2 Days In Miami: The Perfect Itinerary From A Florida Local (2024)
Are you planning a trip to Florida and wondering what to do with 2 days in Miami?
Welcome to Miami, a sun-soaked city with a blend of beaches, vibrant nightlife, diverse cuisine, and culture that attracts visitors worldwide.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on Miami Beach, exploring the colorful street art of Wynwood, partaking in delicious Latin American cuisine in Little Havana, or dancing the night away at world-renowned nightclubs, Miami has something for everyone.
Having visited Miami many times as a Florida local, I decided to make the perfect 2-day itinerary.
With two days in this city, you’ll get ready to immerse yourself in its unique blend of tropical beauty, energetic atmosphere, and multicultural charm. Let’s dive into Miami’s best and create the best itinerary for your trip.
Going On A Trip To Miami? Check Out These Resources!
🛌 Accommodations: I always use Booking.com for my lodging.
🚘 Car Rentals: To find the best prices, I use Discover Cars!
✈️ Flights: To find great flight prices, I check on Skyscanner.
📍Tours: I use Viator to find memorable experiences.
2 Days in Miami Itinerary
There are so many exciting things to do in Miami, making it hard to form an itinerary for two days. However, there’s no need to worry!
This Miami itinerary is laid out as a morning, afternoon, and evening guide. This setup will allow you to visit the main attractions and maximize your time in the Magic City.
⭐️ Day 1 Highlights: Miami Beach, Art Deco Historic District, Coconut Grove, Vizcaya Museum, World-Famous Nightlife
⭐️ Day 2 Highlights: Wynwood Walls, Bayside Market Place, Little Havana, Downtown Miami
🌟 BONUS Day 3: Venetian Pool, Superblue Miami, Sunset Cruise
Miami Itinerary: Day 1
Now, it’s time to look at the best things to do in Miami for the 2-day adventure. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Morning: Miami Beach and Art Deco District
Miami Beach
Head to the famous Miami Beach to start your first morning in Miami. Stretched across the Atlantic Ocean, it’s split between three main beaches: North Beach, Mid-Beach, and South Beach. They each have their own distinct characteristics, which will help you decide which is the best to visit.
👉TRAVEL TIP: South Beach is known for getting very rowdy, especially during the Spring Break season. If you don’t want to be around as many partiers, North and Mid-Beach will be the better options.
South Beach is the vibrant hub of Miami Beach. Its energetic nightlife, unique architecture, and many shops and restaurants have popularized it. South Beach attracts a younger, lively crowd eager to explore the entertainment options.
On the other hand, North Beach is known for being more family-friendly and residential. You’ll find the least amount of tourists here as restaurants and shops are catered more towards locals. That said, if you want to escape the bustling atmosphere of South Beach, this is the best pick.
Lastly, you’ll find that Mid-Beach is a combination of both North and South Beach. If you still want a vibrant atmosphere without the intense partying at South Beach. Mid Beach is perfect for those seeking a balance between relaxation and entertainment and features a range of high-end dining options and chic accommodations.
➡️Here are some great activities I recommend doing while you’re at Miami Beach!
⭐️ Jet Ski Rentals
⭐️ Segway Tour
⭐️ Bike Tour
Art Deco District
While around the Miami Beach area, you can also venture to the Art Deco Historic District. When you step into this district, it’ll feel like you’ve returned to the era of the 1930s and 1940s. The district’s collection of preserved Art Deco buildings, such as the Clevelander South Beach, Colony Hotel, and Cardozo Hotel, showcases a unique and detailed architectural style.
Beyond its architectural wonders, the Art Deco Historic District offers an exciting atmosphere with many restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Together with its blend of nostalgia and artistic inspiration, the district offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and charm of Miami Beach.
Afternoon: Coconut Grove and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
In the middle of your day, you should visit Coconut Grove, one of Miami’s oldest neighborhoods. Coconut Grove exudes a unique charm distinguishing it from the city’s other bustling areas.
Located along the shores of Biscayne Bay, this lush and tropical enclave offers a laid-back atmosphere and a vibrant cultural scene. The winding, tree-lined streets are dotted with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes that visitors can explore leisurely.
Coconut Grove is also home to the iconic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a grand estate featuring stunning gardens and an impressive villa. Vizcaya was the home of James Deering and is now a popular tourist attraction with views of Biscayne Bay. Additionally, it’s one of the best places to visit in Miami for pictures
The Italian Renaissance-style villa is full of gorgeous architecture and collections of European art. During your visit, you can explore different rooms in the mansion and walk through the extensive gardens. If you’re looking for some of the best places for pictures in Miami, this is the place!
👉TRAVEL TIP: All tickets to Vizcaya must be purchased online before they visit here.
Evening: The World-Famous Nightclubs
To end your first night in Miami, it’s time to head to some of its most famous nightclubs. The three main ones are LIV and STORY, located in Miami Beach, and E11EVEN, situated downtown. Another widely recognized nightlife venue is Club Space, open until the morning and a favorite for electronic music fans.
At these legendary clubs, everything from the world-class DJs and artists’ performances to the energetic ambiance and state-of-the-art production creates an unforgettable experience.
