What to Do in Miami Before Your Cruise

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Miami: The Perfect Port of Call

Miami is a vibrant city with something to offer everyone. From its world-famous beaches to its vibrant nightlife, there’s no shortage of things to do in Miami. And if you’re planning a cruise, Miami is the perfect place to start your journey.

Here are a few of the things you can do in Miami before your cruise:

  • Visit the beach. Miami is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, or simply relax on the sand.
  • Explore the city. Miami is a great place to explore. Visit the Art Deco District, admire the skyscrapers in Downtown Miami, or take a walk through Little Havana.
  • Enjoy the nightlife. Miami has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.

No matter what you’re interested in, you’re sure to find something to do in Miami before your cruise. So start planning your trip today!

Activity Cost Description
Visit the Miami Seaquarium $30-$40 See dolphins, sharks, and other marine life up close.
Take a walk or bike ride on the Venetian Causeway $0-$10 Enjoy stunning views of the city and the bay.
Explore Wynwood Walls $0-$10 See a variety of street art by local and international artists.
Have a drink at the Rusty Pelican $20-$30 Enjoy amazing views of the Miami skyline while you sip on a cocktail.

Miami is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. From its beautiful beaches to its world-class museums, there’s something for everyone in Miami. If you’re planning a cruise from Miami, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your time in the city.

Things to Do in Miami

  • Visit the Miami Beach Boardwalk. The Miami Beach Boardwalk is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars along the boardwalk, so you can easily find something to do to suit your taste.
  • Take a walk or bike ride on Ocean Drive. Ocean Drive is one of the most iconic streets in Miami. It’s lined with Art Deco buildings and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. You can take a walk or bike ride down Ocean Drive to see the sights and soak up the atmosphere.
  • Visit the Art Deco District. The Art Deco District is a National Historic Landmark District and is home to some of the most beautiful Art Deco buildings in the world. You can take a guided tour of the district or simply explore it on your own.
  • Explore Wynwood Walls. Wynwood Walls is an outdoor street art museum that features murals by some of the world’s most famous street artists. It’s a great place to see some amazing art and learn about the history of street art.
  • Take a boat trip to Key Biscayne. Key Biscayne is a beautiful island located just off the coast of Miami. You can take a boat trip to Key Biscayne to enjoy the beaches, the nature preserve, and the shops and restaurants.
  • Visit the Everglades. The Everglades is a vast wetland ecosystem located in southern Florida. You can take a guided tour of the Everglades to learn about the unique wildlife and vegetation that calls this area home.
  • Go to a baseball game at Marlins Park. Marlins Park is the home of the Miami Marlins baseball team. You can catch a game at Marlins Park to experience the excitement of live baseball.
  • See a show at the Hard Rock Live. The Hard Rock Live is a concert venue located in downtown Miami. You can see a show at the Hard Rock Live to enjoy some live music.

Where to Stay in Miami

There are many great places to stay in Miami. Here are a few of the most popular options:

  • Downtown Miami. Downtown Miami is a vibrant and cosmopolitan neighborhood that’s home to many hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to all the action.
  • South Beach. South Beach is a popular tourist destination that’s known for its beautiful beaches, its Art Deco buildings, and its nightlife. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of the action.
  • Coral Gables. Coral Gables is a beautiful and historic neighborhood that’s home to many mansions, museums, and parks. It’s a great place to stay if you want to experience the more tranquil side of Miami.
  • Coconut Grove. Coconut Grove is a charming neighborhood that’s home to many shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the water.
  • Key Biscayne. Key Biscayne is a beautiful island located just off the coast of Miami. It’s a great place to stay if you want to enjoy the beaches, the nature preserve, and the shops and restaurants.

Miami is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, world-class museums, or vibrant nightlife, you’re sure to find it in Miami. By following these tips, you can make the most of your time in the city and enjoy all that it has to offer.

3. How to Get Around Miami

Miami is a large city with a lot to offer, but it can be difficult to get around if you don’t know what you’re doing. Here are a few tips for getting around Miami:

  • By car

Driving in Miami can be a challenge, but it is possible to get around if you’re careful. The roads are often congested, and there are a lot of pedestrians and cyclists to watch out for. If you’re planning on driving, make sure to leave plenty of time for your trip.

  • By public transportation

Miami has a good public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and a trolley. The Metrorail is the main train system, and it runs through the center of the city. The Metrobus is the main bus system, and it covers a wider area than the Metrorail. The Metromover is a free elevated train that runs around downtown Miami.

  • By taxi or Uber

Taxis and Uber are both available in Miami. Taxis are more expensive than Uber, but they’re also more reliable. Uber is a good option if you’re on a budget.

