Best 3 Days in Miami Itinerary
Looking for the perfect 3 days in Miami itinerary? Keep reading!
Miami is one of the coolest places in the United States. A melting pot of cultures and ethnicities has made it a vibrant and unique place everyone needs to visit.
I have visited Florida a lot in my life. Miami is a new place on the list and I have fallen in love. After over a week in Miami, I can honestly say it is such an underrated gem that has something for just about everyone.
Below are the ultimate 3 days in Miami to show you the best of this stunning city and beyond.
(Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning if you click on the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and you may even receive a small discount. See disclosure for more information.)
In This Post
3 Days in Miami Itinerary, Florida
Short on time? Here’s what you need to know!
Day 1: South Beach
Day 2: Day Trip
Day 3: Miami Downtown
3 Best hotels in Miami
➡️ The Elser Hotel Miami
➡️ The Miami Beach EDITION
➡️ The Betsy Hotel
Day 1: South Beach
South Beach is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful sandy beaches, and iconic Art Deco architecture. Visiting South Beach offers a quintessential Miami experience that you could easily spend a week exploring and relaxing on.
The area is home to a unique blend of culture, nightlife, and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the ultimate Miami experience.
Best Things to Do in South Beach
➡️ Relax on the Beach: South Beach’s shoreline stretches for miles, offering ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The turquoise waters and soft sand are so similar to those in the Caribbean and will transport you to a tropical paradise.
➡️ Explore Art Deco District: Wander through the colorful streets of the Art Deco Historic District, where you’ll find over 800 preserved buildings dating back to the 1920s and 1930s.
➡️ Ocean Drive: Stroll along Ocean Drive, the bustling street that runs parallel to the beach, lined with Art Deco hotels, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife spots.
➡️ Visit Lummus Park: Located along Ocean Drive, Lummus Park offers green space, palm trees, and scenic views of the beach. It’s a perfect spot for a walk, picnicking, or playing beach volleyball.
➡️ Sunset at South Pointe Park: Head to South Pointe Park at the southern tip of South Beach to catch a stunning sunset over the Miami skyline and cruise ships departing from the Port of Miami.
Day 2: Day Trip
Day trips from Miami offer the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes, attractions, and cultures of South Florida.
They provide a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing travelers to discover new experiences and create lasting memories.
Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or adventure, day trips offer a convenient way to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of nearby destinations.
Best Day Trips from Miami
Everglades National Park
➡️ Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour by car.
➡️ How to Get There: Rent a car or join a guided tour.
➡️ Why Visit: Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and tropical plants. Take an airboat ride through the marshes, hike scenic Everglades trails, and learn about the park’s conservation efforts at visitor centers.
➡️ Click Here to book the top-rated tour of the Everglades!
This tour is likely to see OUT!
Key West
➡️ Travel Time: Approximately 3.5 hours by car.
➡️ How to Get There: Drive along the scenic Overseas Highway or take a bus tour.
➡️ Why Visit: Experience the laid-back atmosphere and vibrant culture of Key West, the southernmost city in the continental United States. Explore historic sites, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets at Mallory Square.
➡️ Click Here to book the top-rated day trip from Miami to Key West
Biscayne National Park:
➡️ Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour by car.
➡️ How to Get There: Drive to Homestead and then take a boat tour or kayak rental.
➡️ Why Visit: Discover the underwater wonders of Biscayne National Park, home to vibrant coral reefs, mangrove forests, and marine life. Snorkel or scuba dive among colorful fish and coral formations and spot dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat.
➡️ Click Here to book the top-rated day trip to Biscayne National Park
Wynwood Arts District, Miami:
➡️ Travel Time: Located within Miami, approximately 15-20 minutes by car from downtown.
➡️ How to Get There: Drive or take public transportation.
➡️ Why Visit: Immerse yourself in Miami’s thriving arts scene in the vibrant Wynwood neighborhood. Explore colorful murals and street art, browse galleries showcasing local artists, and enjoy eclectic dining options and craft breweries.
Fort Lauderdale Beach:
➡️ Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes by car.
➡️ How to Get There: Drive or take a commuter train.
➡️ Why Visit: Relax on the sandy shores of Fort Lauderdale Beach, known for its clear waters and palm-lined promenade. Take a scenic stroll along the waterfront, enjoy water sports, and explore nearby attractions like the historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens.
These day trips offer a diverse range of experiences, allowing travelers to explore the natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures that South Florida has to offer, all within easy reach of Miami.
