Miami for the first time. Expect theatrical Halloween vibes, eerie attention to detail and a cocktail menu as imaginative as it is sinister. Dress to kill—there will be plenty of spooky photo ops. Admission to the pop-up is free.

What is it? Like seafood? If you’re in South Florida, you don’t have much of a choice. And even if your taste buds prefer to stay on land, South Beach Seafood festivities might convert you thanks to four days’ worth of showcases and showdowns highlighting dozens of Miami’s most sought-after seafood restaurants, such as Catch, Rao's, Pubbelly Sushi, Phuc Yea, MIMI Chinese and Carbone, to name a few announced so far.

Why go? It all culminates with the massive, 13th-annual South Beach Seafood Festival’s main event on Saturday, October 25th, featuring live music and dozens of bars, booths and menu items to explore. Bring an appetite and possibly a bib.

How much are tickets? General admission tickets for the SoBe Seafood Slam main event on Saturday start at $160 and include unlimited food and drinks from over 40 vendors. Friday's VIP Chef Showdown ($175) is another marquee event each year. Multi-day passes and additional VIP options are also available via the SoBe Seafood Festival 2025 Eventbrite ticketing page.

What is it? The self-proclaimed most important Latin music event in the world returns to Miami this fall for its 36th anniversary, taking up residence in the historic Fillmore Miami Beach for another action-packed conference. From October 20th to 24th, Billboard Latin Music Week: Miami hosts a variety of panel conversations, workshops, activations and concerts that bring together the industry's top artists, influencers and executives under one roof.

Why go? Anuel AA, Gloria Estefan, Kali Uchis, Ozuna, Myke Towers, Guaynaa, Yami Safdie and more are all set to hit the stage. Single-day tickets start at $197, while a $720 Insider ticket will score you access to the full program plus premium floor seating and lounge access.

What is it? The James Beard Foundation’s annual Taste America culinary tour stops in Miami this October for another epic night, this time at the newly resurrected Sra. Martinez in Coral Gables.

Why go? Hosted by James Beard Award winner Michelle Bernstein in collaboration with chef Aaron Brooks of Sunny's, the pop-up dinner event ($185 per person) includes an original one-off menu plus wine and cocktail pairings with each course. Though the menu is still T.B.A., guests can expect a combination of Bernstein's Spanish-inspired dishes and Brooks' creative American steakhouse fare, imbued with local ingredients and each restaurant's unique sensibilities.

What is it? Think of it like Miami Spice, but for drinks. For the first time, the city is throwing its very own cocktail month, and everyone's invited. Mixed up by three legends of Miami nightlife—spirits educator Gabriel Urrutia, seasoned hospitality exec Joshua Wagner and party curators Poplife—¡Salud! aims to bring the community together by bringing folks back into Miami bars.

Why go? "Our mantra is, ‘Life's Better with Friends,’" says Poplife CEO, LP Steele, "This is our invitation to join us, celebrate the Miami cocktail scene and make new friends.” It kicks off with three back-to-back happy hours at the city's most beloved watering holes: Dead Flamingo (October 1), ViceVersa (October 2) and Brother's Keeper (October 3), featuring free drinks (while supplies last) from 5 to 7pm. Festivities continue throughout the month, with participating bars including Gramps Getaway, Ray's, Mama Tried, The Corner, Magie, Fox's, Dante's Hi-FI, Kaori, Las Rosas, Sunny's and dozens more.

Time Out tip: Join the ¡Salud! community to stay up-to-date to events and gain access to the free and discounted drinks all through October.

What is it? Catch Billie Eilish's triumphant Miami return as she performs three nights at the Kaseya Center in Downtown with opener Tom Odell on October 9, 11 and 12.

Why go? The last time the edgy songstress toured in Miami was March 2020. It was the first stop of her Where Do We Go? World Tour and, at the time, the breakout artist's biggest headlining run to date. (Her chart-topping debut album of the same name was the best-performing LP of 2019, and her song “Bad Guy” made her the first artist born in the 2000s with a number one single.) Just three days later, the tour came to a halt as the COVID-19 pandemic forced venues around the world to close. Now, Billie is a household name, and her artistry as one of our most original pop stars has only continued to evolve.

Bal Harbour Shops honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a vibrant, pink-hued floral installation benefitting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. For a second time, the luxury retail destination has commissioned landscape artist Lily Kwong to create an elaborate, interactive living artwork, building off her celebrated "Moongates" installation. Throughout October, the mall's open-air courtyard makes for an idyllic spot to meander through the arches and snap a few photos among the pink orchids in between shopping and dining.

