1-Day Miami Insider's Guide: Shopping and Nightlife with Friends
Miami, Florida
1 days
About Miami, Florida
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning beaches of Miami, Florida. This tropical paradise offers a myriad of attractions from the art-deco historic district in South Beach, to the bustling nightlife of Miami Beach. Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades National Park or immerse yourself in the rich Cuban culture of Little Havana. Visit the high-end shops of Bal Harbour or the exotic animals at Zoo Miami. Enjoy water sports like jet-skiing and paddleboarding, or relax on the pristine sands of Key Biscayne. Indulge in world-class dining featuring global cuisines and fresh seafood. Miami's diverse attractions cater to all tastes, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. Come and soak up the sun in the Magic City!
1-Day Itinerary
Attractions in Itinerary (3)
1Art Deco Historic District
A historic district in Miami Beach noted for its concentration of over 800 Art Deco buildings all within one square mile.
2Design District
A neighborhood dedicated to innovative fashion, design, architecture and dining experiences.
3South Beach
Known for its beaches and the Art Deco Historic District, South Beach is a vibrant area with upscale restaurants, nightclubs and designer shops.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Cuban Sandwich
A popular sandwich in Miami made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread. It's a staple in Miami due to the city's large Cuban population.
Stone Crabs
A must-try seafood delicacy in Miami, especially during the stone crab season (October-May). The crabs are usually served chilled with a side of mustard sauce.
Ceviche
A popular dish in Miami due to its coastal location and Latin American influences. It's made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.
Key Lime Pie
A classic Floridian dessert made from Key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk in a pie crust. The pie originated in the Florida Keys, south of Miami.
Empanadas
A type of baked or fried turnover consisting of pastry and filling, common in Latin American cuisines. In Miami, you can find a variety of empanadas due to its diverse Latin American population.
Ropa Vieja
A Cuban dish of shredded beef stewed with vegetables. It's one of the national dishes of Cuba and very popular in Miami due to the city's large Cuban community.
Arepa
A type of food made of ground maize dough or cooked flour, prominent in the cuisine of Colombia and Venezuela. It's popular in Miami due to the city's large Latin American population.
Conch Fritters
A popular seafood snack in Miami made from conch meat, peppers, onions, celery, and a batter, all deep-fried to a golden brown.
Café Cubano
A type of espresso that originated in Cuba. It's very popular in Miami, especially among the Cuban community. It's typically sweetened with natural brown sugar.
Mojito
A traditional Cuban highball. It's a popular cocktail in Miami, made with white rum, sugar, lime juice, soda water, and mint.
Pastelitos
A Cuban pastry filled with either sweet or savory fillings. They are a popular snack or dessert in Miami, especially among the Cuban community.
Cuban Coffee
A strong, sweet espresso drink popular in Miami. It's often made using dark roasted coffee beans and served in a small cup.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Miami, Florida is typically between March and May. During these months, the weather is warm, but not excessively hot, and the city is less crowded than in the winter months. Additionally, many of the city's biggest events, like the Ultra Music Festival and Miami Beach International Fashion Week, happen during this period. However, if you're looking to save on travel and accommodation, the summer months (June through August) can offer significant discounts, though you'll have to contend with higher temperatures and humidity.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Miami. There are numerous car rental companies available at the Miami International Airport and throughout the city. This gives you the flexibility to explore Miami at your own pace.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Miami. They offer a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around the city. You can request a ride using the respective app on your smartphone.
Public Transportation
Miami has a comprehensive public transportation system, which includes Metrobus, Metrorail, and Metromover. The Metromover is a free service that operates in downtown Miami, while the Metrorail connects the city with the suburbs. The Metrobus covers areas not accessible by rail.
Bicycles
Miami is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike rental stations, particularly in areas like Miami Beach. The city's DecoBike program allows you to rent a bike from one station and return it at another.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in Miami, especially in tourist areas and at the airport. They offer a convenient but more expensive option compared to ridesharing services.
Water Taxi
Water taxis provide a unique way to travel around Miami, offering services along the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River. They stop at popular destinations like Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, and Hollywood.
Pedestrian
Miami's neighborhoods like South Beach and Coconut Grove are pedestrian-friendly, offering a variety of attractions within walking distance.
Scooters
Electric scooters are a popular mode of transportation in Miami. Companies like Lime and Bird provide app-based scooter rental services throughout the city.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Miami, Florida as a first time visitor
1
Miami has a tropical monsoon climate, meaning it has a wet season (May to October) and a dry season (November to April).
2
Hurricane season in Miami runs from June 1st to November 30th, with the peak period from early August through the end of October.
3
Miami is a multicultural city with a large Latin American population. Spanish is widely spoken, but English is the primary language.
4
The city is known for its nightlife, particularly in areas like South Beach, Downtown, Coconut Grove, and Wynwood.
5
Miami has a reputation for being a bit pricey, especially when it comes to dining and nightlife. Budget accordingly.
