miami budget tours

How to visit Miami on a budget

Apr 27, 2024 • 8 min read

If you don't have far to travel, Citi Bikes can be a great way to see the sights in Miami while keeping costs down © lazyllama/ Shutterstock

With its ever-growing skyline and mansion-laden private islands, Miami can come across as a playground for the rich. But does it really require a hefty bankroll? It just depends on what kind of vacation you're looking for.

Sure, you can spring for the Fontainebleau at $400 a night, but you can just as easily find a SoBe hostel or even a standard hotel room for a fraction of that price. And while there are plenty of James Beard Award-winning restaurants to choose from, some of the city's top dining experiences can be enjoyed for $20 or less. 

Budget-conscious travelers can also get around Miami without going broke and still have a great time. There are several public transit options available to those with a smidge of patience, and they offer the chance to people-watch and get a glimpse of a Miami that most tourists don't even notice. And when it comes to free experiences, the city is chock-full of them if you know where to look. 

Here's how to enjoy Miami on a budget.

Daily Costs in Miami

• Hostel room: $30–90
• Basic room for two: $150–300+
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $80–200+
• Public transit ticket: $2.25
• Cafe con leche: $2–4
• Sandwich: $15
• Dinner for two: $40–60
• Beer at the bar: $8

Average daily cost: $175

Plan to visit in peak hurricane season if you can

If your vacation time is flexible and you're feeling brave, lucky or both, consider looking for flights in August or September. While hurricane season starts up in June, it really takes off during this period. Coupled with the return of the school year, the intense heat (August is especially roasty) and the near-daily afternoon showers, it's also the cheapest time to visit Miami. The good thing is that hurricanes don't just appear overnight. If one does make its way to the city, you'll have time to make alternative plans. 

Also, be aware that even when Miami is shown in the trajectory of a hurricane, by the time it finally reaches the city, it's often much weaker than initially anticipated. This means you might just experience a full day of high winds and rain but not a full-on hurricane, with the bonus being that the weather is generally quite pleasant (cool, dry and sunny) post-storm. 

Find out the best time to visit Miami for your perfect vacation

Shop around for your flight (MIA isn't always the cheapest)

Booking your flight as early as possible is always recommended, but that's not the only way to save. While Miami International Airport (MIA) has plenty of flight options, it can actually be pricier than the next closest airport: Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL). Yes, it's a bit of a hike from Miami, but it's always wise to keep an eye on flights for both airports.

Bonus: the Tri-Rail is accessible from FLL, which you can use to get down to Miami if you've opted against renting a car. 

Use free public transit options when available

As a major commuter town, Miami is best-traversed from the comfort of a rental car. However, if you're not looking to wander too far from your hotel or hostel, you might be able to get away with using public transit. Moreover, Miami has several free public transit options to choose from (and the rest are relatively low-cost as well).

City of Miami Trolleys run in a variety of Miami neighborhoods, including Wynwood, Coconut Grove, Little Havana and Allapattah. Other areas of Miami-Dade run their own free trolleys, from Miami Beach to Coral Gables. 

If you find yourself downtown, the cheapest way to get around is undoubtedly the totally free-of-charge Metromover . It's slower-moving than the Metrorail (the city's somewhat limited but still-useful train option), but it can give you some excellent views of the city and Biscayne Bay. You can take it anywhere from the Adrienne Arsht Center to Museum Park (home to the Pérez Art Museum Miami and Frost Museum of Science ), Bayside Marketplace to Bayfront Park , and as far south as Brickell (home to plenty of high rises, restaurants and bars).

Want to explore further? Take the Metrorail and head south to Coconut Grove (you'll need to transfer to a bus or Uber to get close to the shops and restaurants); South Miami or Dadeland (another popular shopping center); or north to Allapattah, a historically lower-income neighborhood currently seeing a bit of a gentrification-based renaissance and now home to attractions like Superblue and the Rubell Family Art Collection . 

Hit the ground running with our Miami transportation guide

Rent or borrow a bike to get around

While Miami is not known for its huge biking culture, it's still a solid way to get around a smaller neighborhood. And don't worry, you don't have to bring your bike along with you.

Citi Bikes are the local rent-a-bike option. They're readily available all across Miami Beach and all along the coast on the mainland from Little River down through Wynwood, Downtown, Brickell and to Coconut Grove. At $7.95 per hour (or $24 per day), it's a relatively inexpensive way to see the city up close, sans parking headaches.

Oh, and finally, check if your hotel has a bike-borrowing system – you'd be surprised how many offer this as an amenity.

Skip the ocean view hotel rooms

Sure, an ocean-view room can be worth it, but is it always necessary? Clearly not. And if you're on a tighter budget, you'll likely want to shop around and stay at either a hostel or a smaller boutique hotel. Any hotel with ocean (or skyline) views will generally upcharge anywhere from $30–80 for the scenic outlook. Save that money for Miami's other attractions. You can always try to book a hotel that has rooftop access so you can still snag some great views (and great selfies) without the extra cost. 

Take advantage of free museum days

Miami is home to a plethora of museums, and over the years, they have become increasingly accessible and affordable. The Pérez Art Museum, Gold Coast Railroad Museum , The Wolfsonian  and The Bass are just some of the museums offering free days at least once a month.

If your travel dates don't align, there are plenty of other museums that are free year-round, including the Institute of Contemporary Art , the Frost Art Museum and the Lowe Art Museum . Travelers with disabilities can also enjoy certain museums free of charge, from HistoryMiami to MOCA NoMi (with free sensory days once a month at the Miami Children's Museum ).

Grab any necessities at your nearest grocery store

Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS are a dime a dozen in Miami, but beware of those located in touristy areas like South Beach , as their prices tend to be higher. So where can you go to get a better deal? No doubt you've heard the locals sing the praises of Publix. Find your nearest store for lower prices on necessities including deodorant, sunscreen and toothpaste. Depending on where you are in town, you can also pop into Sedanos or Winn-Dixie for even better prices.

Venture into your nearest Latin food-by-the-pound spot...

Of course, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention where to get cheap eats in the Magic City. While you might want to flex your credit card for a night at one of the city's many award-winning restaurants, you can still eat well without going broke at the nearest Latin food-by-the-pound restaurant. Don't be confused by the name, though; these places aren't always weighing your food. What they are doing is loading up a styrofoam container to the brim with all sorts of yummy goodness – the kind that's also excellent reheated.

Get your fill of Cuban cuisine like arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) at Palacio de los Jugos , or venture into a Nicaraguan eatery called a fritanga to taste delicious gallo pinto (a rice and beans dish), carne asada (grilled marinated steak) and fried cheese.

...or pick up legit Latin food from a street vendor

If you're looking for something a little less dense, you can always check out local street food vendors to see what cheap, tasty treats they've got. Yes, some food trucks nowadays sell fusion foods that are pricier than you might expect, but many remain reasonably priced. El Bori  is a food truck serving up delightful Puerto Rican bites like empanadillas (turnovers), cheese dogs and alcapurrias (fritters) for under $10. Smaller food carts selling Colombian arepas de choclo (sweet corn cakes) are often a staple at tourist hot spots and local events, and you can usually grab something yummy for around $5.  

Seek out free festivals, art crawls and more

The party is always on somewhere in Miami and, more often than not, you won't even have to pay. If you're on the beach and seeking cheap nighttime activities, check out the Miami Beach Culture Crawl on the third Thursday of the month. It features different activities each month, from backstage tours to exhibition openings and more. Viernes Culturales in the Little Havana neighborhood is another arts and culture crawl where you can check out vendors, dance to live music and really get a taste of Cuban-American cultura . Speaking of which, Calle Ocho , which takes place every March, is one of the largest music festivals in town, and it's free of charge.

Music lovers should also be aware of the WALLCAST Concerts and the  SoundScape Cinema Series staged just outside of the New World Symphony . And don't forget all the farmers markets, author events at places such as Books & Books , and more totally free events going on year-round. 

Keep planning your trip to Miami

Looking for more money-saving tips? These experiences don't cost a thing Soak up the sun on Miami's best beaches Explore beyond the city with these day trips from Miami

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THE 10 BEST Miami Tours & Excursions

Miami tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Miami Skyline Cruise of South Beach and Millionaire Homes

2. Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami

3. 60 min. Everglades Airboat ride & pick-up ,small group +pro guide

4. Miami Skyline 90-Minute Sunset Cruise

5. Miami’s Best Private Boat Charter with a Captain

6. Miami Sunset and City Lights Cocktail Cruise

7. Miami and Bayside 90 min Cruise of Celebrity Islands

8. 1 Day Key West Tour from Miami Florida

9. Nature & Island Exploration on SUP/Kayak

10. Speedboat Sightseeing Adventure of Miami

11. Key West Day Trip from Miami with Activities

12. Sightseeing Helicopter Ride over Miami Beach

13. Everglades Tour from Miami with Transportation

14. Big Bus Miami: Sightseeing Night Tour by Open-top Bus

15. 2 hrs Miami Private Boat Tour with Cooler, Ice, Bluetooth Stereo

16. Miami Moonlit ATV Adventure: Explore Redland's Hidden Trails

17. Castaway the Day: Miami Sunset Sail with Champagne

18. AquaFusion Combo: Jet Ski + Party Boat Excursion (Groups)

19. Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Experience with roundtrip transfer

20. Miami ATV & UTV Adventure-Explore Miami’s Countryside

21. Official Miami Millionaires Sightseeing Cruise with Free Photo

22. 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park

23. From Miami: Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show, and Roundtrip Bus

24. Miami Combo: City half day, walking Tour & Biscayne Bay Cruise

25. Explore Miami in Style: Private Boat Rental with Captain

26. Beginner Friendly Island Snorkeling

27. Private Boat Ride in Miami with Experienced Captain and Champagne

28. South Beach Cultural Food and Walking Tour

29. Miami Island Ultimate Adventure

30. Miami Jet Ski Rental: chase the Ocean, ride the Waves

What travelers are saying.

Planning a Trip to Miami on a Budget

Miami is known for its warmth, great beaches, lavish nightclubs, and “ see and be seen” atmosphere. I’ll be honest; Miami wasn’t my favorite city at first—I hated the vibe and how expensive it was. I had to visit Miami a lot for business purposes for about two years. During that time, I realized that there was more to Miami than meets the eye. Beneath the lavish mask of the city is a cultural pulse—with lots of great food, art exhibitions, and more—at an affordable cost. 

I learned how to enjoy Miami on a budget during my years of traveling to the city. I’m sharing those tips with you here in hopes that you’ll be able to have a fun, and affordable time, in Florida’s best city.

Table of Contents

Travel to miami in an affordable way.

There are four ways to get to Miami from within the USA: car , bus , train , or plane .

Driving to Miami is the most financially sound option. If you drive to Miami, then you’ll save on ground transportation costs to get to attractions within the city. If driving to Miami isn’t an option, then taking a flight to Miami is your best bet. Two airports that service the Miami area—Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) and Miami International Airport (MIA). Both airports service international flights, as well, if you’re coming from outside of the United States. Here are some tips that will help you nab a cheap flight to Miami:

• Use a 3rd party website like  skyscanner.com  to find cheap flight deals. The site will give you a look at flight costs across several airlines, with varying cost-saving flight paths.
• Fly on off-peak days. The cheapest days to fly to/from Miami are Tuesdays & Wednesdays. While Miami is a top destination for a weekend trip , weekend flights (Thurs – Sunday) will cost more.

The Cheapest Time of Year to Visit Miami

A surefire way to cut back on costs to your trip to Miami is to visit during “off-peak season” which runs from July – October. This time of year is referred to as “hurricane season” because Miami is more likely to be hit by a hurricane during this time. It’s also very hot & humid during this time and usually rains at least once a day for a few hours.

Tourists tend to avoid Miami during hurricane season—but if you’re attempting to visit Miami on a budget, it’s a good time of year to visit. Everything is cheaper during this time period in Miami. This includes hotels, ground transportation, tourist activities, and more. 

Another pro-tip is to make sure you *avoid* going to Miami when big festivals are in town. Miami houses a lot of festivals and when it does, everything is more crowded and expensive. For example, Art Basel takes place in Miami every year and when it’s happening everything is completely booked and much more expensive than it would be when there’s no festival in town. Research and ensure that no festivals will take place in Miami before you plan your trip. 

How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Miami

Miami is known for having some of the best hotels in the world. However, if you’re looking to visit Miami on a budget, then you’ll have to look a little bit more off the beaten path. Here are some tips for finding budget accommodation in Miami:

• Look for accommodation that’s within short walking or driving distance from South Beach but not in South Beach . A good area to look in is North Beach Miami. North Beach is residential but on the beach. Transportation booked via a rideshare app and the Miami Beach Trolley are accessible from North Beach. 
• Book an  Airbnb ! There are a lot of private rooms and apartments available on Airbnb in Miami at an affordable cost.
• Stay in a Hostel. There are a lot of good Hostels in Miami, available at affordable prices. Hostelworld.com  is a good resource for finding hostels in Miami. A favorite hostel in Miami is Generator Miami .

Getting Around Miami on a Budget

• Drive to Miami: Driving to Miami in your own car is an excellent way to cut back on ground transportation costs. If driving there in your own car is an option—do it. You’ll save tons on ground transportation while there.
• Cut Down on Costs from the Airport to Your Accommodation: If flying into Miami International Airport (MIA), take the Airport Flyer Bus to your accommodation. Each ticket costs less than $3. If you don’t take the bus, you can explore other shuttle options that costs approx. $19/pp or a private taxi which will run you around $30/minimum, depending on where you’re headed.
• Stay near the Miami Beach Trolley: This is a free service that drives up & down Collins Avenue—which is the main avenue that lines the beach in Miami. To take the trolley, simply look for the signs all over Collins Avenue and wait for it to stop by. I recommend checking out the route here so that you understand exactly where it will stop while planning your trip. If in the Downtown area, the Metromover is another free public transport service that you can use to get around.
• Sign Up for a City Bike Membership: City Bike Miami is a public bike share program. Renting a bike and riding one around town is an excellent way to drive costs down and see the city a little better.
• Use Ride Share App Pool Options: At times, walking or taking the Miami Beach Trolley won’t be an option. You’ll have to use a taxi or rideshare app. When this happens; always use the pool feature or the equivalent. This means that you’ll share a car with someone else, and your trip may take a little longer to complete, but it’ll save you a little extra cash.
• Rent a Car: Renting a car when you arrive in Miami is a good way to save on ground transportation costs. Websites like Rentalcars.com offer good car rental deals in the Miami area.

Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Miami

Go to the Beach: This is the most obvious free thing to do in Miami. The beaches in Miami are incredible and free. When you go, bring your own blanket and lay down on the sand. Umbrella and lounge chair rentals are over-priced in Miami, so try not to rent those if you can help it. Also, pack your own snacks and drinks so that you don’t have to buy any while there.

Check out Wynwood Walls: Wynwood is a district in Miami that’s full of colorful street art. Walking around the neighborhood and checking out the art is free. There are also a lot of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the district that are awesome and more affordable than those in the South Beach area .

Gain Free Access to a Museum: Many of Miami’s museums grant free access to visitors on certain days. Choose a museum that you’d like to see, then head over to their website to see if/when they offer free access. For example, the Perez Art Museum offers free access on the second Saturday of each month .

Take a Donation Based Yoga Class: Workout classes in Miami are notoriously expensive, but there are cheap ways to do it too. Search for free & donation based workouts in Miami. Yoga by donation at Bayfront Park is a popular one worth checking out. 

Take in Cuban Culture in Little Havana: Experience the Cuban cultural influence of Miami at Calle Ocho in Little Havana . Walk around the area and stop in a Cuban restaurant. I recommend trying a Cuban coffee—they’re delicious, strong, and very popular in Miami. There are also festivals every Friday in Little Havana called Viernes Culturales , which transforms the streets into a giant party .

Visit Everglades National Park When It’s Free: National Parks in Florida offer free admission on a select few days per year . Check out their website to see if a free entrance day falls during your trip.

Walk Through the Grounds of Miami’s Iconic Hotels: The hotel scene in Miami is incredible. Some of the hotels offer free walking tours. For example, the historic & infamously haunted Biltmore Hotel offers a free walking tour of its grounds .

Check Out a Free Event at Bayside Marketplace: The area offers up great views of Miami and cheap eats. In addition , there are also often concerts and other free live events that you can check out. Look at their website to see their updated schedule when planning your trip to Miami.

Hike Through Bear Cut Nature Preserve: Located in Key Biscayne, the hike is one of the most scenic in Florida.

• Go Salsa Dancing: Free Salsa classes are offered in Miami at various locations. You can also check out bars like Ball & Chain , which often erupt into salsa dancing parties.

Cheap Places to Eat in Miami

Have a Cuban Meal in North Miami Beach: This area is a little more local, and there are tons of great Cuban restaurants in the area . Two of my favorites are Little Havana Restaurant and Abuela’s Kitchen Latin America .

Eat Tacos! Tacos are good, tacos are affordable. There are some excellent taco restaurants in Miami. My favorite spots for affordable tacos in Miami are Taquiza and The Taco Stand .

Try a Poki Bowl: I love Poki Bowl’s—they’re cheap and delicious. There are lots of Poki spots in Miami that serve up fresh ingredients at low prices. Crazy Poki Wynwood is one of my faves. They’ve also got sushi burritos which are excellent.

Eat Vietnamese Cuisine at Tran An: Miami serves up a culturally diverse selection of cuisine . Try Vietnamese food at Tran An —the restaurant is both good and reasonably priced.

Visit Caja Caliente in Coral Gables: This restaurant is affordable and delicious—my favorite combination . Caja Caliente serves tacos, burritos, bowls, and more.

Enjoy Bottomless Brunch with Drag Queens at Palace South Beach: If you’re going to splurge on anything in Miami, let it be this . Palace South Beach offers a bottomless brunch with a drag queen show. For a fixed fee you’ll get: unlimited mimosas, brunch, and a fun drag show with beach-side views.

Have a Sandwich at La Sandwicherie: This is one of the best food spots in Miami. La Sandwicherie has locations all over Miami and is a great spot for a tasty & affordable meal.

Visit La Camaronera Seafood Joint: This spot offers seafood at its best — simple, fresh, and cheap. La Camaronera is a restaurant that locals and tourists have gone to and raved about for years.

Pizza, Pizza, Pizza!: I’ll always try to squeeze Pizza into my blog posts. It’s my favorite food, and it’s a great solution for a cheap and filling meal. You can grab a slice all over Miami. Some favorite Pizza places are Stanzione 87 & Frankie’s Pizza .

• Cook at Your Accommodation: You should definitely budget eating at a restaurant into your trip to Miami . That said, a great way to cut down on costs during a trip to Miami on a budget is to cook at home. If you book an accommodation with a kitchen, try to have at least 1 meal per day at home. If no accommodation, buy some non-perishable foods to snack on throughout the day and offset costs .

Affordable Miami Night Life

Take advantage of Happy Hours: There are happy hours all over Miami. Explore menus at restaurants and bars like Beaker & Gray & Sugar Cane for cheap drinks during happy hour .

Go to a Dive Bar: Miami nightlife is synonymous with posh nightclubs, but that’s not your only option. There are dive-bars, too. Check out places like Teds Hideaway and Barracuda .

Get a Free Cocktail at Blackbird Ordinary: Go to Blackbird Ordinary for free drinks. Check out their website to see when they’re offered.

Have a Cheap Mojito at The Wetlab: Check out the Wetlab for cheap drinks, good views, and great fun. Visit their website to know when the drink deals are offered .

• Try a $3 Drink at The Scape Goat: The Scape Goat offers drink deals all day long. Check out their menu for dates/times that their deals are offered when planning your trip.

Enjoy Your Trip to Miami on a Budget

As you can see, it is more than possible to enjoy a trip to Miami on a budget. The key to visiting Miami in an affordable way is to research and plan ahead of time. It’s easy to go to Miami and spend a fortune, but with discipline, you can save a bundle during your trip. 

Read More Inspiration for a Trip to Miami

How to Take a day trip from Miami to the Bahamas

Disclosure: Please note that some of the above are affiliate links, and I earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend companies that I’ve personally used and like, and the income supports this site. 

8 thoughts on “Planning a Trip to Miami on a Budget”

Thanks for the tips, I absolutely adore Miami and it’s been my holiday destination of choice for many years, I’m just back from Miami a few days ago and had a ball, I did find it a little more expensive this time than previous years, the euro and dollar being the same, but I’m still planning my next trip back. I’d just like to add to your list of great places to have a reasonably priced meal and drinks, Duffys Sports grill, just off Sunny Isles beach is awesome, if you’re anywhere along Collins Avenue you can just hop on the S bus towards Aventura and get off at the gas station at Sunny Isles, a nice little walk over the bridge and you’ll spot Duffys, it’s a huge venue overlooking the water, it’s got a pool, inside and outside seating, lots of TV screens to catch up on sports and awesome food that doesn’t cost the earth, they also have 2 for 1 drinks everyday, great place, great atmosphere. The North Shore Bandshell on 71st Street and Collins avenue also had free shows where you can catch, live Bands and Dennys is right across the street for a value meal.

Hi Catherine! Thanks so much for the additional tips. I’ll check these out the next time I’m in Miami and add them to the list after I go! 🙂

Nice advices!! I’ll follow your sugestions. Thanks!!!

I’m glad you found them helpful!!! 🙂

Helped tremendously. Thanks! P.S. Another thing my Uber driver just informed me of is the Frost Science Museum, complete with aquarium and planetarium.

I’m so glad you found this helpful! Oh yes, those are 3 great places as well. I’ll look into the current deals and share them out. Thanks so much! Hope you had a nice trip.

Your article on Miami on a budget is so informative and useful! You gave a lot of details and tips on how to save money and have fun in this vibrant city, including the accommodation, the transportation and the food. Thank you for sharing your experience and advice.

Would love to go to the Miami next year! I hope all of my plans will go as planned! Thank you for sharing, will be saving this!

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Miami often conjures up visions of sports cars, 24/7 parties, expensive restaurants, and every other earthly pleasure. While that version of the city definitely does exist, there’s a lot more to Florida’s most alluring metropolis than luxury.

From secluded beaches to districts filled with famous street artwork, there are plenty of epic places to visit in Miami on a budget. Here’s exactly where you can experience the Magic City on the cheap.

Lounge Under Palm Rrees at Crandon Park

Located on Key Biscayne, Crandon Park is one of the best beaches in Miami thanks to its serene, natural setting. Bring a towel and spend an afternoon underneath one of the many palm trees that dot the white sand, or play in the (usually) warm water. You can even get an introduction to kiteboarding via rentals or lessons with a little extra cash.

To really feel like you’re on an island, take the turn for “Crandon Park South Entrance” and walk all the way to your left once you get out onto the actual beach. You’ll likely have a large portion all to yourself.

Enjoy the Artsy Vibes of Wynwood and the Wynwood Walls

Wynwood is one of Miami’s coolest neighborhoods, and much of its fame comes from the colorful, spray-painted walls found throughout the area. Though there’s plenty to do in Wynwood, the best attraction happens to be free.