What is it? Celebrating the brothers' 20th anniversary as a band, the Jonas20: Greetings from Your Hometown Tour lands in South Florida this October with a tour stop at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise.

Why go? The set list features over 30 tracks from the band's deep catalog of hits, and early aughts indie-pop darlings The All-American Rejects open the show.

What is it? Take a peek under a hood or two at the annual Miami International Auto Show, one of the largest in the world, taking place from September 26th to October 5th at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Why go? Stroll down Memory Lane to peep nostalgic rides; experience true 4x4 capabilities during a Camp Jeep outing and dive into the world of electric cars: The auto show also boasts an EV test track and is equipped with numerous charging stations, should you roll up in your own e-car. Merely shopping around for your next minivan? The show has those too, plus countless other makes and models on the market.

What is it? One of South Florida’s natural jewels, this 83-acre garden, named after renowned botanist and Miami resident David Fairchild, is filled with tropical splendor: a lush rainforest with a stream, sunken garden, dramatic vistas, an enormous vine pergola and a museum of plant exploration.

Why go? The weather might be warming up, but spring is a great time to visit Fairchild; the flora is in full bloom and the mild weather just beckons you to explore every inch of this sprawling tropical wonderland. 

Don't miss: Fairchild channels Miami's Southern side with Sip & Stroll: Boots & Blooms, a night for the Magic City's country music lovers, on Saturday, October 4th from 6 to 9:30pm

What is it? With a collection of works from such artists as Robert Rauschenberg, James Rosenquist, Frank Stella and Ana Mendieta, not to mention some high-caliber traveling exhibitions, this relatively young museum (formerly Miami Art Museum) is worth a visit.

Why go? Family-friendly interactive programs bring art home: during free Second Saturday (of the month) programs, museum teachers lead families in hands-on activities inspired by the works on display.

Don't miss: The museum is free and open to the public every second Saturday of the month, often with themed music and art-making activities for families. 

What is it? Frost Science is an aquatic-driven museum that occupies four buildings—the Aquarium, the Frost Planetarium and the North and West Wings— and features year-round exhibits and is a delight for curious minds of all ages.

Why go? The museum is as state-of-the-art as it gets, featuring interactive exhibits, a 500,000-gallon Gulf Stream aquarium that houses all sorts of sea creatures and a planetarium dome that hosts monthly laser light shows.

Don't miss: Art meets science at "Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius," a sweeping exhibition presented by Frost Science and produced in collaboration with Rome's Museo Leonardo da Vinci. On view through April 5th, 2026, the show explores da Vinci's multidisciplinary legacy with interactive displays, rare artifacts and life-size replicas of his machines, alongside immersive projections of iconic works like The Last Supper and Mona Lisa.

What is it? The city’s first and only outdoor museum dedicated to street art.

Why go? The decade-old cultural institution is the famed epicenter of the Wynwood Arts District, legitimizing graffiti art with a roster of more than 50 murals painted by renowned artists around the world—from Shepard Fairey and Kenny Scharf to Kelsey Montague.

Time Out tip: Vibrant in color, deep in meaning and large in scope, the groundbreaking Walls are the undisputed selfie capital of Miami and chances are you’ll recognize some of the murals from the profile pics in your Insta feed.

What is it? This emerging hub for independent local businesses, art galleries and restaurants (including several Michelin-recognized spots) runs through Little Haiti and El Portal. Like Wynwood more than a decade ago, the neighborhood still has an industrial feel, home to a patchwork of warehouses, smaller residences and even a functioning dairy plant from 1929.

Why go? Little River has steadily taken off over the last few years thanks to its lower rent and proximity to other exciting mainland Miami pockets. Numerous cafés, arts organizations and cultural venues have nestled themselves between old car repair shops and Haitian botánicas, setting the stage for the handful of fresh mixed-use developments now underway in the neighborhood.

Don't miss: Sunny's Steakhouse and Bar Bucce, two Little River restaurants that recently made Time Out's updated guide to the best new restaurants in Miami. Big things are also happening at ZeyZey, Miami’s new epicenter for live indie music in Little River

What is it? Miami’s number one attraction (at least on Trip Advisor) is a surreal Italian Renaissance-style villa in the middle of lush, laid-back Coconut Grove. Its meticulously landscaped gardens, sprawling bayfront terrace and, well, the house itself, make up a total of 43 acres.

