Best Things to Do in Miami
Best Things to Do in Miami
Best things to do in Miami aren’t just beaches and nightclubs — they’re real experiences that let you feel the city.
Think Calle Ocho, art galleries, boat tours, Biscayne National Park, top shopping areas, the iconic South Florida Art Deco District, unforgettable dining experiences, and much more. Even the best recommended restaurants — from seafood to steak — we’ve got you covered right here. From boat tours that cruise past the celebrity homes on Star Island to sunset rides along the Miami skyline, there’s no better way to explore than from the water.
Add in Miami City Tours, hop-on hop-off buses, day trips to the Florida Keys, and private city tours, and you’ve got options no matter who you are — solo traveler, couple, or family. This isn’t some tourist checklist — this is the real Miami. We’ll break down the top tours, attractions, and experiences that locals and visitors both love, with a focus on authentic adventures, unbeatable views, and memories you won’t forget. Us here in Miami Bayside Boat Tours, we bring you the top Sightseeing Cruises and tours Miami has to offer.


What Are the Top Tours to Take in Miami?
If you're looking for the real Miami experience, these are the tours that deliver unforgettable moments — whether you're chasing skyline views, exploring South Florida history, or taking a break from the ordinary. Skip the outdated tourist traps. These are the next-gen tours that locals actually recommend.
- Miami Sunset Cruise
The city glows golden as you cruise past the skyline with a drink in hand. This 90-minute experience is the perfect way to end the day and catch that ocean breeze.
- Miami Celebrity Boat Tour with Star Island
Cruise through Biscayne Bay and see the homes of the rich and famous. This 90-minute tour is loaded with fun facts, selfie spots, and wide-open water views.
- Miami Skyline Views by Cruise
For unbeatable angles of Downtown, Port of Miami, and the Art Deco coast, nothing compares to seeing it all from the water — every cruise from Bayside runs 90 minutes.
- Hop On Hop Off Miami Bus Tour
A 3.5-hour ride that takes you from Wynwood to Little Havana and South Beach. You control the pace — hop off, explore, hop back on. Great for first-timers.
- Miami City Sunset Tour
Want that golden-hour lighting but prefer to stay on land? This city tour rolls through Brickell, Downtown, Calle Ocho, and more just as the city starts to glow.
- Miami to Key West Day Trip
A full 15-hour adventure that takes you over the iconic 7 Mile Bridge, all the way to paradise. Free time in Key West and unforgettable views all along the way.
- Miami Combo Tour (City + Boat)
Can’t decide between land or sea? Don’t. This 5-hour experience combines both: a city tour with a 90-minute boat ride. It’s the best way to cover it all.
From Biscayne Bay to the colorful streets of Little Havana, we’ve packed this guide with tours that show you every side of the city. Whether you're here for Art Basel, a weekend getaway, or just passing through, we’ve got the best things to do in Miami right here. From Miami Beach to Bayside Boat tours, we got the whole area covered.
From national parks to private cruises, South Florida starts here — and it’s time to do it right.
Word of advice: To avoid cheap imitations, always book through the official Miami Skyline Cruises — or better yet, book directly here on our site for the best deal and guaranteed spot.
This is your chance to see Miami the right way: mojito in hand, breeze on your face, and the skyline lighting up the bay. Whether you're visiting solo, with your partner, or your whole crew — this is the cruise that gives you the views everyone talks about.
Where Can You Get the Best Views of the Miami Skyline?
The best views of the Miami skyline aren’t from the shore — they’re from the deck of a boat on Biscayne Bay. And if you want the real thing, there’s only one place to get it: the Miami Skyline Cruise.
Here’s why this 90-minute ride is the top choice for skyline views in South Florida:
- 🚤 The Original Skyline Cruise of Miami — not a copycat version.
- 🍹 Mojito Bar Onboard — the only boat on Biscayne Bay serving the best drinks while you cruise.
- 📸 360° Open-Air Views — perfect for photos of Downtown Miami, Brickell, and the Port of Miami.
- 🌇 Timed Departures — especially at sunset, the skyline glows in golden light.
- 🎵 Chill Vibes with Music Onboard — not a party boat, just pure Miami vibes.
- ✅ Official Miami Skyline Cruises — trusted, original, and booked by thousands every month.
Word of advice: To avoid cheap imitations, always book through the official Miami Skyline Cruises — or better yet, book directly here on our site for the best deal and guaranteed spot.