👉TRAVEL TIP: There are many nights when the popular nightlife venue will have performers. Remember to check in advance, as this results in higher entry fees.
Additionally, Wynwood is a popular nightlife hub where you can enjoy a night full of great music and dancing. Known for its colorful street art, trendy galleries, and hipster vibes, Wynwood transforms into a lively hub of high-energy activity. Some of the most popular venues include The Dirty Rabbit, Gramps, SHOTS, and 1-800 LUCKY.
Moreover, you can combine dinner with a club scene at some restaurants, creating an excellent entertainment atmosphere. Some of the most popular ones are Kiki on the River, Swan, and Mayami Wynwood.
Miami Itinerary: Day 2
Morning: Wynwood Walls
What better way to start your day than at one of Miami’s most famous artistic tourist attractions? Wynwood Walls is a dynamic outdoor art gallery in the heart of Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. Renowned worldwide for its vibrant street art, Wynwood Walls is an impressive visual display for all to enjoy.
Spanning several city blocks, this open-air museum showcases an array of fascinating murals and graffiti by internationally acclaimed artists. Each mural tells a unique story, showcasing unique styles, colors, and themes.
There’s also a museum where you can view around 40 hand-painted murals. The museum tickets are $12 for adults and can be bought here. Wynwood Walls has transformed the neighborhood into an artistic hub, attracting visitors worldwide who come to marvel at the dynamic and ever-evolving collection of urban art.
While at Wynwood, make sure you also visit some of the delicious restaurants and bars. There will be plenty of different cuisines and themed places to choose from. Popular ones include 1-800 LUCKY, Doya, and Miami Mojito Company.
➡️For an excellent detailed tour exploring the impressive Wynwood, book this Wynwood Graffiti Golf Cart Group Tour
Afternoon: Bayside Market Place and Little Havana
Bayside Market Place
After you’ve finished with Wynwood Walls, head to Bayside Market Place. This outdoor marketplace is a lively waterfront shopping and entertainment complex situated in Downtown Miami.
Located along the picturesque Biscayne Bay, this iconic destination offers a vibrant atmosphere and many activities for visitors of all ages. If you need some shopping action for your trip, this is the place to be with its blend of retail stores, boutiques, and souvenir shops. There’s a variety of merchandise that suits multiple tastes and budgets.
The marketplace also features various dining options, from casual eateries to waterfront restaurants, where visitors can indulge in delicious cuisine while enjoying scenic views. In addition, the shopping center hosts live music performances, outdoor concerts, and cultural events.
Little Havana
Once you’re done shopping at Bayside Market Place, it’s time to finish the afternoon in Little Havana. This culturally rich neighborhood is known for its Cuban influence and lively atmosphere. Walking through the streets of Little Havana, visitors can immerse themselves in cultural sights, sounds, and cuisine.
Calle Ocho, the main street, has many colorful murals, family-owned restaurants serving traditional Cuban dishes like lechón and ropa vieja, and various shops. Moreover, Little Havana hosts the annual Calle Ocho Festival, a vibrant celebration of Latin music, dance, and food that attracts visitors worldwide.
➡️I highly recommend this Little Havana Food and Walking Tour.
Evening: Downtown
As your second day comes to a close, you can finish it off in Downtown Miami. At night, downtown transforms into an urban entertainment hub with an electrifying atmosphere. The city’s skyline also illuminates the night sky, creating a glow upon the busy streets.
The vibrant nightlife scene comes alive with trendy rooftop bars, stylish lounges, and vibrant nightclubs, offering a variety of experiences for every taste. Some places to visit while you’re in Miami’s downtown area are Sugar, Jaguar Sun, and Giselle. From sophisticated establishments to lively dance floors, there is no shortage of options to dance, mingle, and enjoy the culinary scene.
🌟BONUS Miami Itinerary: Day 3
If you’re lucky and can spare an extra day in Miami, here is a bonus 3rd-day itinerary. As you can see, there are endless things to do in Miami to keep you busy.
Morning: Venetian Pool
The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is a scenic public swimming pool. Opened in 1924, this landmark has become a popular site for locals and tourists.
The pool has a unique design, featuring a grand waterfall, coral rock formations, and a sandy beach area. In return, it creates a serene ambiance that transports visitors to a Mediterranean paradise. The Venetian Pool allows its visitors to swim and immerse in Miami’s uniqueness.
👉TRAVEL TIP: There are select dates when the pool is only open to locals. To make sure you avoid disappointment, check the schedule in advance.
Afternoon: Superblue Miami
Situated in the Allapattah neighborhood, Superblue Miami is an immersive art museum worth visiting! Prepare to be amazed by the large-scale pieces of work that have been created by artists worldwide.
During your visit, you’ll see how the exhibits push artistic boundaries, providing a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether it’s the impressive digital installations, mirrored maze, or cloud experience room, you will have a great experience.
Evening: Sunset Cruise
To finish your third day in Miami, take a relaxing sunset cruise. As you prepare to say goodbye to the Magic City, you’ll enjoy wine and picturesque Miami skyline views.
