One Day in Miami Itinerary: Must-See Spots for a First Visit

I spent two years living in Miami, and every time I return, I make a point to revisit my absolute favorite spots.

If you are looking for the perfect one day in Miami itinerary, this guide covers the essential places you simply can’t miss.

While there is so much more I did not include in the list, I’ve only added the ones I really think are worth visiting if you only have Miami in one day.

Wait until you see the spot where a famous Hollywood movie scene was filmed, because it’s now a place you’d never expect.

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Best time to visit Miami

Miami is perfect to visit year-round since the weather does not change substantially.

I have experienced prices for lodging and flights that are very similar year-round, but if you don’t want to “melt” with the Miami heat, maybe try to avoid the summer season because it can get as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

If temperature is not an issue for you, then choose the time most convenient for you to travel.

Also, consider major festivals in the Miami downtown area, unless you are intentionally traveling to participate in them, because some streets will be closed:

How to get around in Miami

How to spend a day in Miami without getting stuck in traffic? If you’re traveling from Central Florida, the most seamless way to arrive is via the Florida Brightline Train, which drops you right in the heart of Miami Downtown. From there, here is the best way to navigate the city

Connection Tip: You can connect from the Metromover to the Metrorail at the Government Center and Brickell stations. This is an easier way to get from Downtown to Vizcaya.

Note: Many of my readers use this one-day in Miami itinerary right before heading to the port. If you are preparing for a trip at sea, check out my insider guide for sailing from the port with Virgin Voyages cruise.

Map of Top Places To Visit in Miami

Here’s a map with all the places mentioned in this post, which I prepared for you to have handy for your upcoming visit to Miami.

Must visit places in Miami

Since you only have 24 hours, this is the order of my favorite spots. If you find yourself running out of time, prioritize the locations at the top of this list.

These are the unique things to do in Miami for a day that I personally love.

1. Vizcaya museum and gardens, Miami, fl

Vizcaya is my favorite museum in Miami, and it’s a place where several people (even locals) don’t know exists because it’s located outside the urban hustle zone.

This house was built by James Deering, a prominent manufacturer of agricultural machinery, as his winter home.

Note: If you are an architecture lover like me and were mesmerized by Vizcaya, you definitely need to see my favorite architecture spots in Barcelona, Spain.

2. Wynwood walls Miami

Wynwood has changed substantially since I lived in Miami, and it’s getting better every year we visit it.

This is a place to visit because there is so much to explore in every corner, and I have visited several times, and you might find an artist painting a mural during your visit.

What you need to know:

Wynwood today: Now, it is not only the house of several art galleries and the famous art walls, but the area has also been developed substantially with trendy bars, restaurants, boutique hotels, and even massive festivals.

3. Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Located in downtown Miami, this museum mostly features 20th-century and contemporary art, and it’s a perfect place for art fans.

Tip: While the museum has a fee, even if you’re not an art fan, this museum is worth a visit because the design of the exterior structure itself, the famous hanging vertical gardens in the backyard, and the hidden exterior sculptures are completely free to visit.

4. Espanola Way Miami Beach

This is an underrated gem in Miami South Beach. It’s a full pedestrian road that feels like a historic European street.

It’s packed with outdoor seating and trees that provide perfect shade.

It is also home to one of my favorite gelato spots, Ciao Gelato, where you can find delicious vegan flavors.

This street is very close to Hotel Greystone, which is where we stayed on our last trip.

Note: For more food options, see my full Vegan Day Trip to Miami guide. Also, if you’re a plant-based traveler, don’t miss my 7 smart tips for traveling as a vegan.

5. Lincoln road in miami beach

Whether you like shopping or not, you must take a stroll down Lincoln Road. It is a mile-long pedestrian outdoor mall packed with stores and galleries.

If you happen to visit on a Sunday, you will most likely find the famous Lincoln Road farmer’s market stretching along the street, which is a great place to grab local snacks.

If you continue walking to the end of the road towards the East, you will end up right at South Beach, which I cover below.

6. Ocean drive miami things to do

Ocean Drive highlights the Art Deco style and colorful walls. It is a street where you might find a celebrity walking, running, riding a bicycle, or on rollerblades.

Ocean Drive is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city, and it actually reminds me of the best photo spots on a Virgin Voyages ship. Below top spots you must admire.

Colony Hotel in South Beach Miami

One of the absolute popular buildings of Ocean Drive is the Colony Hotel, a true Art Deco landmark.

It was designed by Henry Hohauser, the same architect who designed Hotel Greystone, where we stayed during our last trip to Miami.

Because of this shared history, the Colony Hotel captures that same sophisticated vibe that I loved at the Greystone.

If you want to stay in the heart of the action in a building that defines Miami’s architectural history, you can book your stay at the Colony Hotel here.

Scarface Building Miami

Visit the current CVS building on Ocean Drive. The front staircase was actually the spot used to film the famous chainsaw massacre scene in the movie Scarface.

Even though it’s a pharmacy now, you can still see a plaque marking the stairs. It is a must-see for movie fans.

Gianni Versace Mansion Miami

Another popular spot on Ocean Drive is The Villa Casa Casuarina, a stunning Spanish-style mansion that is famous for being the former home of clothing designer Gianni Versace.

Sadly, it is also the location where he was tragically assassinated on the front steps.

But here is a bit of history most tourists miss: before Versace lived here, the villa was built by Alden Freeman, the heir to the Standard Oil fortune (the Rockefeller’s Company).

You can actually book a stay here, but these luxury suites get booked incredibly fast. If you want to secure this piece of fashion history for your trip, you can stay:

Check availability and book your luxury stay in The Villa Casa Casuarina here.

Lummus Park South Beach

Located right in front of Ocean Drive, this is where you’ll see the “real” Miami lifestyle with people playing volleyball or running.

I recommend renting a bicycle here to ride along the park, which connects to the Miami Boardwalk.

Note: While you can walk by Ocean Drive, if you want to learn the history, I recommend booking this Art Deco History Tour to discover secret architectural symbols and stories you would never notice on your own.

7. Beaches in South Beach Miami

Miami South Beach beaches are famous for their white sand and colorful lifeguard towers, and the energy here is unmatched.

There is no shade here, so if you stay for the day in Miami, I recommend renting chairs and an umbrella to make the most of your beach day in total comfort

8. Calle ocho little havana

Calle Ocho is the main street of Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood and the heart of the community.

If you want to feel a true taste of the Cuban culture during your Miami 1-day itinerary, this is a place you cannot miss.

This famous street is packed with restaurants, bars, and traditional cigar shops that make the area so unique.

Highlights to explore:

Final Thoughts on Your 24 Hours in Miami

Miami is a city I loved living in, and it’s a place that stays with you. Even if you only have 24 hours in Miami, following this order will ensure you see the most important cultural and historical spots.

If you enjoy making the most of a short trip like this, you might also like my guides for one day in San Juan, Puerto Rico, or a day in Valencia, Spain.

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