The Top 10 Bucket List Things To Do in Hot Miami

Beautiful beaches, hot weather, amazing food, and gorgeous views. Miami has all that and more! With its close proximity to both Cubia and the Caribbean, Miami has a distinct “flavor” to it.

Looking for interesting things to add to your Miami bucket list?

The Miami Bucket List includes Miami Beach, Little Havana, the Miracle Mile, the Millionaire’s Row Boat Cruise, and lunch at the Versace Mansion.

Miami Bucket List: Best Attractions in Hot Miami

The first time I went to Miami was December 2020, right after the Covid lockdown was lifted. The Big Red Miami Hop On/ Hop Off bus had just restarted. One of the stops was in front of a delicious Cuban restaurant in the Little Havana neighborhood.

It felt good to take a boat ride in the hot sun in winter. I had heard about the Millionaire’s Boat Cruise several years earlier and was excited to see waterside mansions belonging to Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin, and Gloria Estefan.

Read on to learn more about the Top Things to Do in Hot Miami!

1. View the Miami Skyline from a Boat Cruise

Located on the shores of Biscayne Bay, the Miami skyline can best be described as spectacular. Miami’s 300+ skyscrapers make it the third-largest skyline in the U.S.

The best place to view the skyline is from the water. A boat cruise around Biscayne Bay offers views of the beautiful downtown Miami skyline, the Port of Miami, Fisher Island, and Miami Beach.

With more passenger traffic and cruise lines than any other city, the Port of Miami is the busiest cruise port in the world. Cruise ships can be seen all over the bay.

There are several boat tours to choose from. Trip Advisor has a long list. Miami Aqua Tours offers a Sightseeing Cruise and a Skyline Miami Cruise. And Thriller Miami offers a 45-minute speedboat adventure.

➡️Check out Miami Skyline Cruise of South Beach and Millionaire Homes

2. Check out Celebrity Homes on the Millionaire’s Row Cruise

The barrier islands across from Miami feature glamourous multi-million dollar waterfront homes owned by Miami’s rich and famous.

I highly recommend taking Island Queen’s Millionaire’s Row Cruise. An onboard tour guide narrates in both English and Spanish as the boat sails past waterfront homes owned by Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez, Gloria Estefan, and Will Smith.

The cruise sails past Star Island, Fisher Island, Palm Island, and more.

Celebrity Homes on Star Island

Star Island is a neighborhood in the city of Miami Beach on a man-made island. Celebrities who own or have owned homes on the island include Jennifer Lopez, Sean “P Diddy” Combs, Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Don Johnson, Rosie O’Donnell, Shaquille O’Neal, Xuxa, and Phillip Frost.

Celebrity Homes on Fisher Island

Fisher Island is a private, 216-acre tropical paradise located off the southern tip of Miami Beach. It has the highest per capita income of any place in the U.S. Located 3 miles offshore, there is no road that leads to the island. It is only accessible by boat, helicopter, or a a 24-hour passenger vehicle ferry service.

Past and current residents of Fisher Island include Oprah Winfrey, Andre Agassi, Boris Becker, Julia Roberts, Mike Fratello, Sharon Gless, Harold Ford, Sr., Pavel Bure, and Tim Rattay.

Celebrity Homes on Palm Island

Palm Island is an upscale neighborhood in the city of Miami Beach. Located on an 82 acre man-made island, it is only accessible by land via the MacArthur Causeway.

Boats depart Wednesday-Sunday at 11am 12pm 1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm 5pm 6pm 7pm.

The Island Queen’s Millionaire’s Row Cruise departs from Bayside Marketplace, which is located at 401 Biscayne Boulevard in Miami. (See below). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 305-374-3344.

3. Ride the Miami Big Bus Hop On / Hop Off Bus

To see Miami via land, I highly recommend the Hop On/Hop Off Big Bus Miami. It is the city’s only open-top, double-decker sightseeing bus and provides pre-recorded commentary in 6 different languages.