This is your chance to see Miami the right way: mojito in hand, breeze on your face, and the skyline lighting up the bay. Whether you're visiting solo, with your partner, or your whole crew — this is the cruise that gives you the views everyone talks about.

What Unique Experiences Can You Only Have in Miami?
Miami isn’t just a city — it’s a destination full of once-in-a-lifetime moments you won’t find anywhere else. From the edge of Biscayne Bay to the heart of Little Havana and the island vibes of the Florida Keys, here’s what makes Miami truly unforgettable.
🐟 Visit Robbie’s in Islamorada – Feed Tarpons & Explore the Keys
As part of our Miami to Islamorada combo tour, we take you to the legendary Robbie’s Marina — one of the most unique stops in South Florida. You’ll enjoy:
- 🎣 Free tarpon feeding — a wild, up-close experience that’s both thrilling and fun
- 🐠 A stroll through the marina with views of pelicans, manatees, and sharks
- 🍤 Lunch options at Hungry Tarpon, known for the freshest seafood in the Florida Keys
- 🛍️ An open-air artisan market with over 20 shops featuring local art and souvenirs
- 📸 A selfie stop at the giant lobster statue before arriving at Robbie’s — a fan-favorite photo spot
This full experience is built into your day — including round-trip transportation, free tarpon food, and a laid-back island vibe you can’t find in the city.
🌆 Miami 5-in-1 City Tour
Our most immersive land tour gives you five unforgettable experiences in one. You'll explore:
- 🚶♀️ Wynwood Walls — the artistic heart of Miami, visited three times during this tour
- 🎭 Calle Ocho in Little Havana — Cuban culture, cigar rollers, music, and murals
- 🖼️ Art Deco District and art galleries along Ocean Drive
- 🏖️ South Beach, Miami Beach, and Downtown Miami — all tours depart from here
- 🚐 A comfortable ride with photo stops and live narration from expert guides
This is the kind of tour that gives you the full flavor of the city — all in just one day.
🚐 Private City Tours in Miami
Want to explore on your terms? Our Private City Tours are perfect for small groups, couples, or families who want to skip the crowds and move at their own pace.
- Fully customizable: Choose your own route and schedule
- See what matters to you — whether that’s Wynwood Walls, Calle Ocho, South Beach, or hidden gems
- Available in English or Spanish, just like our boat, bus, and hop-on hop-off tours
- Perfect for birthdays, business travelers, or VIPs wanting a more personal experience
🌍 Tours Available in English and Spanish
Every traveler deserves the best experience — no language barrier needed. We offer:
- 🚍 City tours, 🛥️ boat tours, 🚌 bus tours, and 🔁 hop-on hop-off tours in English and Spanish
- Bilingual tour guides who know Miami inside and out
- Clear instructions, flexible bookings, and staff available 365 days a year
We want the whole world to enjoy the best things to do in Miami — with the service, stories, and sights you deserve.
What Are the Best Miami Tours and Sightseeing Experiences for Couples?
When it comes to romance, Miami doesn’t just show up — it shows off. From sunset cruises on Biscayne Bay to street art strolls through Wynwood Walls, the city is packed with unique ways to connect, relax, and explore together.
Whether you’re planning a date night, a weekend getaway, or just some quality time with your partner, these experiences were made for two.