➡️This is the Miami Sunset Cruise that I recommend.
Where to Stay in Miami
When visiting Miami for two days, especially for first-timers, the most optimal place to stay is in Miami Beach or Downtown Miami. They are hubs for tourist attractions, nightlife, and many dining places. If you are looking for the best place with a party atmosphere, it will be South Beach.
Meanwhile, Bal Harbour and Coconut Grove will be great options if you want to stay in a relaxed area.
📍The Betsy Hotel, South Beach ($$$)– If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in a prime location, then this is the hotel for you! The Betsy features two swimming pools, a spa, a bar, and a beachfront property. There are also rooms with balconies and terraces.
📍Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Beach South Beach ($$)– This 3-star hotel has a great location in South Beach, with a shuttle to the beach. Among the amenities that make this hotel worth a stay include a rooftop swimming pool, 24-hour reception, and a buffet breakfast.
📍The Demetree Hotel ($)– Located close to Bayside Market Place, this hotel has comfy rooms that won’t break the budget. During your stay, you can enjoy a buffet breakfast, free parking, and city views from the rooms.
How to Get Around Miami
When it comes to navigating around Miami, you have several options available. Miami is a large city, so you must utilize the transportation methods at some point if you wish to visit the different neighborhoods. Next, we’ll take a look at the available transportation options.
Uber or Lyft
If you’re a fan of ridesharing applications, then you’re in luck. Both Lyft and Uber have operations in Miami, providing convenient transportation options for residents and tourists alike.
The platforms offer a range of vehicles to accommodate different needs and preferences.
Rental Car
Renting a car in Miami is a convenient and popular choice for exploring the city and its surrounding areas, providing the most flexible transportation option.
👉TRAVEL TIP: The parking situation in Miami can be challenging. You will almost always need to pay for parking in addition to availability being scarce around the most popular tourist attractions.
You won’t have a problem locating a car rental agency, whether it’s at the airport or throughout the city. Just note that Miami is a bustling city, and the traffic can sometimes be intense.
🚗You can find a wide range of rental car options and find the best prices through Discover Cars!
Trolleys
You can look into the trolleys if you want a unique way of getting around Miami! Decorated with vibrant colors, the trolleys make reaching different tourist attractions around main neighborhoods like Wynwood, Miami Beach, and Coconut Grove easy.
You can view more info about schedules and maps here.
Private Transfer
Miami private transfers offer a seamless and luxurious transportation option for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and privacy from the airport.
➡️If you prefer private transport from the airport, book this great Miami Private Transport Service.
FAQs: 2 Days in Miami
A trip to the vibrant city of Miami is an exciting experience that you should experience at least once. With so many different activities, there’s something for anyone to enjoy, no matter their preferences or budgets. Next, let’s answer some of your frequently asked questions about spending two days in Miami.
Is 2 days in Miami enough?
While Miami offers many attractions and experiences, two days can still provide a glimpse into the city’s unique offerings. You can maximize your time in the Magic City with careful planning and prioritization.
During your two days in Miami, you can explore iconic neighborhoods like South Beach, visit fascinating museums and galleries, indulge in the city’s culinary scene, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
However, remember that Miami is a dynamic city with countless activities and attractions, so you might have to make choices and leave some things for a future visit. But isn’t it great to have an excuse to come back?!
How Many Days Is Enough in Miami?
The ideal number of days to spend in Miami is subjective as it depends on personal preferences and the activities that are to be explored. While getting a taste of Miami’s highlights in a couple of days is possible, an extended stay is recommended to fully immerse yourself in the city’s diverse offerings.
A minimum of four to five days allows for a well-rounded experience, giving you ample time to explore many famous neighborhoods, relax on the beautiful beaches, visit world-class museums and art galleries, indulge in the culinary scene, and enjoy the iconic nightlife.
With these extra days, you can venture beyond the city and explore nearby activities, such as the Everglades or take a trip to the Florida Keys. By allowing yourself more time, you can genuinely embrace Miami’s notable energy, rich culture, and diverse experiences.
When is the Best Time to Visit Miami?
The best time to visit Miami is between the late winter and spring months, specifically mid-February through May. Within that time frame, there will be pleasant weather with average temperatures in the 70s to 80s, sometimes reaching the 90s. This will be the best time to soak in the sun and enjoy outdoor activities.
Visiting during this time will help you avoid the humidity of the summer months. In addition, this time period is outside of hurricane season, which is from June through November, with peak activity from August to October.
While you can still visit during the summer if you wish, you must consider the potential adverse weather conditions. Visiting outside of the peak months will also save money on accommodation.
To Sum Up: 2 Days in Miami
Spending 2 days in Miami offers an exciting and diverse experience combining the best vibrant city life, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. From relaxing in the sun on the beautiful shores of Miami Beach to exploring the colorful streets of Little Havana and exploring the art scene at Wynwood Walls, Miami has something for everyone.
You can enjoy the delicious cuisine offerings, dance the night away in trendy nightclubs, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this dynamic city. Given these points, two days in Miami will leave you with many reasons to return. If you have the time, Orlando is another great city to visit in Florida!