Wander around the Wynwood Walls , which comprise a collection of 40+ murals from the planet’s best street artists. It’s also common to find some kind of pop-up event or music show happening in the neighborhood, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend or holiday.

Taste Great Cuban Food at Havana Harry’s

If there’s one thing you have to try while traveling in Miami, it’s Cuban food. The city has a large Cuban population, which translates into delicious food that you’d be hard-pressed to find many other places in the U.S. While it might not be the most famous spot in the city, Havana Harry’s in lush Coral Gables serves up huge portions for a bargain. Its Cuban sandwich is particularly budget-friendly, and the iconic Cuatro Leches dessert is reason enough to stop by.

Watch the Sunset at South Pointe Park

Most cheap things to do in Miami involve its best asset: the coastline. Certain spots are more famous than others, and one of those is yet another completely free Miami attraction: South Pointe Park .

Situated at the southern tip of South Beach, the seaside park is perfect for lounging, cycling, or catching the sunset; Miami is known for its cotton candy skies, after all.

Go on a Self-Guided Art Deco Tour

If you want to get to know Miami on a budget, you’re going to have to be your own tour guide. There’s no better place to start than South Beach’s Art Deco Historic District .

Between 5th and 23rd streets, you can find all kinds of vibrant reminders of a unique architectural style that was popular a century ago. Flashy, bold, and tropical, you’ll know an Art Deco building when you see one. Notable places to stop along your walk include the Clevelander, the Carlyle, and the Miami Beach U.S. Post Office, among many others.

Explore Little Havana / Calle Ocho

The Magic City might be famous because of its beaches, but the heart of Miami lies in Little Havana, where you can feel like you’re in Cuba for a few hours.

Centered around “Calle Ocho” (8th Street in Spanish), it’s completely free to meander around and people-watch, and not too expensive to treat yourself to one of the many restaurants that line the streets. From shots of Cuban Coffee to the unique flavors served up at Azucar Ice Cream Company , Little Havana is one of those Miami destinations no traveler – budget or otherwise – should miss.

Experience Haulover’s Nude Beach

One of the most unique places to visit in Miami on a budget is undoubtedly a special section of Haulover Beach Park. While most of the massive beach isn’t much different from other swaths of sand, the northern section is dedicated to the birthday suit. Yup – we’re talking about one of the top-ranked nude beaches in the States.

The clothing-optional environment is judgment free and costs nothing to enter. It’s a space that attracts people of all ages and walks of life and definitely feels like one of those “only in Miami” places. Keep in mind that like most places to visit in Miami on a budget, Haulover will be a lot less busy on weekdays.

Browse Around Bayside Marketplace

Right in the center of Downtown Miami is Bayside, a sprawling shopping center overlooking the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay. Window shop the afternoon away or head to Bayfront Park next door, which is filled with pleasant walking paths and regularly hosts concerts. Both are well-connected to Miami’s Metrorail system, which means you can easily arrive for just under $5.

Check Out Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables

Though not quite free, this Miami activity is well worth the modest entry fee. Located in one of the greenest portions of Miami’s most beautiful neighborhood, this Coral Gables botanic garden is filled top to bottom with stunning botany. Wander through 83 acres of rare tropical plants in a setting that will make you feel like you’ve been transported far away from the metropolis that is Miami.

Admire Artwork at the Perez Art Museum

Another Downtown Miami destination, the Perez Art Museum features ever-changing displays of incredible modern works of art. The museum is a relatively cheap place to visit any day, but there is in fact a “best” day to visit.

On the second Saturday of each month, admission is free and workshops are often held for the public. Like Bayside, this is yet another cheap Miami attraction that can be easily (and cheaply) accessed via Miami’s Metrorail system.

Stretch It Out at 420 Space Yoga

Out of all the cheap things to do in Miami, few will make you feel as good as this one. Welcome to 420 Space Yoga , an incredible initiative that has expanded a lot in recent years. Held every Saturday at 4:20 p.m., the class is free and typically takes place at either Club Space or Space Park. You’ll be taught by experienced instructors and get to enjoy some fantastic background music as you get into the zone.

All levels are welcome, and in case you were wondering, the event is in fact 420-friendly.

Escape the Chaos on the Shores of North Beach Oceanside Park

If you’re looking for an escape from the chaos of South Beach, look no further than one of Miami’s best slices of sea: North Beach Oceanside Park . Way up north near 81st Street, the local park/beach combo is completely removed from the noise of the road, thanks to a tree-filled park complete with communal grills and tables.

Cycling paths and a dog park are also notable features of this urban park, which attracts far fewer tourists than Miami’s other famous beaches. There’s also a plethora of open-air parking lots, a rarity on Miami Beach.

Get Off the Beaten Path in Little Haiti

This cultural enclave located just north of the Design District is a fantastic place for a budget traveler to spend the day. Start at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex , where you can walk through art galleries and a marketplace. Check out some local voodoo shops – a distinct part of the culture – before sampling delicious (and affordable) Haitian food for lunch.

Take a Nature Walk Through Matheson Hammock Park

Yes, Miami’s beaches are iconic, but the area has a whole lot more to offer in terms of natural spaces. Head to Coral Gables yet again for a quiet day amongst the tree-lined paths of Matheson Hammock Park – nature trails, a boating area, and a man-made beach await.

Situated alongside Old Cutler Road , an iconic Miami cycling trail, it’s also a great place to be on two wheels.

Window Shop in Coconut Grove

If you’re looking for a charming yet chill place to visit, Coconut Grove is the place to go. The neighborhood is chock-full of stunning, leafy architecture and the main market area is lovely to walk around in.

Even the most frugal of travelers can appreciate a window shop in “The Grove,” as it's locally called, which features plenty of unique boutiques and eventually gives way to the stunning South Bayshore Drive. If you’re craving happy hour, Monty’s Raw Bar is right on the water and will give you some serious bang for your buck. Order a PK 3 at your own risk.

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Miami: How To Visit Florida's Best City On A Budget

This is the best way of exploring Miami, Florida's best city on a budget.

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The cheapest way of getting to miami, the best budget-friendly time to visit miami, finding the cheapest accommodation in miami, where to eat on a budget in miami, affordable attractions to explore in miami.

Miami has been an iconic vacation destination for many years, and it hosts several athletes, celebrities, and artists. Its incredible beaches and world-recognized bars attract visitors from all corners of the planet. When touring Miami, travelers will find it too easy to spend cash around because of all the colorful things the city boasts of. Considered an adult playground, the city is brimming with pricey cocktails, and luxury sports cars and one won't struggle to find top-notch accommodation for staying overnight. With all the wonderful attractions Florida’s best city has to offer, tourists may think it isn’t possible to visit it on a budget. Well, there is a way. Here is how to visit Miami while still saving money.

Related: This Is How You Can Budget For Orlando, Depending On Your Itinerary

Driving to Miami is the most affordable option for getting to Miami from the U.S., as it will save visitors on transportation costs. If driving is not in one’s plans, then flying is the best option. One can use two of Miami's airports; Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) and Miami International Airport (MIA). The airports also offer international transport services to visitors traveling from other countries. The most popular airline is American Airlines.

• The average time it takes to fly to Miami: is two hours 56, minutes
• The most affordable month to fly to Miami: July
• The lowest amount on flights: $40

Tips For Catching The Cheapest Flights To Miami

• Make use of third-party websites , such as skyscanner.com to know the most affordable flight deals available. The sites offer information on the flight costs of different airlines.
• Fly to Miami during off-peak days . Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the most budget-friendly days to travel to and from Florida’s best city. Being a top destination for weekend getaways, traveling between Thursdays and Sundays will be expensive. The busiest months in the city are also the costliest times to travel. Miami is busiest from January to April.

For the best deals on flights, accommodations, and even attractions, travelers should try and visit Miami during the off-tourist season, which runs from July to October. This is also the time Miami is likely to be hit by the hurricane, so many travelers won’t be around. The weather is hot and humid, and the city experiences rains at least once a day. Because travelers avoid touring Florida’s best city in the hurricane season, it is the best time for vacationers looking to stay on a budget.

Avoid visiting Miami during the big festivals, as the town gets overcrowded and things get costly. One of Miami’s biggest festivals is Art Basel, running from November 30 to December 5th.

Related: The Cheapest Time To Visit San Francisco (& Other Budget Tips)

Miami is a world-recognized destination for the best hotels. Travelers looking to stay cheap in the city should go for off-the-beaten-path options. North Beach is one of the places to find affordable hotels. Here, travelers can use the rideshare app to get around the area. Booking an Airbnb is another affordable option for finding accommodation in Miami. There are numerous budget private rooms available on Airbnb. There are also several hostels to spend some nights in the city . Generator Miami is one of the most interesting, but affordable.

• Best Budget Hotels: Rodeway Inn Miami I-95, Golden Glades Inn Conf Center
• Cost: from $64 per night
• Best Cheap Hostel in Miami: South Beach Rooms and Hostel
• Cost: From $19

Miami is known for its incredible Cuban dishes, most of which serve authentic dishes. Puerto Sagua should be on the list of places to try first. Located near Miami Beach's center, this restaurant is one of the best for affordable Cuban dishes. Don’t leave without tasting pernil asado , the most delicious pork they have.

• Prices at Puerto Sagua: $11 - $30

La Sandwicherie is another spot to try for a decadent French sandwich. While travelers are bound to find long queues at this place, waiting in line is totally worth it! Ever since it was launched in 1988 , selling salads, smoothies, sandwiches, and shakes, there is always a large crowd waiting for service in a long line reaching an alley off 14th Street between Collins and Washington avenues.

• Opening hours at La Sandwicherie: 7:00 am – 5:00 am, every day
• Cost of food: From $6

Other cheaper places to eat include Lime Fresh Mexican Grill, Tap Tap, Aladdin, and YuGo .

Soak Up The Sun In Miami

Soaking up the sun will not travelers a penny. As long as they’ve packed the essentials - such as towels, sunscreen, and a swimsuit - this activity is totally free! There are many gorgeous beaches in the city to explore without spending a lot of money. Miami boasts over 825 miles of stunning sandy coastline, and leaving the city without going to the beach is almost a crime. South Beach, a 4-mile picturesque beach is one of the world’s most famous and is a perfect spot to soak up the sun. There are chairs and umbrellas for visitors to rent, and they mostly belong to the resorts and hotels around

• Cost of renting umbrellas and beach chairs: from $25

If one is planning to spend more days exploring the beach, they should buy chairs and umbrellas at around $20 at one of the nearby shops, and save the daily money they’d use for rentals.

Visit Wynwood Wall For A Free Art Experience

Wynwood Walls is a haven for aspiring painters, graffiti artists, and young creators and innovators. Located a few minutes from Downtown Miami, near Miami Design District, it covers six buildings and has been used by artists from across the world. One can visit there, since it is free, and explore over 40 incredible murals from some of the best street artists in the world.

Explore The City’s Nightlife During Happy Hours

The nightlife in Miami is amazing, and almost no one leaves Florida’s best city without visiting one of its vibrant bars and restaurants. A night out in the city is affordable, but taking advantage of the happy hour deals offered by the many bars and restaurants around is way cheaper. During happy hours, one can spend less than $10 to enjoy Miami's incredible nightlife.

Miami might look expensive, but touring the vibrant city on a budget is possible.

How to visit Miami on a budget in 2024

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: February 16, 2024

Want to visit Miami but don’t have too much to spend? We share these tips on how to visit Miami on a budget, so you can enjoy the fabulous beach without breaking the bank.

Planning a trip to Miami on a budget

Getting to Miami on a budget

Fly into Fort Lauderdale – Most visitors to Miami arrive via flight.

If you are flying domestically, it may be cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale. Just an hour north of Miami, flights often are a lot cheaper into here than into Miami. Budget airlines like JetBlue, Spirit, and Southwest Airlines are great options for those on a budget. 

International flyers – International flyers can fly via Miami International Airport but book flights in advance and fly during the week to save some money. Compare flights on Skyscanner and Google Flights and check out last-minute deals on websites like LastMinute.com or Holiday Pirates .

Cheapest time to visit Miami

Visit in the off-season – December through to Spring is peak season in Miami with people looking to escape the winter chill. If you can, avoid visiting during this time, you will save quite a bit of money on accommodation.  The summer in Miami is humid but May, October, and November offer a good compromise between weather, prices, and crowds. 

Avoid the weekends – When possible, avoid the weekends to get cheaper accommodation but also cheaper flights; mid-week flights often work out cheaper than flying any day between Friday to Monday. 

Also, check for festivals in Miami too. The city is home to some incredible festivals and events which are fantastic to attend. However, if you don’t plan on attending a festival or event, try to avoid visiting the city on the same dates; hotels book up quickly and prices rise. Planning a trip away from the festivals will help visit Miami on a budget.

Getting around Miami on a budget

Use Uber and Lyft – The rideshare apps are a lot cheaper than taxis in Miami , so save money by sticking to these apps. Miami has Uber POOL and Express Pool that can save you even more money whilst Lyft offers Lyft Shuttle. Just make sure to keep an eye on surging prices during peak travel time and avoid these times when possible. 

Take the Trolley – Miami has a free trolley service that you can use to get around the city, taking you between Miami Beach, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, and Little Havana. This is a great way to visit Miami on a budget and see all the sights on offer.

Rent a Citi Bike – Miami Beach offers Citi bikes for visitors to explore the area with ease. The city is a bike-friendly destination and you can pick up and dock a Citi Bike for hourly rental at any of the stations.

Or you can get yourself a Membership of the bike program, which allows you to ride a bike for 30 minutes for free and that time resets if you arrive at a station/destination and dock your bike. Memberships start at $15 and are ideal for locals whilst visitors can rent a bike for $4.50 for 30 minutes, $6.50 for an hour or $24 for a whole day pass.

Where to stay in Miami on a budget

Book boutique hotels – Miami has plenty of fancy branded hotels and luxury places to stay but they are pricey. Instead, check out the boutique hotels that are typically smaller, further away from the beach, are rated 3 stars, and tend to cost around $100. 

Hostels in Miami – The US isn’t always the best place to take advantage of hotels because they can be more expensive than budget hotels. However, with hotel prices in Miami being fairly high, you can save money by using dorm beds in Miami. Compare options on Hostelworld for dorm beds as low as $20. When staying in hostels, remember to use a VPN app to keep you safe online, especially whilst using hostel wi-fi.

Stay near South Beach – If you want to be near a beach but don’t want to overspend on accommodation, check out the hotels on South Beach. You can get a moderate hotel for under $120 that is on or a block or two away from the beach.

Save on food in Miami

Use the food trucks – Miami has some tasty tacos and mouthwatering burgers that you must try. Food trucks are all over the city but check the roaming Hunger website for food trucks near your location and opening times. 

Avoid eating on Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road – To visit Miaimi on a budget, you should avoid eating in these touristy areas. These restaurants are overpriced and the quality isn’t always great. Instead, head to Coral Gables or Little Havana for great affordable dining options.

Save on attractions in Miami

Walking tours – There are plenty of free walking tours, taking you around the historic sights in the city.  Free Tours by Foot offers great free walking tours, including an art walking tour in Wynwood Walls and Little Havana Walking Tour.

Go Miami Card – If you want to visit many attractions in Miami, get yourself the Go Miami Card . It includes over 25 entrances for one price, saving you up to 20%.

Miami Museum Month – Running through May but often starting in early April as well, Miami runs museum and attraction offers. These change depending on the year and attraction but include deals on admission such as money off or buy one get one free.

Enjoy the beaches – Miami is known for its beautiful coast, making it a great destination for a beach holiday. All of Miami’s beaches are open to the public for free; perfect for those visiting Miami on a budget. The many different types of beaches mean there is something for everyone; quieter and sheltered beaches for families and busier beaches with beachfront bars great for couples and friends. We personally love South Beach as there are plenty of restaurants and sightseeing opportunities nearby.

Cultural Fridays – The 3rd Friday of each month in Miami sees Cultural Fridays. These are free festivals in the heart of Little Havana running from 7 pm to 11 pm, including musical performances and artwork displays from local artists. There are fine art galleries to explore, snacks available, and nearby local restaurants offer deals. 

Free outdoor movies – In various parks around Miami, you will find free outdoor movie screenings. Bring along a blanket and enjoy a free evening watching a movie. Some venues offer refreshments whilst others allow you to bring your own, so check online for different venue rules and screenings. 

Free attractions – Miami is also home to plenty of free attractions to enjoy. Of course, you have the many beaches we have mentioned before but also tour the Art Deco district, see the street art of Wynwood, ride the free metro mover to greater downtown Miami and relax at Bayfront Park. Visit the Museum of Art and Design for free then walk the Pier at South Pointe Park. 

Things to know before you go to Miami

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15 Free Things to do in Miami - Creative Travel Guide

Friday 16th of February 2024

[…] is a vibrant, fun destination but it can be expensive. Yes, there are ways that you can visit Miami on a budget, and, since moving to the US, we have found the off-season to be a great time to travel. However, […]

A Local's Guide to Miami on a Budget

Miami evokes images of glitz and glam: lavish parties, five-star beach resorts and days spent sunbathing on yacht decks. 

We're not going to lie to you — this really is a huge part of Miami. And it costs a pretty penny. In fact, even when you're not living the high life, the city can be so expensive that your eyes will water every time you have to take your card out. 

Thankfully, our resident Miami local is here to impart hard-earned wisdom on how to do Miami on a budget. Yes, it's possible. And, yes, you'll still have an amazing time.  

First Things First: The Beach

If you go to Miami and skip the beach, you've failed at travel. Ok, maybe you haven't failed, but you've made a huge mistake. 

After all, the beach is  the  reason people come to Miami. You'll be happy to know that most beaches are free. To cross the famous South Beach from your list, hit the stretches of sand between 5th and 15th streets. The main cost will be parking, which can be costly in the area. Stick to metered parking and divide the cost between everyone in the car. Or, if you're staying close enough to the water, rent a Citi Bike and ride to the beach for under $8 an hour. 

But try to get out to other amazing beaches that don't get as much tourist attention. Halouver Beach in Sunny Isles has no entrance fee and provides free parking. It's usually much less crowded than its popular counterparts. Oh, and if you feel like sunbathing, there's a nudist section where you'll be able to forego tan lines. 

Another great alternative is Matheson Hammock Park Beach. You'll have to pay between $5 and $7 to enter, but the small price is worth it. The shallow water in the atoll pool makes it a favorite place for families. If you have some extra money to splurge, you can partake in fun water sports or dine in the park's scenic restaurant. 

Delicious Food on the Cheap

Miami is one of the best foodie cities in the entire United States. This isn't open for debate. 

The city's fusion of cuisines from every Latin American country, combined with Caribbean influences and international flavors makes it the perfect destination for anyone who lives to try new food. Sadly, the best things in life are not free and Miami restaurants tend to be absurdly expensive — we're talking $30 for a tiramisu and two coffees. 

Still, it's not impossible to find decently priced places if you know where to look. For great Cuban food at very cheap prices, look for El Palacio de los Jugos or La Juguera Tropical . Both have locations scattered all over the city and serve deliciously fresh fruit juices as well as typical Cuban dishes. Halouver Beach hosts a Food Truck Tuesdays that make it easy to fill up without emptying your pockets. And if all else fails, you can get decent and filling fast food at Pollo Tropical, which specializes in rotary chicken.

Another strategy is to take advantage of happy hours. Dig into Venezuelan goodness at Doggi's Arepa Bar , which offers bites for $5 and beer for $3.50 from 4 to 7 p.m. The famously rowdy Tap 42 has different specials depending on the day: from half-off wine bottles on Wednesday to a long girls' night on Thursdays in all of its nine locations.

If you're willing to spend a bit more but don't want to go over budget, check out Bulla Gastrobar , which offers fixed-price menus with tapas.

Partying on a Budget Is Possible

Look, we're not going to sugarcoat it: Clubbing in Miami isn't cheap. Covers are usually at least $30, much more if there's a well-known DJ playing, and drinks are overpriced.

But you can still have a wild night of drinking and dancing until the sun rises. For a true Miami party, head to Little Havana's Ball & Chain , where there is always live music and never a cover charge. You can also dance your heart out at Gramps in Wynwood, known for its music, pizza and drag night on Thursdays. 

Not in the mood for dancing? There are also some great bars that won't charge you $25 for a cocktail. Mac’s Club Deuce is purportedly the oldest bar in Miami. The drinks in this South Beach dive bar are cheap, the setting is unpretentious and you can only pay in cash. Or head to Lagniappe in Midtown. You won't have to wait for service because craft beer bottles are arranged in self-service fridges, as are different choices of cheeses, chorizo and salami. The ambiance is the opposite of pretentious Miami lounges — and so are the prices.

Get Cultured

Sure, Miami is known for its party culture, but the city is also renowned for its actual culture. Museums like the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami , the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum FIU and the Pena and De La Cruz Collection offer free admission. The renowned Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) in Downtown Miami does away with entrance fees on the second Saturday of the month. 

Another great place to look for awesome events is the Miami Hispanic Cultural Arts Center . While some events and shows charge cover, you can visit the center's historic Warner House (and its art collection) for free any day. The center also hosts monthly poetry nights with complimentary access. 

In the Right Place at the Right Time

Depending on when you make your trip, you might be able to participate in free events that locals absolutely love. 

If you're visiting on the first Friday of the month, head to Coral Gables to participate in its Gallery Night . In this fun community event, galleries open their doors to anyone curious about the city's art scene. South Beach has a similar event on the third Thursday of each month called Culture Crawl . Bar hopping is fun, but have you ever gone art gallery hopping? We promise it's an absolute blast. 

For a truly unique experience, watch movies under the stars every Wednesday from October to May at South Beach's SoundScape Park. No tickets are necessary. Just show up with a blanket or a chair and some snacks and enjoy free movies that range from the latest summer hits to golden classics. 

Enjoy Nature Without Going Broke

Most people ignore Miami's breathtaking natural beauty. And, yes, we're talking about the Everglades . This misunderstood river of grass is a unique ecosystem that doesn't exist  anywhere  else in the world. Entrance into the park is $30 per car, so get a group together before heading in. 

For an almost guaranteed alligator encounter, visit Shark Valley. Despite its name, you won't see any sharks. Rather, you'll complete a 15-mile loop paved trail that is teeming with gators. You can walk it for free, but the most fun way to experience it is by renting a bike or bringing your own. Finally, you can get discounts on Groupon and other sites for a fun airboat ride that takes you into the heart of the park. (We recommend the Coopertown tour .)

Other worthy-visit places that are affordable are Biscayne National Park and Oleta River State Park. Both have somewhat costly activities like kayaking or snorkeling. But it's possible to simply pay the reasonable entrance fee and swim or walk around.

Walking Is Free

Still looking for free things to do in Miami? You can always take a note from Europeans and walk through the city. 

Of course, most areas are very car-centric. And many are plagued by the curse of beige strip malls that suck the beauty and joy and out of everything. But if you know where to go, you can have a lovely evening stroll. Española Way in Miami Beach is quite popular because of its European feel. Once you've walked it, you can head to nearby Lincoln Road. 