Here are the best couple-friendly tours and attractions across Miami Beach, South Beach, Downtown Miami, and beyond:
🌙 Miami Night Cruise — City Lights & Skyline Views
- 90-minute cruise under the stars from Bayside Marketplace
- See the glowing skyline, Port of Miami, and cruise ships at night
- Mojito Bar onboard = perfect Miami dining experience upgrade
- A must-do for couples staying in South Florida
🌅 Miami Sunset Cruise — Romance on the Bay
- The golden-hour glow hits just right as you cruise past Star Island and South Beach
- Live guide, open-air top deck, and skyline views that belong in a movie
- Ends just in time for dinner at one of Bayside’s waterfront restaurants
🐟 Robbie’s in Islamorada — Wild & Relaxed
- Included in our Miami to Islamorada combo tour
- Couples get 3 hours of free time at the iconic marina
- Feed tarpons, shop at open-air vendors, or relax beachside
- A perfect escape from the city, just steps from Biscayne National Park
🖼️ Wynwood Walls & Street Art Tours
- Couples love walking through Wynwood Walls, Miami’s bold street art zone
- Pose by massive murals, explore art galleries, and grab a cafecito
- Part of many of our city tours — or visit it solo for a casual date
🧑🎨 Calle Ocho at Night — Culture, Music, & Latin Energy
- Live salsa, outdoor bars, and endless color
- Great for couples looking for something spontaneous and fun
- Packed with history and energy, part of Miami’s Art Deco District
🌴 South Pointe Park — Oceanfront Peace
- Walk the waterfront trail, watch the ships leave port
- Located at the southern tip of Miami Beach
- Great spot for selfies, quiet talks, or a surprise proposal
🎉 Miami Party Boats — Weekend Fun for Two
- DJ, dancing, skyline views — if you're the couple that loves energy
- Only available weekends; departs from Bayside
- Great for birthdays, double dates, or spontaneous nights out
🛥️ Private Boat or City Tours — Tailored Just for You
- Visit Wynwood Walls, Calle Ocho, Downtown Miami, or cruise Biscayne Bay
- Customize the stops and timing
- Bilingual guides in English and Spanish
- Add optional visits to Frost Science Museum, shopping areas, or even a drive past National Park borders
🍽️ Dinner & Drinks at Bayside Marketplace
- After your cruise or before your night out, this is the go-to spot for couples
- Casual to upscale options, all with a view of the water
- Close to most tour departure points and walkable from Downtown Miami
Whether you're into skyline views, salsa nights, ocean breezes, or bold murals — Miami is the kind of city that turns time together into something special. From Art Deco architecture to waterfront parks and cultural gems, this list brings you the best tours and sightseeing experiences for couples in South Florida.
Tips for Taking the Best Things to Do in Miami – Sightseeing Cruises and Tours
Before you jump into your boat ride, hop-on bus, or Miami City Tour, a few key tips will help you plan better, skip the stress, and enjoy more of what matters. Whether you’re headed to Wynwood Walls, exploring Calle Ocho, relaxing by the bay, or cruising toward a National Park border, here’s how to make the most of the best things to do in Miami.
📍 How to Check In for Miami Sightseeing Tours
No need to print anything. All you need is the confirmation email you receive the moment you book on our website Miami Bayside Boat Tours — that’s it.
✅ For Bayside Boat Tours:
- Check-in is located behind Victoria’s Secret on the waterside at Bayside Marketplace
- You must check in to receive your boarding pass (required to board)
- Boats depart 15 times daily — always on time, so don’t be late
- Just bring your confirmation email on your phone — no ID, no printout
✅ For Hop On Hop Off Miami Tour:
- Check-in is in front of Bayside Marketplace, next to Benz Pizza
- Just show your confirmation email — our team will help you start your route
- Includes top stops like Wynwood Walls, Downtown Miami, Miami Beach, and more
✅ For Miami City Tours (5 Departures Daily):
- Our signature 5-in-1 tour includes art galleries, Wynwood Walls, Art Deco
- landmarks, and vibrant Calle Ocho
- Great for couples, families, and first-time visitors
- You don’t need anything but your confirmation email — we’ll take care of the rest
🕓 Plan Around Departure Times
- 🛥️ Boat Tours: Up to 15 times daily, including sunset and night cruises
- 🚌 City Tours: Run 5 times a day, hitting all the major neighborhoods
- 🚍 Hop On Hop Off: Loops every 30–40 minutes
- 🌅 Islamorada Tour: Departs early, includes 3-hour stop at Robbie’s Marina, just near Biscayne National Park
Reminder: Coconut Grove isn’t on our list for a reason — it used to be a local hotspot, but now it’s just a shopping mall with no real culture or vibe left. Skip the hype, we take you to the places that are still alive with real Miami flavor.
🧴 What to Bring — and What to Leave Behind
- ✅ Bring: Phone (with your confirmation email), sunscreen, cash/card for drinks and tips, and good walking shoes
- ❌ Leave behind: Printed tickets (not needed), heavy bags, or expectations of outdated tourist spots
- Optional: A light jacket for evening cruises, especially during sunset tours or if you're heading near the water
📸 Make It Count — Capture the Real Miami
- Photo hotspots include:
- Miami Beach skyline from the boat
- Murals at Wynwood Walls
- Bright colors of Calle Ocho
- Views of cruise ships from Bayside Marketplace
- Exhibits near the Frost Science Museum
- Combine sightseeing with culture: shop local art galleries, stroll the Art Deco District, or visit markets after your tour ends
✅ Book Smart. Book Official.
