48 hours in Miami

It’s time to take your talents to South Beach. From sunny days on the sand to neon nightlife, be prepared to play hard and relax even harder. We put together the ultimate weekend itinerary in Miami to ensure your visit to the Sunshine State is unforgettable. After two days in Miami, you will leave with memories, a new tan, and maybe even your next profile picture. 

Day 1

07:00 AM - Wake up for breakfast in Wynwood

Welcome in the first day of your visit with a hearty breakfast at Zak the Baker. This Wynwood favorite has something for everyone, including vegetarian options, vegan dishes, and kosher cooking. You are going to need some extra energy today, so grab that second (or third?) cup of coffee. Maybe even an extra piece of banana bread...and a cinnamon roll. 

09:00 AM - See the iconic Wynwood Walls

Step outside the bakery and you immediately find yourself in one of the most iconic spots in Miami: Wynwood Walls. Since 2009, artists from around the world have been expressing themselves through street art in this neighborhood. There are over 50 murals to explore, and you can get the behind-the-scenes experience with a guided walking tour. Considering there are more than 80,000 square feet of walls, you might want to take a buggy tour, instead. 

11:00 AM - Settle down in South Beach

Throughout your 48 hours in Miami, take advantage of the free beach trolley system. Hop aboard and enjoy the ride to the world-famous South Beach. Relax among celebrities and supermodels alike on the warm, white sand as you look out over the Atlantic Ocean. If you can pry yourself away from the sand, stroll around the Art Deco Historic District, an architectural favorite. For lunch, enjoy some authentic Cuban cuisine at Havana 1957 or gaze out at the water from Clevelander South Beach. If you are a foodie through and through, you might want to add in this food tour. You will hit the best spots on Ocean Drive and Espanola Way, combining food and drink for the essential culinary sampling.  

3:00 PM - Head out onto Biscayne Bay

You’ve spent enough time watching those jet skis zooming around in the water, it’s time to get out there with them. Make your way over to nearby Biscayne Bay, where you will have more protection from the choppy waves. From here, the world is your oyster (hmm, oysters...let’s remember that for later). Learn from an expert before zipping around the bay on a jet ski, with an instructor available throughout for assistance. For an aerial view of the bay, take a parasailing ride and enjoy the view from 400 feet up. If the jet ski wasn’t fast enough for you, hop in a jetboat for a high-speed ride and a tour of past celebrity mansions. 

6:00 PM - Enjoy a Peruvian dinner

Nothing works up an appetite like a full day on the beach (or above it). Grab a seat at CVI.CHE 105 for a traditional Peruvian dinner. This restaurant is consistently rated as one of the best options in Miami, a high honor for such a culinary hotspot. You will agree with the critics as soon as you take your first bite.

7:00 PM - Feel the Miami Heat

As the sun sets on The Magic City, make your way to American Airlines Arena for a Miami Heat basketball game. After appearing in the 2020 NBA Finals, the Heat are poised for a competitive future with a talented backcourt. The experience matches the vibrant city, as pregame introductions often involve massive flamethrowers and live music. If you’re lucky enough to be in town for a “White Out” game, you are in for a truly unique experience. Each fan in attendance receives a free white shirt, leading to an intimidating and enthusiastic atmosphere that holds through all 48 minutes. 

10:00 PM - Dance the night away

For those looking to embrace the true nightlife of Miami, your night has just begun. Follow the crowds to E11EVEN Nightclub for a 24/7 party atmosphere. Dance the night away with live performers and DJs. If you want the VIP experience, there are private rooms available with five-star service staff. 

Day 2

07:00 AM - Hit the beach at sunrise

Depending on how your night went, this wake-up time may or may not be realistic. For those early birds, start your second day with a walk or run along Haulover Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in Miami due to the peaceful waters and smooth sand. Without the noise of midday crowds, you will be able to appreciate the serenity even more. 

8:00 AM - Indulge in delicious breakfast

Fill up with breakfast at Honey Uninhibited, serving up classic southern dishes in a lively atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with local art and often features live music. Try the Vegan Scramble, a fan favorite and personal recommendation from the head chef. It will have you buzzing to friends that this is the place to bee. 

10:00 AM - Explore Little Havana

Head further west into Little Havana, one of Miami’s most culturally rich neighborhoods and a testament to Cuban culture. From the famous “Calle Ocho” to Domino Park, this neighborhood is packing with landmarks, entertainment, and plenty of flavor. Learn from a local with a walking tour to learn the stories that built this community. 

12:00 PM - Head to the Hard Rock

As the namesake sponsor for the Miami Dolphins stadium, you are safe to assume that Hard Rock Cafe has a prominent role in the city. With walls of authentic memorabilia from rock legends, lunch at the Hard Rock is more than just a meal. Enjoy live music from popular artists and choose from themed menus for your lunch. We recommend the Electric Rock Menu, with that delicious Double-Decker Cheeseburger. Yes, we would like to add bacon. 

2:00 PM - Stop to shop at Biscayne Marketplace

Get your shopping fix with a visit to Biscayne Marketplace, directly outside the Hard Rock Cafe. Enjoy two stories of open-air window shopping, 50 kiosks, and 140 vendors. Throughout the mall, stop to enjoy live music and views of the Biscayne Bay waterfront. You might even recognize certain spots of the mall from scenes in Miami Vice.

4:00 PM - Trek through the swamps of the Everglades

Cap off your visit to the Sunshine State with a search for the American Alligator, the state reptile. Take an airboat tour of Everglades National Park and zoom across the River of Grass. Beyond the American Alligator, you might also see a Florida panther, turtles, deer, and wild boars. At the end of your tour, sit down for a wildlife show where you can hold a baby alligator. 

We’d love to hear your Miami tips in the comments below. Hint: make sure you’re logged into Facebook to share your knowledge with us.

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