Why go? Vizcaya is home to some of Miami’s most Instagrammable floors and staircases and makes for the most fetching photo backdrop in the city (just ask the quinceañeras and brides roaming about). Its inimitable collection of European antiques and decorative works from the 16th to 19th centuries is truly breathtaking. 

Don't miss: The free Vizcaya Village Farmers Market, a weekly Sunday gathering of local vendors selling fresh delicacies, hand-crafted products, fruits and vegetables, vegan and baked goods and more.

What is it? Surprise! Florida is known as the Sunshine State, but more than a third of the time, you can count on a rainy day here in subtropical Miami. Wet weather is typical in the summer, but if your plans call for sunshine, there's a good chance you'll get rained out no matter what season you're in. That's where our freshly updated guide to Miami's best indoor activities comes in handy.

Why go? Don't let a little water ruin your good time. Whether you’re dealing with a fleeting sprinkle or a full-on tropical storm, there are plenty of fun indoor activities in Miami when it rains. Shopping in Miami is an excellent option, and a rainy day is the perfect excuse to get off the sand and explore the city’s world-class museums. Click through to read more about our best beach day alternatives, including kid-friendly activities and plenty of boozy options so your day doesn’t have to be a total washout.

What is it? Don and Mera Rubell’s eponymous museum houses over 7,700 works by more than 1,000 contemporary artists. From Basquiat and Warhol to Koons, the whos-who of 20th-century artists is well represented.

Why go? It’s a former warehouse the couple turned into a sprawling exhibition space after outgrowing their Wynwood gallery of more than 26 years. With 53,000 square feet to play with, the Rubells have room to exhibit as well as engage the community via school partnerships and curatorial training programs.

Don't miss: The Jon & Vinny's residency inside the museum's indoor-outdoor restaurant space. It's the first Miami location of the celebrated L.A. restaurant group, bringing pizza, pasta and soft serve in a relaxed garden atmosphere.

What is it? Not all beaches are created equal. That becomes abundantly clear when you live near one of the world’s best and then try leaving. In Miami, it’s actually hard to find a beach you won’t like. Still, we all have our favorites, and different occasions call for different beaches. Yes, we have that many. From sunbathing meccas to shady spots for picnicking, we've compiled our picks for the best beaches in Miami.

Why go? Looking to chill in nature? Perhaps try a beach on Key Biscayne. Wanna strip down to your birthday suit? Haulover (the nude section) is your destination. Ready to party? We probably don’t have to tell you which beach is best for that. Tap through for our full guide to the best beaches in Miami.

What is it? This is Miami's premier performing arts center. 

Why go? The striking postmodern architecture alone makes it worth a visit. But the fact that it’s home to Zoetic Stage, the Florida Grand Opera and the Miami City Ballet, and occasionally hosts the New World Symphony and Cleveland Orchestra, doesn’t hurt either. 

Don't miss: Arrive to your show early for a meal (or just drinks and apps if you're short on time) at Teatro, the Arsht's recently debuted on-site restaurant that's high on drama (and Latin American-inspired flavors).

What is it? When it comes to dining on the water, Miami has a bit of everything: Lively dockside dives, glamorous Mediterranean-inspired lounges and wellness-focused options abound—not to mention storied hotspots where celebrities (both legit and aspiring) arrive via yacht.

Why go? From seafood towers and $1 oysters to dog-friendly decks where piña coladas flow like water, Miami has that and more. If you’re not seizing every opportunity to indulge at one of Miami’s many waterfront restaurants, you’re doing something wrong. Tap through to peruse our full guide to Miami's best waterfront dining right now.

Don't miss: A chill sesh at Gramps Getaway, our 2024 pick for the best new bar in Miami and a recent addition to our guide to the best restaurants in Miami.

What is it? Our former Decorators’ Row has expanded into a hub for vanguard architecture, fashion and art. There are several multilevel, open-air shopping complexes like Palm Court and Paradise Plaza where you can shop luxury fashion labels including Emilio Pucci and Giorgio Armani. 

Why go? There's always something happening at the District. If your pockets aren’t deep enough for the shops, there’s always the neighborhood’s growing number of galleries, a slew of public art and free admission to the district's main art museum, the ICA.

Don’t miss: The food! From Michelin-starred Cote Miami and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon to Mother Wolf, Elastika and Sushi Yasu Tanaka, some of the best meals in Miami are within walking distance here.

