Looking for ideas on what to do on a 3-day trip to Miami? Miami is an exciting city that offers a wide variety of activities for all tastes, there you will have the opportunity to experience a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and adventure.
If you are lucky enough to spend 3 days in this city, there are many plans to make the most of your time, from visiting stunning beaches or discovering world-class museums to enjoying its lively nightlife.
Things to see and do in Miami in 3 days
Miami is perfect for those looking for warm weather, beautiful beaches, cultural events, exclusive shopping options, and an exceptional gastronomic offer. Besides all that, Miami is a multicultural city that offers a diverse experience for all tastes.
If you are eager to discover all the things you can see and do in Miami in 3 days, here is an itinerary with the places you cannot miss during your stay in this fantastic city.
Day 1: Beaches and Nature
If you are planning to explore Miami’s beaches and nature during the first day of your trip, here are some of the best recommendations.
- South Beach: It is an iconic destination that attracts millions of visitors every year to enjoy the sun, the sand, and the wide cultural offer. With a tropical climate, the beaches of South Beach are ideal for swimming, enjoying a night out or just relaxing while soaking up the sun. On top of all that, this neighborhood is a shopping paradise, offering a variety of stores, fashion boutiques, and markets with high-end products. If you want to discover the most attractive beaches in the city, we recommend you to read our post Best beaches in Miami.
- Key Biscayne: It is an island located in Miami-Dade County, south of Miami Beach, known for offering stunning beaches, luxurious residences, and exclusive restaurants, making it one of the most exclusive locations in Miami. There, wealthy families find a very peaceful lifestyle, as well as food and wine festivals that highlight the best of the culinary scene. The island is also famous for its wide variety of water activities, making it a popular destination for sailing enthusiasts, thanks to the striking waterways and marinas.
- Everglades National Park: This is a perfect spot to get away from the hassle of the city and enjoy the beauty of Florida and its natural spaces. The Everglades National Park is just a 60- to 90-minute drive from Downtown Miami, so it’s a perfect option to spend a day exploring the park’s marshes and having fun with water activities like kayaking, canoeing, or boating.
Day 2: Art and Culture
You can spend your second day exploring Miami’s art and cultural scene, here are some ideas:
- Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): At the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), you will find an impressive collection of contemporary art, from incredible paintings and sculptures to multimedia art and avant-garde installations.
- Wynwood District: The Wynwood District is a neighborhood widely known for its incredible street art murals, graffiti on exterior walls, and multiple galleries exhibiting a wide variety of contemporary art.
- Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA): With more than 7,000 works of art in its collection, MOCA presents both emblematic pieces of contemporary art and emerging artists’ exhibits. This museum’s mission is to preserve the exhibits and promote artistic programs and activities that appeal to new generations. It also offers a wide variety of activities, including conferences and workshops for children and adults, making it a unique educational and cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
Day 3: Shopping and Entertainment
Miami offers a wide variety of shopping and entertainment options. So if that’s your thing, you can spend the third day of your vacation buying a memorable gift for your loved ones.
- Dolphin Mall: You can visit the most popular shopping malls in the area, such as the Dolphin Mall or the Aventura Mall, where you will find more than 150 stores and boutiques offering a wide variety of products, from clothing and jewelry to electronics and sporting goods. Besides stores, there is a wide selection of restaurants and cafes presenting a variety of culinary options. If you want a more detailed guide about the shopping malls in the city, check out our article about the best shopping malls in Miami.
- Venetian Pool: This is a historic Mediterranean-style pool that dates back to 1924 and is carved out of a rock quarry in the city of Coral Gables. It is considered one of the most beautiful pools in the world, with waterfalls, cross bridges, and underwater caves, which are filled with spring water every day. Besides the main pool, there is also a shallow area and a diving board. Sunbathing on the spacious terrace is a popular activity, plus dining and drinking options are also available.
- Coconut Grove: This charming neighborhood will transport you to a charming village with a remarkable array of cafes, restaurants, and boutique stores. The Cocowalk, an open-air mall with unique stores and dining options, is a must-see. In addition, Coconut Grove is famous for hosting cultural events, such as the Coconut Grove Arts Festival. Dive into Miami’s history and culture at Barnacle Historic State Park and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
If you are looking for an unforgettable experience and a place to stay for 3 days in Miami, you can find lodging near the Miami Beach SoundScape, a striking public space located on Lincoln Road, where you can enjoy concerts and outdoor movie screenings.
Tips to visit Miami for 3 days
Planning a trip to Miami can be a challenging task, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be overwhelming. Therefore, here are some tips that can be useful if you’re planning a 3-day trip to Miami:
- Set a budget: It is important to define how much money you are willing to spend on your trip to Miami in order to better plan activities and avoid overspending. This includes expenses related to accommodation, food, transportation, and the activities you want to do. Book your accommodations in advance: To make the most of your three days in Miami, it is important to book your accommodations in advance.
- Book your accommodations in advance: To make the most of your three days in Miami, it is important to book your accommodations in advance. This allows you to get the best lodging options in terms of price, location, and amenities. It will also save you the trouble of having to look for a place to stay once you are in Miami, which can take up valuable time.
- Research about events and festivals: Look for information on events and festivals that may coincide with your travel dates. This will give you the opportunity to experience the local culture, make new friends, and make the most out of your visit to Miami.
- Try the local food: Visit authentic markets and restaurants where you can taste local cuisine for a unique culinary experience.
- Be prepared for the weather: Miami has a humid tropical climate, which means that humidity and high temperatures are common. To be comfortable during your visit, it is important to be prepared for the weather. Wear appropriate clothing for the heat and humidity, hats, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. We recommend checking the weather forecast before traveling and bringing the appropriate clothing and accessories for the season.
- Make sure you have the necessary documents: If you are traveling to Miami from another country, it is important to have the necessary documents to enter the United States, such as a passport and a visa if necessary. Also, it is important to carry identification documents, like your driver’s license if you plan to rent a car.
- Have fun and enjoy the trip: Your trip to Miami should be a fun and enriching experience, so it is important to keep a positive attitude and be willing to try new things. Plan ahead, but also be flexible and open to new experiences.
Miami 3-Day Itinerary Map
Discover what to do in Miami in 3 days using our map that shows you the best tourist attractions in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most common questions travelers have about things to do in Miami during a 72 hours trip.
What are the most popular attractions in Miami?
Miami is known for the beaches, but there are many other popular attractions, including:
- The Art Deco District.
- Miami Art Museum.
- Zoo Miami
- Pérez Art Museum (PAMM).
- Miami Seaquarium.
- Jungle Island.
- Bayfront Park.
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
If I’m staying in Miami for the weekend, what places should I visit?
There are many tourist sites you can visit in Miami during a weekend, here are some recommendations:
- South Beach.
- Little Havana.
- Coral Castle.
- Wynwood Walls.
- Lummus Park Beach.
- Coconut Grove.
- Venetian Pool.
- Everglades National Park.
Thank you so much for joining us on this 3-day Miami trip. We hope this article helps you plan the most amazing weekend in Miami. See you on the next one!
