All about Miami
When to visit
Weather-wise, spring is considered the best time to visit Miami, but timing is key. March is Spring Break season, and many college students flock here for the festivities. Come April and May, students are back in school, which may be the best window to visit the idyllic South Beach.
Summers are hot and humid, but that doesn’t stop families on summer break from flocking to the white sand beaches. Fall is peak hurricane season in the Atlantic, which can lead to disruptions in travel and reservations
With temperatures averaging in the mid-70s℉ (mid-20s℃), winter is a perfect escape from colder northern climes. Miami is a popular holiday retreat, with lights adorning its art deco buildings and palm tree-lined streets. In early December, Art Basel brings the crowds, making it an expensive, albeit exciting, time to visit.
Getting around
Walking: Warm weather year-round means Miami is a great walking city. The city’s mostly grid-like layout and numbered streets and avenues make it easy to navigate by foot.
Train: Downtown Miami has a Metromover rail line that goes to popular locations and is free to all passengers. In addition, the Metrorail line travels throughout the city’s metropolitan area if you’re planning a day trip.
Bus: The Metrobus has almost 100 routes within the city limits, making it a reliable way to get from one neighborhood to another. The schedules for the bus change throughout the course of the day, so plan accordingly to avoid longer-than-necessary transfers. The Miami Beach Trolleys are an easy—and free—option to get to the city’s major beaches.
Taxi: Taxis can be easily found throughout the city, and are a good option for those looking to avoid parking problems in the busier parts of town. Rideshare services also operate throughout the city’s metropolitan area.
Traveler tips
Miami may be known for its beaches, but the city’s culture is really its backbone. Bolstered by its Latin population, Miami has the largest Cuban-American population in the country, which makes the city’s Little Havana neighborhood a must-visit area for food, art, music, and nightlife.
Before planning your visit, be sure to check the city’s event calendar to make sure you are planning your visit before or after some of the larger events—especially if you are looking for a trip on a budget. Miami’s busy seasons span throughout the course of the year, making hotel, airfare, and attraction rates fluctuate, with small windows in between to grab the best deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Miami famous for?
The city is famous for its sandy beaches, retro architecture, vibrant art scene, and ocean-based activities including boating and stand-up paddleboarding. The most famous stretch of all is South Beach, a barrier island with picture-perfect beaches. But Miami is also famous for its buzzy neighborhoods like Wynwood and the Design District.
What attractions are near Miami, Florida?
Miami is home to many attractions like the Art Deco Historic District in South Beach, the Perez Art Museum Miami, and the Frost Museum of Science. The city is also near regional attractions including the Florida Keys, the Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens, and Everglades National Park.
What is there to do in Miami besides party?
Beyond nightlife, there are a lot of things to do in Miami. Nature lovers can visit parks and beaches for fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, birding, and snorkeling. It’s also home to an extensive network of bike paths for visitors who may want to explore on two wheels. Art galleries, street art, and creative boutiques provide even more entertainment.
Is Miami worth visiting?
Yes. Travel to this south Florida city for its picture-perfect beaches, art deco architecture, and extensive list of water sports such as boating and kayaking. Beyond the beaches, Miami has also gained a reputation as a destination for contemporary art, cocktail culture, and nightlife.
What should I not miss in Miami?
Don’t miss exploring beyond South Beach. While the sandy shores and art deco architecture of South Beach are worth seeing, lots of popular things to do in Miami extend beyond this barrier island. Visit the art galleries of Wynwood, the seafood restaurants of Brickell, the boutiques in Coconut Grove, and the restaurants of Little Havana.