Miami is a city of sunlight, culture, and bustling activity. Whether you’re visiting for your first time or you’re a returning guest, a weekend escape in Miami is sure to fire you up. From lovely beaches to cultural attractions, there is something for everyone. Here’s what to do on a perfect weekend in Miami, soaking up every possible moment in this tropical paradise.
Friday Evening: Get Your Weekend Started in South Beach
When you land, make a beeline for South Beach — it’s the best place to begin your weekend. South Beach is renowned for its beautiful art deco buildings, world-famous nightlife scene, and crystal waters. The best way to ease into it is with a light walk down Ocean Drive. Look at the neon, marvel at the old buildings, and soak up the excitement of the area.
If you’d like to eat, there are restaurants with views of the ocean for miles. Pick from any of the hip spots on Ocean Drive for fresh seafood and a tropical cocktail. Stroll on the beach after supper. And the night sky over the water is stunning. The calming sound of the waves makes for a peaceful evening.
Pro tip: If you’re into cocktails, pop by a rooftop bar or two in the area. You can have some great views of the Miami skyline at night.
Saturday morning: Visit the Miami Beach Boardwalk.
Begin your day on Saturday with something good for you and energizing. Take a morning walk or jog along the Miami Beach Boardwalk. The boardwalk, which runs riotously along more than four miles of coastline, features stunning views of the beach and far beyond. It’s a calm way to experience the beach without the masses. You’ll also go by the famous South Beach and other picturesque places that make for great photo ops.
Afterward, pick up a coffee from any number of the area’s chic cafes. There are excellent pastries available in many places, along with fresh brews to fuel you for the rest of the day.
Tip: One way to cover more ground and get a different vantage point of the coastline is to rent a bike and cruise along the boardwalk, if you’re into cycling.
Saturday Late Morning: Explore the Wynwood Walls
And then check out Wynwood, Miami’s arty neighborhood. The Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum showcasing some of the world’s most talented and renowned street artists. It’s known for its ever-changing murals that offer a new experience each time you go. The walls and buildings are all brightly adorned, so take your time enjoying the colorful artwork. It’s also a good place to snap some photos and get those uploaded to social media.
Wynwood is also full of galleries, cafes, and stores. You can also pick up lunch at local eateries, which range from fresh tacos to gourmet sandwiches. The spirit of the region is second to none and is the perfect Sunday stop for your weekend adventure.
Tip: If you enjoy art, plunder the art walk as you have a chance to hit a few local gallery nights with special exhibits or pop-ups. Many are free to visit!
Saturday Afternoon: Visit Little Havana
Once you’ve had your fill of art, it’s time to head out to Little Havana. This lively Cuban neighborhood is full of culture. Walk along Calle Ocho (8th Street), the center of Little Havana. Cafes, shops, and local vendors sell homemade goods that edge the street. You’ll hear Cuban music, smell the spicy flavors of the Latin food, and feel the vibe.
One spot you can’t miss is Domino Park. Here you can watch residents play dominoes and socialize in a relaxed environment. If you’re hungry, drop into one of the restaurants for a bite of some Cuban staples such as ropa vieja or lechón. Be sure to sample a Cuban coffee for a real flavor of the neighborhood.
Pro Tip: On the last Friday of every month, check out the free “Viernes Culturales” (Cultural Fridays)—live music, street performances, and more.
Saturday Evening: South Pointe Park at Sunset
As evening falls, wander down to South Pointe Park on the southern tip of Miami Beach. This park has one of the best sunset views in the city. It’s a lovely place to sit, picnic, and watch the sun dip over the horizon. You’ll also have a great view of Fisher Island and the skyline of Miami in the distance.
Check out the pier or just relax next to the water after you’ve watched the sunset. South Pointe Park is also the site of the well-known South Pointe Park Pier, reaching from the shore far out into the ocean and offering picturesque water views.
Pro tip: Bring a blanket and some snacks and make it a makeshift picnic by the water. The vibes are mellow, and indeed, it’s a good place to slam.
Saturday Night: Explore Miami’s Nightlife
The good thing about Miami? It’s filled with plenty of good times, all throughout the day and night. No matter if you’re up for the current fashionable rooftop bars, night partying, or live music, it is there to offer.
Start with a drink at a rooftop bar, such as the one at the 1 Hotel South Beach. Here, you can drink cocktails and see the city lights twinkle beneath you. For dancing, there’s LIV or Story, two of the area’s most iconic nightclubs. For a cooler scene, visit Ball & Chain in Little Havana, which features a list of live music and a fun atmosphere.
Tip: If clubbing isn’t your scene, pay a visit to one of Miami’s extensive number of speakeasies or dive bars for an even more low-key night out.
Sunday Morning: Brunch at Coconut Grove
Begin your Sunday with a relaxed meal at brunch in Coconut Grove, one of Miami’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods. There are also heaps of coffee shops and breakfast spots in Coconut Grove. Whether you’re into a classic eggs Benedict or a fresh smoothie bowl, there’s something to satisfy your taste buds.
Dawdle and appreciate the funky soup of Bicheno. Coconut Grove is famous for its winding streets and beautiful parks, which are a relaxing brunch spot! Post-brunch, you can stroll along the water or hit up the nearby shops.
Tip: Nature lovers can walk in the nearby Barnacle Historic State Park for a serene stroll through the park’s leafy green and lovely views of Biscayne Bay.
Sunday Afternoon: Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
No Miami weekend is the same without Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Embodying the grandeur of the Italian Renaissance, this #historic #estate is set in 10 acres of olive trees, orchids, fountains, and Italian cypress, encasing this majestic villa, which overlooks Miami’s Biscayne Bay. The grounds are ideal for a tranquil walk, and the architecture will take you to another era.
Stroll the rich gardens, take in the sculptures, and view the water. The villa is a testament to a rich history, steeped in art, and it’s truly an intriguing place to visit for culture and architecture lovers.
Tip: Get there early to beat the crowds — Vizcaya is a favorite among locals and tourists.
Sunday Night: Beach Chillaxation
Close your weekend out with some chill by the ocean at a gorgeous Miami beach. From South Beach, Miami Beach, to Key Biscayne, Miami’s beaches are the ideal places to relax. Make the most of your last hours in this scenic beach environment; you could work on your tan, splash about in warm water, or just relax in the tranquility!
It’s an excellent place to go for a sunset stroll on the beach, too. Let the tide roll in and remind you of the perfect weekend in Miami you just experienced.
Conclusion
Miami is a great blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture and the perfect place for that quick weekend getaway. Between the beautiful beaches and colorful neighborhoods, delicious food and lively nightlife, there are no end of things to do in this exciting city. By THIS guide, you can visit the best of Miami in a couple of days. So grab your suitcase [and] prepare yourself for an unforgettable jaunt, and make the most of every single second of your perfect weekend in Miami!