I have taken the Big Bus in many cities around the world including London, Paris, Rome, Istanbul, and Hong Kong. It’s my favorite travel day, especially after I have done a lot of walking the day before or have jet lag. All you have to do is sit back, listen on your headphones, and enjoy the scenery.

The Miami Big Bus Hop On / Hop Off Bus Route:

1. Bayside Marketplace
2. South Beach
3. Soundscape Park
4. Indian Creek
5. Mid Beach / RIU Hotel
6. North Beach / Fontainebleu & Lexington Hotels
7. Design District / Midtown
8. Wynwood Walls
9. Downtown / Holiday Inn
10. Little Havana

4. Swim at the Beach

No trip to Miami would be complete without a beach day! The 16 beaches in Miami range from rowdy to remote.

South Beach (near Ocean Drive) is a party beach. The scantily clad women look they are going to a nightclub; not the beach. You can purchase food/beverages and rent an umbrella from trailers parked on the beach. And there are several pretty multi-colored lifeguard towers. The beach area is surrounded by restaurants, shopping, and a vibrant nightlife.

At the other extreme is Virginia Key Beach Park, one of the most beautiful beaches in Miami. Housed on its own island, this mile long, palm tree-lined oasis is accessible by Rickenbacker Causeway. It features an antique carousel, miniature train ride, and children’s playground.

To learn more about the 16 beaches in Miami, check out the Visit Florida website.

➡️Speedboat Sightseeing Adventure of Miami

5. Explore Miami Beach

Miami Beach is a resort city located on natural and man-made barrier islands between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. South Beach is a neighborhood on the southern tip of Miami Beach.

South Beach Art Deco Buildings

The South Beach Art Deco Historic District has the largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the world. It features over 800 historic buildings built between 1923-1943. Most are located on the infamous Ocean Drive.

This includes the Sunray Apartments, which were featured in the movie Scarface. The video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City is based on the city of Miami and has a replica of Ocean Drive.

The Art Deco Welcome Center is open daily from 9:00am-5:00pm. Walking tours are offered daily at 10:30am and Thursdays at 6:00pm. Self-guided audio tours and private tours are also available.

Miami Beach is a must-visit on this Miami bucket list!

➡️Check out Miami’s Best Private Boat Charter with a Captain

6. Hang out at Bayside Marketplace

Bayside Marketplace, a unique Miami bucket list item, is a waterside, open air, festival marketplace in downtown Miami. It offers the full Miami experience -seafood, salsa rhythms, and tropical cocktails.

Located on the water, there are many places to book a boat tour or the Millionaire’s boat cruise (see above). Or a water taxi to the Miami Beach/South Beach Marina.

Restaurants include the Hard Rock Café, Chilis, Bubba Gump, and Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls. There are outdoor bars and juice bars. And there is live music daily on the Marina Stage. I recommend the Hard Rock Miami. It’s a circular building surrounded by water.

Bayside Marketplace is located at 401 Biscayne Blvd in Miami. The phone number is 305-0577-3344.

Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel

Towering 200 feet above Bayside Marketplace, Skyviews Miami offers unparalleled views of Biscayne Bay, Bayfront Park, and the iconic Downtown Miami skyline.

There are 42 completely enclosed and climate-controlled Gondolas. Each ride is 12-15 minutes. No matter what the temperature is outside, it is always 72 degrees inside your private Gondola. Tickets can be purchased online or in person.

7. Eat Cuban food in Little Havana

The Cuban neighborhood in Miami is called Little Havana. It is the best known Cuban exile neighborhood in the world. Truthfully, there is not much to do in Little Havana. It consists of a handful of restaurants and bars located. The main strip is Calle Ocho. (8^th St in Spanish).

I highly recommend El Cristo restaurant. I go there at least twice every time I am in Miami. Ropa Vieja is stew meat in red sauce with onions and green peppers.

