The best things to do in Miami for locals and tourists

What is it? After sell-out runs in Paris, Rome, and Milan, From the Heart to the Hands: Dolce&Gabbana arrives in Miami, offering a rare look inside the creative universe of designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana.

Why go? The fully immersive experience traces how their ideas move from inspiration to execution—all by hand. Curated by Florence Müller and produced by IMG, the show brings together more than 300 Alta Moda pieces, set within immersive installations and shown alongside works by contemporary artists, celebrating the artisanry, excess, and exuberance of Italian aesthetics. 

Time Out tip: Give yourself plenty of time to experience the collections, spanning more than a dozen rooms. From Sicily to Milan, from history to pop culture, the exhibition makes it clear: this isn't just fashion. It’s culture, memory, and a lot of very skilled hands.

What is it? One of the world’s largest boat shows, spanning five venues with everything from luxury superyachts to the latest marine tech. 

Why go? Whether you want to gawk, check out marine gear, or actually pony up for a yacht, this five-day seafaring shindig lets you get comfortably nautical across six iconic venues. Anchored by the Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park, the 2026 show marks the return of the Miami Beach Yacht Collection on Collins Avenue for the first time since 2018.

Time Out tip: Explore the new Sailor's Cove for all things sailing or visit Museum Park Marina for the latest powerboats. Your one ticket includes access to all show sites, shuttle buses, and water taxis.

What is it? Miami’s largest and most famous annual food festival, featuring hundreds of celebrity chefs

Why go? For its landmark 25th anniversary, SOBEWFF is hosting its biggest party yet, featuring over 105 flavor-packed events, including the 20th-anniversary edition of the popular Burger Bash.

Time Out tip: There's a ton that's new for 2026, so even if you've attended in the past, there are more reasons to reach for those stretchy pants this year: a live podcast series a late-night kick-off set by Diplo, a live performance by Rev Run at Guy Fieri's Tournament of Champions, and a festival-closing soundtrack from DJ Cassidy.

What is it? For the third consecutive year, Miami welcomes the stateside edition of the long-running Swiss music festival made famous by artists like Prince and David Bowie. Musician and singer Jon Batiste serves as co-founder and artistic director of the U.S. iteration of the Montreux Jazz Festival, which returns to Coconut Grove and, new for 2026, the Miami Beach Bandshell.

Why go? We love this intimate, talent-packed festival, right in the heart of Coconut Grove. Taking over The Hangar at Regatta Grove over the weekend: disco legends Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Grammy-winning pop-rock icons TOTO, and French-Caribbean soul-funk bassist and singer Adi Oasis on Saturday—just to name a few.

Time Out tip: Montreux acts as a mini Miami food festival too, featuring food and drinks from top local restaurants. 

What is it? This iconic annual arts festival celebrates its 62nd year in 2026, bringing 285+ juried artists to the scenic streets of Coconut Grove over President's Day Weekend.

Why go? People of all ages can stroll along McFarlane Road and South Bayshore Drive to browse world-class booths and enjoy live culinary demonstrations. This year, experience The Stacks for live mural painting and music at Peacock Park, or visit the Arts & Drafts Beer Garden for local craft brews. With interactive family zones and a stunning bayfront backdrop, it remains one of the nation's premier cultural events.

Time Out tip: The Young Collectors Club allows children ages 5 to 12 to purchase original artwork for just $5. It's an adorable way to get your little ones into art early.

What is it? Think of EEEEEATSCON as the edgier, more approachable second cousin to SOBEWFF. They're not really related, but Miami's relative newbie to the food festival circuit is a great way to whet your appetite ahead of Miami Beach's long-running, nationally recognized culinary bacchanal on the sand.

Why go? Taking place at Bayfront Park, this two-day, family-friendly eating extravaganza put on by the Infatuation highlights some of our favorite local restaurants: Lil' Laos, L'industrie Pizzeria, Caffè Panna and Ghee Indian Kitchen, to name a few.

