Things to do in Brickell Miami

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Sarah Harris

Looking for things to do in Miami? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Miami is a wonderful tourism hub boasting incredible scenery and fun attractions for you and your loved ones. The Magic City is one of the most popular visitor hotspots in the United States, with many of its visitors choosing to stay in Brickell. Located just south of the Central Business District, the area is characterized by its modern high-rises, unique landmarks and great shopping destinations. Highlights include browsing the stores at Brickell City Centre, walking the Underline, and sipping cocktails high above the city at Sugar. With tourists only visiting for a week or two, this means you’ll have to choose how you want to spend your time wisely. So, if you’ve never made your way over to the Sunshine State before and aren’t quite sure where to start, have a read through our list of cool things to see and do in the area. Let’s get started!

Explore the Area

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Though Miami is well-recognized for its pristine paradisial beaches and lush greenery, its modern urban center has something a little different to offer visitors. There are countless wonderful attractions to check out in Brickell, but one of our favorites has got to be Brickell City Centre, a sprawling open-air mall spanning over five blocks. Whether you’re looking to shop ‘til you drop or grab a bite to eat, this place has it all. For those who enjoy a vacation heavily focused on retail therapy, this place has a myriad of high-street stores and luxury brands to be enjoyed. If it’s entertainment that you’re after, check out the Cinemex. Or, if you’re looking for some great eats, the center has a wonderful Farmers’ Market which runs every Saturday, serving up a wide variety of delectable options from local artisans. We love this spot because it’s a total crowd-pleaser.

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If you’re looking for something a little different, you might enjoy the next item on our list. Situated along the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay, Brickell Key is a man-made island with calming vibes, refreshing breezes and breathtaking ocean views. Standing out amongst all other aquatic attractions in the city, this place is more than just a place to kick back and relax by the ocean; rather, you’ll find a lot of fun amenities to check out, making it a great place for a fun day trip. Exploring the island, visitors can enjoy everything from great shopping and entertainment to top-notch dining and bars. Combining the urban character of the area with the beachy feel that Miami is best known for, the island has a lot to see for all types of travellers. This place is best explored by foot, so we recommend bringing a lot of sunblock and water with you if you plan to spend most of the day here.

Find Interesting Activities

Whilst Brickell is known for its modern structures and towering skyscrapers, the area doesn’t disappoint for history lovers. For those who want to learn more about the background of Miami, we recommend the Miami Circle, a fascinating heritage site like no other. Discovered in 1998 and constructed primarily out of limestone bedrock, this architectural marvel is considered to be anywhere between 1, 700 and 2, 000 years old. Though the site doesn’t appear to be particularly impressive upon first glance, it is thought to be the only known evidence of prehistoric permanent structure cut into bedrock in Eastern United States. Areologists believe that the Tequesta Indians used the holes cut into it as support for some sort of structure. Since this is a quick stop, we recommend taking some time to explore the surrounding area – you'll find interesting stores, sidewalk cafes, and bars nearby.

Relax!

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With its glittering skyscrapers and busy streets, Brickell can sometimes feel like a bit of a concrete jungle. For those looking to take a break from all of the hustle and bustle, we just might have the answer. Spanning underneath the southern half of Miami's Metrorail, the Underline is an urban trail offering a great respite from city life for those seeking some mobility in nature. Granting fantastic views of the Miami River, this 10-mile stretch is a great place to go for a casual stroll, a fun picnic, or just simply soak up the sun. Aside from its lush greenery, the park has also been utilized as a fantastic public art destination, with the exhibits constantly rotating to keep us on our toes. The spot is also host to a lot of fun events including outdoor yoga, dance, and storytelling for those who are interested. Whether you’re looking for the perfect place to spend some quality time with the family or just a quiet spot of contemplation, the Underline serves its purpose well.

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After a long day of touring, you might just be looking for a great spot to grab a drink and rest your weary feet. Brickell is filled with great bars and nightclubs, though none are quite as noteworthy as Sugar. Nestled in a secret rooftop garden high above the city, this chic cocktail bar brings a luxurious slice of Balinese flair to Brickell. Reflecting the unique tropical landscape of Miami, this place is decked with a hand-carved wooden bar and tiki lounges. If you’re wondering about food (and let’s face it, why wouldn’t you be?) Sugar is known for its incredible Asian tapas dishes, including sushi and dumplings, along with an impressive cocktail program of course. The space is forty floors up, making it one of the most elevated spots in the city and granting incredible 360-views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami cityscape. Sleek and lively, we couldn’t think of a better place to spend an evening in the Magic City.

