If you’ve got three days in Miami, get ready to soak up sun, culture, and some seriously good food. This vibrant city is a mix of beautiful beaches, rich history, and nature that’ll make you question if you ever want to leave. Let’s dive into a well-planned itinerary that balances the iconic with the unexpected, because who doesn’t love a little surprise on vacation?
Day 1: Beach vibes and Ocean Drive
Start your first day in the sunshine with a trip to Miami Beach. Trust me, this is where you’ll want to be. Get there early to snag a good spot on the sand. Grab a beach towel, sunscreen, and maybe a book or a friend to chat with. You’re in Miami; you might as well work on your tan and pretend you’re a beach model.
- Morning (8 AM - 12 PM): Hit the beach! Spend a few hours soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean. You could go for a swim or just lie there while pretending to be productive.
- Lunch (12 PM - 1 PM): Head to Big Pink for some comfort food. Their menu is huge, and you’ll definitely find something that appeals to your inner foodie.
After lunch, it’s time for the iconic Ocean Drive. This is where you can do some serious people-watching while sipping a mojito. The colorful Art Deco buildings will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie set. Don’t forget to take a few photos; your Instagram will thank you later.
- Afternoon (1 PM - 4 PM): Stroll along Ocean Drive. Check out the shops, and maybe even pop into a few galleries. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike to explore the surrounding areas.
- Evening (4 PM - 8 PM): Dinner at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar. Their fried chicken is legendary. Pair it with a cocktail, and you’ll be one happy traveler.
Finally, wrap up your day with a nightcap at one of the rooftop bars in the area. Sip on a drink while watching the sunset—you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.
Day 2: Little Havana and Cuban culture
Day two is all about diving into Miami’s rich cultural tapestry, starting in Little Havana. Get ready to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Cuba without needing a passport.
- Morning (9 AM - 12 PM): Start at Ball & Chain for breakfast. The atmosphere is lively, and their Cuban coffee will wake you right up. Afterward, stroll down Calle Ocho and check out the local shops.
As you explore, don’t miss the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame. You’ll find stars dedicated to some of the biggest names in Latin music. Snap a few selfies as you walk along and feel like a celebrity yourself.
- Lunch (12 PM - 1 PM): Enjoy a classic Cuban lunch at Versailles. Their ropa vieja is a must-try, and you’ll leave feeling like a local.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the local culture. Head to a cigar shop to see the rolling process, or visit the Domino Park to watch some intense games of dominoes. You might even pick up a few strategies for your next family game night.
- Afternoon (2 PM - 5 PM): Spend the afternoon at the Centro Cultural Español for a dose of art and history. Check their schedule for any live performances or exhibitions.
- Evening (5 PM - 8 PM): Grab dinner at La Carreta for some more Cuban delights. You know you want to try the lechón asado.
End your night with some salsa dancing at a local club. Whether you’re good or just good at pretending, it’s all about having fun. Who knows? You might leave with a new dance partner.
Day 3: Everglades adventure
Your final day is about nature and adventure. You can’t go to Miami and not explore the Everglades, right? Get ready for some wildlife encounters and an airboat ride that’ll get your heart racing.
- Morning (7 AM - 10 AM): Start early and head to the Everglades National Park. The drive is about 1 hour from Miami. Make sure to grab breakfast on the way—those nature trails can be hungry work!
Once you arrive, jump on an airboat tour. This is where the real fun begins. Zooming over the water, you’ll have a chance to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife. Don’t forget to keep your camera ready—you’ll want to capture that perfect gator selfie.
- Late morning (10 AM - 12 PM): After the airboat ride, explore the park on foot. There are trails perfect for hiking, and you might even learn something about the unique ecosystem.
- Lunch (12 PM - 1 PM): Picnic time! Pack a lunch or grab something from a nearby food truck. Enjoy your meal surrounded by nature.
Spend your afternoon soaking in the views. You can rent a kayak or just enjoy the scenery. Take a moment to appreciate how different this is from the hustle and bustle of Miami.
- Afternoon (1 PM - 4 PM): Head back to Miami and unwind at the hotel or do some last-minute shopping.
- Evening (5 PM - 8 PM): For your final dinner, treat yourself at Smith & Wollensky, where you can enjoy a steak and a stunning view of the sunset over the water.
Congratulations! You’ve made it through three action-packed days in Miami. Whether you’re sunburned or just slightly sun-kissed, you’ve experienced a little bit of everything this city has to offer. Now all that’s left to do is to start planning your next trip. Maybe a week-long stay next time? You know you want to!