What is it? Authentic cuisine, cocktails and culture—this charming Cuban restaurant in Little Havana packs the neighborhood’s hallmarks into one inviting spot.

Why go? It’s rare to find a place that ticks off all the boxes of a proper touristic experience and also captures the attention of locals. James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein is behind the stellar menu, featuring favorites like the irresistible jamón serrano croquettes, hand-cut steak empanadas and risotto-style arroz con pollo. While decorated cantinero Julio Cabrera mixes up all kinds of cocktails, earning La Trova the No. 13 spot on the America’s 50 Best Bars 2024 awards.

Don’t miss: The house band playing Trova-style music nightly. After they pack up their instruments, head back to La Trova’s 80s-themed 305 Bar, where DJs spin from midnight to 2am on Friday and Saturday.

What is it? Dubbed “Miami’s original neighborhood,” Coconut Grove is an eclectic waterfront enclave with a rich history as the oldest continually inhabited neighborhood in the city. Beyond its recent real estate boom, Coconut Grove is a pretty little neighborhood with some of Miami’s most beautiful architecture and pockets that are full of character.

Why go? One of our favorite neighborhoods in the city, Coconut Grove ranked number 29 on Time Out’s list of the 51 coolest neighborhoods in the world in 2022. It was the only Florida neighborhood to make the list.

Don't miss: Catch the sunset at Monty’s, a lively dockside raw bar with strong tiki drinks and picturesque views of the marina. For dinner, Ariete (New American) and Los Félix (Mexican) both earned nods in the Miami Michelin Guide.

What is it? Miami’s 24/7 ultraclub is a playground for celebrities and hard-partying locals alike.

Why go? If you’re in the mood for going all out, E11even has you covered with a full nightlife experience—think dancers, bottle service and tons of big-name musical performances. 

Don’t miss: A pre-game at Giselle, the club's extravagant rooftop restaurant. Just sit back and take it all in.

What is it? Find a slice of old-world Europe right in the middle of South Beach. Española Way is a charming, pedestrian strip lined with shops, restaurants and cozy, bilevel hotels that transport you to far-flung places.

Why go? Much larger Lincoln Road may have overshadowed it at one point, but the bustling tourist corridor is attracting more locals than ever before with its sidewalk eateries and free outdoor programming. Experience Paris’ café culture at enduring favorite A La Folie Café, serving up hard-to-find French classics. Drink your way down the tree-lined street’s mix of open-air bars and restaurants, stopping to take in the live music and unique people-watching, and get away from Miami without the need to go very far.

Don’t miss: Breezy rooftop cocktails above it all at the laidback-chic Esmé Miami Beach hotel, which recently kicked off a live jazz series on Sunday evenings. 

What is it? A massive 50,000-square-foot art space dedicated to the production of experiential mediums.

Why go? With so many so-called Instagrammable installations floating about, it’s hard to get excited about anything that bills itself as experiential —but that’s not Superblue Miami, one of the city's best immersive experiences. Featuring brand-new works by some of the art world’s most creative installation artists like Devlin, James Turrell and teamLab, the groundbreaking venture challenges perceptions, heightens the senses and generally wows.

Don't miss: The first new installation of 2025, a striking installation dubbed "Alone Together" by postdigital art collective Random International. The mesmerizing experience explores the tension between visibility and isolation, using algorithmic surveillance and shifting beams of light to turn visitors into both subjects and spectators.

What is it? Designed by iconic architectural guru Morris Lapidus in the 1950s, Lincoln Road Mall was once dubbed the “Fifth Avenue of the South,” though it’s now commonly referred to as “Lincoln.” Endless sidewalk cafés, lounges and cultural venues—such as the Colony Theatre—stretch along its length from Washington Avenue to Alton Road.

Why go? The Herzog & de Meuron–designed 1111 Lincoln Road is quite possibly the world’s most glamorous parking garage and houses upscale retail on the ground level. But there are more than several blocks of stores and boutiques to browse and shop for hours. 

Don't Miss: The iconic Miami Beach promenade has unveiled its Art Week 2025 lineup, featuring 14 large-scale public installations from international and local artists. From a bubblegum-pink inflatable giant to a bronze couch full of endangered animals, Lincoln Road is once again proving why it’s one of the city’s most accessible cultural stages. Headlining the program is French artist Philippe Katerine’s “Mr. Pink Takes Flight,” a whimsical series of five inflatables and one sculpture, some towering up to 20 feet. 

