Things to do in Miami
A one day itinerary to Miami's must see attractions
The Magic City in Florida has the largest Latin American population outside of Latin America, and this is evident in its vibrant culture and exotic food. If you only have one day at your disposal we suggest you try sticking to just one or two districts - South Beach is the quintessential Miami hot spot, while downtown Miami offers a few typical but enjoyable tourist attractions.
Bayfront Park and Miami SkyLift
Start off your day with a stroll in Bayfront Park and admire the memorials for the astronauts who perished in the Challenger spaceship accident, former president John F. Kennedy and a fountain dedicated to Claude Pepper. An interesting new attraction is the SkyLift - you’ll gain a different perspective on the city when you ride 500 feet into the air in a helium balloon suspended above the park. The ride lasts about 15 minutes and includes a narrated description of Miami.
Jungle Island or Lummus Park Beach
Located between downtown Miami and Miami Beach, this is an excellent family destination - boasting lush tropical gardens that feature animal shows and exhibits. If you don’t have kids or simply just feel like doing something different, make your way to South Beach and its renowned Lummus Park Beach – as this is where you are most likely to see photo shoots and camera crews.
Holocaust Memorial
This memorial at the centre of Meridian Drive and Dade Boulevard was created with the help of Miami Beach Holocaust survivors and sculptor Kenneth Treister. The most noticeable feature is a large arm with Holocaust victims trying to climb up it, as well as sculptures of a mother and her children perishing to death - surrounded by Anne Frank quotes. This is definitely a very touching place worth visiting.
Española Way
Modelled after the romantic Mediterranean villages found in France and Spain, this area today consists of a few charming art galleries, inviting restaurants and quirky shops. Sit down for a relaxing lunch before you move on to the main location of serious retail therapy.
Lincoln Road Mall
One of the hottest shopping streets in the country, Lincoln Road is home to a seven-block open-air pedestrian mall. You’ll come across nationally known shops such as French Connection and Anthropologie, as well as international shops such as Italy’s funky Miss Sixty. There’s also a farmers market on Sundays and an antique market every now and then. When your feet are aching head back to your hotel - perhaps for some pampering at the spa or simply a relaxing hour or two in your room or by the pool.
Mango Bar
This hip and happening restaurant is situated right on Ocean Drive - boasting sumptuous Caribbean/American inspired meals that are guaranteed to satisfy your tastebuds. Savour Miami’s unique New World cuisine – a Florribean cuisine that blends local produce, Latin American and Caribbean culinary tradition, as well as the technical skills required in European cooking. Dinner, live music and Mango’s exotic tropical drinks - such as the refreshing Mojito - is the perfect end to an eventful Miami day.