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Lifeguard hut on the beach in Miami, USA

Itineraries for Your Trip to Miami

Miami locals share their perfect days.
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1 Day in Miami for First Timers

Curated by Jessica Colley ClarkeNew York–based writer and curious traveler.

Miami offers diversions that go beyond its famous sun and sand. Stroll through the Art Deco District, climb aboard a speedboat for a fast-paced tour, or cycle through Little Havana to get a taste of Miami’s Cuban food—all in 24 hours. Here are a few ways to spend one day in Miami. 


Morning

Start your day in Miami by getting the lay of the land. Choose among several tours that allow you to maximize time in the city, such as a hop-on hop-off with more than 40 stops throughout Miami or a Segway tour that zips through South Beach and its Art Deco District. Visitors who are interested in Miami beyond South Beach may want to check out a food tour by bike, which takes you on a scenic cycle through a Cuban neighborhood complete with Cuban snacks. Learn about Miami’s history and cultural influences from your guide. 

Afternoon

Get a new perspective on Miami with an afternoon tour by boat or plane. Adventurous travelers can sign up for a parasailing excursion in Biscayne Bay or a speedboat sightseeing tour of Miami. Another option for an adrenaline-inducing ride is a seaplane tour of Miami, which takes off and lands in the waters of Key Biscayne and offers views over South Beach, Coconut Grove, and Star Island. Sightseeing cruises offer a more relaxed option to see Miami by water; keep an eye out for dolphins. 

Night

Experience Miami’s renowned nightlife with a mojito and salsa-themed tour. Spend a night in South Beach sipping cocktails and learning how to salsa with music provided by a live band. To catch the sunset from a different perspective, sign up for an airplane tour at dusk. A twilight tour over Biscayne Bay offers panoramic views and countless photo opportunities. Visitors interested in Miami’s diverse food scene might opt for a food and walking tour. Sample bites from several Latin American cultures on a guided evening stroll. 

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