Outside of the beach areas, you can also stroll down Little Havana to see cigar shops and public art sculptures of colorful roosters (maybe you'll even get to see a real rooster in someone's backyard). From there, you'll also be able to walk around the gorgeous residential Coral Gables area, famed for its tree-covered roads and for the boutique-dotted street, Miracle Mile.

Where to Stay in Miami

Rent in Miami is impossible. So is accommodation. But it's possible to find good deals when you're traveling off-season. 

If you're lucky, you can find the four-star Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel for around $200 per night. That's a great price for a chic hotel with direct access to South Beach and one of the city's coolest pools.

For guaranteed good prices, citizenM Miami World Center is a chic property in the heart of downtown, with great signature cocktails and a rooftop pool (there's also a citizenM in trendy Brickell). 

Or if you want the convenience of being near the airport, book the wellness-centric Even Hotel Miami . Besides in-room yoga equipment and brainstorming boards, you'll have healthy made-to-order dishes on the menu — all for under $150.

To Rent a Car or to Not Rent a Car, That Is the Question

Do you need a car in Miami? The answer is mostly yes. 

As a fairly new city, Miami is built for cars and has a laughable public transit system. If you want to make the most of your time and see as much of the city as possible, a car is a must. 

That said, if you stay in neighborhoods like South Beach, Brickell and Downtown, you can plan to do most of your activities in the area and walk or take the Metrorail. 

In short, the very frustrating answer is that it depends on the kind of trip you're planning. But if you have wiggle room in your budget to rent a car for at least a few days, you'll have an even better, more rounded experience of this chaotic, loud and wonderful city.

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Tips for Visiting Miami on a Budget

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: October 19, 2023

Home >> City Guides >> Tips for Visiting Miami on a Budget

Long after Sinatra and his Rat Pack pals put their mark on the Magic City, Miami continues to lure visitors looking for fun in the sun. But can you visit Miami on a budget?

Florida’s most glamorous city dishes up equal parts suave sophistication and a party atmosphere to rival the best of them.

A famous cruise port, gorgeous beaches, no shortage of beautiful people, and a vibrant nightlife are just a few reasons people flock to Miami.

But buyer beware, the glitz and glamour of Miami come at a cost. Miami is an expensive city. This a point of contention voiced by locals as well.

Table of Contents

Budget Miami Tips

While many will say Miami is worth the expense, locals will happily give tips on beating the system and getting the best bang for your buck around town.

So, whether Miami is the destination or you are making a quick stop en route to somewhere else, there are still plenty of affordable things to do in Miami. If you’re on a really tight budget (or even if you’re not), we’ve wrapped up a surprising amount of cool things to do for free in Miami here . 

Find the Best Value Accommodation in Miami

Miami has some of the best hotels in the world, which come at a premium. But, it is still possible to find good accommodation in Miami on a budget.

You don’t have to completely sacrifice on the Miami dream vacation when it comes to accommodation. Avoid looking directly at the Miami Beach or South Beach areas. Stray a little from the popular and high end areas, and you’ll find budget accommodation with the dream vacation vibe without blowing your entire vacation budget.

When planning a trip to Miami, look to areas like North Beach, where you are still on the beach but in a less touristy, more residential area. The free  Miami Beach Trolley  has four loops around the city, including North Beach, to help you get around.  

Explore holiday rentals by owners through platforms such as VRBO or Booking.com . These can often be cheaper than hotels, and self-contained accommodation gives you the option of meals at home. Just eating breakfast at home can save you a lot of money.

Search Accommodation Deals in and around Miami Beach

Cheapest Time to Visit Miami

Miami is blessed with beautiful weather for most of the year, so seasonality shouldn’t factor in your time to visit. But Miami is more popular at certain times of the year when prices will be sky-high.

It is best to avoid Miami during the peak summer vacation period and spring break. One of the most popular destinations in the States in summer, expect limited availability and premium rates.

Visiting during the off-peak season between May and November (avoiding the peak summer vacations months of July and August) is a surefire way to get an excellent deal.

These months are the official “hurricane season” although historical data shows hurricanes affect the Miami area every 1.97 years , they directly hit the Miami area on average about every 5 years, with major hurricanes averaging around every 12 years.

Most people are deterred by the hurricane season as it is hotter and more humid during these months, and you can expect rain for at least an hour or two each day. However, this is the best time to visit Miami on a budget as everything will be dramatically cheaper, from airfares to accommodation, tours, and activities.

Miami also loves a festival, so keep an eye on the events calendar to avoid times when a festival is in town.

Get a Miami Go City Pass for Discounted Tickets

It is possible to experience the best things to do in Miami on a budget. A Miami Go City Pass includes loads of activities and Miami’s best attractions at one single pre-paid price. You can save up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets .

Go City Explorer Pass allows you to choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 attractions or tours in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and Key West. Once activated, your pass will be valid for 60 days.

Go City All-Inclusive Pass gives you admission to over 25 of the Miami area’s best activities, attractions, and tours. Passes are available for 3, 4, or 5 calendar days, and you can take up to 2 weeks from the first use of the pass to use the remaining days.

Discover the Best Things to do in Miami on a Budget

Hit miami beach.

One of the best budget friendly things to do in Miami is take a stroll down the Miami Beach boardwalk in the famous South Beach district. For a main beach boardwalk, this one is great.

Contrary to what you might expect of a city beach destination, the beach is not lined with shops and restaurants,  just occasional, discreet hotel access paths. Flanked by the dune vegetation, the walk has a lovely natural feel—a fantastic four-mile scenic stretch for joggers and walkers.

Discover More Free or Cheap Things to do in Miami

The beaches and water are picture-postcard clean, and if you stick to the northern end, you will find it far less crowded than the tourist-dense south end of the beach.

Keep Your Gear Safe on the Beach: We’ve found the Best Beach Safety Gear to keep Your valuables safe on the beach or by the pool.

Take a Self Guided Art Deco Tour

Take a self-guided Art Deco tour. Along Collins Street, you can indulge in the Miami Beach Architectural District, also known as the Art Deco District.

Declared a historic district  in 1979, this area is so chic even Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace resided in a mansion on Ocean Drive. The area has 960 landmark buildings, enough to keep even the novice Deco lover busy.

Tip for a Self Guided Art Deco Tour : You can pop into the Art Deco Welcome Center for information before you set off, or you can download their Self Guided Audio Tour App for background on the famous buildings and architecture.

Add Fort Lauderdale to Your Miami Itinerary. Miami is one of the Popular Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale for a good reason. Add Fort Lauderdale to your Miami itinerary. It’s less than 45 minutes away and easy to get to without breaking the bank.

Beautifully restored hotels and boutique hotels take you back to a golden age. Pop into one of the grand old art deco hotels for the happy hour.  The lobby and poolside bars in the hotels are just so gorgeous. They transport you back to a time when sophistication and style were a matter of course.

Use the Hop on Hop Off Bus

While the famous South Beach area is very walkable, you will need transport to explore other parts of Miami. Hire a car or even a scooter, or you can jump on and off the bus. The Big Bus is one of the more inexpensive things to do in Miami.

People don’t realize that the Big Bus can be a very cheap method of transport and a great way to get your bearings in the city.

You can opt for a 24hr or 48hr ticket and hop on and off at various famous attractions around the city, including South Beach, Downtown Miami, Coral Gables, and Little Havana.

See iconic buildings and monuments like the Freedom Tower, the Versace Mansion Villa Casa Casuarina and the Miami Beach Architectural District.

See here for full details of the Big Bus tickets and inclusions.

Celebrity Spotting on A Bus or Boat Cruise

Miami has set the scene for countless TV shows and movies. Many celebrities have also fallen under the magic city’s spell and call Miami home. Use the Big Bus to see where Gloria Estefan lives, right next door to Ricky Martin. Where Al Capone lived and where scenes from Miami Vice were filmed.

Boat tours can also take you along a stretch of waterfront mansions belonging to the rich, famous and infamous, including where Dexter lives.

Tip: You can upgrade your Big Bus Ticket to include additional boat tours.

Try the Open-Top Bus and 90-Minute Boat Tour . Add a 90-minute cruise of Biscayne Bay, where you can see some of Miami’s best sights. This includes the famous Venetian Islands and the mansions of Miami’s celebrity residents.

Get three tours in one with the Big Bus Combo–Everglades, City Tour, and Bay Cruise .

• Discover the Everglades and Florida’s exotic wildlife with a wildlife show and airboat ride.
• Visit the hotspots in Miami City like Wynwood and Miami Beach
• Take a cruise around Biscayne Bay and see “Millionaire’s Row.”
• Explore each experience at your own pace across multiple days

Self Guided Street Art Tour of the Wynwood Walls

Miami’s premier art district is loaded with colourful street art, street performers, cafes, breweries, galleries and boutiques.

The former manufacturing district has a great vibe and is much cheaper than the South Beach area. Take a self-guided walking tour of the Wynwood Walls. It is an incredible collection of murals by more than 50 of the world’s best graffiti and street artists.

This  self-guided walking tour of the Wynwood mural district   guides you through each mural.

Visit Little Havana

If the Cuban influence throughout Miami is not enough for you, you will find it in concentration in Little Havana. Calle Ocho, the main street, is where it all happens. Cigar stores abound, Cuban sandwiches are in plentiful supply, and a game of dominoes is always available.

Maximo Gomez Park, or Domino Park, is where local Cubans gather daily for some serious dominoes. No gambling is allowed, but by the serious nature of the games played and spectators’ reactions, one could wonder if a pension or two isn’t being supplemented.

If you’re on the scout for cheap activities in Miami , Little Havana holds Cultural Friday on the last Friday of the month . The main street, Calle Ocho, comes alive with food stalls, street markets, and music. This was also where the Guinness Book Of Records was set for the world’s longest Conga line.

Discover Miami’s Mediterranean Side

Head to Espanola Way. This little Mediterranean influenced street is famous for its  mix of outdoor dining, cool boutiques, and cafes.

In contrast to the art deco surrounds of South Beach, the historic Spanish village has a reputation as the bohemian corner of Miami. O nce intended for high society, Espanola Way has a chequered past.

Espanola Way was a regular gambling haunt for Al Capone, other gangsters, and a popular backdrop for Miami Vice (1980s).

Work The Happy Hour

As we said, Miami is expensive, especially in tourist areas. But you can get a deal if you know where to look. Follow the local’s lead and work the happy hours.

From around 4-8 pm, you will find many restaurants vying for your business, offering great Happy Hour deals on everything from beers and cocktails to pizza and oysters. Lincoln Road, the largest open-air mall in Miami, is a Happy Hour hot spot in the afternoons where you will find every caliber of restaurant and bar imaginable.

Drinks are either 2 for 1 or heavily discounted by Miami standards, and there is usually a good selection of happy hour menus on offer. It’s a great way to enjoy some really nice restaurants at a reasonable price. You can find a comprehensive guide here to some of the best happy hour specials in Miami .

Eat Where the Locals Eat.

For great local food at reasonable prices, everyone heads to Bella Cuba, or Puerto Sagua. These local haunts serve great Cuban-style fare for less than you will pay on the main road. Expect to pay about the same at Bella Cuba for a 3-course meal, beer, and wine as for a burger and a beer on the main road. You decide.

If you are looking for a good breakfast deal, most hotel restaurants along Collins Street are vying for the breakfast trade, with all-inclusive breakfasts ranging between $8 – $15. In true American style, they are generous in size so a pretty good deal.

If you want to indulge in a city/beach getaway, Miami may be for you. Lounge by the beach during the day, shop in the afternoon and dine and dance by night. But for all her glitz and glamour, Miami doesn’t have to leave you entirely broke. There is plenty to do in the magic city without paying the earth.

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Miami on a Budget

Vacationing in Miami doesn't always have to make your bank account cry.

sexy slipways, beaches, resorts, romance, setai towers, miami, florida

Packed with runway-ready locals, glamorous nightclubs, spectacular warm weather and picture-perfect beaches, there's something inherently sexy about Miami's South Beach. The ultimate getaway for nightlife lovers is its Ocean Drive strip of restaurants and clubs, and there are plenty of swanky places to sleep in late after a night on the town.

Photo by: Pola Damonte / Getty Images

Pola Damonte / Getty Images

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Miami Beach has been a prime vacation destination for years. Many celebrities, athletes and musicians reside in the city, and the beaches and world-famous bars attract tourists from all over the world. You would think this makes a vacation there really costly, right? Not necessarily. There are many ways you can vacation to the sunny beaches of Miami without spending a fortune.

South Florida is always a popular retreat destination any time of the year. But, if you’re trying to score the biggest bargains, June through August is the best time to go. If hot weather doesn't bother you, plan your trip in the summer months when all the snowbirds have left the warm state. Keep in mind, hurricane season starts in June and lasts all the way through November, so watch the weather report!

Where to stay

Photo by: Freehand Hotel

Freehand Hotel

Hotel hunting in Miami beach can be quite overwhelming and costly. The trick to finding a nice hotel while staying in your budget is to look about 10 blocks north of Lincoln Road. Freehand Hotel , also known as Indian Creek, offers unique art deco architecture and decor, and it sits just one block from the beach. Get a reasonably priced famous cocktail from the hotel bar, the Broken Shaker Bar .

A great place to look for hotels is in the Art Deco District. The Starlite Hotel has 50 renovated art deco-style rooms and is just steps away from the beach. Right across from the beach sits Ocean Surf Hotel , with convenient access to the heart of Miami Beach's nightlife, shopping and restaurants. Nestled right on Collins Avenue, the Posh Hostel offers modern shared rooms, a rooftop pool and numerous up-to-date amenities. Many people also turn to Airbnb for affordable, beautiful loft-style apartments and homes. Visit the Miami Airbnb website for good deals.

Where to eat

Tap Tap Restaurant in Miami, Florida

If you're in Miami, Tap Tap Restaurant is a must try. Have you ever tried real, authentic Haitian food? Tap Tap is your place to go, offering a range of traditional Haitian dishes, where you should definitely try the gryo, a traditional Haitian pork dish, and the yellowtail snapper doused in lime sauces.

Photo by: Tap Tap Restaurant

Tap Tap Restaurant

Hopefully, you brought a large appetite for Cuban food, because Miami is known for having the best Cuban restaurants . Your first stop should be Puerto Sagua , which offers authentic Cuban dishes and is located near the heart of Miami Beach. Make sure to try the pernil asado , the tastiest pork dish you'll indulge in. If you’re craving a decadent French sandwich, head over to La Sandwicherie , where you’ll always find a long line of people lingering outside (it's worth the wait). In the mood for Mexican? Have a bite at Lime Fresh Mexican Grill , where you can grab some fresh tacos with a cold beer.

Looking for real, authentic Haitian food? Tap Tap is the place to go for a wide range of traditional Haitian dishes. Definitely try the griyo, a traditional Haitian pork dish, and the yellowtail snapper doused in lime sauces. If you're craving a juicy falafel sandwich with creamy hummus on the side, check out Aladdin for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Have you ever tried a sushi burrito? Well, YuGo is the place to go for unique sushi dishes. They also have lots of vegan options, so there's something on the menu for everyone. If you’re visiting Miami in August or September, don't miss out on the amazing deals Miami Spice offers; you can dine three-course meals for lunch and dinner at discounted prices. Check out their website for a list of participating restaurants.

What to see and do

Wynwood Walls in the design district.

Photo by: Getty Images/John Parra

Getty Images/John Parra

To explore Miami’s architectural history, take a self-guided audio tour with the Art Deco Welcome Center. Want to steer away from Miami Beach? Head over to Wynwood in Miami’s design district. It’s hard to miss, with the endless maze of walls submerged in vibrant colors and painted murals. There’s always something new to see in Wynwood. Art walks and various events are held all year long, so be sure to check out what they've got going on when you're in town.

Miami's copious arts and culture scene will keep you busy with budget-friendly art galleries and museums, festivals and shows. The Big Bus Miami offers various tours to explore the city, and it's a great way to learn about Miami's vibrant history. Taking a stroll through the historic Lincoln Road is nothing short of remarkable. With local shops and some of the best bars and restaurants, there's somewhere to go for everyone who visits the pedestrian-friendly road. Pampering yourself doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag either. Miami hosts an annual spa month from July 1 to August 31. You can find huge savings for local spa packages.

For more savings and local happenings, visit the Greater Miami Convention Bureau .

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18 things to do in miami on budget.

Miami, the vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and exciting nightlife, doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re a local looking for budget-friendly fun or a visitor eager to experience the magic of Miami without overspending, you’re in luck. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s no shortage of affordable adventures awaiting you. Let’s dive into 18 things to do in Miami on a budget!

1.Explore the Art Deco District in South Beach

Miami’s South Beach is renowned for its vibrant Art Deco architecture, and exploring this historic district is a must-do on a budget. Stroll along the pastel-colored buildings, admire the intricate details, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Looking for the best deals for your next adventure? Then check out our deal here

2. wynwood walls.

Immerse yourself in street art at Wynwood Walls, a vibrant outdoor gallery showcasing colorful murals by renowned artists. Explore the graffiti-clad streets and admire the creativity that transforms this neighborhood into an urban masterpiece.

3. Bayside Marketplace

Indulge in waterfront shopping and entertainment at Bayside Marketplace. Browse through stalls offering unique souvenirs, enjoy live music performances, or simply take in the scenic views of Biscayne Bay.

4. Star Island

Embark on a scenic drive along the palm-lined roads of Star Island. Catch glimpses of luxurious mansions and celebrity homes, imagining the glamorous lifestyles that unfold behind the gated entrances.

5. Little Havana

Experience the vibrant Cuban culture in Little Havana. Stroll along Calle Ocho, savoring the aroma of Cuban coffee and the rhythm of salsa music. Don’t forget to visit Domino Park for a taste of authentic Miami culture.

6. Coconut Grove

Escape the hustle and bustle at Coconut Grove, Miami’s bohemian enclave. Explore quaint streets lined with boutiques and cafes, or unwind amidst the lush greenery of Peacock Park.

7. Coral Gables

Step into a Mediterranean-inspired paradise in Coral Gables. Admire the stunning architecture of the Biltmore Hotel, stroll through the picturesque Venetian Pool, and lose yourself in the beauty of the Coral Gables Merrick House.

8. Miami Marina

Enjoy waterfront views at the Miami Marina. Take a leisurely walk along the docks, watching yachts and sailboats sway gently in the breeze. For a budget-friendly adventure, pack a picnic and soak in the scenery.

9. Lincoln Road Mall

Shop ’til you drop at Lincoln Road Mall, Miami’s premier outdoor shopping destination. From high-end boutiques to quirky souvenir shops, there’s something for every budget and taste.

10. Miami Beach

Relax and unwind on the pristine shores of Miami Beach. Spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming in the turquoise waters, or simply people-watching along the bustling boardwalk.

11. Southpointe Pier

Catch breathtaking views of the Miami skyline from Southpointe Pier. Whether you’re fishing off the pier or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle.

12. Espanola Way

Transport yourself to Europe at Espanola Way, a charming cobblestone street lined with cafes and art galleries. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the Mediterranean ambiance without breaking the bank.

13. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Ignite your curiosity at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. From interactive exhibits to awe-inspiring planetarium shows, this museum offers a wealth of educational experiences at an affordable price.

14. Spend the Day at Miami South Beach

Experience the iconic South Beach in all its glory. From volleyball games to sandcastle building contests, there’s never a dull moment on this bustling stretch of coastline.

15. Walk the South Beach Boardwalk

Take a leisurely stroll along the South Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean while soaking in the vibrant energy of Miami’s most famous beachfront promenade.

16. Take a Party Tour Bus

Hop aboard a party tour bus and explore Miami’s nightlife scene in style. With affordable packages and VIP access to the hottest clubs, it’s the perfect way to experience the city’s legendary party atmosphere on a budget.

17. Hit the Happy Hour Offers

Sip cocktails at discounted prices during happy hour. Many bars and restaurants in Miami offer special deals on drinks and appetizers, making it easy to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.

18. Get Some Great Deals for Nightclubs

Score exclusive deals for Miami’s hottest nightclubs. Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts, or sign up for guest lists to enjoy VIP perks without splurging on cover charges.

Miami is a treasure trove of budget-friendly adventures, from exploring vibrant neighborhoods to lounging on sun-kissed beaches. With a bit of creativity and insider knowledge, you can experience the magic of this iconic city without emptying your wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I visit Miami on a budget? Absolutely! Miami offers plenty of affordable attractions and activities for budget-conscious travelers.

2. What are some free things to do in Miami? You can explore parks like Bayfront Park and Matheson Hammock Park, visit museums during free admission days, or simply enjoy the beach without spending a dime.

3. Are there budget-friendly dining options in Miami? Yes, Miami has a diverse culinary scene with options to fit every budget. Look out for food trucks, local eateries, and happy hour specials for affordable dining experiences.

4. How can I save money on accommodations in Miami? Consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels, vacation rentals, or boutique hotels. Booking in advance and exploring off-peak seasons can also help you snag great deals.

5. Is public transportation affordable in Miami? Miami offers an extensive public transportation network, including buses and the Metrorail, which are budget-friendly options for getting around the city.

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How to Visit Miami on a Budget

When you’re visiting Miami, it’s incredibly easy to spend money. Almost too easy.

Known as an adult playground full of luxury sports cars, pricey cocktails, high-end hotels, and nonstop parties, a visit to Miami can get expensive pretty quickly. But while you probably won’t see Miami top the lists of cheapest places to travel , there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Miami on a budget.

From taking free salsa lessons and sampling the country’s best Cuban food to kicking back in beautiful Miami Beach, check out our budget travel guide below for our top ways to save money on your trip to Miami.

Free and cheap things to do in Miami

Soak up the sun on south beach.

Soaking up the sun is totally free in Miami Beach. As long as you’ve packed a towel, some sunblock, and your favorite swimsuit, you’re ready to kick back on one of the many beautiful beaches in the city.

If you’re looking to hit one of the area’s most famous stretches of coastline, Lummus Park Beach is quintessentially South Beach and makes for excellent people watching. When you’re not swimming or sunbathing, you can break a sweat on one of the volleyball courts or outdoor gyms.

Budget tip for visiting Miami beaches: Most of the chairs and umbrellas that you can rent along the beach belong to the area’s resorts and hotels, who charge upwards of $25 for rentals. If you plan to spend several days at the beach, consider saving money by purchasing your own chairs and umbrellas for roughly $20 each at a nearby shop or CVS.

Explore Little Havana 

Cuban culture is heavily woven into the fabric of Miami and there’s no better place to experience it than the neighborhood of Little Havana.

Start your journey at Gomez Park, better known as Domino Park thanks to the many locals who come here to play dominos. From there, take your time strolling down Calle Ocho (SW 8th street) as you sample Cuban coffees and Cuban cigars at shops along the way. When you’re ready to stop for lunch, take your pick of the area’s many Cuban restaurants to enjoy an authentic, budget friendly Cuban meal such as ropa vieja or a Cuban sandwich.

Whatever you do, be sure to save room for dessert. You do not want to miss the locally inspired flavors of the neighborhood’s famous Azucar Ice Cream Company . Locals especially love the Abuela Maria and café con leche flavors.

