48 Hours in Miami, FL: Best Things to See and Do, Places to Eat
Looking for the best things to do in Miami FL and top places to see? You won’t have to look far: This city is known for its diverse cultures, beautiful beaches, and historical sites, so there’s plenty to keep you occupied. But if you only have two days to take in the town, and Will Smith isn’t around to welcome you in his drop-top, then what? Following, you’ll find several great ways to maximize your stay, and enjoy everything from fine dining to walking tours and the city’s revolutionary, unforgettable architecture. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Miami FL and places to see – many of which, if pressed, you can cram into a single weekend visit.
News Café
800 Ocean Drive
Originally opened in in 1988, the News Café was a Miami staple. It abruptly closed in January of 2021, but reports say the restaurant will again open in August in the same location at the Tony Hotel on South Beach. The menu is expected to be revamped a bit and no word yet on hours. If you’re looking for a late-night snack, it’s open 24 hours, seven days a week and serves breakfast at all hours. Its casual atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to dine al fresco and people-watch. The menu is extensive, too, with everything from salads to sandwiches and pizza to Middle Eastern dishes.
900 Ocean Drive
At Mango’s, diners can indulge in delicious Latin and Caribbean comfort foods such as Churrasco steak, Cuban sandwiches, fish tacos, tableside guacamole and more. DJs spin and live music is played throughout the night to keep you shaking and moving into the early morning hours. Shows (which include bands and dance numbers by scantily-clad performers) go all night long from 8:15-11PM. And, after dinner, you can reserve a table at one of the many lounges within Mango’s: The Vodou lounge, the Mojito or the Jungle Room.
1020 Ocean Drive
One of South Beach’s most famed and recognizable hotels, built by Albert Anis in 1938, the Clevelander is literally in the center of it all. Book a short stay at the recently renovated landmark and enjoy the Pool + Patio Saturday pool party, which hosts 1,000 revelers, a 20-foot media screen, and three bars to enjoy your favorite cocktails poolside. Looking to catch your favorite sports team at the hotel? Head to Jack’s Sports Bar, which is just inside on the ground level.
SW 8th St.
Calle Ocho is the center of Little Havana. Take a guided tour of the area and you’ll have the chance to taste test delicious Cuban eats, learn about musical traditions, explore the beautiful art galleries and studios displaying works from local artists, and try your hand at cigar rolling. For a two-hour walking tour, tickets start at $40 per person.
565 NW 24th St.
Beer enthusiasts can taste test some of the city’s most savory brews at the Wynwood Brewing Company. In the heart of the Wynwood Art District, it houses 15 barrels, with everything from Blonde Ale to Robust Porter. Enjoy happy hour in the taproom Monday through Friday from 4-7PM, with up to $2 off all tap beers. Brewery tours are offered on the weekends and include a complimentary Wynwood Brewing glass to go with a 16-ounce pour of your favorite brew.
88 W. McIntyre St.
If you are looking for a bit of serenity in Miami we suggest you visit Key Biscayne. Spend a day at the northernmost island and relax on its tranquil, gorgeous sandy beaches. The island also offers two stunning waterfront parks, a bike path with beautiful views of the city and the only federally recognized underwater archaeological trail in the U.S.
1001 Ocean Drive
Miami’s Art Deco District is home to more than 800 beautiful buildings constructed during the building boom form the 1920s through the 1940s. Visitors can stroll through Ocean Drive north of 5th Street on a 90-minute walking tour, which includes an introduction to the Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival and Miami Modern styles found all along Miami’s historical district. All tours are $30 per person, Monday through Sunday.
Sunday Jazz Brunch at the Setai Hotel
2001 Collins Ave.
One of the most well-known brunches in the city features carving stations serving Indian, Thai, Indonesian and Chinese dishes as well as sweet treats like macaroons, key lime pie, and Caribbean chocolate cupcakes. Sip on unlimited pours of champagne, mimosas, and Bloody Marys as you enjoy the sounds of live jazz all afternoon long. Brunch is $95 per person, so be sure to make a reservation a few weeks prior.
5501 NE 2nd Ave.
Miami’s most famous dive bar since 1979 is also a local spot for cheap eats like scotch eggs and curry. Grab a beer, shoot some pool, maybe, then play your favorite tune on the jukebox. Catch live performances at the pub’s Monday night Jazz Jam, or enjoy open mic night on the back patio. You can also catch your favorite sports game one of the bar’s big screens.
3501 SW 8th St
A Calle Ocho staple, Versailles Restaurant is a must for tourist and locals alike. While the décor replicates the Versailles Palace Hall of Mirrors in France, the menu features Cuban staples like croquetas, oxtail stew, sandwiches, as well as a variety of seafood and meat entrees, all accompanied by black beans and sweet plantains. Breakfast is also served daily with a special Sunday morning buffet for a classic ventanita experience.
Cheat Sheet
For more on the things to do in Miami FL and places to visit, also see:
● TimeOut – 28 Best Things to Do in Miami
● Travellers Worldwide – 21 Best Things to Do in Miami
● U.S. News – 24 Fun Things to Do in Miami