There are also screaming good vegetarian options such as Yucca fries that comes with both a delicious red sauce and green sauce. In my opinion they are even more delicious than french fries made out of potatoes. The Tostones (fried bananas that are still green so are not sweet yet) are divine.

El Cristo restaurant is located at 1543 SW 8th St in Miami. The phone number is 305-643-9992.

➡️Check out the Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami

8. Drive the Miracle Mile in Coral Gables

Coral Gables is an exclusive planned community located near Miami Beach and downtown Miami. The city’s architecture is almost entirely Mediterranean Revival style – mandated in the original plan – with an emphasis on Spanish influence.

The main road through downtown Coral Gables is called Miracle Mile. I highly recommend driving through the Coral View neighborhood to view the beautiful houses and scenery.

The Biltmore

The Biltmore Hotel is a national historic landmark that has been a favorite of world leaders and celebrities since its opening in 1926. The 271-room resort resembles classic Italian, Moorish, and Spanish architectural influences spread over 150-acres of tropical landscape. The Biltmore Tower is inspired by the Giralda, the medieval tower of the cathedral of Seville.

The Biltmore offers a restored Donald Ross 18-hole, 71 par championship golf course, tennis courts, the largest hotel pool on the East Coast of the U.S., a European spa, and an award-winning fitness center.

If staying at the Biltmore is not in your budget, stop by for a meal. Dining options include Italian, poolside, afternoon tea, and Sunday brunch. The award-winning Palme d’Or is recognized by Zagat as one of the best restaurants in the country.

The Biltmore is located at 1200 Anastasia Ave in Coral Gables. The phone number is 305-445-1926.

The Venetian Pool

The Venetian Pool is a historic U.S. public swimming pool built in 1923 from a coral rock quarry. The 820,000 gallon pool is fed with spring water from an underground aquifer. In the spring and summer seasons, the pool is filled and drained daily! You can purchase a ticket in person or online.

The Venetian Pool is located at 2701 de Soto Boulevard in Coral Gables. The phone number is 305-460-5306.

9. Check out the Graffiti Art in Wynwood

Arguably one of the best places to explore on this Miami bucket list is Wynwood. It is a neighborhood in Miami that is famous for the urban graffiti art that covers local businesses.

It started in 2009 when artist and real estate developer Tony Goldman founded Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum of international street art. With over 50 dazzling, cutting-edge murals created by respected street artists from Asia, Europe, Latin America and the United States, Wynwood Walls attracts hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world each year.

Murals soon popped up throughout the Wynwood district on subjects such as movie gangsters, cartoon characters, and animals. Wynwood is now one of the best venues in the world to see the work of leading street artists. You can walk throughout the neighborhood and view murals for free.

Visit Wynwood Walls

With over 50 dazzling, cutting-edge murals created by respected street artists from Asia, Europe, Latin America and the United States, Wynwood Walls attracts hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world each year. Tickets to Wynwood Walls range from $0-$12.

The onsite gift shop sells postcards, pictures, etc. of replicas of some of the wall sized murals. Paid tours are available that focus on the Artist’s profile and the meaning behind the mural’s concept.

Wynwood Walls is located at 266 NW 26th St Miami. The phone number is 305-531-4411

Check out my blog Ultimate Guide to St Augustine – The First U.S. Colony!

10. Tour the Versace Villa

The late Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace lived in a villa on Ocean Drive in the South Beach area of Miami Beach. Tragically, it was the site of his murder.

Versace founded an international luxury fashion house (named after himself) that produces clothing, accessories, fragrances, and home furnishings.

Versace Villa History

The Versace Villa – formally known as Casa Casuarina – was built in the 1930s by Alden Freeman; heir to the Standard Oil fortune. Versace purchased the villa in 1992 for $2.95 million. He also purchased the hotel next door, which he demolished to install a garden, swimming pool and south wing.