Take Advantage of the incredible happy hours

Even if you’re not usually a night owl, there’s no denying that dining and nightlife are a huge part of Miami’s appeal. Unfortunately, a night out on the town in Miami is anything but cheap. But that doesn’t mean you need to ruin your travel budget to have a good time. Miami is filled with bars and restaurants that offer cheap happy hour deals that allow you to treat yourself without emptying your wallet. Some of our favorite examples include:

Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company - 95 cent oysters, $5 beer, and $6 cocktails

El Patio Wynwood - $1 beers ($5 for a bucket of 5) along with $5 well drinks and cocktails

Drunken Dragon - This popular spot does a sort of reverse happy hour from 10-11 p.m. Sunday to Thursday. They also do a normal happy hour every day from 5-7 p.m. In addition to discounted drinks, they offer $4 Asian inspired tapas.

Admire world-famous street art at Wynwood Walls

Wynwood is Miami’s hip, up-and-coming neighborhood. The neighborhood has all the features of a trendy neighborhood on the rise – craft breweries, vibrant nightlife, indie clothing boutiques. However, Wynwood’s claim to fame has got to be the famous Wynwood Walls .

Wynwood Walls is a free, constantly changing display of more than 40 incredible murals from some of the world’s best street artists.

Learn to dance salsa for free

Originally opened in 1935, Ball & Chain is one of Miami’s most legendary and historic venues. The club features a rum heavy cocktail list, delicious Cuban food, as well as live music 7 days a week during happy hour.

On Thursdays, Ball & Chain welcomes salsa lovers of all skill levels to enjoy their weekly Little Havana Under the Stars event. The event features free salsa lessons, live music, and DJ sets. Beginners welcome – even if you don’t have a partner.

Take a free self-guided tour of the Art Deco Historic District

The colorful Art Deco style buildings of Miami are an iconic part of the city’s landscape. Located on Miami Beach between 5th and 23rd streets along Collins Avenue, Ocean Drive, and Washington Avenue, the Art Deco Historic District is home to the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world.

Taking in the sights of buildings designed by world-famous architects is a treat in itself. But if you want to learn more without spending money on a tour, this free self-guided tour from GPSmyCity is a great option. 

Where to stay on a budget in Miami 

Freehand Miami

Freehand describes themselves as the “hotel for today’s traveler” and we’d have to agree. A sort of hostel/hotel hybrid, Freehand offers all of the modern conveniences of a high-quality hotel with the social environment you expect from a hostel – all at a fraction of the cost. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Miami beach, but they also offer free bicycles if you’re heading further out. 

Circa 39 Hotel

Circa 39 is a colorful, Art Deco style boutique hotel situated just steps from the beach. The rooms here are intimate and decorated in chic, Miami-inspired colors. Guests of Circa 39 love the location, as the hotel is incredibly close to the beach, as well as ample shopping and dining along Collins Avenue. 

Generator Miami Hostel

Originally a European hostel chain, Generator is still relatively new to the American market but they’re certainly making their mark. This trendy spot offers budget friendly female-only and mixed-gender dorm rooms, as well as private room options. On site, guests can relax at the swimming pool and poolside bar. For those looking to get out, Generator offers free bike and skateboard rentals. 

How to find cheap flights to Miami

This year, Dollar Flight Club members have saved between 60-90% on cheap flights to Miami On average, our members spent $81 on their airline tickets to Miami and saved more than $185 per ticket.

Here are a few samples of cheap flight deals to Miami that Dollar Flight Club members have received recently.

• Price with Dollar Flight Club: $48.20
• Average Price: $228.72
• Price with Dollar Flight Club: $74.20
• Average Price: $245.67
• Price with Dollar Flight Club: $79.91
• Average Price: $268.63
• Price with Dollar Flight Club: $119.72
• Average Price: $203.40
• Price with Dollar Flight Club: $84.46
• Average Price: $306.96

Best places to find cheap eats in Miami

Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop

You simply cannot visit Miami without trying at least one (or several) Cuban sandwiches and Enriqueta’s is the spot to do it. Locals love this small, unassuming shop for its Cuban fare and well-priced food. If you have room, be sure to treat yourself to some of their famous croquetas, as well. 

My Ceviche proves that good seafood doesn’t have to be expensive. This small storefront on South Beach serves fresh, wild-caught ceviche in a bowl, burrito, or a taco. If you’re a lover of seafood or just want to finally try an octopus burrito, it’s a great way to try Miami’s catch of the day on the cheap.

El Rey De Las Fritas

A long-standing Miami institution, El Rey De Las Fritas is truly one of a kind. This no-frills,  counter-serve spot is famous for creating the original Frita Cubana, a Cuban-style beef burger topped with sautéed onions and shoestring fries, served on a fluffy Cuban roll. At less than $5, the Frita Original won’t wreck your food budget. Just make sure that you use that money to buy a pressed sugar cane juice to wash it all down.

Get ready to see more of Miami while spending less

Appropriately dubbed the Magic City, Miami is a vibrant city with so much to do and see. So whether you’ve always wanted to have a cocktail in Gianni Versace’s mansion or you’re ready to tear up the dance floor at the world-famous South Beach nightclubs , sign up now to receive free instant cheap flight alerts and start planning your Miami vacation.

Want to get our flight deals as soon as they’re published? Follow Dollar Flight Club on Facebook, Instagram , and  Twitter , and join to get email alerts from our deals feed.

BY: ZACH ANDERSON, CONTENT MARKETING & FLIGHT EXPERT

Zach is a digital marketer, copywriter, and flight deal expert at Dollar Flight Club where he helps 1 million people travel more. As a digital nomad, he is deeply passionate about location independence, Thai food, and helping others see the world affordably.

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A Broke Girls Travel Guide - Miami On A Budget

Updated: Jan 20

There's no better city to plan the ultimate girl's weekend than Miami. Lounging on the beach until the sun sets and dancing in the club until it rises again only to repeat it all the next day is definitely a dream-worthy vacation. It's no secret the glitz and glamor of Miami comes at a price. The highly touristic city is dubbed as one of the US's most expensive cities almost every year.

Don't be too discouraged quite yet though, as there are plenty of ways to enjoy the vibrant color and life of the city even if you're on a budget. There are plenty of fun and affordable ways to make sure you can check the city of beautiful bikinis and beaches off your bucket list this year.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links at no additional cost to you. For more information see my privacy policy here .

For more advice on how to travel while remaining on a budget make sure to subscribe to my mailing list! From city guides, to packing hacks and travel products reviews you don't want to miss out on everything that She Loves She Travels has to offer!

In this article, you'll find advice on how to budget to save money in the following categories while in Miami.

Transportation

Affordable Food Options

Free/Cheap Things To Do And See

Affordable Transportation In Miami

Budget fights in….

Although there is an airport directly in Miami, Miami International Airport  (MIA), it may not be the cheapest option. Flying into a neighboring airport might save you substantially.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport  (FLL) and Palm Beach International Airport  (PBI) also offer an array of budget flight options that may work better for your schedule and wallet. There are many transportation options available to your end destination.

Do you struggle to find those bargain flights? Don't worry we've got some tricks up our sleeve. For all the best tips on how to book a dirt-cheap flight, click here!

Transporting Between Miami Airports…

The easiest method of transport to get from airport to airport is to use the South Florida Tri-Rail . One-way trips between all airports range between $5 to $10 . There is a schedule of departures that you can find easily on the Tri-Rail  official website. Time from PBI to MIA is approximately 2 hours while FLL to MIA is approximately an hour.

If you’re in a little bit more of a rush Ubers and Lyfts are readily available and are quite a bit quicker. Expect to pay a bit more. Rideshare is a great option for groups that are willing to split the fare. Typical fairs from Fort Lauderdale to Miami are around $50 but this can fluctuate greatly depending on time, surge hours, events, traffic, etc.

Greyhound and Megabus offer even more transportation options. Be mindful of your surroundings especially if you’re taking the bus at night. The bus station  is located right outside MIA as well.

In The City…

Miami Trolley  is a free trolley that offers routes all over the city including into Miami Beach. Service is continuous in most routes from morning to night with a few more limited hours on the weekends. 

If you want to neighborhood hop the trolley is a great option. Drop-offs are scattered along many popular tourist spots and allow you to explore by foot from there. Trolleys typically pick up every 15 minutes but some routes are a little longer up and your wait can be up to 45 minutes. For full routes and hours refer to the official website.

The Metro Mover  also offers free transportation connecting three different loops and is elevated above the city which offers a scenic view. 

Other affordable options are the Metrorail and Metrobus with one-way tickets for $2.25.

There are many transportation apps available to make your commute easier that offer live arrival updates and route information such as GO Miami-Dade Transit.

Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft often offer sign-up discounts or discount codes. Make sure to check the pricing on both of them before booking your car to ensure you've found the cheapest ride.

Budget Housing

Hostels will always be a great option for the more adventurous solo traveler. Not only do they provide a bed and accommodations for much cheaper than a hotel (and sometimes even meals) but if you’re looking to branch out and meet new people, hostel communities are typically safe and welcoming. Hostels range drastically in price but plenty are available in the $20 - $80 a night range. A little patience and a lot of Google searches can find you a good rate but don't forget to read those reviews!

If you’re traveling as a group but still love the community that a hostel offers, call and see if there are any options to have your group all in the same room. If you're a little nervous about shared capacities many hostels offer solo rooms but with this privacy comes a price tag.

Use your best instinct and make sure not to share too much private information while staying in shared quarters. As always keep your valuables close by and don't flaunt expensive possessions or cash. 

I've had good experiences at the following hostels:

Bed N’ Drinks:  Located in the city center of South Beach near a plethora of nightclubs and bars

Freehand Miami:  Only a five-minute walk to Miami Beach with public transportation located less than a block away as well

Miami Beach International Hostel:  One block away from the world-famous Ocean Drive and South Beach 

An affordable hotel or Airbnb is a lot more difficult to find in Miami if you're traveling solo especially. Unfortunately, you'll have to move further away from the beach and touristy neighborhoods to snag the better deals. If you choose to stay further out, be aware of what public transport is available nearby. It isn't worth saving a buck on the hotel if you end up spending the same amount on transport in and out every day.

As if the beaches and sunshine weren't enough to convince you to visit, the mouth-watering food options all over Miami might just seal the deal. Known for its cultural influence make sure to try at least one Cuban sandwich before the end of your stay.

Some of my favorite eats...

Smorgasburg

As the largest open-air food market in America Smorgasburg  is home to incredible aromas from every culture. Located in the heart of Wynwood every Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm-9 pm you will be able to find a perfect delicacy for every member of your group. Prices range depending on the vendor but generous portion sizes will leave you feeling satisfied. 

Versailles 

If you’re looking for some authentic Cuban cuisine without paying a Miami price tag make sure to make dinner plans at Versailles.  

Entrees are very reasonably priced with many options under $20 . I recommend trying the classic Cuban sandwich. You won’t be disappointed!

Puerto Sagua

Open since 1962 Puerto Sagua has hearty portions of Cuban cuisine and a lively atmosphere with speedy service! A great late night option and potentially in the running for the best Cuban sandwich in Miami in our opinion!

Freehold Miami

If a boozy brunch is on the schedule for the weekend there are lots of options throughout Miami but if you plan on drinking more than one drink the price sure can skyrocket. Many restaurants do offer a bottomless brunch priced typically from $30 - $50 on top of the cost of the entree.

Freehold Miami  located in the heart of Wynwood has three different bars and lots of live events throughout the weekends as well making it a lively brunch spot! Expect to pay $40 for bottomless drinks such as mimosas, bellinis, and bloody marys.

Unless you're going to the liquor store, alcohol IS NOT cheap in Miami. Keep an eye out for happy hour specials often ranging from 3:00 to as late as 7:00

Cheap Things To See and Do

Miami is full of unique neighborhoods. There are paid tours and tour buses available but especially if it's your first time in Miami there is plenty to explore for free on foot.

Wynwood is known as the art district of Miami. Your eyes won’t even know what to look at first as everything from the sidewalks to the walls of the buildings is covered in vibrant color, graffiti, and art of all styles. 

If you have some time buy a ticket to the famous Wynwood Walls. Tickets are only $12 for adults and even cheaper if you have a student ID. The museum is known for its street art and often has rotating exhibits inside. 

Beaches in Miami are all free to the public. That includes the famous Miami Beach and South Beach . Be respectful and make sure to clean up your areas and not leave any trash behind. Although tempting to do a night walk, the beaches can be a bit more dangerous once the sun goes down so if you plan on walking alongside the moon consider taking a friend.

If you haven’t gotten your passport yet but still want to experience a little piece of Cuba, make sure to visit Little Havana . You can swing through Domino Park and watch lively games played at all hours of the day. You’ll find cigar shops, restaurants, shops, and almost always live music. 

Night Life 

As the sun sets and you’re looking to change from your swimwear to sequins make sure to check out the famous Ocean Drive. Although some clubs have expensive covers, others are responsibly priced or even free- Be careful though because tequila shots, on the other hand, are not!

Clevelander Beach Club - The hotel/bar sits right in the middle of Ocean Drive and is the heart of the party scene in Miami. There is a $10 cover charge on Friday and Saturday with lots of seating inside and out. Expect a security search and bring a small bag. If you want to catch a game on the weekend, TV's inside and outside cover all your Sunday fun. A pool and big dance floor with live DJs keep the bar popular as the evening goes on.

Mango’s Tropical Cafe - Even though the cover charge is a bit higher ranging from $15-$30 it is well worth the ticket. The nightclub has multiple dance floors, some with more traditional Latin-styled dance and some hosting a dark dance floor and lasers.

Mango's is known for its live shows with talented dancers covered in sequins, glitter, and colors dancing all up and down the bar tops.

It is no secret that the city known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beach bodies and drool-worthy food scene is not easy on the wallet. However, just like every other city, with a little planning and a few tips and tricks, you can discover Miami on a budget.

For more budget travel advice and city guides sent directly to your inbox subscribe now! Don't forget to share this article with a friend you want to take to Miami with you soon!

Sending sunshine from Miami,

Love Kaitlyn

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• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Miami?

You should plan to spend around $206 per day on your vacation in Miami. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $41 on meals
• $38 on local transportation
• $264 on hotels

A one week trip to Miami for two people costs, on average, $2,884 . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 206
• One Week Per person $ 1,442
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 2,884
• One Month Per person $ 6,179
• One Week For a couple $ 2,884
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 5,767
• One Month For a couple $ 12,359

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Miami cost?

A one week trip to Miami usually costs around $1,442 for one person and $2,884 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Miami on average costs around $2,884 for one person and $5,767 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Miami will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Miami on average costs around $6,179 for one person and $12,359 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Miami has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Miami are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Miami is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Palm Springs or Santa Monica.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Miami Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Miami?

The average Miami trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Miami travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Miami

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Miami is $132. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Miami is $264. This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 132
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 264

Hotel Prices in Miami

Looking for a hotel in Miami? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Miami based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $152. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• The Vagabond Hotel Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 161
• Mandarin Oriental Miami Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 307

Transportation Budget in Miami

The cost of a taxi ride in Miami is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $38 per person, per day, on local transportation in Miami.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 38

Recommended Services

• Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel or Port Miami. Viator $ 160
• Transfers from Miami Airport to any Miami and Miami Beach area Viator $ 145

Flights to Miami

Rental cars in miami, what did other people spend on transportation in miami.

Typical prices for Transportation in Miami are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Miami, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Car Rental for a Day $ 18

Food Budget in Miami

While meal prices in Miami can vary, the average cost of food in Miami is $41 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Miami should cost around $17 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Miami is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 41

Recommended

• Little Havana Ultimate Food Tour Viator $ 65
• 3 Hour Regional Indian Cooking Class and Dining Experience in Miami Viator $ 150

What did other people spend on Food in Miami?

Typical prices for Food in Miami are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Miami, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Lunch with Drinks (for 2) $ 45
• David's Cafe Lunch (for 1) $ 16

Entertainment Budget in Miami

Entertainment and activities in Miami typically cost an average of $31 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 31

The Go City Miami Pass offers great discounts on attractions in Miami. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

• Caribbean Cruises Cruise Direct View Price
• Luxury Shared Miami River E-Boat Cruise & Wine and Charcuterie Viator $ 127

Alcohol Budget in Miami

The average person spends about $22 on alcoholic beverages in Miami per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 22
• Small-Group Brewery Golf Cart Tour of Wynwood with a Local Guide Viator $ 59
• Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl Viator $ 64

What did other people spend on Alcohol in Miami?

Typical prices for Alcohol in Miami are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Miami, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Evening at a Bar $ 32

Water Budget in Miami

On average, people spend $1.06 on bottled water in Miami per day. The public water in Miami is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 1.06

Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Miami.

What makes Miami a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

Miami isn't exactly budget-friendly, but there are a couple of hostels if that's your style. We love the diverse restaurant scene and you'll find great meals for cheap prices.

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The Perfect 2 Day Miami Itinerary For First-Timers

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Welcome to my 2 day Miami itinerary! I recently spent a fantastic 2 days in Miami and it exceeded all my expectations. I didn’t really know much about Miami before my visit to the US . I’d heard of South Beach and seen the glamorous side of Miami portrayed on TV but that was about it. I had no idea that most of the city is Hispanic and there’s plenty of fantastic Mexican and Cuban cuisine to try and culture to be experienced. From vibrant street art to communities from all around the world, there’s more to Miami than just the beach. In this guide, I’ll share my 2 day Miami itinerary including my favourite places, eats, quirky corners and nightlife. Enjoy!

2 DAY MIAMI ITINERARY ESSENTIALS Miami Pocket Lonely Planet Hotels:  Booking.com / Hostelworld Activities:  GetYourGuide  / Viator

How many days are enough for Miami?

Two days is a great amount of time for your first trip to Miami whether you’re visiting for a weekend trip or as part of a larger Florida road trip . You’ll have time to explore a few of the highlights and also relax on the beach, have a few drinks, and sink your teeth into the local cuisine. Granted, you could stay much longer in Miami, especially since there are several day trips you can take, but 2 days in Miami is enough for a nice introduction. For me, a budget traveller , I found Miami very expensive and wouldn’t have been able to stay much longer!

Where to stay during 2 days in Miami

I stayed in Miami Beach and would really recommend it as a base to begin any Florida itinerary . This island city is one of the few places I discovered in Miami that was walkable and easy to get around without a car. The other perk is having the beach right on your doorstep!

Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is another reason to stay nearby. Even if you don’t stay in an Art Deco building, you can wander and admire the largest collection in the world. From the beach to the architecture, there’s nowhere in the world quite like Miami Beach! This neighbourhood has plenty of hotels, apartments and hostels. Apartments in Miami Beach:

• Villa Paradiso Apartment Hotel (suites and apartments with kitchens) from $120
• Villa Venezia (apartment with living room and kitchen from $150

Hotels in Miami Beach:

• Casa Victoria orchid (stylish hotel on Espanola Drive) from $180
• Generator Miami (free pool acccess and bike rental) from $180

Browse all accommodation in Miami on Booking.com .

Hostels in Miami Beach: I stayed at Beds ‘N’ Drinks and would recommend it to other budget travellers. The rooms were comfy (they have dorms and privates), there are several comfy social areas and breakfast was decent with coffee included. Despite the name, it was easy to get a good night’s sleep if you didn’t want to party. It was also a 5-minute walk to the beach. Book here from $15

How to get around Miami

With the exception of a few areas, Miami is not a pedestrian-friendly city. Most people drive everywhere which for me (an Oxford/Londoner) is bizarre. I managed to travel spend 2 days in Miami without getting in a car which must be rare – my tour guide in Little Havana said she’d lived in Miami 30 years without ever taking a bus! Here’s how to get around Miami : Car hire: This is an option if you’d rather have your own set of wheels. Use Rentalcars.com to compare prices and hire a car during your 2 days in Miami. Uber: It’s easy to get around using taxi apps in Miami. The prices were high so I would suggest budget travellers take UberPool. Calculate fares on Taxi Fare . Public transport: The Metrobus and Metrorail are easy to navigate. Most journeys cost $2.25. I took a Metrobus from the airport to Miami Beach, a bus from Miami Beach to Little Havana (changing somewhere in the centre) and another bus from Wynwood Walls to Miami Beach (changing in the centre). I didn’t have mobile data so tried my best to load journeys on public Wi-Fi. It was a faff and the buses didn’t always come when Google Maps said… but I made it! Tip – buy an EASY ticket . Locals use EASY Cards but visitors should get EASY Tickets instead which are free and can be loaded with credit, or you can purchase a 1-day or 7-day pass. You can use these on the Metrobus and Metrorail. I bought mine at the airport Metrorail Station and topped it up.

How to get to Miami

By air – the vast majority of travellers will land at the international airport. I use Skyscanner to get the best deals on flights. By bus – although bus travel isn’t the most common mode of transport in the US, Miami is well connected. You can travel to other cities in Florida such as Miami to Orlando by bus .

How to get from Miami airport

I caught public transport from Miami Airport to Miami Beach. First, I had to board the MIAmover (which is a free train) from my gate to Miami International Airport Metrorail station. From there, I purchased an EASY Ticket and I caught the Miami Beach Airport Flyer Bus (number 150) all the way to Miami Beach, just a block from my hostel. The Airport Flyer Bus runs every 30 minutes from 6am to 11:40pm, seven days a week.

Miami itinerary for 2 days

Quick overview:

• Day 1 – Little Havana, Wynwood Walls
• Day 2 – Miami Beach: South Beach, Española Way, Collins Ave, Art Deco tour, Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road.

Let’s get stuck into my tried & tested Miami 2 day itinerary…

Miami itinerary – day 1

I chose to have a busy first day in Miami then spend my second day relaxing in Miami Beach. I began my Miami itinerary by exploring two of the coolest neighbourhoods, Little Havana and Wynwood Walls. These areas are just a 10-minute drive apart but they’re totally different. By visiting both, you’ll see two totally contrasting sides to Miami…

Morning – Little Havana

I was excited to explore Little Havana partly because I knew I’d be heading to the real Cuba in a few month’s time and wanted to see how they compared. I was visiting Miami as a stopover en route to Mexico so I also couldn’t wait to practice my Spanish. But the main reason? FOOD. I was headed on a Little Havana food tour with the promise of 5+ meals. If you’ve ever read my food blogs before, you’ll know how happy this makes me!

Want to find the best food in Little Havana and explore the area with a local? The walking food tour I took with Miami Culinary Tours is a fantastic option supporting females in the hospitality business. Book on GetYourGuide for $63.

Regardless of whether you’re a foodie or Spanish speaker, Little Havana is a fantastic addition to your Miami itinerary. It’s a chance to explore a unique culture, get to know Miami’s history and meet the Hispanic residents who make up 70% of the Miami population.

Quick background of Little Havana

If you don’t know about Cuban history, you may not understand why there’s a Little Havana in Miami or why over 50% of Miami’s overall population have Cuban origins. The reason relates to the ex Cuban dictator, Fidel Castro, who ruled Cuba mercilessly, inflicting a controlling Communist regime on the country. Understandably, thousands of Cubans were keen to flee. The US Wet Foot Dry Foot policy allowed Cubans to earn US citizenship if they could get a foot on US soil. Some drowned or were captured on the crossing but many made it to Miami where their ancestors still reside today, many within the neighbourhood of Little Havana.

