Orlando vs. Miami - Which City Should I Visit?

Orlando and Miami are both sun-soaked vacation cities bursting with activities, from nature to theme parks. We've compared the two destinations below to help you make your choice. Pick one and bookmark the other for another time!

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Orlando vs Miami

Orlando and Miami are the two most popular cities in Florida for tourists, and each has its unique appeal. Some people visit both on a longer road trip-style vacation. But sometimes you only have the time or resources to tackle one.

If you’re trying to choose between Orlando and Miami for your next US vacation, we’ll help you out. We’ve pulled together a list comparing the major attractions in each city. They both have tours, cruises, museums, and historic sites. See which piques your interest the most, and then learn how to save on your Florida vacation.

Animal attractions

Miami has a wide variety of animal attractions, from a unique aquarium to an amazing safari experience. Here are a few.

three-male-lions-miami

Both Miami and Orlando are known for their animal attractions, with several zoos and aquariums located in each. Because of the proximity of the Everglades, you’ll also find gators aplenty in either city.
 

  • Miami Seaquarium. This is an engaging aquatic park with a specific focus on sea creatures. the Miami Seaquarium features everything from playful dolphin shows to shark feedings to special animal encounters. They’re also known for their conservation efforts.
     
  • Jungle Island. This modestly-sized zoological park is big on fun. See a variety of creatures from around the world at Jungle Island, where everything focuses on learning about the animal world through play and exploration. Check out our guide to Jungle Island before you go.
     
  • Lion Country Safari. Actually, a decent distance north of Miami but closer than Orlando, Lion Country Safari brings the experience of the African savanna to southern Florida. It’s a drive-through safari with opportunities to photograph and feed the animals.

Orlando also boasts a number of aquariums and even a gator park.

Gators in Florida
  • Gatorland. Known as the Alligator Capital of the World, Gatorland is the only place in Florida where it’s all gators, all the time. Their 110-acre park features other native Florida critters, too, but the gators and their astonishing performances are the real draw. We have some top tips for visiting Gatorland.
     
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando. Part of the SEA LIFE Aquarium family, this Orlando outpost offers a series of themed rooms that feature in total more than 5,000 sea creatures. Don’t miss the 360-degree ocean tunnel, where you can see the animals swim overhead. Check out our guide to SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando before visiting.
     
  • Florida Aquarium. Found in nearby Tampa, the Florida Aquarium is a massive attraction with over 7,000 aquatic plants and animals on display. Especially popular areas include the Wetlands Trail, Bays & Beaches, and Dragons Down Under.

Museums

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Miami and Orlando boast a number of top museums, several of which are world-renowned. A few are free or inexpensive, making a multi-museum vacation a budget-friendly option. These are our favorite museums in each city.

Miami museums encapsulate a wide variety of interests and subjects.
 

  • Pérez Art Museum Miami. Also known as PAMM, this world-class art museum showcases artwork from local and global artists with a particular focus on international inspiration and Miami influence.
     
  • Miami Children’s Museum. An immensely popular museum with little ones. The Miami Children’s Museum offers hours of play, learning, and exploring. Explore all 14 interactive exhibits to make a day of it.
Vizcaya
  • ARTECHOUSE Miami. One of the most distinctive museum-like experiences you’ll ever enjoy, ARTECHOUSE Miami is a dazzling interplay of light and sound, concept and execution, and ever-changing exhibits.
     
  • Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Immerse yourself in this gorgeous historic home and accompanying grounds, filled with lush flora and carefully tended displays. Inside the home is a curated collection of art and artifacts to peruse as you marvel at the architecture.
     
  • Frost Museum of Science. One of the most interactive science museums in the region, the Frost Museum of Science is all about learning by doing. There are exhibits on weather and climate, wildlife, and natural phenomena, among others.

Orlando museums are no less diverse, with options like:

NASA
  • Kennedy Space Center. Arguably one of the most historically significant sites in all of Florida, the Kennedy Space Center is today both a place for visitors to learn about the history of the American space program and a working facility.
     
  • Madame Tussauds Orlando. A wax museum chain that’s beloved by millions across the globe, Madame Tussauds in Orlando is a must-visit attraction for any fan of celebrities, pop culture, or history.
Titanic The Artifact
  • Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. Fans of the film or those interested in seafaring history will appreciate the impressive collection of objects from the tragedy that has been collected in Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition.
     
  • American Police Hall of Fame. Learn about the history and heritage of the United States police forces at the American Police Hall of Fame. A good place to visit for anyone interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement, too.
     