The designer lived in the house until his death. On the morning of July 15, 1997, he took a walk on Ocean Drive to retrieve his morning magazines from a nearby cafe. Normally his assistant would do it.

Versace was murdered on the steps to his house by Andrew Cunanan, a spree killer who was obsessed with the designer. The murder is documented in the Netflix miniseries The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. It stars Ricky Martin as Versace’s boyfriend . I highly recommend watching it.

Stay at the Versace Villa

Today the Villa operates as a luxury boutique hotel, restaurant, and event venue. Rooms at The Villa Casa Casuarina start at $854.

Dine at Gianni’s Restaurant

Gianni’s Restaurant is open for Lunch Monday – Sunday from 11:00am-4:30 pm and Dinner from Monday – Sunday 6:00pm – 12:00am. Make a reservation at 786-485-2200 or info@vmmiamibeach.com.

Where to Stay in Miami

Miami offers a wide range of accommodations for every budget and travel style. Whether you’re visiting for sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, or cultural exploration, staying in the right neighborhood can enhance your experience. South Beach, Mid-Beach, and Surfside are all great areas depending on what kind of vibe you’re after.

Here are some of the best accommodation options in Miami for all budgets:

Tier	Hotel	Highlights	Location
Budget	Freehand Miami	Pool, social bar, stylish dorms/ private rooms	Mid Beach
Mid‑Range	Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel	Beachfront, lively vibe, boutique art deco charm	South Beach
Luxury	Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club	Spa, fine dining, historic elegance, tranquility	Surfside

Budget Accommodation – Freehand Miami

If you’re looking for a fun and budget-friendly stay with style, Freehand Miami is a top pick. This hostel-hotel hybrid in Mid-Beach offers both shared and private rooms with a laid-back, artsy vibe just a short walk from the beach.

Guests love the tropical courtyard pool, award-winning Broken Shaker bar, and social atmosphere, making it great for solo travelers, digital nomads, or budget-conscious couples.

Mid-range Accommodation – Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel

For travelers wanting to stay right on South Beach without the luxury price tag, Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel delivers. Located on Collins Avenue, this boutique hotel offers direct beach access, a palm-lined pool, and bold Art Deco design.

With fun activities like beach yoga and wine hours, plus a fantastic on-site restaurant, Surfcomber strikes a perfect balance between comfort and energy.

Luxury Accommodation – Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club

If you’re after elegance, privacy, and top-tier service, the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club in Surfside is hard to beat. This reimagined 1930s beach club offers oceanfront suites, a serene spa, and world-class dining by Chef Thomas Keller.

A favorite among luxury travelers and celebs, it’s a peaceful escape just north of the buzz of South Beach, perfect for honeymooners or anyone seeking sophistication and quiet luxury.

FAQs: Miami Bucket List

What outdoor activities are popular in Miami?

Miami offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as biking, boating, rollerblading, jet skiing, swimming, and paddleboarding. You can explore shaded nature trails at Crandon Park, where you can see wildlife like sea turtles and manatees. Another popular outdoor activity is kayaking through the tranquil mangrove wetlands of Oleta River State Park.

What is Miami best known for?

Miami is known for its sparkling beaches, stunning views, glamorous lifestyle, and vibrant nightlife. Miami’s unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty, including nearby national parks, makes it a standout destination.

What is the most famous part of Miami?

The most famous part of Miami is South Beach. Ocean Drive is a lively street in South Beach where the iconic images of Miami come to life. It is lined with trendy restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it the heart of Miami’s glamorous and lively scene.

Final Thoughts: Miami Bucket List

Miami offers a vibrant mix of experiences, from beautiful beaches and boat cruises to rich cultural excursions and world-class dining. You can explore the Art Deco charm of South Beach and cruise past celebrity homes.

Miami’s mix of urban energy and natural beauty guarantees an unforgettable trip. Plan your visit and check off the must-see spots on your Miami bucket list!

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