  • By boat

Miami is a city by the sea, so it’s also possible to get around by boat. There are a number of ferry services that run between different parts of the city. You can also take a water taxi or a private boat.

4. Tips for Planning Your Trip to Miami

Miami is a great place to visit, but it can be expensive. Here are a few tips for planning your trip to Miami:

  • Book your flights and hotel in advance

The best time to book your flights and hotel is at least 6 months in advance. This will give you the best chance of getting a good deal.

  • Get a Miami tourist card

The Miami tourist card offers discounts on attractions, tours, and transportation. It can save you a lot of money if you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing.

  • Bring comfortable shoes

Miami is a walking city, so make sure to bring comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you’re planning on visiting all of the different attractions.

  • Be prepared for hot weather

Miami is a hot and humid city, so be prepared for hot weather. Wear light, comfortable clothing and drink plenty of water.

  • Don’t forget your sunscreen

The sun in Miami can be very strong, so don’t forget to pack sunscreen. Apply sunscreen liberally before you go outside and reapply it throughout the day.

Miami is a great place to visit, and there are a lot of things to see and do. By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip and have a great time.

What are the best things to do in Miami before a cruise?

  • Visit the Miami Beach Boardwalk. The Miami Beach Boardwalk is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the ocean. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars along the boardwalk, and you can also rent a bike or scooter to explore.
  • Go to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a beautiful estate that was once the winter home of a wealthy industrialist. The museum has a collection of art and artifacts from around the world, and the gardens are full of lush plants and flowers.
  • Take a walk or bike ride around South Beach. South Beach is a vibrant neighborhood with a lot to offer. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars, and the beach is always a great place to relax.
  • Visit the Everglades. The Everglades are a unique ecosystem that is home to a variety of wildlife. You can take a boat tour, go hiking, or go kayaking in the Everglades.
  • Explore Wynwood Walls. Wynwood Walls is an outdoor art gallery that features murals by some of the world’s most famous street artists. It’s a great place to see some amazing art and learn about the local culture.

How much time do I need to spend in Miami before a cruise?

It depends on what you want to do. If you just want to relax on the beach and enjoy the city, you can get by with a few days. However, if you want to visit some of the attractions, you’ll need more time. Most people recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Miami before a cruise.

Where should I stay in Miami before a cruise?

There are a lot of great places to stay in Miami. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Miami Beach: This luxurious hotel is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean.
  • The Fontainebleau Miami Beach: This iconic hotel is known for its art deco architecture and its lively pool scene.
  • The W South Beach: This stylish hotel is located in the heart of South Beach and is close to all the action.
  • The Loews Miami Beach: This hotel is located right on the beach and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa and a fitness center.

What should I pack for a trip to Miami before a cruise?

Here are a few things to pack for a trip to Miami before a cruise:

  • Comfortable clothes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Miami, so make sure to pack comfortable shoes and clothes that you can move around in easily.
  • Swimsuit: You’ll definitely want to pack a swimsuit if you plan on spending any time at the beach or pool.
  • Sunscreen: The sun in Miami can be very strong, so make sure to pack sunscreen and reapply it often.
  • Hat: A hat will help to protect you from the sun and keep you cool.
  • Camera: You’ll want to have a camera to capture all of the amazing sights in Miami.

What are the best restaurants in Miami?

Miami has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, so you’re sure to find something to your taste. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The Forge: This steakhouse is known for its delicious steaks and its extensive wine list.
  • Joe’s Stone Crab: This restaurant is famous for its stone crabs, which are only available during the season.
  • Papi Steak: This modern steakhouse is known for its high-quality steaks and its creative cocktails.
  • The Bazaar by Jos Andrs: This restaurant is a culinary experience unlike any other. Chef Jos Andrs creates dishes that are both delicious and innovative.

What are the best bars in Miami?

Miami has a vibrant bar scene, with something to offer everyone. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The Broken Shaker: This bar is known for its creative cocktails and its beautiful outdoor patio.
  • Coyo Taco: This Mexican restaurant has a great bar scene, with a variety of margaritas and tacos to choose from.
  • Gramps: This bar is a great place to catch live music and dance the night away.
  • The Miami Beach EDITION: This hotel has a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

What are the best things to do in Miami for free?

There are a lot of free things to do

Miami is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a thrilling outdoor adventure, or a cultural experience, you’ll find it in Miami. And if you’re planning a cruise, there’s no better place to spend a few days before setting sail. With its world-class restaurants, museums, and nightlife, Miami will give you the perfect taste of what’s to come on your cruise. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Miami today!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.