  • Mennello Museum of American Art. Art lovers will want to check out this unique institution. The basis of its collections is a large body of work by Earl Cunningham. However, it also has broader holdings of painting and sculpture.

Tours & Cruises

Orlando and Miami are each enticing cities for the curious traveler. You can opt for a bus tour, a scenic boat ride, or an exhilarating cruise. See how each city stacks up.

Miami has plenty of water-borne activities, although you’ll also find a comprehensive bus tour.
 

  • Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour. This Big Bus Miami tour is a two-day pass to explore the city’s multiple tour loops. See everything from Biscayne Boulevard to Miami Beach and Coconut Grove.
     
  • Jet Boat Miami. An unconventional kind of tour, Jet Boat Miami is a fast-paced 30-minute cruise around the gorgeous blue waters of Biscayne Bay. You can enjoy views of Millionaire’s Row, Star Island, Downtown Miami, and more.
Star Island
  • Duck Tours South Beach. Combine land and sea with a ride on the unique Duck Tours South Beach vessels. On a voyage part aquatic, part terrestrial, you’ll see the city in a whole new light.
     
  • Key West Day Trip. An all-day excursion down to the southernmost point of the Continental U.S., this Key West day trip is a rare opportunity to enjoy several hours on this delightful little island. Snorkel, sightsee, and snack at this tiny southern refuge.

Orlando also boasts both bus tours and cruises.
 

  • City of Orlando Tour. A lengthy tour of the entire city and surrounding area, the City of Orlando Tour is an ideal introduction to the city for first-time visitors. It highlights spots like Lake Eola, Celebration Town, and more.
Lake Eola and downtown Orlando
  • Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. Located in the nearby suburb of Winter Park, this scenic boat tour is an excellent way to see a lot of the city and this charming little neighborhood, too.
     
  • Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise. This exhilarating speedboat cruise is actually run out of St. Petersburg, a moderate drive from Orlando proper. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Gulf of Mexico on your way to meet playful pods of dolphins.

While this comparative list could go on forever, we’ll wrap it up with a few more observations. As far as kid-centric attractions go, Orlando has not only LEGOLAND® Florida and Universal Orlando Resort but of course, Disney. Miami has the above-mentioned Miami Children’s Museum, and many smaller attractions suitable for little ones.

Interested in checking out the local cuisine?

The culinary scene is going to lean somewhat towards Cuban and Latin American flavors in Miami. Orlando is fairly representative of any large city with everything from sushi and noodles to tacos and pizza.

Orlando also boasts the Wheel at ICON Park, an observation wheel right on the tourist haven of International Drive. Miami doesn’t have anything comparable at this time.

Save on admission to top Miami and Orlando attractions

Admission to many of these top Orlando and Miami attractions is included with Go City®. You can save up to 50% on admission to these and many other popular activities, tours, and cruises. Grab a Miami pass and save while you sightsee!

☀️Compare Orlando passes☀️ – 🌏 Explore Miami passes 🌏 –  ✈️ Check out other destinations ✈️ 

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Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Miami During the Day