- Always book through the official Miami Skyline Cruises or directly here on our site
- You’ll get instant email confirmation, guaranteed seats, and real routes (no shortcuts or cut corners)
- Avoid unlicensed sellers around Bayside — they don’t include the Mojito Bar, professional guides, or real skyline routes
From shopping, sightseeing, and street art to National Park views and skyline cruises, these tours are the ones that matter — the ones that still show you the real South Florida.
With these tips, you’re ready to experience the best things to do in Miami without missing a beat.


Best Places to Eat After Your Miami Sightseeing Cruises and Tours
Part of the best things to do in Miami is finding the perfect place to eat once the sightseeing wraps up. Whether you’re stepping off a sunset cruise, finishing a city tour, or returning from a day trip to the Keys — Miami’s food scene has flavor, views, and vibes. From casual bites by the bay to fine-dining by boat, here’s where we tell all our guests to go.
🍴 Bayside Marketplace – Waterfront Dining Vibes
If you're finishing a boat tour, sunset cruise, or party boat, Bayside Marketplace is your go-to. It’s not just where tours start — it’s where many great nights end.
- Enjoy open-air dining with views of Biscayne Bay
- Grab a table by the water and watch the yachts roll in
- Live music, tropical drinks, and skyline views — perfect for couples or groups
- Ideal for a quick bite, romantic dinner, or to fuel up before more exploring in Downtown Miami
📍 Best for: Boat tours, Miami Skyline Cruise, Sunset Cruise, Night Cruise, and Hop On Hop Off drop-off points
🏙️ Dining Near Downtown Miami & Brickell
Just steps away from many city tour drop-offs, Downtown is packed with dining options — from chill cafés to white-linen dinners.
- Great for couples looking to dine with a view of the skyline
- Indoor/outdoor options near Frost Science Museum, Brickell City Centre, and along Biscayne Boulevard
- Easy access to rideshare, hotels, and nightlife if you're keeping the evening going
🎨 Wynwood Walls & Midtown – Food with a Creative Twist
If your tour included Wynwood Walls, street art, or Calle Ocho, this is your food scene. It’s colorful, flavorful, and always buzzing.
- Outdoor patios surrounded by murals
- Food trucks, hidden gem art cafés, and rooftop hangouts
- Perfect for casual eats, drinks, or a late lunch before the next tour
🌴 South Beach & South Pointe – Iconic Miami Dining
Finish your sightseeing with a sunset dinner just steps from the sand. Whether you walked Ocean Drive, visited the Art Deco District, or explored South Pointe Park, this is the spot to eat like you’ve made it.
- Romantic and trendy for couples
- Beachfront cafés, seafood grills, and elegant lounges
- Great for winding down or gearing up for Miami nightlife
💎 Luxury Dining in Miami – If You’re Ready to Make It Rain
Now, if you're feeling fancy (or just living your best Miami life), the city has no limit when it comes to high-end dining experiences.
Seriously — you could blow through your wallet in 24 hours if you’re not careful. But hey, maybe you got it like that. Make it rain — and we don’t mean raindrops.
Here’s our top picks for when your appetite (and style) go premium:
🦀 Joe’s Stone Crab (South Beach)
A Miami legend — open since 1913. Known for stone crab claws, top-tier service, and old-school class.
✅ Perfect after a beach walk or romantic stroll near
South Pointe
🍋 Must-try: Their famous key lime pie
🌇 Rusty Pelican (Key Biscayne View)
Hands down one of the best views in South Florida.
✅ Sunset skyline, cocktails, seafood, elegance
🚤 Want to go next-level? Rent a boat and arrive dockside
🛥️ Kiki on the River (Miami River)
Greek vibes + Miami heat.
✅ Beautiful riverfront seating, Mediterranean menu, and a party brunch crowd
🚤 Yes, you can pull up by boat —
dock & dine style
🌊 Seaspice (Miami River)
Upscale waterfront restaurant where modern cuisine meets luxury service.
✅ Great for seafood lovers, anniversaries, and arriving by water
🍷 Gorgeous open-air dining and wine list to match
👑 Queen (South Beach)
Inside the Paris Theater, this place drips with Art Deco glam.
✅ Japanese steakhouse + velvet vibes + celeb sightings
🎭 Come dressed to impress — it’s a total experience
🔥 MILA (Lincoln Road, Miami Beach)
MediterrAsian rooftop experience with a show-stopping view and fire shows.