Things to do in Little Havana

– Visit galleries and performance venues : to learn about Cuba and Little Havana via music and art, visit CubaOcho Museum & Performing Arts Center . We watched a musician perform at midday and browsed some impressive pieces of artwork, one of which was apparently worth $35,000! The well-stocked bar and enormous rum collection is another reason to visit. – Shop : there are plenty of places to buy Cuban-style jewellery, art and trinkets. I chatted to the owner of Agustin Gainza Arts and Tavern who told me that the beautiful jewellery is made by his daughter. – Eat Cuban food! Check out my guide to where to eat in Little Havana, Miami . From super strong Cuban coffee to empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, fresh fruit and gelato, there’s so much amazing food in Little Havana.

– Drink. Don’t leave Little Havana without a mojito at famous Ball & Chain , a bar that was closed for years after the owners were arrested for rum smuggling during the prohibition era. If you stay into the evening, explore the Little Havana nightlife .

Where to stay in Little Havana: Selina Miami River (hotel; $100pn); Habitación Céntrica calle 8 Miami (apartment, $60pn); Hostel Brazilian (hostel, $20).

Afternoon – Wynwood Walls

Little Havana was exciting but Wynwood Walls was the reason I was in the US. I’m a huge fan of street art so when I discovered that it was the same price to fly from London – Mexico City with 2 days in Miami, I decided to tag on a visit to the US to see Wynwood Walls, somewhere I’d seen countless times on social media. It didn’t disappoint!

Read next: A complete guide to visiting Wynwood Walls

Wynwood has an interesting history similar to other areas around the world with lots of street art. It was once an industrial part of Miami that received a facelift in the form of street art to repurpose the area.

Want to find the best street art in Wynwood with a guide? Check out this Wynwood Walking Tour with a local expert for $25.

The late Tony Goldman owned much of the area and decided in 2009 that the many large warehouses with no windows would make impressive canvases for urban art. The rest is history and nowadays, Wynwood Walls is a ‘Museum of the Streets’ displaying work from countless international artists.

Where to find street art in Wynwood

Where can’t you find street art? What I like about Wynwood is how walkable it’s become thanks to the street art. I imagine this was once an area where it would be rare to see pedestrians. Nowadays, there are murals dotted all around the neighbourhood which gives people a reason to wander.

Although the joy of Wynwood is exploring aimlessly, if you’re an avid street art fan, you may want to look for murals completed by your favourite artists. In that case, use this official Wynwood map to find specific murals and read about the artists. Don’t forget to tag them on social media if you post photos! Make sure to head to the GGA GALLERY which is central to Wynwood Walls and hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions. I was lucky enough to catch one from Kobra , one of my favourite street artists.

Where to eat and drink in Wynwood

World Famous House of Mac – this restaurant needs no frills. They serve all kinds of mac and cheese dishes like jerk chicken mac and cheese and lobster mac and cheese. Prices start at $14 for huge portions. Zak the Baker – you can’t miss the rainbow-coloured bakery which blends into the backdrop of Wynwood Walls. But it’s more than a colour pop: there are croissants, salads, pasta dishes, deli foods and coffee. Everything is kosher. Order the chocolate croissant! La Tiendita Taqueria – this is the place to eat tacos, quesadillas, chilaquiles and flautas washed down with frozen margs made with tequila or mezcal. Prices are high but worth it.

Where to stay in Wynwood: Stylish studio apartments with cooking facilities – book from $120 a night . Browse all apartments in Wynwood .

If you have extra time

If you manage to visit Little Havana and Wynwood Walls during the morning/early afternoon, there are a couple of other places in the downtown area that you could add to your Miami itinerary. These are:

• Pérez Art Museum Miam i (PAMM) – this 3-level gallery is impressive from the offset with hanging gardens and Biscayne Bay views. The modern and contemporary art celebrates Miami’s diversity and Hispanic communities. Entrance is €16 or free on the first Thursday and second Saturday of the month.
• Miami Children’s Museum – these interactive exhibits (available in different languages) allow children to learn about the world around them in fun ways. Entry costs $22.

Miami itinerary – day 2

If you have a second day in Miami, there are plenty of things to do. Personally, I was feeling burnt out from all the long journeys I’d taken on public transport the day before (as I mentioned, the bus system in Miami isn’t the best) and was glad to stay near my accommodation and relax around Miami Beach. If you fancy something a bit more active, a few things you could do during the second day of your Miami itinerary include: – Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: this is one of Miami’s most beautiful buildings located in Coconut Grove and built in Renaissance style. Wander the 43 acres, snap photos and escape the busy city. – Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden : another ideal place for some fresh air is this 83-acre estate a 30-minute drive from central Miami. There’s a rainforest, running water and plenty of events that can be researched on the website . – Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park : jutting down below Miami is Key Biscayne, an island connected to the mainland by road. At the tip of the island is this state park, measuring 400 acres and filled with picnic areas and biking trails. You can enjoy the beach and practise water sports.

Miami Beach

If you’re like me and want to relax, finish your 2 day Miami itinerary by exploring the beach and its surrounds. ‘Miami Beach’ refers to the island connected to mainland Miami by a set of bridges and there are several beaches to explore: North Beach, Mid-Beach and South Beach.

Browse GetYourGuide in Miami Beach including boat trips and paddleboarding .

After you’ve been swimming and had a chance to relax on the sand, there are some worthwhile places to check out in the neighbourhood which I’ll mention as we continue this Miami itinerary. Nearest to my hostel was South Beach and I’d recommend this section of Miami Beach as a safe, friendly place to relax. You can spend the whole day relaxing and soaking up the Miami vibes. You can’t visit the city and not come here! Spot the Art Deco lifeguard stands (where else but Miami?) and stay for sunset. Getting around Miami Beach: You don’t need a car here as things are pedestrianised. However, you may end up walking a lot – why not hire a CitiBike to get about?

Busy beaches not your scene? There are plenty of quiet beaches in Miami you can visit instead!

Española Way 

Another place to explore during 2 days in Miami is Española Way , originally built in the 1920s to resemble charming Mediterranean villages in Europe. While it was frequented with artists then, it’s now popular with locals and tourists especially as it had a multi-million dollar facelift a few years back. As well as being incredibly picturesque, Española Way is full of cute shops and restaurants including Italian, Japanese and Mexican. It comes to life in the evenings when tables spill out into the street. Consider visiting in the evening for an atmospheric dinner, and finish with drinks at Española Cigars Craft Bar & Lounge .

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Another option between South Beach and Mid Beach is Miami Beach Botanical Garden , a 4-acre site with flora and fauna native to Miami as well as a peaceful Japanese Garden. Wander the Garden Center and pick up gifts at the Botanical Boutique. Open from 9am-5pm, Tues-Fri (closed Monday). See if your visit coincides with an event like yoga or coffee in the gardens.

Lummus Park

Lodged between South Beach and Ocean Drive is another beautiful destination for your Miami itinerary. Lummus Park is a large green space with beach access, a playground for kids and fitness equipment for those who ate one too many Cubano in Little Havana the day before…

Art Deco buildings

I knew nothing about Art Deco before my trip to Miami but I was blown away by these colourful, quirky buildings. Little did I know I would see even more in Condesa, Mexico City during the following months. Even if you’re not into architecture, you’ll love wandering around Miami Beach and spotting these vibrant and unusual-looking buildings.

Art Deco Welcome Center

If, like me, you know little about Art Deco, this is a great starting point. The Art Deco Welcome Center (1001 Ocean Drive) in Lummus Park houses the Art Deco Museum and offers visitors advice about what to do in the area.

Some of the must-see Art Deco buildings in Miami Beach include: – Colony Theatre, Lincoln Road – this perfectly maintained retro theatre is still open as a performing arts venue. – Cavalier Hotel, Ocean Drive – this pretty blue hotel has gorgeous coloured detailing under the windows that looks almost Aztec, probably because the architect, Roy France, was fascinated by ancient civilisations.

Related activity: Art Deco bike tour in Miami

– Park Central Hotel , Ocean Drive – this bright blue building has circular windows (that remind me of portholes) all built in observance of the ‘Rule of Three’ which is at the heart of Art Deco style. – Senor Frogs, Collins Avenue – once an elaborate 1940s cafeteria, this is now Miami Beach’s most infamous bar. Whether you go inside for drinks or snap a few photos from the outside, it’s worth it. – The McAlpin, Ocean Drive – this iconic hotel is painted white with pastel pink and pale green colour pops. Like the others, it’s perfectly symmetrical. – The Breakwater, Ocean Drive – possibly my favourite Art Deco building in Miami, this hotel has a purple facade with a neon-studded tower at its centre. Apparently inside there are 99 boutique rooms.

Ocean Drive

You can’t miss it, especially if you’ve already explored the Art Deco buildings, but it’s worth adding Ocean Drive to your Miami bucket list. Here there are boutique beach shops, coffee shops and many stylish bars serving margaritas! Like much of the area, it’s busy 24-7 but really comes to life as a party destination at night.

Lincoln Road

If Ocean Drive is the place to sightsee and promenade, then Lincoln Road is a place to relax and socialise after a hard day’s exploring. This wide, pedestrianised street is overflowing with cafes and all kinds of restaurants from Latin American to European and Middle Eastern. There are more global chains on Lincoln than independent boutiques so I preferred it for people-watching than shopping.

South Pointe Park

If you follow Ocean Drive the whole way, you’ll eventually reach South Pointe Park at the tip of the island. Enjoy South Pointe Beach and grab coffee or shakes at South Pointe Cafe or – better yet – finish your Miami itinerary in style with cocktails on Smith & Wollensky’s outdoor terrace.

Where to eat during 2 days in Miami

Miami Beach has a reputation for being expensive and I can confirm that to be true! I can’t tell you much about upmarket restaurants in Miami Beach but I can tell you about some affordable, casual eateries to visit during your 2 day Miami itinerary.

Budget eats in Miami Beach

Sriracha House – I loved this healthy Asian cafe on Washington Avenue. You can choose from noodles (egg, rice, glass, udon or wholewheat) or rice (jasmine or brown), then top with a protein (meat, shrimp or vegan), veggies and a sauce. I went with Vietnamese green coconut milk curry but there are other inventive choices like Mongolian tamarind and Taiwanese oyster sauce. I paid $11 for lunch which is cheap for Miami!

Hiro’s Sushi Express (South Beach) – I ended up eating here twice in two days which is high praise. The sushi is tasty and affordable. You can eat in, takeaway or order via UberEats.

Upscale eats in Miami Beach

If you have 2 days in Miami and fancy treating yourself, go for it! While I didn’t dine here myself, I heard great things about The Local House which does all kinds of fancy brunch dishes like caramelised banana pancakes and eggs benedict, washed down with cocktails. To try Cuban food in fun and authentic surrounds, head to one of the branches of Havana 1957 and order the ropa veija and a mojito!

Nightlife in Miami Beach

There are so many bars and clubs in Miami Beach. For a proper night out, head to Twist South Beach , one of Miami Beach’s megaclubs and a popular LBGT+ venue with 7 different bars, drag acts and DJs from around the world. For a lively Latin-inspired evening, visit Mango’s Tropical Cafe which has been a Miami favourite for the last 30 years.

Miami itinerary – additional day trips

I only had 2 days in Miami but if I’d had an extra day, I would have taken one of the many popular day trips from Miami . These include: Key West archipelago – this set of tiny islands connected by road can easily be visited from Miami. As the southernmost point of the USA (only 90 miles north of Cuba), it’s a favourite with cruise ships but you can also self-drive or take a day tour. Browse GetYourGuide tours to Key West from Miami some including dolphin watching, snorkelling, sailing and more. Everglades National Park – this is one of the most famous regions of Miami and now a World Heritage Site known for its swamps and marshlands home to all kinds of important habitats. Turtles, panthers, alligators and manatees live in this protected reserve measuring 1.5 million acres. Browse Everglades tours with GetYourGuide . Biscayne National Park – another natural wonderland south of Miami is Biscayne. This national park is almost entirely underwater, boasting incredible coral reefs and mangrove forest. If you’re lucky, you might glimpse turtles and dolphins. Take a Biscayne boat cruise with GetYourGuide . Boat trips from Bayside Marketplace – this waterside shopping centre is worth a visit in its own right with a huge collection of shops and eateries. It’s also the location that boat rides depart for as little as $20 around Millionaire’s Row and the Venetian Islands. Browse boat trips here .

When is the best time of year to visit Miami?

Miami is warm and sunny year-round. Peak season is November-April so you can expect things to be busy especially during the Christmas holidays. June-October is rainy season. During my October visit, it was glorious sunshine aside from some crazy showers when I got stranded in a fancy cafe and couldn’t afford to eat anything. Fail!

How expensive is Miami?

I won’t lie, it’s not a cheap destination! Hotels cost on average $160 per night, while a meal in a mid-range restaurant will probably cost you €20 not including drinks or tips. I managed to travel on a budget by staying in hotels, taking public transport and eating takeout food. I spent $200 during 2 days in Miami. If you’re not from the US, remember to factor in tips! As a Brit, I would never consider tipping 10-20% but this is the norm in Miami.

Final tips for visiting Miami

• In certain neighbourhoods like Little Havana, Spanish is more common than English. Download Google Translate or pack a Spanish Phrasebook.
• Miami gets hot and humid so make sure to add sunscreen, sunhat and glasses to your Florida packing list
• If you need Wi-Fi, nip into Mcdonalds or Starbucks as it’s usually available for free.
• For safety reasons, avoid walking on the beach at night. I would also advise avoiding areas you don’t know in the downtown area after dusk.
• If you’ll visit a lot of attractions in a short space of time, pick up a 1, 2 ,3 or 5-day Miami Card before you travel.

Useful travel links Guidebook: Lonely Planet get my seal of approval. Pack a copy of Miami Pocket Lonely Planet . Flights (international and domestic): I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the US (and all around the world). For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away with travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator as they often have fun and unique offerings. For food tours pairing travellers with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith .  Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Thanks for reading my Miami itinerary!

I hope you enjoy your 2 days in Miami as much as I did. I have no idea when I’ll be back to this city but I hope I return one day!

Read my other Miami guides:

• Where to eat in Little Havana, Miami
• How to visit Wynwood Walls, Miami

See you next time,

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Spending 2 days in Miami? Pin this for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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The Perfect 3 Days In Miami Itinerary (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: February 3, 2024

While you could spend weeks enjoying the city, here is the perfect 3 days in Miami itinerary to give you the best experience you can have during your visit. 

Miami is located at the southeast corner of the Florida peninsula where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico. With such geography, it experiences tropical climates that have been inviting travelers for years, giving it some of the best things to do in Florida . 

Depending on whether you want to experience the beach to its fullest or are seeking a warmer way to escape winter, there is no bad time to visit Miami. 

The city can be generally divided into the beach scenes of Miami Beach and the metropolitan activities of the downtown area. 

Both areas offer lots of great things to do and this 3 days in Miami itinerary is going to give you the best of both worlds!

READ MORE: Don’t miss my epic guide of all the best things to do in Miami !

Table of Contents

8am – Grab Breakfast by the Beach

9am – head to south beach, 12pm – go on a cruise, 6pm – sunset drinks, dinner and more drinks, 7am – breakfast then head to the everglades, 11am – head to biscayne national park or john pennekamp state park, 7pm – grab dinner near your hotel, 8am – breakfast then head to downtown miami, 11am – bayside marketplace or little havana, 6pm – drinks and dinner in little havana, when to visit miami, getting around miami, budget accommodation – posh south beach, mid-range accommodation – stardust hotel, luxury accommodation – marlin hotel, budget – grafa pizza & pasta , mid-range – cvi.che 105, high-end – lobster bar sea grille, how to spend a perfect 3 days in miami itinerary.

Picture yourself sunbathing on the long stretch of sand that is Miami Beach. Or perhaps having cocktails at a ritzy bar overlooking South Beach. 

Maybe you’re interested in the Latin culture that thrives within the city, touring museums and street art, or in taking in one of many professional sporting events throughout the year. 

Miami is also a great jumping-off point to explore Key West and the other Florida Keys.

Or it’s a great location from which to take a cruise to Cuba and other Caribbean destinations. 

From the iconic Miami Beach and South Beach to the multicultural entertainment and outdoor activities, this 3 day Miami itinerary will get you started on a perfect stay!

Day 1 – Enjoy Miami Beach

Start your 3 days in Miami on the famous Miami Beach and enjoy exploring the surrounding areas.

Ocean Drive, the road next to Miami Beach, is full of interesting Art Deco architecture, so be on the lookout for some cool buildings while exploring!

On this first day of our Miami in 3 days schedule, you should enjoy waking up and taking in a relaxing breakfast/brunch at any number of great restaurants on Ocean Drive next to Miami Beach. 

This will start a weekend in Miami off right, with warm sea breezes, palm trees, and sunshine surrounding you all morning. 

A few great places to enjoy in Miami Beach would be Under The Mango Tree, Las Olas Cafe or Charlotte Bakery . 

Read Next: Check out our post on the best day trips from Miami .

Next, get your bearings of Miami Beach by hopping on the free trolley towards South Beach.

With pickups in several places likely near your breakfast venue along Ocean Drive, you can ride the trolley throughout the greater Miami Beach and not have to worry about finding a parking spot. 

You can’t come to Miami without visiting the famous South Beach, so plan to spend an hour or two there browsing the shops, going for a swim, or basking in the shade under the palm trees on the pristine white sand. 

South Beach can get very crowded, so if you want to avoid hordes of tourists there are quite a few other just as beautiful and less busy beaches on the northside of Miami Beach. 

Consider checking out Surfside Beach, North Shore Park Beach or Bal Harbour Beach . 

Every beach offers surfboard, SUPs or kayak rentals if you’re more into adventurous activities and not just sunbathing. 

Once you’ve had your fill of sunbathing on South Beach, hop on the trolley and head on down to the Bayside Marketplace Marina and get on a sightseeing cruise around Biscayne Bay. 

This is the best way to see Miami’s waterfront and Millionaire’s Row . 

See mansions, high rises, and yachts owned by the rich and famous. Such famous people like Shaquille O’Neal, Will Smith, Liz Taylor, and Gloria and Emilio Estefan once or do still reside in this lavish neighborhood. 

If you’d rather enjoy a recreational activity, I suggest renting a SUP and paddling around the bay at sunset. You may catch some amazing views when the Miami skyline lights up at sunset. 

Another alternative for day 2 is exploring the nearby town of Coral Gables, which is a popular tourist spot near Miami. In Coral Gables, you’ll find the famous Venetian Pool, a public pool surrounded by sophisticated Art Deco architecture.

Coral Gables is also home to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, and more historic sights and museums. There is so much to do in Miami itself that you can save Coral Gables for another trip, but it is a fun little excursion from the city if you’re interested.

Read Next: Use our guide when planning an epic Miami to Key West road trip itinerary !

After your sunset cruise, paddle, or day trip to Coral Gables, go out for a night on the town in South Beach. 

There are plenty of great restaurants and bars on the strip, some with a great view of the beach and ocean.  

At night South Beach really comes alive and you will see expensive cars, people dressed to the nines (you may even spot someone famous!), and glitz and glamour all up and down this ritzy part of A1A. 

A few great spots to enjoy the nightlife is Sweet Liberty Drinks , Mac’s Club Duece , Joe’s Stone Crab and Time Our Market Miami . 

Don’t miss out on a night of salsa lessons and mojitos in South Beach if you want to spice it up! Nightlife is so fun here and you should definitely go out at least once during a weekend in Miami if you’re into it.

READ MORE: Plan to spend the perfect 3 days in New Orleans with this itinerary!

Day 2 – Day Trip to the Everglades and Biscayne National Park or Key Largo

The second day of your 3 days in Miami is going to take you away from the city a little so that you can enjoy the natural sights and sounds that are quintessential to South Florida. 

For this, you have a few options from which to choose. And it’s likely that while you can do two out of three of these activities, you’re probably going to miss out on the third. 

So be sure to add whatever activity you miss to your bucket list for your next trip to Miami! 

Plan to wake up early and grab a quick breakfast offered at your hotel. Then head out to Everglades National Park for your airboat tour ! 

I suggest visiting in the morning as it is much cooler out than midday or in the afternoon. You are also more likely to see active wildlife during the cooler morning temps! 

An airboat ride is a must when visiting Everglades National Park and will take you to spots you’d never be able to see in the 1.5 million-acre park. 

You will witness animals in their natural habitat such as alligators, turtles, manatees, herons, and maybe even a Florida panther! 

After enjoying your airboat ride through the Florida swamp, take your pick of either visiting Biscayne National Park or John Pennekamp State Park . 

Both are great for snorkeling if that’s what you want to do. And the afternoon is the best time to cool off by swimming in the ocean and enjoying the beautiful coral reefs! 

To snorkel the reefs you will need to reserve a spot on a boat snorkel tour for both parks. If you are not interested in snorkeling, both parks offer other ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. 

John Pennekamp Florida State Park has glass bottom tour boats so you can still see part of the reef while staying nice and dry. 

Biscayne Bay has a few great hikes and also rents out paddleboards and kayaks so you can paddle around the mangroves and perhaps even see manatees or dolphins! 

If you’re visiting during the lobster season you can go lobstering or even fishing.  

Whichever parks you choose to visit while spending 3 days in Miami, you’ll be certain to enjoy your adventure!

Read Next: Check out other great things to do in Key Largo !

You’re probably exhausted after such a long and amazing day, so I recommend just grabbing a bite to eat close to your hotel.

A weekend in Miami can be as jam-packed or as chill as you want it to be. There is nothing wrong with just hanging near your hotel, walking around, observing the art deco buildings, and soaking in the vibrant Miami atmosphere without making any real plans!

READ MORE: 20 reasons to take a day trip to visit Key West !

Day 3 – Explore Downtown Miami 

The final day of your 3 days in Miami itinerary will take you into the heart of the city to tour the culture, art deco buildings, and vibe of this major metropolitan area. 

There is a lot to do just in the downtown area of Miami. So if you get stuck enjoying one thing or another, don’t worry as you can always come back for another weekend in Miami! 

Just like in Miami Beach, downtown Miami has a free trolley that will take you virtually anywhere you want to go. 

So the first thing you’ll need to do is catch a ride and head toward the north part of the city to Wynwood Walls. 

Wynwood Walls is an area of abandoned factories that has been turned into a street artist heaven!

This is the perfect place for selfie-takers or someone who loves unique art. 

There are over 800,000 square feet of street art murals to enjoy or have your picture taken with from over 50 artists worldwide! 

The best way to enjoy it is by signing up for a golf cart tour of the exhibit . Book it early though.

If art is your passion, plan on being in Miami during the second weekend of the month, visit Wynwood on a Saturday and the neighborhood will be bustling with art vendors, food trucks and live music. 

You can also check out the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, the Art Deco Museum, or the Institute of Contemporary Art while exploring downtown Miami!