Miami may be known for its non-stop nightlife, but that doesn’t mean that you should just sleep the day away! From interesting cultural amenities and historical sites to wonderful hidden gems, the city is bursting with fantastic attractions for you and your loved ones. Of course, the city is a haven for beach bunnies and seaside lovers - if you’re looking to soak up the sun, head over to South Beach where you can enjoy a wide array of water sports or simply kick back with a book. For nature enthusiasts, Miami is a great place to be, with some wonderful botanical gardens to be enjoyed – we recommend Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for its expansive collection of exotic plants. Or, if you’re looking for art and culture, why not check out Pérez Art Museum? With so much to see, do and experience, there’s no way you’ll be bored in the Magic City. So, if you're planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of the best things to do during the day in Miami. Keep scrolling to learn more! See the Sites If you’re looking to fit some culture into your travels, one of the best things you can do is make a stop at the local art gallery. Standing out for its comprehensive collection of contemporary international pieces, the Pérez Art Museum has been a long-time favorite for locals and visitors alike. The institution itself is beautiful and spacious, having been redesigned in 2013. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an impressive repository of over 2,000 works coming from the Americas, Western Europe, and Africa. Take a good look at Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s colorful works, then stroll out through the grand staircase to enjoy the magnificent waterfront view. A fantastic educational experience for those of all ages, we love this space because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Whether you’re a fine art aficionado or a crafting geek, you’re sure to enjoy this attraction. Though Miami may best be known a fun beach town, there’s still plenty to see here for architecture buffs. Located on Biscayne Bay in the picturesque neighborhood of Coconut Grove, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is one of Miami’s most popular visitor attractions – and it’s not hard to see why. The impressive historic building, surrounded by 50 acres of gardens is truly not to be missed. Built in the early 20th century, this stunning Gilded Age estate retains much of its original grandeur. The villa’s breathtaking façade, (adapted from traditional Mediterranean architectural elements) still impresses to this day. Upon entrance, visitors can explore the idea of what a luxury home meant in a different time. The museum is well-restored, and there are exceedingly opulent and curious pieces dotted around the building. In addition, the house is circled by extensive Italian Renaissance gardens with fountains, sculptures and other decorative design objects most definitely worth seeing. With its exquisite beauty and historical backstory, this attraction should rank pretty high on the itinerary. Get Some Fresh Air For those who want to take in the natural beauty of Miami – don't worry, we’ve got you covered! Situated just downtown of the city, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a historical 83-acre green space featuring plants from all over the world. The garden is named after famous botanist David Fairchild and showcases much of his collection which was brought back from his travels many decades ago. No doubt one of the most beautiful spots in the city, there’s a little something for everybody here – and in every season. Walking around the park, you’ll be able to enjoy America’s biggest palm collection, as well as the largest collection of tropical bamboo in the world, with 125 species to be enjoyed. To put the icing on the cake, the garden also has a small butterfly emporium bursting with color and life. A true urban jewel, this wonderful attraction should the keenest of nature lovers. Those who are travelling with family might enjoy the next item on our list. The perfect stop for all animal lovers, Jungle Island merges the tropical backdrop of Miami with wonderful exotic animals for an awesome day trip to remember. We love this attraction because it offers the chance to see animals close up without affecting them or their habitat. The park was first founded under the name ‘’Parrot Jungle’’ in 1936. To this day, their collection largely features rare and unusual parrots and other birds species. Still, that’s not all there is to see here. From alligators and snakes to tigers and lemurs, Jungle Island has a lot to offer for everybody. The park is also home to Parrot Cove Beach, Miami’s only private beach. Naming this place a beach might be a bit of a misnomer – this place is more of a fantastic waterpark, with obstacle courses, rides, slides, and a climbing wall. Providing a great educational opportunity for all the family, this place is one of our favorite spots in the city. Hit the Beach! No Miami vacation is complete without a trip to the beach. If you’re looking for the ultimate Floridian seaside experience, look no further than South Beach. Known for its turquoise waters and palm fringed shores, this picturesque attraction more than lives up to the image it brings to mind. Walking along the shores, you might find this spot all too familiar – which is because it’s a pretty popular filming location for movies and shows shot in Miami. Among the various things to do here, you’ll find that surfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing and sailing are all popular activities. But for those who just want to relax, you can rent beach chairs and an umbrella for a small charge. Aside from the beach itself, the surrounding area is well worth exploring. Venture just a little off from the shores to find an eclectic mix of world-class eateries, waterside cafes, fashion boutiques, galleries, and much more. Offering a paradisial break from city life, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Miami. There are countless things to do in Miami. It’s all up to you to pick your favorite! To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Miami in January

