Want a Fun-Packed Weekend in Miami? Here's What to do!

Miami is home to a wide range of amazing activities. The city offers high-end shopping, gorgeous white sand beaches, high-energy nightlife, and more. It’s easy to see why this is one of the top destinations in the country. With so many places to see in Miami, it can be hard to keep your itinerary in check. TripShock has put together our recommendations on what to do for a fun-packed weekend in Miami so you can experience the ultimate vacation.

Table of Contents

1. Beaches
2. Kayaking
3. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
4. Zoo Miami
5. Miami Design District
6. Miami Seaquarium
7. Helicopter Tour
8. Food Walking Tour
9. Little Havana
10. Wynwood Walls
11. Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden
12. Monkey Jungle
13. South Pointe Park
14. Parasailing
15. Yacht Charters

 

---

 

1. Beaches

 

 

If you’re traveling to Miami for the sand and sun, then the beach is the perfect place to be. The beaches in Miami span more than 20 miles of the Atlantic coastline. South Beach is the most talked about beach in Florida, and its no wonder why. South Beach consistently attracts the rich and famous, and its well known for acclaimed restaurants and a vibrant nightlife.

If you want a quieter atmosphere, check out Sunny Isles Beach which is lined with stunning residential condos. This beach is perfect for families and couples who want to enjoy a relaxing day in the sun when spending a weekend in Miami.

2. Kayaking

 

 

Kayaking should be added to your “must-do” list when vacationing for a weekend in Miami. Kayaking is an excellent way to spend the day in Mother Nature. So, grab a paddle and head out to the water. Key Biscayne is a paradise when it comes to watersports. You can rent kayaks to explore the charming Biscayne Bay. Black Point Marine in Homestead is an amazing destination to paddle along striking kayak routes. You’ll experience a side of Miami that’s only accessible by water.

3. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

 

 

If you love history and the arts then you’ll love Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The mansion museum was originally built in 1916 as a winter retreat and is now one of the most desired locations for events and photo shoots. It has also been featured in films such as Bad Boys II, Ace Ventura Pet Detective, and Iron Man 3.

Upon visiting the museum, you will see luxurious rooms that are all elegantly decorated with furniture that revisits magnificent European palaces. The living room features a stunning Renaissance piece, an elaborate fireplace, beautiful chandeliers, and more. One of the highlights to many visitors is the Italian Renaissance-inspired gardens.

4. Zoo Miami

 

Image by Zoomiami.org

 

Zoo Miami features an abundance of phenomenal wildlife attractions that are sure to be entertaining. Explore amazing exhibits such as Critter Connection, Amazon and Beyond, and Wings of Asia Aviary. Get up close and personal with the animals through encounters and animal feedings. If you’re on a Miami family vacation, there are kid-friendly activities offered such as Kid Zones with fun playgrounds and waterplay areas.

Explore some of the exciting rides like Lostman’s River Ride where you’re on a slow-moving boat that’s floating through the Everglades. You never know what surprises may turn up around every corner.

5. Miami Design District

 

 

Looking for cultural things to do in Miami? Head to the Miami Design District. This creative neighborhood is to place to be for contemporary art and design from designer murals to public art installations. The area isn’t only about displaying spectacular public art, it’s also brimming with high-end fashion boutiques like Gucci and Fendi, and chic restaurants like Swan, which was created by music artist Pharrell Williams and Miami nightlife star David Grutman.

6. Miami Seaquarium

 

 

See a killer whale become airborne and come face-to-face with dolphins. Miami Seaquarium is one of the top-rated aquariums in Miami, and an experience like no other where you will see animals put on show-stopping performances. Enjoy outstanding shows while learning fascinating facts about your favorite sea creatures. Best of all, you can hop in the water with friendly dolphins at Dolphin Harbor.

{Read Reviews & Book a Miami Seaquarium Experience Online}

7. Helicopter Tour

 

 

What better way to see the sights of Miami than in a helicopter? Taking a helicopter tour is one of the most exhilarating things you could do during your weekend in Miami. View flawless sand, glistening waters, astonishing mansions and more. You’ll enjoy a unique experience from take-off to landing.