Day 3: Downtown Miami
Downtown Miami serves as the bustling heart of the city, offering a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modern urban living. Visitors flock to this dynamic district to explore its diverse neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and waterfront attractions.
From world-class dining and shopping to cultural institutions and architectural marvels, Downtown Miami promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Best Areas in Downtown Miami
➡️ Brickell: Known as Miami’s financial district, Brickell is a bustling neighborhood filled with sleek skyscrapers, upscale condominiums, and trendy restaurants and bars.
➡️ Bayfront Park: Situated along the waterfront, Bayfront Park offers lush green spaces, scenic walking paths, and stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the city skyline. It’s a popular spot for picnics, concerts, and cultural events.
➡️ Downtown Historic District: Explore the historic heart of Downtown Miami, where you’ll find architectural gems like the Freedom Tower, a symbol of Cuban immigration, and the Olympia Theater, a beautifully restored performing arts venue.
Things to Do in Downtown Miami
➡️ Visit Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): Explore contemporary art from around the world at PAMM, located in Museum Park. The museum features rotating exhibitions, permanent collections, and stunning bay views.
➡️ Take a Biscayne Bay Cruise: Embark on a scenic boat tour of Biscayne Bay, departing from Downtown Miami. Cruise past celebrity homes, scenic islands, and iconic landmarks like the Port of Miami and Fisher Island.
➡️ Shop and Dine at Bayside Marketplace: Browse shops, boutiques, and souvenir stalls at Bayside Marketplace, a bustling waterfront shopping and entertainment complex. Enjoy waterfront dining, live music, and scenic views of the bay.
➡️ Explore Little Havana: Venture west of Downtown Miami to Little Havana, a vibrant neighborhood known for its Cuban culture, colorful murals, and lively street life. Sample Cuban coffee, savor authentic cuisine, and experience the rich heritage of this iconic district.
➡️ Catch a Game or Concert at American Airlines Arena: Attend a sporting event or concert at American Airlines Arena, home to the Miami Heat basketball team and host to a variety of entertainment events year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3 days enough to visit Miami?
Three days can offer a taste of Miami’s diverse attractions, but to fully immerse in its vibrant culture and explore its numerous neighborhoods, a longer stay is recommended.
In three days, you can enjoy iconic landmarks like South Beach, venture into downtown for cultural experiences, and take day trips to nearby attractions.
However, to delve deeper into Miami extending the stay to at least five days or more would allow for a more comprehensive exploration of this captivating city.
How many days in Miami is enough?
The ideal duration for a visit to Miami depends on your interests and the experiences you wish to have. However, to fully appreciate the diverse offerings of Miami however a stay of at least 5 to 7 days is recommended.
This timeframe allows ample time to explore the city’s iconic neighborhoods, enjoy leisurely days at the beach, embark on day trips to nearby destinations like the Everglades or Key West, and immerse yourself in Miami’s vibrant nightlife.
Ultimately, the duration of your stay should align with your preferences and the activities you wish to pursue during your visit.
How to Get Around Miami
Getting around Miami is relatively easy, with several transportation options available to suit different preferences and budgets:
🚗 Rental Car: Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Miami and its surrounding areas, providing flexibility and convenience.
🚌 Public Transportation: Miami-Dade Transit operates buses, Metrorail, and Metromover systems that serve the Miami area.
🚙 Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Miami.
🚕 Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Miami, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and transportation hubs like the airport and cruise ports.
🚲 Biking: Miami features several bike-friendly areas, including the Miami Beach boardwalk and the Venetian Causeway. I rented a bike with CITI and LOVED IT.
🚶♂️ Walking: Exploring Miami on foot is a great way to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Miami
Choosing where to stay in Miami depends on your preferences, budget, and the activities you plan to pursue during your visit. Here are the three best hotels in Miami
➡️ The Elser Hotel Miami
➡️ The Miami Beach EDITION
➡️ The Betsy Hotel
Travel Insurance
Getting travel insurance before you travel is a MUST. It’s the number one thing you should always pack before travelling that can save you a lot of money, time, and stress. With how crazy travel has gotten recently you need that peace of mind that no matter what happens there is something protecting you from losing out. I always travel with travel insurance and think everyone should.
I always travel with travel insurance and think everyone should. Below is my favorite travel insurer Safety Wings, enter your details to get a free quote!
Like this post? Pin “3 Days in Miami Itinerary” for later!
Love,
SSW