Don’t miss the best things to do in Miami. You can fill your days and nights with visits to incredible museums, tropical gardens, and historic sites, and still barely have scratched the surface. Or maybe you just want to just kick back at the beach with a podcast and soak up the sun. Trust us when we say that the possibilities are endless. No, really – we mean it. Drawing in 25 million visitors each year, Miami ranks as America’s second most popular tourism hub – after New York, of course. Yep, I guess we could say that you'll never be bored here. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor to the Magic City, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Not sure quite where to start? Well, luckily for you, we've done all of the heavy lifting here! We’ve spent a lot of time in the area and are sharing our favorite things to do in Miami. Keep scrolling to learn more. See the Sites On January’s hotter days, you’ll be able to enjoy all of the fantastic outdoor attractions that the city has to offer. Around this time of the year, we recommend bringing a light jacket, just in case the weather decides to change up on you. If you’re looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Miami, there’s no better place to be than Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. No doubt one of the most beautiful spots in the city, Fairchild is considered amongst the best tropical gardens in the world. A sharp contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city, this quiet and serene space is brimming with all kinds of rare and exotic flora. Some are bold and vibrant, whilst others are small and delicate. Undeniably, all of them are a treat for the senses. In addition, this site is home to the largest palm collection in the United States. A total Instagrammer’s dream, it would be easy to spend an entire day getting lost in this spectacular display of greenery. If you’re an animal lover, this next item on our list will be right down your alley. Located just east of the city, Jungle Island is recognized as one of the oldest tourist attractions in the Miami area. Combining the beauty of Miami’s tropical landscape with a jungle full of wonderful animals from near and far, this place is pretty much the perfect day out. Walking around this spacious and natural habitat, you’ll be able to appreciate these beautiful creatures thriving happily in a safe and appropriate home for them. The site houses around 3, 000 critters, with over 1, 000 parrots (as the institute was formerly known as ‘’Parrot Jungle’’). For those who want to interact with the animals, you can visit the petting zoo, or catch feedings at certain times. In addition, the park is home to Parrot Cove Beach, Miami’s only private beach. With so much to see and do, this place provides an extraordinary one-of-a-kind experience for you and your loved ones. Learn Something New For those looking to learn about the history of the area, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Built into Miami Beach’s first synagogue, the Miami Jewish Museum seeks to cultivate interest in the cultural history of the area. As one of the most highly populated Jewish states in America, Florida has a long and storied Jewish history just waiting to be explored. Inside the interesting building, you’ll be able to view a comprehensive collection of over 100, 000 artifacts, including historic photographs, documents, religious objects and artworks. The museum’s core exhibit MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida, tells the story of nearly 250 years of the development of the community. In addition, the institution has a number of temporary exhibits which serve to preserve and interpret different periods of Jewish history. Thoroughly fascinating, we love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Though Miami is well known for its sugar-sand beaches and perennial sunshine, January is one of Florida’s coldest months. Whilst that might not sound like much in an area with a subtropical climate, the city can definitely have some ‘’off days’’ around this time of the year. Should a cloudy January day crop up on you, we recommend checking out one of Miami’s wonderful cultural attractions. One of our ultimate favorite places in the city is Pérez Art Museum for its wonderful collection of contemporary art. Walking around the institute, you’ll be able to enjoy an impressive collection of around 2,000 pieces, focusing on works from the Americas, Western Europe and Africa. Highlights include seminal pieces by Frank Stella, Dan Flavin, and Christo and Jeanne-Claude. The perfect stop for all art lovers, the institute provides a fantastic visual and cultural experience for those of all ages. Try Something Different Those who come to Miami seeking something a little different will not be disappointed. No doubt one of the city’s most unusual visitor attractions, Coral Castle has been baffling visitors for decades. The mystery surrounding the park begins with its creative process. Constructed out of 1, 100 tons of oolite limestone at a time when no modern construction technology was available, the sculptures bring up many questions. In fact, this site has long been the subject of many conspiracy theories, theorizing that artist Edward Leedskalnin used reverse magnetism or supernatural abilities to create the piece. Whilst nobody is ever quite sure how Coral Castle came to be, the outcome has remained a defining characteristic of the city ever since its opening in 1940. An undeniably mind-bending attraction, this spot is a total must-see. Don’t forget to bring a camera so you can capture some snaps of this utterly unique site! Well, what else can we say? Some places are popular for a reason, and Miami is definitely one of them! January is a fantastic time to visit since it’ll still be warm enough to hit the beach and enjoy all of the city’s best outdoor attractions, sans all of the crowds and humidity. You should also be able to find great deals on accommodation and travel around this time of the year. So, what are you waiting for? Explore the city to its full potential with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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10+ Free Things to Do in Miami