{Read Reviews & Book Helicopter Tours Online}

8. Food Walking Tour

 

 

Explore the rich and vibrant cultures of Miami while taking your tastebuds on a culinary adventure. A food tour is a great way to enjoy exceptional cuisine and as you stroll to fantastic local eateries. This is a perfect activity for group outings, date nights, and more.

{Read Reviews & Book Food Walking Tours Online}

9. Little Havana

 

 

Home of the Calle Ocho Music Festival, Little Havana is popular among visitors for its excellent food and dynamic atmosphere. Head over to El Pub for a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine filled with signature flavors. To get the full experience of this amazing Miami Cuban district, try a guided Little Havana Walking Tour where you will sample the renowned mojito, enjoy food tastings, and learn interesting facts about the area.

{Read Reviews & Book a Little Havana Tour Online}

10. Wynwood Walls

 

 

Located just minutes from Downtown Miami, Wynwood Walls features amazing art and life-size murals. Explore one of the top neighborhoods in the country and view the artwork of outstanding street artists. Wynwood is especially popular during Art Basel Miami Beach which is a global art fair that brings in artists and art lovers from all over the world. Many Miami bus tours feature this gem on their stops.

Take advantage of the nearby shopping at boutiques, jewelry stores, and fashion houses. Also nearby, you’ll find eateries that serve up delicious food. A popular place to dine is Wynwood Kitchen & Bar which features a creative Latin and Asian-inspired menu prepared by Chef Miguel Aguilar.

{Read Reviews & Book Wynwood Tours Online}

11. Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden

 

 

As one of the premier botanical gardens in America, making your way to Fairchild is ideal for a romantic date in Miami or an outdoor family adventure. Enjoy more than 80 acres of luxuriant and intriguing rainforests, tropical gardens, and habitats. You’ll find a collection of over 3,000 species including orchids, exotic plants, and tropical fruit.

While you’re there, check out beautiful exhibits such as the Geiger Tropical Flower Garden and the Water Gardens.

12. Monkey Jungle

 

 

Journey to a jungle safari and explore the tropical forest brimming with hundreds of exotic monkeys. Experience up close encounters with capuchin monkeys and squirrel monkeys in this 30-acre jungle park with an awe-inspiring Rainforest showcase. You might even watch a crab-eating monkey nosedive for treats.

13. South Pointe Park

 

 

A visit to South Pointe Park is a must during your vacation in Miami. It offers spectacular views of the South Beach shoreline and direct access to the beach. This is a perfect place to wind down and read a book on one of the benches or set your sights on the beautiful shady palm trees. If you decide to head out to the beach and stick your toes in the sand, there are plenty of beach chair and umbrella rentals available.

When you’re ready to grab a bite to eat, Smith & Wollensky steakhouse is situated in the park with options to carry-out or dine-in.

14. Parasailing

 

 

If you’re an adventure seeker, you might want to add parasailing on your bucket list. You’ll get stunning views of luxurious resorts, sparkling waters, and the magnificent downtown skyline. You might even catch a glimpse of breathtaking celebrity mansions along the way. Many people enjoy having their feet dipped at the end of the ride, which adds to the fun.

{Read Reviews & Book Parasailing Tours Online}

15. Yacht Charters

 

 

Climb aboard a luxurious yacht and relish in the sights of gorgeous mansions and as you explore Miami. You’ll get a full narration along the picturesque Biscayne Bay while seeing some of the most talked about landmarks such as Fisher Island, Miami Beach, and Port of Miami. It’s an especially fun thing to do in Miami in the winter, as many mansions are decked out with their finest holiday decor.

{Read Reviews & Book Yacht Cruises Online}

P.S.: Miami boat tours are a more wallet-friendly option compared to the yacht charters, if you’re looking for things to do in Miami on a budget.