6
The city is very pedestrian-friendly, especially in areas like South Beach. However, public transportation options are also available, including buses, trolleys, and the Metrorail.
7
Tipping is customary in Miami. A 15-20% tip is standard for restaurant service, while $1-2 per bag is typical for bellmen.
8
Miami is known for its Art Deco architecture, particularly in the South Beach area. Take some time to appreciate the unique buildings.
9
Miami's beaches are beautiful, but remember to apply plenty of sunscreens, even in the winter months. The sun can be intense.
10
The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The Wynwood Walls, a collection of outdoor murals, is a must-see.
11
Miami is a great city for shopping, with options ranging from high-end boutiques in the Design District to discount outlets in Dolphin Mall.
12
The city is home to a variety of cuisines, but Cuban food is a must-try. Don't miss out on a traditional Cuban sandwich or a café con leche.
13
Miami is a city that never sleeps. Many clubs and bars stay open until 5 am, and some even 24 hours.
14
The city can get quite hot, with average high temperatures in the summer reaching 90°F (32°C) and average lows in the winter around 60°F (16°C).
15
Miami is a popular destination for cruise ships, with the Port of Miami being one of the busiest ports in the world.
16
The city has strict laws about drinking in public. It's illegal to have an open container of alcohol in most public areas.
17
Miami has a large LGBTQ+ community and hosts several events throughout the year, including the Miami Beach Pride in April.
18
The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Miami Dolphins (NFL), Miami Heat (NBA), and Miami Marlins (MLB).
19
Miami has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
20
The city is known for its traffic congestion. If you're planning to rent a car, be prepared for heavy traffic, especially during rush hour.
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Comfortable walking shoes
Toiletries
Sunscreen
After-sun lotion
Insect repellent
Travel-size toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)
Deodorant
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Personal medication
Travel documents and essentials
Valid ID
Credit and/or debit card
Cash
Health insurance card
Hotel reservation confirmation
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger
Portable power bank
Headphones
Camera
Miscellaneous items
Beach bag
Beach towel
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Travel guide or map
Umbrella
Weather Conditions
Miami, Florida is known for its tropical monsoon climate, which means it experiences hot, humid summers and warm winters. If you're planning to visit Miami, it's essential to know that the city's hottest months are typically July and August, with average high temperatures around 91°F (33°C). Therefore, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun. The city's cooler months, from December to February, see average high temperatures around 76°F (24°C), so you might want to bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. Miami is also known for its rainy season which runs from May to October. During this period, the city can experience short, intense showers and thunderstorms, often in the afternoon. So, it's a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat when you're out exploring. Despite the rain, this period is also hurricane season. While the risk of hurricanes hitting Miami directly is low, it's still wise to stay updated with local weather forecasts during your visit. Finally, regardless of when you visit, remember to stay hydrated. Miami's humidity can be quite high, especially during the summer months, which can lead to dehydration if you're not careful. Enjoy your trip to Miami, and make the most of the city's beautiful weather!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 24° / 16° | January is the coldest month in Miami, but it's still relatively warm with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 24°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer less humid and cooler weather. |
February | 25° / 17° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 17°C to 25°C. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities. |
March | 27° / 18° | March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 27°C. The weather is warm and comfortable, ideal for beach activities. |
April | 29° / 20° | In April, the temperature ranges from 20°C to 29°C. The weather is warm but not too hot, making it a great time for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. |
May | 31° / 23° | May is the start of the hot season with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C. It's a great time to hit the beach, but be prepared for occasional rain showers. |
June | 33° / 25° | June is the start of summer with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C. It's hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. |
July | 34° / 26° | July is the hottest month in Miami with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 34°C. It's a great time for water activities, but be prepared for high humidity and thunderstorms. |
August | 34° / 26° | August continues the hot and humid summer season with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 34°C. Expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms, but the beaches and water activities are still enjoyable. |
September | 33° / 25° | September sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 25°C to 33°C. It's still quite hot and humid, with a high chance of thunderstorms and hurricanes. |
October | 31° / 23° | In October, the temperature ranges from 23°C to 31°C. The weather starts to cool down, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities without the extreme heat. |
November | 28° / 20° | November marks the beginning of the cooler season with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer less humid and cooler weather. |
December | 26° / 18° | December is a pleasant month with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C. It's a great time to enjoy the holiday season in Miami's warm winter weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by Miami, Florida
Key West
A tropical paradise with a rich history and a vibrant nightlife
Everglades National Park
A unique ecosystem filled with wildlife
Naples
A city known for its high-end shopping, golf courses, and white sandy beaches
Fort Lauderdale
A city known for its beaches and boating canals
Boca Raton
A city known for its golf courses, parks, and beaches
Palm Beach
A city known for its upscale boutiques and wide, sandy beaches
Orlando
A city known for its theme parks, including Walt Disney World
Key Largo
The first of the Florida Keys and known for its tropical scenery
Sanibel Island
A barrier island known for its shell-strewn beaches
St. Petersburg
A city known for its pleasant weather and its draw for golfers, boaters, and fishers
