One Day in Miami Florida: The Top Things to Do & See
Miami is one of the most popular destinations in the United States. People flock there for warm weather, a great club scene, and fun atmosphere.
Miami is a common weekend trip from the East Coast for bachelorette parties, birthday parties, and other occasions.
However, this guide to one day in Miami is focused on a quick trip as an embarkation port for a cruise, a destination on a Florida road trip, or a pit stop on the way to the Caribbean.
This guide to one day in Miami will explain what to do, where to stay, and what to see before you continue on to the next part of your vacation.
If you are visiting Miami to start a cruise or any other reason, keep reading how to plan a one-day itinerary.
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One Day in Miami Itinerary
Below, I’ll share in detail where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and where to drink in Miami. But first, let’s talk about how to squeeze it all into a one-day itinerary.
The below itinerary is a best way to hit the highlights without feeling rushed. The itinerary is easily adjustable based on what activities or restaurants appeal to you.
Morning: Breakfast & Beach Walk
Take the morning easy with breakfast followed by a stroll along South Beach. Take time to visit shops, relax on a bench, and sink your toes into the sand.
Midday: Food Tour for Lunch
For lunch, I recommend taking a food tour to see the city while getting a taste for the best food.
Afternoon: Sunset Cruise
Depending on the time of the year, take a sunset cruise before or after dinner. Since you are limited on time, I recommend this private yacht tour so you can customize it however you want.
Evening: Dinner & Drinks
Wrap up the day with a delicious dinner and drinks at 1-2 of the best bars listed below.
Where to Stay in Miami
The best neighborhood to stay in Miami is South Beach. This small island off of downtown Miami is home to amazing beaches, great restaurants, and a very lively atmosphere.
The below hotels are my top choices of where to stay in Miami. They are at a range of budgets, but all considered “luxury,” and all with great locations.
Splurge: The Ritz-Carlton South Beach
Luxury: W South Beach
Ballin’ on a Budget: Marriott Stanton South Beach
What to Do in Miami
1. Explore South Beach & The Boardwalk
One of the simplest activities in Miami is walking the South Beach boardwalk. There are amazing people watching opportunities with people working out, playing volleyball, walking, and relaxing on the beach.
On the weekends, there are often vendors selling handmade crafts and treats. If the weather is good, you can find yourself a spot on the beach to soak in the sun or swim.
2. Day Trip to the Everglades
One of the top things to do in Miami is actually outside of the city. For a more adventurous activity, I highly recommend a day trip to the everglades.
You will take an air boat ride and see animals such as birds and crocodiles.
3. Sunset Cruise
With the beautiful water so close, a sunset cruise is a must. I love this affordable option that includes a cruise of the bay and viewing of millionaire’s row with luxury homes.
For a more special experience, this private tour with champagne is reasonably priced and allows you privacy and the flexibility to tour where you want.
4. Cuban Food Tour
The Cuban food in Miami is amazing. Below, I recommend a couple great Cuban restaurants. However, with only one day in Miami, doing a food tour is the best way to get a taste of the cuisine.
I recommend this tour that is specifically focused on Cuban food because that is the type of food that sets the Miami food scene apart.
This two-and-a-half-hour tour provides plenty of food to count as a lunch and will teach you all about the area from a local.
Where to Eat in Miami
There are a ton of great restaurants in Miami, but with only one day in the city, you need to eat the best. The below restaurants are my favorite in the South Beach neighborhood.
There’s a great option for Southern, Cuban, or Italian, depending on what you’re craving.
Yardbird Miami – Southern restaurant with great brunch and dinner. I recommend anything on the menu with fried chicken.
Call Me Cuban – Great Cuban dinner spot with views of South Beach. The vaca frita and mojitos are delicious.
Havana 1957 – Another tasty Cuban restaurant with a great menu and fun atmosphere.
Carbone – Very popular Italian restaurant made famous by the spicy rigatoni alla vodka. Be sure to get a reservation well in advance.
Best Bars in South Beach
In addition to many great restaurants, South Beach has a fantastic bar scene. Ranging from casual dive bars to glitzy nightclubs, there is something for everyone.
The below three bars are my top choices for a fun before or after dinner drink. There is no dress code or cover fee, but plenty of unique and tasty cocktails.
Pretty Swell – Small cocktail bar with a small bohemian patio, great for catching up with friends and chatting
Sweet Liberty – Retro-themed bar with a small dance floor and a great happy hour for drinks and food
Swizzle Rum – Hidden speakeasy (that can be found on google maps). I highly recommend sitting at the bar because the bartenders put on a show for each and every cocktail.
Trip Extensions from Miami
Since you likely aren’t traveling all the way to Miami for a one-day vacation, I’ve listed some of the best trip extensions from the city.
Western Caribbean Cruise – My most recent visit to Miami was as the embarkation port for a western Caribbean cruise. The Miami cruise port is a huge starting point for cruises to Mexico, the Bahamas, and other Caribbean destinations.
Island Hop to St Lucia – Many flights from the United States to Caribbean islands include a layover in Miami. Take advantage of that layover to spend one day exploring Miami.
One of the best destinations easily accessible from Miami is the island of St Lucia. I’ve visited this island many times and dream of going back.
East Coast Road Trip – Hop in a car in Miami and start driving north to explore the east coast United States. Hit amazing destinations such as Orlando, Savannah, Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Washington DC.
Summary of One Day in Miami
By now, you should have a good idea of how to maximize your one day in Miami. The perfect itinerary includes a bit of relaxation, delicious food, and unique activities.
For a simple itinerary, simply select the top activity, restaurant, and bar from this list and combine them for a balanced, yet fun-filled day in this spirited city.
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