Time Out: You'll probably come for the food, but you'll stick around for who's on stage, including Afrobeta and Dav Julca. This year also marks the beginning of one-off restaurant collabs—think Cowy Burger x The Salty Dojo Izakaya x Zitz Sum, Walrus Rodeo x Apocalypse BBQ, Edan Bistro x COTOA, and Tacos María x Santo Taco.

What is it? In tandem with the holiday season, Jungle Island's enchanting festival of lights returns for a fourth year with a new production featuring more than 37 monumental, handcrafted silk lantern scenes created by a global team of artisans, graphic designers, seamstresses and more.

Why go? This year, Luminosa takes visitors on a vibrant trail of themed vignettes representing different ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to African savannahs, complete with cutting-edge animatronics, holograms and interactive storytelling.

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? This is Miami's premier performing arts center, and December marks the start of its busiest season, with a new Broadway in Miami series kicking off on December 2.

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 the 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? 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? 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: The latest exhibit, "Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius," offering an immersive and comprehensive look into the artist's work and legacy—which goes beyond the famous Mona Lisa (though a replica is on display too).

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 Vizcaya Village Farmers Market, a free, rain-or-shine gathering of Miami makers each Sunday from 9:30am to 3:30pm. Axplore Vizcaya’s historic farm and village while browsing fresh delicacies, hand-crafted goods, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, vegan products and more.

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? 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. There are also free guided tours of the neighborhood's impressive public art collection every second and fourth Saturday of the month.

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. 

Don't miss: The SoundScape Cinema Series is back for another season of free, open-air film screenings on the NWS lawn. Check the full schedule and don't forget to pack a blanket for a picnic under the stars.

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.

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. 

What is it? The NYC-imported Museum of Sex is part historical archive, part R-rated amusement park where adults can immerse themselves in all kinds of provocative experiences. Expect to encounter first-generation vibrators and archival news articles espousing the virtues of birth control pills alongside large-scale paintings of robots and humans engaged in highly graphic sex acts. The museum’s titillating temporary collection comprises thousands of works of art, photography, clothing and costumes, technological inventions and all manner of naughty historical ephemera.

Why go? The real show-stopper is “Super Funland: Journey Into the Erotic Carnival”—a permanent exhibition filled with NSFW, amusement park-style games. Without spoiling too much: there’s a stripper simulation for your pole-dancing ambitions, a sexy mermaid show, a booby bounce house and a spinning saucer ride where the last one to get tea-bagged wins. It’s playful, raunchy and sneakily insightful, offering a look at how sexuality has been represented across eras and cultures.

Time Out tip: There’s also a bar serving campy cocktails for when you need a break between romps, and a gift shop stocked with all the saucy souvenirs you didn’t know you needed.

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? 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? 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? 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? A live music venue and cultural space in Little River that is possibly the best place to find refreshing, new, global and up-and-coming artists in town. 

Why go? This is where you go when you want to come as you are and just dance—not to EDM, not to reggaeton (OK, sometimes to both)—but to refreshing sounds like Afro-Caribbean funk, Brazilian disco, salsa, boogaloo or electro cumbia. 

Don't miss: This September, ZeyZey continues to ramp up its eclectic programming, with Marc Rebillet, The Shapeshifters, Monster Rally, Cut Copy, Spam All Stars and more hitting the stage.

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? 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. 

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.

What is it? A throwback to Florida’s fruit stands of old, Robert is Here started in 1959 when the shop’s namesake, then six, began selling his family’s cucumbers from a roadside table. It has since grown into an emporium of exotic fruit and vegetables—and a huge tourist attraction.

Why go? A lovely farm setting, a bevy of exotic fruit—which you can ask to be whipped into a fresh milk shake—and an adorable petting zoo make this worthy of the trek down (way) south.

Don’t miss: Beyond sourcing nearly every type of fruit available, Robert is Here stocks “Grandma’s Kitchen,” its small general store, with local honey, artisanal bread and other yummy, Miami-made treats.