Next, take your pick of touring the Bayside Marketplace and The Wharf or touring the neighborhood of Little Havana. 

You could easily spend the entire day visiting either place since there is so much to see and do! 

If you love to shop then Bayside Marketplace is where it’s at. The marketplace has an open container policy, so grab a tasty adult beverage while you shop the beautiful open-air market. 

And if you want to watch the yachts cruise in there’s no better place to do it than The Wharf Miami . You can grab lunch here at any of the several restaurants and sit and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere. 

Little Havana is a diverse and colorful part of Miami to explore. Start your tour on Calle Ocho and truly experience the Cuban culture. 

Plan to grab an authentic Cuban lunch or early dinner in Little Havana and don’t forget the delicious Cuban coffee to go with it! 

If you want to learn more about Cuban culture, there are plenty of art galleries to browse or museums to visit in Little Havana. 

Book a walking tour of Little Havana here .

You could end your night here having dinner at El Exquisito restaurant before trying your hand at Salsa dancing at the historic Ball & Chain bar. 

If Salsa dancing is not your style, just outside of Little Havana is Marlins Park , where you can watch a great professional baseball game. 

Miami Travel Guide

Now that you know how to spend 3 days in Miami, here is a little more information about when to visit the city, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat. 

Any time of year is a perfect time to plan a trip to Miami. However, the most popular time is during spring break. 

If you want to skip the crazy party crowds in Spring, then plan on visiting November or December, after hurricane season has ended. 

There will be fewer tourists and the weather is quite mild in late fall or early winter. 

The summer months are a great time to enjoy the beaches and cool off in the ocean. It is quite hot and humid in Southern Florida in the summer, but there are still plenty of activities to do that can help beat the heat and leave you enjoying the sunshine yet staying cool. 

Consider watching the Marlins play a lively game of baseball in their climate-controlled stadium, or go snorkeling over the coral reefs in the mild waters of the Atlantic Ocean. 

No matter when you visit, you’ll get to enjoy palm trees, warm weather, and lots of sunshine.

Miami is the 7th largest city in the US and therefore is not the best city to see everything there is to do on foot. 

But because it is a large city, there are plenty of transportation options to get you to the top Miami attractions. 

Renting a car will be your best option. And if you’re flying into Miami, most car rentals can be picked up at the airport. 

Another popular option is the hop-on hop-off trolley, and best of all it’s free! 

Though the trolley won’t take you everywhere in Miami, the two separate trolleys located in the downtown and beach areas is a fantastic way to see the sights plus learn a little history along the way. 

If you are looking for a faster way to get around without worrying about parking then consider calling an Uber or taxi. 

Miami is a very popular place and finding rideshare shouldn’t be a problem.

Of course, renting a car will give you the most access to enjoy Miami and all that the surrounding area has to offer.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Where to Stay in Miami

Miami has endless options for places to stay. Whether you want to wake up next to the beach or be in the center of the city, you have plenty of choices on your accommodation. 

Expect to pay a bit more during a weekend in Miami than in other US cities because the city offers premium experiences and is always packed with visitors. 

But regardless of where you stay, you’re going to enjoy your 3 days in Miami. 

Posh South Beach offers an adults-only experience that focuses on relaxation and enjoyment during your stay. 

Just minutes from the beach, the hostel has a pool, terrace, and sundeck and offers standard amenities to be expected such as WiFi, television, and a common kitchen area.

Guests are also treated to free happy hour at an adjacent bar to warm up for a night on South Beach. 

Located in the Art Deco District the Stardust Hotel combines location with affordability and offers guests amenities that make them feel relaxed during their stay. 

Just a five-minute walk to the beach, the hotel provides WiFi, cable TV, microwave and a small refrigerator in each room. 

Ask for beach towels and a beach umbrella to enjoy your time at the beach and know that you are close to all of the restaurants and bars you can enjoy both on Miami Beach and downtown. 

Options for luxury hotels vary throughout downtown Miami and Miami Beach. But one of the best all-around options is the Marlin Hotel , located in South Beach. 

Just steps from the ocean and all the entertainment that South Beach has to offer, the hotel also creates an ambiance that makes you forget you are in the hustle and bustle of the city. 

With blackout drapes and soundproof rooms, bath scents and rainfall showerheads and a fully stocked minibar, you will feel a bit pampered after a long day or night out in Miami. 

Enjoy high-speed WiFi, flatscreen television and ocean views to make your luxurious stay complete!

Best Restaurants in Miami

Miami has a ton of options for eating at all budget points and all international cuisines. Especially in touristy areas like Miami Beach and along Ocean Drive, there is no shortage of places to eat. Here are a few of our recommendations. 

A hole-in-the-wall pizza joint near South Beach, Grafa Pizza & Pasta offers delicious Italian food at most hours of the day. 

Stop in for a slice between the time at the beach or stuff your face with pasta after a night out on South Beach.

CVI.CHE 105 is a top-rated Peruvian and pan-Latin restaurant specializing in – you guessed it – ceviche. 

Enjoy a bowl of this fresh seafood dish or feast on other traditional Peruvian dishes like Corvina, chaufa and chicken or seafood and rice. 

You can’t leave Miami without indulging in some delicious locally caught seafood. The Lobster Bar Sea Grille provides just that with a variety of fine dining options serving lobster, stone crab and other seafood. 

The ambiance of its location in Miami Beach is also hard to beat on any night of the week. 

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Home » North America » Miami

MIAMI Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Well known for its beautiful beaches, sub-tropical climate, and Art Deco facades, Miami is the place to go to for a carefree vacation sipping cocktails by the pool! If you are the adventurous type and love to explore beyond the resort, there is so much to discover and plenty of options to consider while planning a Miami trip itinerary!

What used to be a predominantly winter retreat is now a thriving metropolis with year-round activities that offer something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the rich Latin American cultures and experience the growing arts scene, exotic cuisine, and lively nightlife!

If you are wondering what to do in Miami on your next visit, this Miami itinerary will help you make the most of your stay, regardless of if you are staying for the weekend or more than three days in Miami!

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Best Time To Visit Miami

Where to stay in miami, miami itinerary, day 1 itinerary in miami, day 2 itinerary in miami, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in miami, day trips from miami, faq on miami itinerary.

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Florida is hot and sunny for most of the year, so there’s not necessarily a bad time to vacation in Miami! However, the city’s atmosphere does change throughout the year depending on the season.

High season in Miami occurs from November through to April and is particularly busy around the holidays. Temperatures are usually in the high 70’s, the humidity is low and there is little chance of rain. For most people, this is the best time to travel to Miami, especially if you are escaping the snow.

In fall, the city becomes a hive of activity, especially around Art Basel in Miami Beach. Spring is great for outdoor activities and enjoying Miami Music Week. Summer can get really hot, and this is also hurricane season, but if you can take the heat it is a great time to beat the crowds!

Have a look at the table below to decide when to visit Miami for yourself.

With a Miami City Pass , you can experience the best of Miami at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

There are more than 25 neighborhoods in the Miami area. Each offers visitors a diverse selection of attractions and activities.

Downtown Miami is the commercial and financial center of the city. Staying downtown is a great idea if you want to be surrounded by historic Miami landmarks, museums, and art galleries! There are also some great Miami Beach hostels in this area.

Downtown Miami is also home to the trendy Design District. Bursting with creative flair and artistic highlights, the Design District is well-known for its restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. This is one of the coolest parts of the city to spend a day simply wandering the streets and taking it all in!

Key Biscayne is our recommendation for the best place to stay in Miami for families with kids. It is a tropical island south of Miami noted for its natural setting, pristine beaches, and its relaxed, laid-back attitude.

Not only is Key Biscayne close to two amazing golden sand beaches but there are also tropical forests, mangroves, and parks nearby!

There are lots of places to visit nearby to keep the kids busy, like Miami Seaquarium, where your little ones will have the time of their lives seeing these fantastic sea creatures up-close and in person. If you really want to step your vacation up a notch, you can even rent a boat in Key Biscayne for a really awesome day out.

There are cool Airbnbs in Miami situated across the city.

Best Hostel in Miami – Rock Hostel

Our top pick for a great hostel stay in is Rock Hostel in Miami Beach. It offers great value for money, tons of freebies, and a super-chill beach vibe. At night the hostel comes alive and takes on a party atmosphere, warming the guests up for a fun night out on the town! For more great hostels check out our guide on the best hostels in Miami .

Best Airbnb in Miami – One bedroom penthouse with a pool and gym

The 950 sqft apartment has everything you need for a comfortable stay, our guests will feel to be like home. The apt has 1 45 inches flat tv in the living room and 1 flat tv in the bedroom. One king-size bed, 1 sofa and air mattress if needed. This is one. of the best vacation rentals in Miami for its facilities.

Best Budget Hotel in Miami – Leamington Hotel

With a fantastic location at the heart of Miami’s shopping district, this charming hotel is the perfect budget accommodation choice. It’s a stone’s throw from great restaurants, clubs, and bars. This cozy hotel boasts a swimming pool, helpful staff, and convenient airport transfers. Free breakfast is also included in your stay!

Best Luxury Hotel in Miami – Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Miami Downtown/Brickell

This incredible hotel is located a short walk from Brickell’s trendiest spots. It comes complete with a fitness room, swimming pool, and a jacuzzi. The rooms are modern, stylish, and they are outfitted with a kitchenette, refrigerator, and coffee/tea facilities. If you have an abundance of money to spend, the Hampton Inn is our favorite hotel in Miami!

Taking the greater metropolitan areas into account, Miami is a large city, so getting around can be time-consuming! Miami has a large and diverse public transportation network that runs throughout the entire city.

Working out the public transport system can be tricky for first timers touring Miami, but by catching the Metrobus, Metrorail, or even the touristy Metromover, you can travel just about anywhere in Miami as you have time!

Outside of Miami’s tourism areas, public transport gets pretty scarce. This makes it difficult to visit multiple outer-neighborhoods in a single day and is something to consider when planning your Miami itinerary.

Renting a car will give you more freedom and expand the number of places to visit in Miami, especially if you have a jam-packed itinerary for Miami planned! This will also allow you to take day trips from Miami central to more outlying areas.

You can still vacation in Miami without a rental car and have a great time doing so! You can easily get around the more central suburbs on foot and even indulge in a Miami walking tour in Downtown Miami.

Miami Design District | Wynwood Walls | Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science | Perez Art Museum Miami | Miami Children’s Museum | Lummus Park Beach

The first day on our Miami itinerary combines a healthy dose of art, some impressive architecture, and a trip to the beach!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Miami Design District

• Why it’s awesome: Trendy neighborhood combining art, architecture, designer fashion label stores, and a multitude of chic restaurants.
• Cost: Free!
• Food Recommendation: Take your pick of elegant restaurants and culinary choices on offer.

The Miami Design District is a hip and funky neighborhood uniting design, fashion, art and architecture. It recently went through a period of rejuvenation that remodeled the area to comprise of a plethora of creative experiences.

The Design District is a hub for high fashion as it houses many luxury brand stores such as Gucci, Fight Club, and Prada. If you appreciate quality and are able to afford high-end labels, then you’ll love a visit to this glitzy neighborhood!

There is also an abundance of art and impressive architecture. Public art displays including murals and statues make this area a great place for amateur photographers and Instagrammers. If you don’t have the budget to shop, there are plenty of free galleries and museums like the Institute of Contemporary Art!

What’s more, there are also a healthy variety of upscale culinary options to be found in the Design District. The restaurant scene is fiercely competitive with new restaurants popping up and opening their doors to hungry patrons that appreciate good food in a creative setting!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Wynwood Walls

• Why it’s awesome: See the work of talented street artists from around the world at this outdoor art museum.
• Cost: USD $55, or $39 for a tour with a local guide
• Food Recommendation: Grab some gourmet home-baked pastries at Zac The Baker nearby.

The next stop on our Miami itinerary continues with the creative artsy theme with a visit to Wynwood Walls. Wynwood was formerly an industrial neighborhood that rose to prominence as a hot-spot for graffiti and street art!

Today it is a hive of trendy boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and bars all thanks to the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum and open-air street art installation featuring some of the world’s most prominent street artists! The art covers more than 80,000 square feet of abandoned warehouse walls.

Since its establishment in 2009, Wynwood Walls has become a phenomenon, spurring the creation of more murals and projects throughout the Wynwood district. The exhibition now features the decoration of roll-up storefront gates, known as the Wynwood Doors, and an open green space installation featuring five murals known as the Wynwood Walls Garden.

The whole area is now saturated with bright, bold street art and colorful graffiti. A stop here is sure to get your creative juices flowing and will provide for plenty of Instagram inspiration!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

• Why it’s awesome: Discover the magic of science and get in touch with nature at this purpose-built science museum.
• Cost: USD $30.
• Food Recommendation: Have a healthy snack or smoothie bowl at Almalibre Açaí Bar within a few minutes walk.

For a fun stop that the whole family can enjoy, we’ve added the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to the Miami itinerary. This world-class science museum, located in Downtown Miami’s Maurice A. Ferré Park, is dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder, and inspiring investigation!

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science has an incredible array of interactive experiences on offer, including a planetarium, an aquarium, and an experimental science lab! There are also additional exhibits to immerse yourself in. They rotate throughout the year ensuring there is always something new and exciting to see on offer.

The 250-seat planetarium provides an ultra-immersive experience with its cutting-edge visual system, one of only thirteen in the world like it! Guests are treated to journeys across the cosmos, educational entertainment, and spell-binding light shows.

The museum’s aquarium covers three levels and showcases the aquatic ecosystems of South Florida. Discover the creatures that live in the Everglades and see the drifters catching the Gulf Stream.

Insider tip: It is best to arrive early and take your time to get the most out of your exploration of this massive museum.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Perez Art Museum Miami

• Why it’s awesome: One of Miami’s premium art museums showcasing international art of the 20th and 21st centuries.
• Cost: USD $16
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy sweeping views of Biscayne Bay at Verde Restaurant & Bar located at the museum.

Thankfully, the next stop on the Miami itinerary is a mere 300-ft walk away, and is a must-do for art lovers even if you are only spending one day in Miami. The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is one of the latest additions to Maurice A. Ferré Park, and has been referred to as Miami’s first true world-class museum!

The building itself is a masterpiece of architecture. It’s three levels high with elaborate hanging gardens and amazing views over Biscayne Bay. Large sculptures, steel frames, and gardens- inspired by countries across Asia- adorn the property, setting the scene for the wonderful art you are about to encounter.

Inside is equally beautiful and breath-taking with galleries of modern and contemporary artworks from all over the world. PAMM is a major contributor to Miami’s status as a global destination for contemporary art. It beautifully highlights the diverse community of the city and Miami’s connection with the Caribbean, Central, and South America.

Much of the interior is dedicated to temporary exhibitions, showcasing work of substance and high quality by new and relatively unknown artists. The artworks relate to Miami’s multicultural population, which is evident in the diversity of people it attracts on a daily basis.

Insider tip: Admission is free every first Thursday of the month and every second Saturday of the month! If you’re visiting on a different day, it’d be worth getting the Miami City Pass for discounted entry tickets at multiple attractions.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Miami Children’s Museum

• Why it’s awesome: Keep the kids entertained and treat them to a fun, interactive learning experience that allows them to grow their understanding of the world around them.
• Cost: USD $20
• Food Recommendation: Bring a picnic and relax in the gardens, or dine in style at The Deck at Island Gardens only a short drive away.

The Miami Children’s Museum is a great stop on the itinerary for families with young kids! Housed in an ultra-modern building on Watson Island, the museum’s mission is to educate kids about the world around them and to foster curiosity and a love of learning.

The museum has fourteen galleries spread over two floors, with plenty of interactive exhibits to spark every type of tot’s imagination. One of the most popular attractions is the cruise ship, where kids can try their hand at navigating a carnival boat and explore the different areas within a ship. The Health and Wellness Center gives kids a chance to flex their muscles while learning about the biological mechanisms of the body.

The museum’s interactive nature makes it feel like one big playhouse, almost hiding the fact that kids are learning as they move along. It does a good job of incorporating life in Miami with lots of space dedicated to learning about Miami’s landscape and multi-cultural inhabitants.

Insider tip: As one of the more popular Miami attractions, expect it to be busy whenever you visit and make sure you have enough energy to enhance the fun experience for your kid(s).

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Lummus Park Beach

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the tropical beach that you’ve seen on TV, where you can take a dip in the sea to cool off or relax under a palm tree.
• Food Recommendation: Head to Larios on the Beach for Cuban cuisine in a chic, lively space.

What better way to end the first day than a visit to the beach! Lummus Park Beach in Miami Beach is a typical Miami beach you’ve seen in movies and on TV.

It’s a perfect destination for people-watching, volleyball, sunbathing and swimming in warm sub-tropical water. This park beach features grassy areas with palm trees for those seeking shade, as well as a playground for young children and an outdoor gym for the more active visitors.

Walk along the beautiful promenade that separates the grass from the beach and have dinner or a cocktail at one of the many restaurants on the boardwalk. Lummus Park Beach is also a popular place for photo shoots among the dozens of lifeguard stands or palm trees that line the promenade.

Rock Hostel

Our top pick for a great hostel stay in is Rock Hostel in Miami Beach. It offers great value for money, tons of freebies, and a super-chilled beach vibe.

• Free Breakfast

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Miami Seaquarium | Vizcaya Museum and Gardens | Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden | Deering Estate | Zoo Miami | Venetian Pool

The second day of our Miami itinerary is a whirlwind tour of the outdoors and the best wildlife this city has to offer. This will make for a fantastic couple of days in Miami for outdoor enthusiasts!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Miami Seaquarium

• Why it’s awesome: Get the chance to watch a killer whale show, swim with dolphins, or get kissed by a seal at the biggest aquarium in Miami!
• Cost: USD$45 for a skip-the-line ticket
• Food Recommendation: There are plenty of concession stands inside the aquarium for something quick and easy.

Day two of our Miami itinerary starts off with a splash at Miami Seaquarium! Filled with intriguing marine invertebrates and large mammals, the Seaquarium guarantees a fun-filled adventure for the whole family.

The great thing about visiting an aquarium is that there are always new and interesting things to see and learn about. Along with having the usual touch pools and tropical reef displays, Miami Seaquarium also offers a host of exciting shows and encounters with larger marine wildlife!

The dolphin and killer whale shows are an absolute hit with the public and possibly the biggest draw for the aquarium! Watch Flipper the bottle-nose dolphin and Lolita the killer whale show their aerial prowess as they perform amazing tricks and flips under the guidance of their trainers.

You can also swim with friendly seals, explore the tropical tank with a dive helmet, have a close encounter with dolphins and penguins, and learn about the great work the conservation team does rehabilitating vulnerable sea turtles and manatees. A stop here is sure to get you energized and put a smile on your face!

Insider tip: Check out Groupon for discounted admission prices and experience packages.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: As a small oasis in the city, a visit to the museum and gardens is a good way to slow down and ease some stress.
• Cost: USD $22
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy a soup or a sandwich at Au Bon Pain, just a 5-minute drive down the road.

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, located just a mile southwest of Downtown Miami, is a lavish former mansion with picturesque grounds, sculptures and grottos. It was originally built as an Italian Renaissance-style winter villa in 1916!

The house is now a museum containing much of the original furnishings and artwork from the 15th to the 19th century. This gives a good sense of the historical atmosphere of the time and is a key part of the experience. Spend a little more and opt for an hour-long tour led by one of the guides. It’s well worth the money for the extra information and anecdotes.

The gardens are just wonderful, and for many visitors is the highlight of the trip! They are well kept and provide many photo opportunities.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

• Why it’s awesome: Discover rare and exotic tropical plants, get closer to nature, and unwind in a beautiful natural setting.
• Cost: USD$25
• Food Recommendation: Gaze over the picturesque Pandanus Lake and enjoy a light meal at the Lakeside Café.

The next stop on the Miami itinerary is the lush, verdant landscapes of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens in Coral Gables. Spread out across 83 acres, these botanical gardens are one of the largest in the United States and among the world’s best tropical gardens!

With plenty of open space to explore, a multitude of plant species to find, and a generous amount of semi-hidden nooks and crannies to find solitude in, the Fairchild can easily be the most relaxing place in Miami! Take advantage of the free tram tour for a quick 45-minute highlights reel of the gardens to get your bearings, then head off on your own to explore at your own pace.

There are tropical plants from all over the world at the Simons Rainforest. Mangroves and other marshy plants are found in the Keys Coastal Habitat, and rare flowering plants are found in the conservancy. Visitors with green thumbs will be pleased to know there is an excellent book shop with all the latest books on gardening and horticulture.

Insider tip: Come prepared for the heat with hats, sunscreen, and water. Bug spray is also a good idea to combat mosquitoes.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Deering Estate

• Why it’s awesome: A great place to explore historic buildings, ancient excavation sites, and partake in outdoor activities.
• Cost: USD $15
• Food Recommendation: Stop by Alaine’s Osteria for an early dinner of Italian cuisine.

The Deering Estate is a massive 444-acre environmental and archaeological preserve in the South of Miami with historic houses from the 19th and 20th centuries. The property is even listed on the National Registry of Historic Places!

There are daily tours of the old buildings, including the Stone House and Richmond Cottage, where you’ll be able to get a good look at the estate’s famous al fresco features! Tours of the lush, natural areas are available seasonally.

There are plenty of family-friendly outdoor activities offered around the estate including nature hikes, paddling, mountain biking, and butterfly walks. Excavations carried out on the property have uncovered the remains of prehistoric animals dating as far back as 50,000 years and evidence of human inhabitants from over 10,000 years ago!

For a different perspective of the estate, take a canoe tour of the estate if you are there over a weekend. There are also many other regular events that take place on the property including concerts, theatre, food festivals, art exhibitions, and weddings.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Zoo Miami

• Why it’s awesome: Visit the only subtropical zoo in the US and see over 500 species of animals from all over the world!
• Cost: USD $23 for an upgrade ticket
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy a pizza or something more healthy at Nourish 305 within the zoo grounds.

Situated on a beautiful 750-acre property in South Miami, you’ll find Zoo Miami, the largest and oldest zoological garden in the state of Florida. Zoo Miami is the only subtropical zoo in the United States, with the unique climate enabling the zoo to accommodate a wide variety of animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas!

There are over 3,000 animals from more than 500 species on display, and of these over 50 are classified as endangered. Some of the more popular animals include clouded leopards, Komodo dragons, ring-tailed lemurs, and tree kangaroos!

The petting zoo and wildlife shows are great fun for kids, and the giraffe feeding station is something the whole family can enjoy. When it gets too hot outside, spend some time in the air-conditioned rainforest-themed refuge, Dr. Wilde’s World of Discovery.

The easiest way to visit is by car, with lots of free parking available. You can also visit the zoo by catching the Coral Reef Max bus from the Dadeland South Metro Station.

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Venetian Pool

• Why it’s awesome: Large outdoor fresh-water pool boasting waterfalls, grottos, and a tropical backdrop
• Cost: USD $12
• Food Recommendation: Stop in at Tap42 Gables for a selection of great craft beers and gourmet burgers just a short drive away.