What is it? At the tip of serene, secluded Key Biscayne is this 400-acre state park with beach access, picnic tables, bike trails, and watersport rentals.

Why go? A great place for families with accessible parking close to the sand, Bill Baggs is home to South Florida’s only lighthouse. Take the kids and let them climb the 109 steps to the top of the lookout.

Don’t miss: Boater’s Grill is one of Miami’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away at a far corner of the park, the waterfront spot provides free docking for small vessels and serves moderately priced breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plus, The Cleat is just steps away for a sunset cocktail with your toes in the sand.

What is it? America’s only full-time orchestral academy, the New World Symphony grooms graduates from conservatories for careers in the symphony and other high-profile posts. Concerts range from classical to experimental, and the quality is high: guest teachers have included Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman and past guest conductors have included Sir Neville Marriner and Paavo Järvi. Founder Michael Tilson Thomas of the San Francisco Symphony often lends a hand too.

Why go? Since 2011, the symphony’s home has been a Frank Gehry-designed showstopper in SoundScape Park, where they regularly hold free, outdoor WALLCAST concerts and movie screenings. 

What is it? Yes, Miami can be over-the-top bougie. But there’s also plenty to experience here on the cheap, like a day sunbathing on one of Miami’s famous beaches or scouring for treasures at the best thrift shops in Miami. For the latter, peruse our full guide to the best flea markets in Miami.

Why go? If it’s time to give your wallet a little break or the thrill of a great bargain just gets you off, look no further. We’ve hunted down all of Miami’s best flea markets so you can get your fill of guilt-free shopping.

What is it? What began in 1964 as a small, private collection of contemporary art is now an internationally recognized institution with hundreds of pieces within its multiple halls. The 1930s Art Deco building also has meeting areas and classrooms for family-friendly programming, though some of that is on hold for now.

Why go? The Bass’s permanent collections, as well as its traveling exhibitions, comprise art people actually want to see—and Instagram (the real reason we go to museums these days, right?). Think large-scale works made up of found objects that probe us and a site-specific work of LED signs that make you feel at home.

Don’t miss: Spend some time on the lawn exploring the museum’s public art, including Jim Drain’s chess table, Ugo Rondinone’s unmissable Miami Mountain and Najja Moon’s monument to motherhood, Your momma’s voice in the back of your head.

What is it? It’s young, but South Florida does have a past and a quirky and fascinating one at that. Tracing the history of the region, from early Indians to rafting Cubans, HistoryMiami succeeds in educating while entertaining.

Why go? The exhibits on the wreckers of Key West and Henry Flagler both merit an extended look, as does the section on photographer Ralph Middleton Munroe.

Time Out tip: Every second Saturday of the month, the museum offers free admission from 10am to 5pm, with family-friendly activities hosted from 11am to 4pm.

What is it? A stunning rooftop bar that sits atop East, Miami, rewarding those who venture up with 360-views of the city and Asian-themed cocktails. It’s a bougie crowd, so dress accordingly.

Why go? While a rooftop bar on the mainland might not instantly seem like an essential thing to do in the city, Sugar is deserving of its spot on the list. At 40 floors, it’s the tallest bar in Miami and its secluded, storybook garden setting is like none other.

Don’t miss: Come before the crowds to catch an absolutely stunning sunset over the Miami skyline. Stick around for the lively after-dinner crowd, or bop around Downtown after wetting your beak to find less pricy drinking options. Reservations are definitely recommended. Looking for more rooftop action? Check our recently updated guide to Miami's best rooftop bars.

What is it? Built by James Deering’s similarly well-off brother Charles, the vast property served as his winter escape and encompasses several buildings, a mangrove boardwalk and a significant archeological discovery. 

Why go? Outdoorsy types will appreciate the guided nature walks and birding opportunities. Plus, the estate boasts a fossil pit of 50,000-year-old animal bones and 10,000-year-old human remains; the latter are Paleo-Indians.

Don't miss: Aside from guided tours, Deering hosts a variety of nature and art-inspired events, from sunrise photography and plein air painting sessions to moonlit kayaking and bird walks around the property. Check their calendar for the full lineup.

What is it? This self-proclaimed “most famous Cuban restaurant in the world” is arguably more popular than its palatial namesake in France. The Little Havana institution is the unofficial meeting place for the city’s Cuban community, who crowd the cafecito window 24/7 sipping on Cuban coffee.

