From the iconic sands of South Beach to colorful murals in Wynwood and serene moments on Key Biscayne, Miami is a city of contrasts that come together perfectly for a tropical, high-energy getaway.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend or building out a Florida road trip, here’s how to spend 3 unforgettable days in Miami—with plenty of options to make it your own.
Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
Day 1: Classic Miami — South Beach & Art Deco Vibes
Morning: Walk Ocean Drive + Hit South Beach
Start your trip on iconic Ocean Drive. Stroll past the pastel-colored Art Deco hotels and feel the pulse of Miami Beach come to life.
Then, grab a coffee and head to South Beach for a few hours of sand and sunshine.
The beach is wide, clean, and perfect for swimming or lounging. Don’t forget your camera—the lifeguard stands here are practically art installations.
Alternative: Rent a Bike or Rollerblades
Take the beach path on wheels and cruise past Lummus Park, street performers, and beach volleyball games.
Citi Bike rental stations are scattered throughout South Beach.
Lunch: The Local House
A great restaurant just off Ocean Drive, The Local House offers a quieter escape with an incredible seafood brunch menu—try the Seafood Scramble or truffle fries.
Afternoon: Art Deco District Tour
Walk or take a guided tour through the Art Deco Historic District. Learn how this unique architectural style became one of Miami’s defining features and see some of the best-preserved buildings from the 1930s and 40s.
Dinner: Joe’s Stone Crab (seasonal) or Havana 1957
If it’s stone crab season (October–May), you can’t miss Joe’s—Miami’s most famous seafood spot.
Otherwise, check out Havana 1957 for Cuban classics like ropa vieja and mojitos in a retro setting.
Evening: Sunset Drinks at Broken Shaker
Watch the sunset from a place like Monty’s Sunset or sip tropical cocktails poolside at Broken Shaker, Freehand’s laid-back outdoor bar.
Day 2: Street Art, Culture & Nightlife in the City
Breakfast: Panther Coffee in Wynwood
Start your day in the artsy Wynwood neighborhood with a stop at Panther Coffee, known for strong brews and chill vibes.
Grab a cold brew and a pastry before exploring the area.
Morning: Wynwood Walls & Neighborhood Walk
Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum showcasing massive, colorful murals by world-renowned street artists.
The adjacent area is full of art galleries, shops, and photo-worthy walls around every corner.
Alternative: Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
If you’re an art lover, make time to visit PAMM near downtown for contemporary art with water views. The museum itself is architectural eye candy.
Lunch: Coyo Taco or Zak the Baker
Coyo Taco serves up some of the best tacos in town, plus fresh guac and margaritas.
For a lighter or more vegetarian-friendly option, head to Zak the Baker for healthy bowls, pastries, and salads made from locally sourced ingredients.
Afternoon: Bayside Marketplace & Boat Tour
Head toward the waterfront and explore Bayside Marketplace, a lively shopping and dining area with views of the marina.
From here, hop on a 90-minute boat tour of Biscayne Bay—cruise past celebrity mansions on Star Island and catch views of the Miami skyline from the water.
Dinner: Mandolin Aegean Bistro
In Miami’s Design District, this romantic Mediterranean spot set in a 1940s house offers a dreamy dinner vibe.
Share some grilled octopus, lamb chops, and Greek wine under twinkling lights.
Evening: Night Out in Brickell or Wynwood
End your night dancing at a Brickell rooftop bar like Sugar at EAST Hotel, or head back to Wynwood for a more casual scene with live music, breweries, and late-night bites.
Day 3: Nature, Calm & Coastal Beauty on Key Biscayne
Morning: Drive or Uber to Key Biscayne
Key Biscayne is a scenic island escape just 20 minutes south of downtown Miami.
Cross the Rickenbacker Causeway and take in the skyline behind you and the turquoise waters ahead.
First stop: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.
Visit the Cape Florida Lighthouse
Climb to the top of this 1825 lighthouse for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay.
The park also has nature trails, picnic areas, and some of the most peaceful beaches in the Miami area.
Alternative: Crandon Park
Just north of Bill Baggs, Crandon Park (pictured above) has calm, family-friendly beaches, a nature center, and kayak rentals.
It’s a perfect low-key beach experience if you want to avoid crowds.
Lunch: Light Bites at The Rusty Pelican or Boater’s Grill
On your way back to the mainland, stop at The Rusty Pelican in Virginia Key. The views here are next-level, especially if you sit outside.
If you’re still near the park, Boater’s Grill is a more casual spot nestled within Bill Baggs State Park, serving fresh fish and Cuban fare right on the water.
Afternoon: Relax or Explore Coconut Grove
If you have time before your trip ends, stop in Coconut Grove on your way back.
It’s Miami’s oldest neighborhood, filled with bohemian charm, local boutiques, and cafes shaded by massive banyan trees.
Grab an iced coffee at Greenstreet Cafe and walk through Peacock Park before heading out.
Dinner: Glass & Vine or Ariete
Wrap up your Miami adventure with one last great meal. Glass & Vine is a beautiful, airy restaurant in Peacock Park, known for its modern American menu.
Or go upscale at Ariete, one of Coconut Grove’s best fine-dining spots with a creative twist on Cuban-American cuisine.
Evening: One Last Look at the Skyline
Before calling it a trip, head back toward downtown or one of the scenic causeways and take in the glowing Miami skyline one last time.
Whether it’s the lights of Brickell or the views from Rickenbacker, Miami knows how to leave a lasting impression.
Where to Stay in Miami
1. Loews Miami Beach Hotel – Perfectly located in the heart of South Beach, Loews offers luxury, ocean views, and a short walk to the beach, shops, and restaurants. Great for those who want convenience and style.
2. The Guild Downtown | X Miami – For a more urban experience, this sleek high-rise hotel offers apartment-style rooms with a rooftop pool just minutes from Wynwood and Brickell.
3. Budget-Friendly Option: Freehand Miami – A trendy hostel-hotel hybrid in Miami Beach with stylish rooms, a cocktail bar, and a courtyard pool—ideal for travelers who want good vibes without the luxury price tag.
Final Thoughts
Miami is a city that doesn’t sit still—and that’s what makes it such an unforgettable travel destination.
In just three days, you can dive into beach bliss, street art, Cuban coffee, historic lighthouses, and modern rooftop lounges—all without leaving town.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, the magic city will keep surprising you.
From South Beach glamour to Wynwood creativity and Key Biscayne tranquility, Miami is an awesome place to take a 3 day trip.
Follow Our Discover Florida Facebook Page!
We’re Also On Pinterest!
Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