The Venetian Pool is a great place to visit on an energy-sapping, hot day! It was sculpted from an abandoned rock quarry in 1923 and is fed 820,000 gallons of fresh spring water each day.

This municipal pool is the largest fresh-water pool in the United States, and the only pool listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you are interested, there is a nice collection of vintage photographs depicting beauty pageants and parties starting from the 1920s.

Its history and architecture make it a Miami point of interest, but the cool water and ample lounging areas make it a good place to hang out too.

Jungle Island | Little Havana | The Bayside Marketplace | Marlins Park | Miami Beach Botanical Garden

If you plan on spending more time in the city, don’t worry, there is still lots more to see and do! For your convenience, we have included extra points of interests for traveling in Miami to provide the perfect three day itinerary!

Jungle Island

• Enjoy the beauty of Miami’s tropical landscape and the uniqueness of animals from around the globe.
• Fun for all ages, you can learn about animals and plant species in a fun and engaging way.
• Guests can select from different tour packages to get an even more personalized experience with the animals.

Jungle Island is an eco-adventure park on Watson Island in Miami, Florida. This zoological park features waterslides, zip lines, escape rooms, and other fun attractions! It is home to some of the world’s most exotic animals.

Guests can enjoy engaging animal shows, informative exhibits, and behind-the-scenes access at the animal care center. Interact with sloths and lemurs, feed the tortoises and alligators, and pet a condor!

On this one-of-a-kind experience, you’ll get up-close and personal to loads of cool animal species! A trip to Jungle Island is sure to make for an unforgettable experience filled with animal encounters as well as information and insight into the park’s amazing creatures!

With much to see and do at this Miami attraction, you could easily spend a whole day here. Families traveling with children will especially love a trip to Jungle Island . Stroll under the lush canopies of tropical trees and enjoy the sounds of nature on this fun outing!

Little Havana

• Lively Cuban neighborhood full of art galleries, Latin eateries, live music, and more!
• Steeped in history, this high-energy neighborhood has something for everyone!
• Renowned for its fun ambiance, lively entertainment, and friendly locals.

Experience Miami’s Cuban community with a trip to Little Havana! This neighborhood is hopping with entertainment, art, and the most impressive food tours in Miami ! Discover the uniqueness of the Cuban culture as you stroll the streets of this trendy neighborhood.

You’ll find live music playing at all hours and the tastiest Latin American cuisine in town! Dance your heart out to live Salsa music, smoke a Cuban cigar, or enjoy a cup of Cuban coffee!

You could even catch a flick at Little Havana’s Tower Theatre! This theatre has been opened since 1926, a true cultural landmark of the city. Watch a show in this unique and historic Art Deco-style theater.

Head to Cubaocho for a unique experience. There’s never a dull moment at this museum, bar, and performing arts center! Take a salsa lesson, order one of their famed mojitos, or sample rum from the largest rum collection in Miami!

Experience the Cuban culture with a trip to Little Havana, one of Miami’s most colorful and vibrant neighborhoods!

The Bayside Marketplace

• A two-story open-air shopping center located in Downtown Miami.
• Family-friendly, clean, and well maintained.
• Plenty of shopping options to suit all budgets.

The Bayside Marketplace is a large, waterside shopping center loaded with stores, eateries, and sit-down restaurants. Located on the banks of Biscayne Bay, you’ll have breathtaking views everywhere you look!

This shopping center beckons visitors as a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. You’ll find a diverse offering of local and international brands that guarantee something for everyone.

There are numerous eateries and restaurants to choose from. Whether you need a quick bite and a cup of coffee, a meal when taking a break from shopping, or a leisurely fine-dining experience, you’ll find a wide variety of choices available – all offering a spectacular view!

This is the place to book your boat tours in Miami. Numerous tour boat companies line the harbor awaiting visitors. Book a leisurely sightseeing cruise, a party boat experience, or a ride on a pirate ship!

If you’re spending a weekend in Miami make sure to check out the Bayside’s farmers-market every Sunday from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. Purchase fresh produce and food provided by local merchants.

Marlins Park

• Home of the Miami Marlins, Florida’s Major League Baseball team.
• New stadium built in 2012 located in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood.
• Spend a few hours cheering on the home team and enjoying the energy of game day!

Watch a baseball game at Marlins Park, which is fun for all ages! Enjoy a classic American experience and absorb the lively energy of game day!

This large ballpark offers comfortable seating all around the stadium. No matter where you sit, you’ll have an amazing view of the field. Enjoy the views of Miami’s skyline from inside the park. It’s truly spectacular!

There’s a retractable roof that can cover the whole stadium to counter uncooperative weather, guaranteeing a pleasant experience at every game!

Apart from watching a baseball game, there are many activities in the park before and during the game. Check out the virtual batting cage, the bobblehead museum, or take a guided tour of the stadium!

This ballpark serves an eclectic range of food items such as traditional ball-park food, Latin dishes, and Pizza! There’s, of course, plenty of Budweiser and craft beer! Providing fun for the whole family, a trip to the ball-park is a great way to spend an afternoon in Miami!

Insiders Tip: Check out Obie’s concession stand inside the park for USD $3.00 and USD $5.00 food and drink specials!

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

• 3-acre urban green space in Miami Beach.
• General admission to the garden is always free!
• Experience the local wildlife including birds, butterflies, and lizards.

The Miami Beach Botanical Garden’s are the hidden gem of Miami! From blooming flowers to colorful butterflies, this small slice of nature offers an idyllic escape from the busy city.

Peruse the garden’s many walking paths or have a picnic in one of the parks many shady glades. The natural beauty of the gardens makes it the perfect spot for a photo-opt!

Events are often hosted at the gardens, including yoga and meditation classes. There are guided tours scheduled daily and all the guides ask for is a donation of your choosing.

Their self-guided tour system allows visitors to learn about the plant species and the natural history of Miami Beach at their own pace. Simply dial the number provided at the park entrance or seen at each of the 13 stopping points of the tour.

The Miami Botanical Gardens offer a beautiful oasis and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature! It’s one of my top attractions in Miami Beach to visit.

Insider Tip: The Botanical Garden shares a parking lot with the neighboring Holocaust Memorial, making the two attractions perfect to visit together.

Miami is generally a very safe city to visit. Like any major city, crime can occur, but in general you should not have anything to worry about. There are certain areas of the city you will want to be extra vigilant, but as a whole Miami crime rates are low.

Miami Beach is considered one of the safest areas of the city. This tends to be a party destination for young tourists, especially during Spring Break, so you might encounter intoxicated college students.

Crime-wise, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. As always, stay vigilant of your belongings, keep your wits about you, and you should be just fine.

If you’re visiting Downtown Miami you’ll want to keep an extra eye on your things. It is still a safe area but pickpocketing can occur. Many pickpockets are extremely skilled at taking belongings without being detected. Keep your valuables concealed and next to you at all times, especially in crowded areas.

The areas north of Downtown Miami you’ll want to stay away from, especially at night. Overtown, Liberty City, and Civic Center are dangerous for theft and drug-related violence. Avoid these areas and keep to the main tourist parts around Miami and you should be fine.

Miami is filled with a wonderful mix of culture and diversity. There are endless options for enjoyment in this high-energy Magic City. Get a taste of Cuban culture, enjoy the endless coastline, or discover the unique art-decor.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Miami

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Explore more of Florida by choosing one of these fantastic day trips from Miami. Grab your camera and your favorite hat, because these excursions are seriously fun!

Rent a Private Yacht and Sail the High Seas

If you’re travelling with friends, it’s time to treat yourselves to the glitz and glamour of Miami highlife (just for a day, anyway). With space for up to 12 people, a captain to show you the best sites, and an optional jet-ski, why not spend a full 8 hours on the ocean by renting a private yacht , with the breeze in your hair and a cold beer at your fingertips. It may not be the cheapest day trip, but you’ll get to see Miami from a different perspective on the water. You’ll be able to stop wherever you please and create your own route. Don’t forget your sunglasses.

From Miami: Day Trip to Bimini

On this sixteen-hour trip, you’ll travel from Miami to the Bahamas! Spend the day in paradise as you discover Bimini’s pristine beaches and popular attractions! Sit back and relax on your two-hour high-speed boat transfer from the Port of Miami to Bimini.

You’ll have a day pass to the Hilton at World Resorts in Bimini where you’ll be able to make full use of this hotel’s outdoor facilities. Rent a jet ski and explore the ocean, dine beachside, or relax on the warm sand with a drink!

Relax as you are transported to the hotel. Then, enjoy a stop at the famous Bimini Road, which some believe is a remnant of the “Lost City of Atlantis”. You’ll have approximately seven hours to enjoy this beautiful island in the Bahamas ! Spend the day basking in the sun and enjoying exciting aquatic activities!

This tour offers complimentary pick-up at select hotels in Miami Beach and Downtown Miami. This day-trip is the perfect addition to your Miami itinerary!

From Miami: Day Trip to Key West by Shuttle Bus

This fifteen-hour tour will take you from Miami to Key West. Discover the southernmost tip of the United States on this convenient and accessible day-trip!

Enjoy a stop in Florida City for breakfast before continuing on. Upon arrival in Key West, you’ll be given a map of the city to help you plan your day, and your bus driver will fill you in on the city’s key highlights. You’ll have six hours of free time to explore the areas of the city that most interest you!

Spend an afternoon in leisure! Relax on a tropical beach, explore the Old Town, or unwind at the Key West Nature Conservatory! For aquatic enthusiasts, snorkel in the crystal blue waters surrounding the island. The day is yours to enjoy however you’d like!

Key West is connected to the mainland by an extensive system of bridges. Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean as you travel over the water!

This day-trip includes complimentary pick-up and drop-off at select Miami hotels.

Florida Everglades Small Group Adventure Tour

Get back to nature on this nine-hour tour of the Florida Everglades. Spend the day learning about the unique Everglades ecosystem as you travel by boat around the region. Learn about the flora and fauna from your knowledgeable tour guide.

Travel by airboat to a Native American island village, go for a hike in the Big Cypress National Preserve, and learn about wildlife from a naturalist perspective! Witness native bird and animal species in their natural environment where you may spot white pelicans, manatees, and dolphins!

Discover a historic trading post where you’ll visit an art gallery showcasing the local talent. Then, feast on a lunch made of local produce! This comprehensive tour is perfect for nature-lovers or people wanting to escape the city for a day. Enjoy the thrills of nature on this exciting day-trip!

Disney World Full-Day Ticket & Transfer from Miami

On this eighteen-hour day-trip, you’ll be able to enjoy a full and exciting day at your choice of Walt Disney World Resort . This trip takes the stress out of transportation by including round-trip bus service from Miami and back!

Sit-back and relax as you’re taken from your hotel to Disney World directly! Choose from one of the following parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, MGM Studios, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, or Aquatica.

You’ll have six hours to spend in the Disney resort of your choice! Included in the ticket price is your transportation and entrance fee into the park. Perfect for all ages to enjoy a day-trip to the happiest place on earth!

Miami: Kennedy Space Center & Outlet Shopping

On this fourteen-hour trip, you’ll spend the day discovering the Kennedy Space Center and enjoy a stop at a large outlet mall!

Learn about the history of the United State’s space program at one of the most scientifically advanced places on Earth! The Kennedy Space Center is home to NASA and has been the launch site for various space programs since the 1960s.

Admire real-life space shuttles and learn about the history of the Saturn and Apollo space programs. Enjoy the interactive exhibits, IMAX movies, and the US Astronaut Hall of Fame. Learn about man’s quest to explore space on this fully guided tour!

Next up you’ll head to a large outlet shopping mall. Stroll around and hunt for name brands and bargains. The perfect chance to pick up all your Florida souvenirs! You could also grab a drink and a bite to eat at a restaurant nearby.

This tour is fun and educational, perfect for all ages and a great way to spend a free day in Florida!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning Miami itinerary.

How many days do you need in Miami?

This really depends on your travel plans, but spending 3 days in Miami is ideal if you’re looking to see all the sights!

What should you include on a 4 day Miami itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these Miami hotspots: – Wynwood Walls – Design District – Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – Lummus Park Beach

Where should you stay if you have a full Miami itinerary?

Downtown Miami is the ideal base for exploring the city as it’s central and full of things to do.

Where should you go if you have 1 day in Miami?

Make the most of your time by exporing Downtown, and be sure to check out one of Miami’s famous beaches!

Miami is bursting with historic landmarks, fun attractions, and natural beauty, which makes it an enjoyable exercise when putting together a Miami itinerary! We have included the top-rated activities and even more incredible stops, depending on your length of stay.

It doesn’t matter whether you are there for a long time or a short time, even if you only have one day in Miami, you are sure to have a good time! Use our Miami itinerary as a guide, choose the activities that best suit your trip, and then have a blast exploring the streets and beaches of this sub-tropical paradise!

For your convenience, we have included the best places to stay in Miami, places to visit, all the best landmarks in Miami, some advice for staying safe, and the best day trips from Miami!

We know that our guide will help to ensure that you have an amazing trip!

Colleen Kinsey

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Top Tours in Miami, FL

Miami tours.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Miami Skyline Cruise of South Beach and Millionaire Homes

2. Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami

3. 60 min. Everglades Airboat ride & pick-up ,small group +pro guide

4. Miami Skyline 90-Minute Sunset Cruise

5. Miami’s Best Private Boat Charter with a Captain

6. Miami Sunset and City Lights Cocktail Cruise

7. Miami and Bayside 90 min Cruise of Celebrity Islands

8. Nature & Island Exploration on SUP/Kayak

9. Speedboat Sightseeing Adventure of Miami

10. Flamingo Bus Miami Tour

11. Key West Day Trip from Miami with Activities

12. Sightseeing Helicopter Ride over Miami Beach

13. Everglades Tour from Miami with Transportation

14. Big Bus Miami: Sightseeing Night Tour by Open-top Bus

15. 2 hrs Miami Private Boat Tour with Cooler, Ice, Bluetooth Stereo

16. Miami Moonlit ATV Adventure: Explore Redland's Hidden Trails

17. Castaway the Day: Miami Sunset Sail with Champagne

18. AquaFusion Combo: Jet Ski + Party Boat Excursion (Groups)

19. Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Experience with roundtrip transfer

20. Official Miami Millionaires Sightseeing Cruise with Free Photo

21. Big Cypress National Preserve Audio Tour Guide

22. 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park

23. From Miami: Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show, and Roundtrip Bus

24. Miami Combo: City half day, walking Tour & Biscayne Bay Cruise

25. Explore Miami in Style: Private Boat Rental with Captain

26. Beginner Friendly Island Snorkeling

27. Private Boat Ride in Miami with Experienced Captain and Champagne

28. South Beach Cultural Food and Walking Tour

29. Miami Island Ultimate Adventure

30. Miami Jet Ski Rental: chase the Ocean, ride the Waves

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Miami on a Budget: 5 Things to Do for Free

Beaches in Miami are attractive to surfers.

The beaches in Miami are a must-see for anyone visiting, and we highly recommend doing this first! Whether you want to exercise on the beach or sit and relax for some first-rate people watching, Miami has a gorgeous beach for you! For example, the famous Miami Beach is not only within walking distance of resorts and amenities, but it also offers soft white sand and gorgeous clear teal water. You can choose to walk in the welcoming surf, or take a stroll on the Miami Beach Boardwalk, which is well-maintained and lined with shops.

Art deco can be found all over Miami.

Check Out the Architecture

Miami is also famous for it’s Art Deco architecture, which can be found it the aptly named Art Deco Historic District. Walk through palm-tree lined streets and take in all the beautiful pastels and curved lines of the Art Deco style. Do some window shopping while you’re there, and don’t forget to pose for that Instagram-worthy picture!

A beautiful pier to walk in South Pointe Park.

Visit a Park

This may come as a surprise, but Miami is actually an incredibly green city. Start your park adventure at South Pointe Park, a waterfront park with beach access, a splash pad and a playground. A little farther North you’ll find Lummus Park. This 74-acre park has been the location for many television and movie scenes, and features a playground and paved walking paths. This popular park is also known for prime people watching. Some truly excellent parks with lots of space for a variety of activities. If you’re looking for a little more cultivated experience, try out the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, with it’s beautiful flowering trees, orchids and more than 100 species of palm tree. Don’t miss the koi pond or edible garden.

If you don’t feel like walking, the trolley is free in downtown Miami.

Arts and Culture

Miami is bursting at the seams with spectacular culture. Try the Miami Museum of Contemporary Art’s monthly Jazz at MOCA series. This free concert blending art and jazz has been an integral part of the community for over twenty years on the last Friday of the month. For a free and unforgettable experience, try the City of Miami Beach’s monthly Culture Crawl, the majority of which is accessible by foot or bike, or you can ride the free trolleys to the dedicated Culture Crawl stops. If you want to get a little more adventurous, the third Fridays of every month you can experience Viernes Culturales, a neighborhood block party in Little Havana featuring art, music and culture.

Miami Beach Ocean Drive farmers market.

Farmers Markets

Farmers Markets and the bustling metropolis of Miami aren’t exactly synonymous, but they are literally everywhere. A few you can visit during your Miami vacation include Coconut Grove Foodie & Farmers Market, Coral Gables Farmers Market, Lummus Park Artisanal Market, and historic Vizcaya Village Farmers Market. Nearly every neighborhood in Miami has a regular farmers market, so research and choose wisely.

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We invite you to take some time to browse around and dream of your next vacation, rental car or cruise, whether you’re booking for next month or toward the end of next year.

About the Author: The above piece was compiled by Penny Anderson, mother of two young athletes, and Merchandising/Ecommerce Manager at Costco Travel. Penny has been a Costco employee for 27 years.

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10 Affordable Places to Travel in the US

By Jamie Spain

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whether you're planning a grand family vacation or are looking for a quick and breezy solo trip to switch up the scenery, finding affordable places to travel in the US can be difficult. There are so many different things to consider when planning a trip, from hotels and flights to food and activities, and it's safe to say that it can all get rather overwhelming. To help, we've compiled a list of 10 fun and affordable US cities perfect for all types of travelers. From Charlotte, North Carolina , to Albuquerque, New Mexico , these are some of the best budget-friendly cities in the country.

To ensure that our picks are all affordable, we've made selections using data from Priceline on the most affordable domestic flights and hotels in the US this summer (based on average round-trip airfare and average rate per night, respectively). We've also included a few quality hotel and vacation rental options, all under $300 a night, for each destination.

Read on for 10 affordable travel destinations in the US, so you can keep your budget in check while still enjoying your next great vacation.

Hyatt Regency Orlando

Orlando, Florida

It's not the flights or the hotels in Orlando that will stretch your budget (both can be found at fairly reasonable prices if you plan in advance), but the activities. Since Orlando is home to Disney World , if you plan on attending any of the parks, you'll be designating a large chunk of your travel budget to tickets. But the theme parks aren't the only great thing to do in the city —from visiting some amazing museums to enjoying nature-filled parks, there are tons of other activities that are often overlooked. If you do plan to spend a day or two at Magic Kingdom or Universal Studios, you can rest easy knowing that the rest of your trip was budgeted accordingly.

Where to stay in Orlando:

• For family-friendly fun: Hilton Orlando
• For a great pool: Hyatt Regency Orlando
• For a private home: Cozy three-bedroom near downtown Orlando

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philly is home to some amazing attractions, wonderful views, cool hotels , and of course, incredible history. In Philadelphia's Old Town, travelers can walk in the footsteps of America's Founding Fathers—meandering down the same streets and buildings they once did. There are plenty of great free and low-cost activities, including seeing the iconic Liberty Bell, walking past The President's House (the original “White House” before Washington, DC), and exploring Elfreth's Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the US. If you find time to try a Philly cheesesteak while you're there, all the better.

Where to stay in Philadelphia:

• For an escape from downtown: Inn at Whitewing Farm
• For a micro-hotel experience: Pod Philly Hotel
• For the University: The Study at University Circle

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Booking an affordable beach vacation can be quite the feat, but Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to go when you want to balance beachy views with budget-friendly prices. Especially in comparison to other South Carolina vacation hotspots like Charleston and Hilton Head , Myrtle Beach is where you'll get the most bang for your buck. Spend most of your time enjoying the sun and sand on the free beaches, or walk the iconic boardwalk a couple (dozen) times.

By Jessica Puckett

By Olivia Morelli

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Devra Ferst

Where to stay in Myrtle Beach:

• For direct beach access: Willow Bay Resort
• For golf lovers: Marina Inn at Grand Dunes
• For a balcony: Quaint condo with two double beds

Nomad Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada

While you may think of Las Vegas as a place meant solely for casinos and clubbing (not exactly high up there on the list of budget-friendly activities), there are tons of fun and affordable things to do in the city and plenty of great hotels and Airbnbs to stay in. Simply walking (and gawking at) The Strip is an activity of its own, or take a hike to the Red Rock Canyon and enjoy the natural scenery. There are some great museums and exhibits to stop into as well, and seeing the Bellagio fountains is well worth a trip. Don't forget to take a picture next to the iconic “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign.

Where to stay in Vegas:

• For an off-the-strip experience: Golden Nugget
• For old-world luxury on a budget: Nomad Las Vegas
• For a themed resort: The Mirage Las Vegas

Omni Charlotte Hotel

Charlotte, North Carolina

From the incredible food to the family-friendly activities , there's plenty to do in Charlotte for travelers of all interests. Whether you're simply looking to enjoy the warm weather and eat all the Southern food your stomach can handle, or hoping to visit museums and the Botanical Gardens, you won't spend a single minute bored in this city . For great food and people-watching, head to 7th Street Public Market ; NASCAR fans will want to explore the Charlotte Motor Speedway (kids 12 and under enter most events for free) or the NASCAR Hall of Fame (tickets start at $20) .

Where to stay in Charlotte:

• For history: The Dunhill Hotel
• For a low-key place to rest your head: Charlotte Marriott City Center
• For a central location: Omni Charlotte Hotel

The Rally Hotel

Colorado Springs and Denver, Colorado

Just a little over an hour apart by car, Denver and Colorado Springs are both great options for families and friends looking for a mountain escape. If you're seeking something a bit more residential and not so hustle-and-bustle, Colorado Springs will be perfect, with its great hiking trails and gorgeous views. For those looking for a taste of city life, stay in downtown Denver, where you'll get all the benefits of the great outdoors alongside the liveliness of a big city. Cut costs by spending most of your time hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.