✅ Known for aesthetic plating and next-level cocktails
🌆 Perfect after a walk through the
Art Deco District or shopping in
Miami Beach
🌧️ Lluvia (Downtown Miami)
Modern, moody, and upscale — a hidden gem in the city core.
✅ Latin fusion, chic décor, quieter than the scene-y spots
📍 Close to
Biscayne Boulevard and
Frost Science Museum
Whether you’re dining on a budget, balling out, or floating in by boat — one thing is for sure: eating well is part of the best things to do in Miami. From Calle Ocho to Miami Beach, from tacos to truffle risotto, this city feeds you with flavor and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions – Best Things to Do in Miami
What are the best things to do in Miami for first-time visitors?
Kick off with a 90-minute boat tour from Bayside that shows off Miami Beach, South Beach, and the jaw-dropping skyline. Walk through the Wynwood Walls for incredible street art, stroll Calle Ocho, and explore the Art Deco District. Finish with dinner in Downtown Miami — it’s all part of the real Miami experience.
Where do I check in for Miami boat tours?
You’ll check in behind Victoria’s Secret on the waterside at Bayside Marketplace. Make sure to grab your boarding pass before heading to the line. No ID or printout is needed — just your confirmation email.
Where does the Hop-On Hop-Off Miami tour start?
Right in front of Bayside, next to Benz Pizza. The full loop hits Downtown Miami, Wynwood, South Beach, and more — all in a 3.5-hour ride. It’s one of the easiest ways to discover the best things to do in Miami.
Do I need to print tickets for tours?
Not at all. Whether it’s a sightseeing cruise, Miami city tour, or combo, all you need is your confirmation email. For boat tours, you must check in and get your boarding pass first.
What’s included in a Miami Combo Tour?
You’ll get a full city tour, a boat tour, and optional time in Calle Ocho, Wynwood, or Little Havana. It’s a great value and one of the top choices for sightseeing in South Florida.
What’s the difference between a sunset cruise and a night cruise?
The sunset cruise shows off the Miami skyline during golden hour. The night cruise brings party vibes and city lights. Both are 90-minute boat tours with drinks available on board and incredible views of Downtown Miami and the bay.
Can I book tours in different languages?
Yes! Our tours — bus tours, boat tours, and more — are available in English and Spanish, so everyone can enjoy the best things to do in Miami.
What should I bring on a sightseeing tour?
Just your phone (for the confirmation email), some sunscreen, and a good mood. On boat tours, bring a little cash or card for drinks or snacks. Expect views of Wynwood Walls, Miami Beach, Art Deco landmarks, and more.
Do you offer Key West day trips?
Absolutely. Our Miami to Key West Day Trip is a 15-hour adventure with 3 hours of free time and a stop at Robbie’s in Islamorada. It’s one of the most scenic ways to escape the city and still see the Keys.
Are there high-end dining spots after the tours?
Yes — try Rusty Pelican, Joe’s Stone Crab, Kiki on the River, and Queen Miami Beach. Some even let you pull up by boat with a Miami boat rental. After all, eating well is part of the best things to do in Miami.
What’s so special about doing tours from Bayside?
Bayside isn’t just where the tours start — it’s the heart of Miami sightseeing. Surrounded by shops, bars, and music, it's the launchpad for the most exciting boat tours, skyline views, and everything in between. Check out our full FAQ Page.

🎯 Final Thoughts – Your Guide to the Best Things to Do in Miami
When it comes to planning the best things to do in Miami, it’s all about making memories that blend adventure, culture, and the vibrant energy of this iconic city. From cruising past celebrity homes on a Miami boat tour, to walking the Wynwood Walls, dining in Downtown Miami, or exploring the colors of Calle Ocho, every experience brings something unforgettable.
Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or friends, we’ve crafted this guide to help you explore the magic of South Florida like a local — with tips, highlights, and exclusive tours that go beyond the basics.
✔️ 90-minute skyline cruises with mojitos
✔️ Scenic day trips to Key West & Islamorada
✔️ Hop-on hop-off tours covering
Miami Beach,
South Beach, and more
✔️ Multi-language city and boat tours
✔️ Food, street art, museums, and sunsets — all in one place
So skip the outdated guides and tourist traps. This is where the real fun begins. Everything you’ve read here is designed to deliver the best experiences Miami has to offer — no fluff, no filler.
🌴 You’re not just sightseeing — you’re creating stories.
Let’s make your Miami trip one for the books. Stay up to date with our
full blog.