Miami is more than just perfect weather, pristine beaches, and great nightlife, it's also a busy, multi-cultural metropolis with more to offer visitors than its beaches. Miami is the closest city in the US to the Caribbean – a metropolitan tropical paradise, right in the US. Despite what you may have heard about it being one of the most expensive cities in the US, there's no shortage of affordable and free things to do in Miami for a fun vacation. Our local experts put together a list of some of the best free things to do in Miami, all great suggestions that can help round out your vacation itinerary, including... Little Havana South Beach Lummus Park Beach South Pointe Park Gables Art Walk and more... Miami Art Museum Experience Miami's Museum Scene: Head to the Miami Art Museum between 1PM and 4PM on the second Saturday of the month, when it's free for families with children. It's a great opportunity to create art, enjoy exhibitions and learn something new with your kids. An organized family tour takes place at 2PM If you are in Miami during spring, try to get to the Miami Art Museum Family Festival, when the Miami-Dade Cultural Plaza is filled with art activities, entertainment, and games. South Beach Miami is known for its beaches and South Beach has something for everyone. If you have kids to entertain, South Pointe Park has a playground and splash fountain, and is the ideal setting for a picnic. If you want to escape the crowds for an hour or two, Miami Beach Botanical Garden has 4.5 acres filled with subtropical plants, right in the center of South Beach. Wander around the beautiful Art Deco hotels and houses, such as Casa Casuarina, the former home and murder site of fashion designer the late Gianni Versace. Follow the Art Deco District Walking Tour to make sure you do not miss any of these carefully preserved buildings. Many of the South Beach Museums offer free admission on certain days, including the Holocaust Museum, the Wolfsonian-FIU Art Museum, and the Jewish Museum of Florida. Gables Art Walk Art lovers won’t want to miss this opportunity to explore some of Miami’s most inspiring art galleries along Ponce de Leon Boulevard. On the first Friday of every month, visitors can stroll through open galleries between 7-10PM to peruse a diverse selection of artistic projects. As a bonus, some galleries offer complimentary wine! There’s even a free trolley to take you between galleries. Miami Dade College Museum of Art and Design Another popular destination for art lovers. Located in the historic Freedom Tower (itself a really cool site to see), this free museum features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art by both local and international artists. While exhibits change over quite often, they consistently represent artists with an international and multicultural aesthetic (evocative of Miami’s own diverse cultural landscape). Spanning a multitude of genres and forms, these exhibits are sure to delight and inspire. Holocaust Memorial This thought-provoking museum is always free to the public, so you can visit whenever it fits into your itinerary. The Holocaust Memorial serves as a testament to the millions who died as a result of the Holocaust. The memorial features a wall with the names of concentration camp victims, a reflecting pool that serves to provide solace to survivors and all those affected, a moving photographic mural, and many additional informative exhibits. They also offer a number of educational programs and special events, so it’s a great place to go to expose your kids to this important part of history. The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts The Arsht Center is the largest performing arts center in the city with events running year-round. The venue hosts a variety of events, including musical concerts, plays, ballets, and lots of family-friendly events as well. This towering building itself stands out as it was designed by famed architect Cesar Pelli (known for the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur). History Miami Delve into the history of the city of Miami itself at History Miami. This museum features a wide range of exhibits on Southern history, including always-rotating exhibits that provide fresh, new perspectives on Miami's unique history and culture, from past to present. Casa Bacardi Enjoy a bit of rum every now and then? Traveling with friends? Then why not tour the famous Casa Bacardi, home to the world-famous brand of rum? Daily tours are free and available to guests 21 and older. Explore the history and heritage of this long-running company, founded in 1862 in Santiago de Cuba. Take a tour behind the scenes to see how rum is produced, sample a few select products, and browse a charming history of their advertising campaigns. Biscayne National Park Family Fun Fest If you’re visiting Miami with the whole family, stop by this educational and fun Family Fun Fest. Held on the second Sunday of every month from December through April, this interactive outdoor program is free to all. Hands-on activities and nature interactions are only some of the many options open to your kids at this fun event. If you happen to miss the Fest, then Biscayne National Park is well worth exploring on its own merits! The Bayside Marketplace Located in Downtown Miami, the Bayside Marketplace is one of the best places to get views of Biscayne Bay. This enormous shopping complex hosts more than 150 upscale boutique shops worth visiting (even if just to look). Robert is Here No trip to Miami is complete without sampling some local produce! Head to the Robert is Here fruit stand, set up in 1959 by Robert Moehling to sell produce for his father, now a Miami icon. You'll get to see the farmer's market in action, buy fresh Miami produce from local vendors, and maybe even try a few free samples. The Biltmore Hotel Spa & Golf Club Of course, you can't stay at the hotel, get a massage, or play golf for free - but - the grounds of the hotel offer a beautiful spot for a leisurely walk with stunning Miami views located right in Coral Gables. The famous golf club opened in 1926 and features a 71-par golf course known for its doglegs. Fun fact – this is where the University of Miami golf teams practice. The historic hotel offers free tours on Sunday afternoons. Learn about the heritage of the establishment, a luxury locale that at one time hosted famous figures like Judy Garland, Ginger Rogers, and even Al Capone. As one of the most visually striking hotels and renowned golf courses in the world, it's definitely worth a quick visit! Little Haiti Cultural Center Despite the large size of Miami, this is one of the only locations where you can experience the fusion of African, Caribbean, and Miami cultures in one place. Learn all about the cultural history of Miami through the center's art gallery, theater, and dance studios. This cultural center is very integrated with its communities, so you'll get to experience Miami's unique culture first-hand. A Way to Save on Ticketed Miami Attractions We know that this blog post is about listing the free things to do in Miami, but, are you looking to visit a few of the ticketed attractions during your vacation? Consider using a pass with Go City® - which includes free admission to dozens of the area's most popular attractions - all for one low price. See all available Miami attractions, passes & prices. With Go City® you can make savings on combined admission vs paying at the gate.
Casey Makovich

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