Where to stay in Colorado Springs and Denver:

• For community in Colorado Springs: Kinship Landing
• For sports fans in Denver: The Rally Hotel
• For a hip scene in a great location in Denver: The Maven Hotel at the Dairy Block

Hotel Parq Central

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque may not be on the top of your to-do list, but there are many reasons why this New Mexico city is worth a visit. It's a great destination for year-round travel thanks to its incredible hot-air balloon scene (it's home to the world's largest Hot Air Balloon Festival), Southwestern art, tasty food, and desert scenery. Head to the Albuquerque Museum (tickets start at $3) or the National Hispanic Cultural Center (free for guests 16 and under; $6 for adults) for some history and art in the city, or simply walk around the area and enjoy the desert views alongside the many art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Where to stay in Albuquerque:

• For good location: Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town
• For retro charm: El Vado Motel
• For a stay near Route 66: Hotel Parq Central

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is another city on this list that is steeped in history, but if you're not much of a history buff, there's still plenty to enjoy about the city. Known for its seafood and beautiful waterfront, (and, of course, for being the setting of the musical Hairspray), you'll certainly want to indulge in crab cakes, oysters, or crab dip, especially if you can do so along the water. There are also tons of budget-friendly activities, including walking through Fell's Point, a great neighborhood filled with restaurants, shops, and entertainment, touring some of the museums, taking a peak inside the Peabody Library, or walking alongside the harbor.

Where to stay in Baltimore:

• For a pop of color: Ulysses
• For a modern boutique property: Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown
• For a private townhouse: Colorful two-bedroom in Federal Hill

Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort

Phoenix, Arizona

Head to hot, dry Phoenix , Arizona, the perfect destination for pool days, hiking and nature viewing, and museum visits. Phoenix is also just about two hours away from Sedona, making it a great home base for a day trip to see the red rock formations. The Desert Botanical Gardens (tickets start at $15) will be a hit amongst the whole family, while the Hole in the Rock hike (or the more challenging Camelback Mountain hike) offer a chance to take in gorgeous desert views.

Where to stay in Phoenix:

• For retro-cool: Rise Uptown Hotel
• For a desert oasis: Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
• For mountain views: Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort

Arlo Wynwood Miami

Miami, Florida

Miami doesn't always scream affordable, but thanks to the city's large airport with many daily domestic flights and a surprising number of affordable hotel and Airbnb options, travelers can head to this incredible city without having to stretch their budget too far. Where your wallet may take a hit is the food and activities, so plan carefully before you arrive. To keep things affordable, spend most of your time enjoying the free beaches with a picnic you pack yourself, or walking around Miami Beach. You can also take yourself on a personal tour of Wynwood's outdoor murals or enjoy one of the free outdoor yoga classes .

Where to stay in Miami:

• For a “luxury” hostel experience: The Freehand
• For a unique boutique hotel: Esmé Miami Beach
• For a Wynwood escape: Arlo Wynwood Miami

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The Ultimate Concert Travel Survival Guide

It was a perfect weekend. One that wouldn't have been possible without some preparation beforehand. That Excel sheet was our guiding light as we encountered unexpected snags, like the Airbnb reservation we had lined up weeks before disappearing just days ahead of our arrival. Including a concert in your trip—or planning a trip around a concert entirely—means you don't have the flexibility of changing the weekend you're going to be traveling. Bad Bunny may have been performing for three nights in Miami, but he'd be gone by Monday.

If you've never done a concert trip before, the logistics can be overwhelming. Not only do you have to do the gymnastics of actually securing the concert tickets, which can be a challenge even when you aren't traveling, but you also have to secure the details on transit, hotels, activities beyond the concert, and have to figure out how to fit your concert outfit into your luggage. But these logistical challenges aren't slowing anyone down. According to TripIt data shared with Thrillist, more than 56% of Americans plan on taking a trip for a music event in the near future. Whether that's overseas to see the second leg of Taylor Swift's Eras tour, or across the country to see Bad Bunny or Olivia Rodrigo, there's an art to gig tripping .

So, what do you need to know about planning a trip around a concert that differs from planning a music-free trip? Let's get into it.

Book your concert tickets first.

After you book your concert tickets, you should also make sure you're booking your flights and hotels well in advance. A recent study from CheapAir.com found that the best time to book flights to save the most money is 42 days in advance . You can also book a bit earlier if you prefer—Going's expert advice is to book about  three months in advance on average.

For hotel accommodations, booking as soon as possible is the way to go. This is especially true if you're going to a major stadium show. Data shared with Thrillist from the Mastercard Economics Institute showed that during Taylor Swift's  Eras tour of the US last year, the accommodations spending growth average rose by 47% in the immediate vicinity and 32.1% for the 10-mile radius of the venue when Swift was passing through town. That means the supply for hotel rooms and vacation homes is going to dwindle as the concert date gets closer. While not every touring artist is whipping up the same level of fan fervor as Taylor Swift or Beyoncé, getting a fair price and decent accommodation will be easier if you book earlier.

Don't arrive on the day of the concert.

Arriving a day before the concert also allows cushion times if you encounter delays. Whether you're traveling via plane, train, or car, there are plenty of ways delays can fall into your path. Having that extra day means you won't be racing against time if something does go awry.

You can also plan on visiting the venue and the area the concert will be (or at least scope it out on Google Maps) in ahead of time, so you can get a feel for where you'll be arriving and exiting, and how you will be able to get back to your accommodation. One popular tip on Reddit is to book your hotel within walking distance of the venue. If that's not possible, make sure to think about and plan for how you'll get to the venue—can you call an Uber or taxi? What time does the public transportation stop running? Figure out a plan so you're not standing on tired legs stranded in a city you don't know at the end of the night.

Plan for your concert and your trip.

"I have traveled from the US to Europe for several concerts. Think of it like planning a vacation to a city with a lot to do," one Redditor wrote. "And one night you just happen to go to a concert. Build the trip around that night and it can absolutely be worthwhile."

This means getting a bit of research done on your destination—what's there to do, where will you eat, etc. The concert may be the focal point, but don't neglect the rest of the details. You can also be realistic about how much energy you're going to have—if the concert is going to be a full night of dancing and screaming your throat raw, the itinerary surrounding the show can be more relaxed.

Pack for a concert and a vacation.

Make sure you have a venue-appropriate bag (these are often limited by size or are required to be clear), go for the comfortable shoes, and make sure any portable battery you pick is also allowed in the venue, as some venues have size restrictions on these. Then, make sure you pack your battery in your carry-on, not your checked luggage, in accordance with TSA rules .

Packing and planning out your concert outfit first will also allow you to be smarter about how much luggage real estate you have for the rest of your stuff. Don't underestimate the amount of room a cowboy hat takes up, for example. "Have your outfit planned and packed ahead of time," Anderson advises. "If possible, plan pieces that can be repurposed on your trip, so you are not using a fully checked bag on your concert attire."

Pack your concert essentials first, then go about adding the rest of your packing list into your luggage.

Looking for more travel tips?

Opheli Garcia Lawler is a Staff Writer on the News team at Thrillist. She holds a bachelor's and master's degree in Journalism from NYU's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute. She's worked in digital media for eight years, and before working at Thrillist, she wrote for Mic, The Cut, The Fader, Vice, and other publications. Follow her on Twitter @opheligarcia and Instagram @opheligarcia .

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13 Must-Visit Spots on Alix Earle’s Travel Guide to Miami

Ananya panchal | 21 minutes ago.

If anyone knows Miami like the back of their hand, it’s TikTok sensation and “it girl” Alix Earle. The University of Miami alum, who graduated with a degree in marketing in May 2023, is a master of social media marketing. It’s easy though, when the subject (the 23-year-old herself) is as charismatic, hardworking and creative as she is.

The New Jersey native, who has racked up a following of 10.4 million across TikTok and Instagram , just made her debut on the cover of SI Swimsuit’s very first digital issue. The June cover star spilled all her secrets about where she eats, drinks, parties, watches the sunset and even cures her hangovers with a perfect breakfast bagel in Miami.

Below are her some of her in-town faves, from widely-popular luxury chains to hole-in-the-wall delicacies and more.

El Bagel , 6910 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami

View this post on Instagram A post shared by EL BAGEL (@elbagel)

“They have, I would say, the best bagels in Miami,” Earle raves. The model sparked lighthearted controversy last year when she revealed her interesting go-to order: “a pork roll with cream cheese” on an egg bagel.

Joe & the Juice , 1451 Brickell Avenue, Miami

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paris Hilton (@parishilton)

From delicious matcha and coffee to their viral tunacado sandwich, Joe & the Juice has you covered. Earle especially loves the eggcado breakfast sandwich. She recently starred in a fun, trendy, very pink campaign for the brand alongside internet icon Paris Hilton.

Pura Vida , multiple locations

View this post on Instagram A post shared by PURA VIDA MIAMI (@puravidamiami)

This all-day health food cafe was founded by Jennifer Horev, with the mission of making nutritious, delicious foods accessible for all. The restaurant focuses on sustainability and sourcing only the cleanest, most fresh ingredients as well as high-quality protein.

Osaka Cocina Nikkei , 1300 Brickell Bay Drive, Miami

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Osaka Cocina Nikkei (@osakanikkei.miami)

“My favorite restaurant for dinner in Miami would probably be Osaka,” Earle says. “[It] has really good Japanese food and it’s kind of like a hidden spot that not that many people go to. It’s not very touristy.”

Komodo , 801 Brickell Avenue, Miami

View this post on Instagram A post shared by KOMODO (@komodomiami)

Komodo’s menu pulls inspiration from traditional and unique Southeast Asian dishes, made with a global interpretation. The establishment features a high-energy dining area, as well as a lounge and a lush covered outdoor terrace. Earle loves the fun, “sceney” vibe of this restaurant.

Carbone , 49 Collins Avenue, Miami

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carbone Fine Food (@carbonefinefood)

One of the most famous, high-end Italian restaurants, Earle is always here when she’s in the mood for some really good past and a fine dining experience.

Restaurant she’s excited to try: Mother Wolfe , opening this fall.

E11EVEN , 29 NE 11th Street, Miami

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alix Ashley Earle (@alix_earle)

“E11even is so much fun. It’s a little bit of like a strip-club vibe,” Earle says of the world’s only 24/5 Ultraclub, where she celebrated her 23rd birthday last December. The website describes the venue, a Top 10 Nightclubs in America titleholder, as an “immersive adventure.”

LIV , 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach

View this post on Instagram A post shared by LIV (@livmiami)

Earle says LIV is perfect for the typical nightclub experience, including smoke machines, confetti, big neon lights and dancers. The club features a variety of music formats on different nights. LIV takes pride in creating the perfect blend between an exclusive, intimate lounge and the memorable experience of a high-energy night club.

Club Space , 34 NE 11 Street

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Factory 93 (@thefactory93)

“Club Space is more EDM, house music and it’s a different vibe from the other clubs,” Earle explains. “But it’s also just a place you can dance all night, literally until the sun comes up.”

1 Hotel South Beach , 2341 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach

“I think the 1 Hotel is just so beautiful,” she says of the global luxury hospitality chain. “The one in Miami is absolutely the best. It just smells amazing, looks amazing. It’s on the beach.”

Fontainebleau Miami Beach , 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fontainebleau Miami Beach (@fontainebleaumiamibeach)

“If you’re looking for more of like an outdoor pool party vibe, they have something going on in the pool every day,” Earle says. “There’s a really fun bar there. [It’s] always a good time.”

Crandon Park

“This was the first beach I discovered when I moved down to Miami, it has a very chill vibe and the drive there over the bridge is so serene,” Earle explains.

Miami Beach

Earle says her favorite time to go is during sunset, when the beach isn’t too packed and you can enjoy the Miami weather and views.

ANANYA PANCHAL

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Gas prices move lower as summer travel begins

By John MacLauchlan

June 3, 2024 / 7:50 AM EDT / CBS Miami

MIAMI - As we kick off the summer travel season, there's good news for those planning a road trip. Gas prices in the state dropped 11 cents in the past week and a half.

"The summer travel season is beginning with gasoline prices that are 20 cents less than the highest price this year," said AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins. "While gasoline prices are usually volatile through the summer months, recent futures prices suggest the state average could move lower this week."

Sunday's state average was $3.45 per gallon. That's 5 cents less than a week ago but 6 cents more than this time last year.

On Monday, the average in Miami-Dade was $3.49 a gallon, down from $3.53 a week ago. Broward's average was $3.50 a gallon, down from $3.56 a week ago.

The most expensive cities in the state for gas are West Palm Beach, Naples, and Fort Lauderdale. The cheapest places for gas are all in the panhandle.

Last week, the U.S. price for crude oil dropped 1 percent, amounting to a combined 4 percent drop through the past two weeks. Meanwhile, gasoline futures are down 16 cents during that time. 

John MacLauchlan is a digital content producer for CBS Miami. He attended Florida State University and graduated with a Communications degree. John joined the CBS Miami digital team in February 2007.

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Grupo Firme’s Thrilling Mexican Party in Miami: 5 Best Moments

An onstage bartender, shots galore and a performance by Eduin Caz's 8-year-old son during the group's La Ultima Peda tour.

By Ingrid Fajardo

Ingrid Fajardo

Social Media Manager & Staff Writer, Latin

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It’s not every day that you see a bonafide Mexican party on an arena stage in Miami. But fans got that in spades during Grupo Firme ’s stop of their La Ultima Peda (The Last Drunk) tour at the Kaseya Center on Saturday (June 1).

The three-plus hour show felt like a gigantic carne asada party for 10,000 of the group’s closest friends, punctuated by a norteño band, a full horn section, non-stop drinking onstage and lead singer Eduin Caz’s undisputed star power. Few, if any Mexican music stars exude such rock ‘n’ roll attitude onstage. The man can sing, dance and party hard, without missing a beat.

 It was Firme’s second time in Miami and the performance highlighted not just this particular group’s popularity but the growing popularity overall of regional Mexican music in cities that have not traditionally been hotbeds for the movement. Grupo Firme will also take their 30-plus date U.S. tour to Tampa, New York and Charlotte, for example.

But the Miami stop was special. The city holds a special place for the group, who spent several days in Miami, hosted a get-together for fans and press and even found time to film two music videos.

Onstage at the Kaseya, Firme brought out not only musicians, but also dancers with tons of attitude, and Caz took the opportunity to showcase his ballad/bolero vocals chops with an emotional performance of the group’s new single, “El beneficio de la duda.” It was another breakthrough moment for the group that’s helped pave the way for the new wave of regional Mexican music.

Here are five memorable moments from Grupo Firme’s show at Miami’s Kaseya’s Center on June 1.

A Bartender Onstage

You heard that right. Aside from finding space for the band, Grupo Firme finds space for a bona fide bartender, and the rule is, every guest who goes onstage takes a shot. When it comes to Eduin Caz, his favorite drink is whiskey.

It’s a Family Affair

In this tour, Caz has made his family priorities clear and has been traveling with his wife and three children. Backstage prior to the show, Eduin Caz’s oldest son, 8-year-old Gerardo, kept asking if he could go onstage and sing with his dad, something he already did in a previous stop. In Miami, he encored, performing “Alaska,” the hit Grupo Firme recorded with Camilo. Gerardo brought the house down, singing and dancing in perfect choreography.

Special Guests

There were plenty of guests at the arena. Beyond family, rising regional Mexican star Xavi was seen backstage, paying his respects, and Kim Loaiza and JD Pantoja (and his children), were seen seated among the audience.

Codiciado Makes His Debut

Grupo Firme pal Codiciado made his Miami debut performing onstage with the group. Firme and Codiciado had previously collaborated when the singer was part of Grupo Codiciado, but the Miami performance heralds a new collab with Codiciado as a solo act.

What Happens When the Bar Shuts Down?

Grupo Firme likes to ask fans to take shots and toast throughout the show. But the Kaseya Center stopped serving alcohol around 10 p.m., when the concert was in full swing. No problem. Eduin Caz started sharing beers with fans from the group’s cooler onstage.

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Lionel Messi scores goal in return to lineup, but Inter Miami falls 3-1 to Atlanta United

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Lionel Messi returned to action, rested and engaged. But most of his Inter Miami teammates felt the ill-effects of the longest road trip in Major League Soccer on Wednesday night.

Messi scored in the 62nd minute, but Inter Miami fell 3-1 to Atlanta United at Chase Stadium – four days after the club won 2-1 at Vancouver without Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets.

Saba Lobjanidze scored in the 44th and 59th minutes for a brace, while Jamal Thiaré finished a sliding goal in the 73rd minute to help Atlanta win its fourth match of the MLS season and hand Inter Miami its third loss of the season.

“The truth is we were missing a gear,” Inter Miami coach Tata Martino said after the loss. “Let's say it was a night where the team went backwards compared to other matches, where we always found positive moments, even in difficult moments.”

The good news for Inter Miami: It retains first place in the MLS Eastern Conference with FC Cincinnati one point behind in the standings after Cincinnati lost 2-0 at home to Nashville.

Messi, Suárez and Busquets returned to action for the first time since May 18, given 10 days between matches to rest and recuperate — and avoid travel to and from South Florida to Vancouver last weekend.

Inter Miami plays again on Saturday night against St. Louis City, which ranks 11th out of 14 teams in the MLS Western Conference. But it’s not yet definitive Messi, the 2022 World Cup champion who will captain Argentina in Copa América next month, will play on Saturday. His status will likely be decided after Friday's practice.

Messi could use the work to maintain his form before Copa América, which could be the final major tournament he’ll play for Argentina in his legendary career. He turns 37 on June 24.

Messi appeared healthy as a lingering left leg injury, a blow he took at Montreal on May 11, did not affect him against Atlanta.

Messi nearly scored on a header in the opening minutes, but his dive toward the net ended with the ball sailing over it.

Messi, Suárez and Jordi Alba forced the issue offensively in the first half, but they were unable to find holes in Atlanta’s steadfast defense.

As the first half neared its end, Inter Miami’s fatigue from travel and nighttime humidity showed as Lobjanidze scored before halftime.

While Messi’s goal reignited Inter Miami and its home crowd, the goal by Thiaré proved to be the dagger.

Inter Miami has won just one of six matches played on a Wednesday this season, a 3-1 win over Nashville in the Concacaf Champions Cup being the lone exception.

“When a team gets defeated like we did, it’s an excuse to talk about the trip or the calendar,” Martino said.

Jamal Thiaré goal: Atlanta United 3, Inter Miami 1

Inter Miami is on the brink of defeat.

Jamal Thiaré finished a sliding goal in the 73 rd minute to give Atlanta a 3-1 lead against Inter Miami.

The play was orchestrated by Thiago Almada, and Caleb Wiley delivered the assist.

Messi scores goal to respond: Atlanta United 2, Inter Miami 1

Messi has responded to Inter Miami’s 2-0 deficit with a goal in the 62 nd minute, a strike that found the bottom right corner of the net.

The quick response in Messi’s goal has reignited the home crowd at Inter Miami’s Chase Stadium.

Saba Lobjanidze scores again for brace: Atlanta 2, Inter Miami 0

It might not be Inter Miami’s night.

Saba Lobjanidze scored in the 59 th minute to give Atlanta United a 2-0 lead over Inter Miami in the second half.

Atlanta’s Thiago Almada navigated the steal from Inter Miami’s stars and Lobjanizde doubled their lead.

Messi slips, misses shot on goal: Atlanta 1, Inter Miami 0

A swing and a miss in the 55 th minute by Messi, who also slipped after his latest shot attempt in the second half.

Inter Miami’s Matias Rojas, who has scored three goals this season, has entered the match for Julian Gressel.

Saba Lobjanidze goal: Atlanta United 1, Inter Miami 0

Messi and Inter Miami are out of sorts in the first half and they fell behind just before halftime.

Atlanta United’s Saba Lobjanidze scored in the 44th minute to help his side take a 1-0 lead over Inter Miami.

Messi, Alba, Suárez try to connect again, but offsides: Inter Miami 0, Atlanta 0

Messi, Alba and Suárez performed a set piece after a corner kick, to no avail.

Alba found Messi streaking down the right side, and Messi used his head to find Suarez cutting toward the net. But the ball appeared to be deflected by Atlanta United goalie Josh Cowen in the 26th minute.

Messi drives downfield, Suárez misses shot: Inter Miami 0, Atlanta 0

Messi pursued an opportunity with a full head of steam from midfield, and dropped off a pass to his right to Julian Gressel. But Gressel veered offsides after dropping off a pass to Luis Suárez, who kicked it directly to Atlanta United goalie Josh Cowen in the 19th minute.

One minute later, Messi chipped a pass in the goal area to Robert Taylor, who was unable to handle it.

Messi misses diving header in early minutes: Inter Miami 0, Atlanta 0

Messi made a hard run toward the net, and tried to use his head to find the back of the net. But Messi’s shot bounced over the net in the fourth minute.

Messi got up after his dive with a thumbs-up for Jordi Alba, who delivered the pass into the goal area.

Messi, striker Luis Suárez and midfielder Sergio Busquets are in the starting lineup again after missing the Vancouver match last Saturday.  

A new addition to the starting lineup is midfielder Federico Redondo, who returned from a knee injury to play against Vancouver. He replaces Benjamin Cremaschi, who will likely enter as a substitute.

Is Messi playing tonight?

Yes, Messi is expected to play against Atlanta , after staying home in South Florida and missing Inter Miami’s 2-1 win at Vancouver . He’s in the startling lineup.

WATCH :  Messi and Inter Miami take on Atlanta United FC on Apple TV

TICKETS :  Experience Messi and Inter Miami in person when they host Atlanta United FC

SHOP :  Get the latest Messi and Inter Miami team gear from the MLS Store

How to watch Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United live stream 

Inter Miami and Atlanta begin play at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday at Chase Stadium. The game is available via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV .

Messi, Inter Miami arrive at Chase Stadium

Messi and his Inter Miami teammates have arrived at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for tonight's game against Atlanta United. The players were spotted leaving their bus shortly after 6 p.m. ET.

Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United prediction

Inter Miami 3, Atlanta United 0: Messi returns to form with a goal and assist, Suárez adds another goal, and Benjamin Cremaschi scores as goalkeeper Drake Callender has a shutout. — Safid Deen, Lionel Messi reporter

Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United betting odds

Inter Miami is a -225 favorite at home, while Atlanta is a +380 underdog with +450 odds to draw, according to BETMGM .

What’s at stake as Inter Miami hosts Atlanta United?

Inter Miami leads the MLS Eastern Conference with 34 points from 10 wins, four draws and two losses. Luis Suárez is tied for second in MLS with 11 goals scored, while Messi is third with 10 goals scored and a league-leading 12 assists this season.

Meanwhile, Atlanta is 12th among 15 Eastern Conference teams with 14 points from three wins, four draws and seven losses.

A win would increase Inter Miami’s lead in the East.

Messi shines in Bad Boys movie promo with Will Smith, Martin Lawrence and Jimmy Butler

Messi speaks in English, and delivers the punchline in a hilarious promo for “Bad Boys: Ride or Die ."

Why did Messi not travel, play in Vancouver?

Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets did not travel to Vancouver for rest purposes – to avoid the cross-continent journey from South Florida – with home games on tap tonight and Saturday, especially with Copa América on deck .

All three are expected to play Wednesday and Saturday vs. St. Louis City.

Messi’s upcoming Inter Miami, Argentina schedule

Messi is expected to play again Saturday as Inter Miami hosts St. Louis City. Then, he’ll join Argentina for Copa América training.

Messi will participate in Argentina friendlies or Copa América warmup matches in Chicago on June 9 and the Washington D.C. area on June 14.

Then, Messi and Argentina take center stage in the Copa América opener against Canada in Atlanta on June 20.

Here’s more info on Messi and Argentina’s Copa América schedule .