Why go? Toasted Cuban sandwiches, piping-hot Cuban coffee served in thimble-sized cups, authentic Cuban pastelitos made the exact same way for 40-plus years, yummy arroz con pollo...shall we go on? 

Don’t miss: Versaille’s adjacent bakery (it all connects inside) doubles as a charming dessert shop selling mini flans and key lime pies as well as Cuban-inspired ice cream. Get your meal to-go or take advantage of the large tents in the parking lot, offering loads of socially distant outdoor dining.

What is it? More than 800 buildings from the 1930s and early ’40s survive in the city’s historic Deco District, between 5th Street to the south and Dade Boulevard to the north. 

Why go? Amazingly, these buildings were almost destroyed by developers in the early 1970s. Their survival is due to a handful of activists who, in 1976, founded the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL). With their help, a number of the best Miami hotels, and even some South Beach clubs, have maintained their beautiful façades and historical designation.

Don't miss: A few of our favorite Art Deco buildings, including the Celino Hotel, the Carlyle and the historic Miami Beach U.S. Post Office. 

What is it? The city’s premier wildlife center is home to thousands of animals, from reptiles to mammals to birds. The sprawling facility spans across 750 acres and is the largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida.

Why go? Due to the zoo’s sub-tropical temps, species native to Australia, Africa and other warm climates comfortably reside here. Forget a safari—Zoo Miami is where you’ll safely spot zebras, giraffes and lions. 

Don't miss: Splash pads and water play gyms throughout the park, ideal for cooling down the kiddos on a hot day.

What is it? Hiking in Miami probably doesn’t come immediately to mind when thinking of this oceanside paradise. We’re more of a mojitos-and-long-brunches kind of city. And to be honest, the only summits we have around here are towering mountains of rubbish. But don’t underestimate the joy of a brisk Miami hike where the air is thick enough to chew.

Why go? Whether you’re searching for a shaded escape through native trees, a scenic stroll along the waterfront or just a peaceful trail where flip-flops won’t betray you, Miami offers plenty of places to get your steps in—without ever needing to learn how to use crampons. Tap through for our full guide to the best nature trails and hiking in Miami.

What is it? An afternoon spent wandering the isles of Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods sounds fun, but nothing beats a dewy Saturday morning picking through organic produce and testing out kitchen-made salt scrubs as the Florida sun warms your shoulders. We’ve rounded up the best farmer’s markets in Miami, from year-round staples to options with air conditioning, too. 

Why go? For nearly every neighborhood in Miami, there is a farmers’ market, and nothing says “I support local” like giving small farms and mom-and-pop businesses the chance to peddle their homegrown and homemade goods. Oftentimes, you’ll find the produce is fresher (and cheaper) than grocery stores, and packing a picnic blanket to lay out on after a shopping trip makes for a fabulous family or dog-friendly afternoon.

Don't miss: Free yoga under the banyan trees on Saturday mornings at Legion Park.

What is it? The only garden of its kind in the US: a 37-acre park exhibiting more than 500 varieties of fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, nuts and exotic edibles. An old schoolhouse and coral rock building recall South Florida’s pioneer life, while the charming gift shop sells spices, jams and jellies, unusual seeds and aromatic teas, plus cookbooks on tropical fruits and vegetables.

Why go? The park is also the site of recurring events like an annual orchid festival, blues concerts and a summer fruit festival where you can really stock up. 

What is it? This massive national park spans 1.5 million acres of wetlands. See alligators, cranes, turtles, manatees and even panthers roam their native habitat freely.

Why go? There’s no place in the world like it, and it’s within driving distance of Downtown Miami. With three separate entrances, visitors can explore on foot, bicycle and via boat.

Don’t miss: A sunrise in the everglades by booking a room at Flamingo Lodge, the only hotel inside Everglades National Park.

What is it? What do tourists like more than exploring South Beach, scarfing down Cuban sandwiches or basking on the best Miami beaches? Of course, it’s shopping in a Miami outlet mall. Vaguely lost-looking visitors shuffle through the perennially bottlenecked corridors of these bargain emporiums, loading up their empty suitcases with just about every sale item imaginable—from clothes to housewares to accessories.  Occasionally, it’s locals who begrudgingly schlep across highways and massive parking lots and dodge swarms of sale shoppers all in the name of a good deal. 

Why go? Are outlet malls in Miami pleasant? If you can avoid going on a weekend, they can be. Will they save you loads of money? Always, so we visit them anyway. Click through to get primed on the best discount shopping Miami has to offer.