Indeed, Brickell’s to-do list is as plentiful as its sunny days. Fun things to do here run the gamut – whether you’re a serious shopping addict or just looking to explore the local bar scene, you’re sure to find something to suit you. Explore the area to its full potential with an 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
Go City Travel Expert

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Best Beaches in Miami
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Best Beaches in Miami

If you're looking for the best beaches in Miami, check out our picks and find the perfect place to get your sun, sand, and sea fix! Including: South Beach Bal Harbour Beach Mid-Beach Sunny Isles Beach Soho Beach House and more! Can you swim in Miami beaches? Yes, you can swim at any of Miami's beaches. Some may be cleaner than others, but you're free to frolic in any of them! What month can you swim in Miami? If you're hitting Miami's beach scene between April and October, you'll experience the warmest seas on offer, making it the perfect time to go for a dip. Even in the off-season, the further south you head, the warmer you'll find the water. What beach do Miami locals go to? Generally, South Beach is Miami's most popular beach for both tourists and locals alike. This is likely due to the sheer volume of hotels you'll find along the waterfront, coupled with the number of bars, clubs, and other hangouts that call it home. Best Beaches in Miami: South Beach We couldn't start anywhere else, really. In the vibrant realm of South Beach, you'll discover an array of immaculately chiseled people, luxurious automobiles, daring swimsuits, and captivating Art Deco architecture. This renowned two-mile expanse of pristine white sand constitutes Florida's most renowned beachfront. Additionally, this area encompasses Lummus Park, home to 18 volleyball courts and two open-air fitness facilities, making it the perfect beach for activity-seekers. Beyond this bustling hub, locals often prefer the tranquility of the beachfront south of Fifth Street, away from the myriad hotels and tourists, where ample space remains for anyone seeking to lay down their beach towel. Best Beaches in Miami: Bal Harbour Beach Bal Harbour is one of Miami's most upmarket neighborhoods, so you probably have some idea of what to expect from its accompanying beach: designer garb, expensive boats, and plenty of money being flashed about. If you feel like your current attire makes you stand out like a sore thumb, fear not. Bal Harbour Mall is a hop, skip, and jump from the beachfront, where you can burn hundreds if not thousands of dollars on swimwear, sunglasses, and other accessories that'll help you fit right in. Is it worth it? Only you can be the judge of that! Best Beaches in Miami: Mid-Beach Mid-Beach is the home of Miami's most chic and upscale hotels, attracting the city's fashionistas and more 'distinguished' travelers who want to avoid the crowds of South Beach. As such, expect hefty displays of wealth, a largely international audience, and plenty of people spending their time at exclusive hotel beach clubs instead of the sand itself, meaning you should get a tanning spot rather easily. Best Beaches in Miami: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park At first, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park might seem a bit unassuming. However, look beneath the surface, and you'll find some of the best hiking trails in Miami. They'll take you along the nearby beach, through the park, and then emerge above the city, giving you some of the best views of Miami around. Regularly receiving plaudits as one of America's best beaches, it's the perfect city respite for active couples or families looking to beat the crowds. Best Beaches in Miami: Sunny Isles Beach Bordered by serene, sapphire waters and offering respite from the bustling crowds, this two-mile stretch of Miami beach is the epitome of chill. Here, you'll find predominantly residential condos of varying shapes and sizes, though the residents don't flood the sand like they do in South Beach. As such, Sunny Isles Beach is far enough away from the busier beaches that it's ideal for families and couples who just want a beautiful beach without the White Claws and EDM. Best Beaches in Miami: 12th Street Beach 12th Street Beach is your one-stop destination for LGBTQ+ fun, as it's the destination for gay beach revelers. If you're looking for a party vibe, you'll get it at 12th Street Beach. Bluetooth speakers, BBQs, and myriad six-packs supplement the fun, and after dark, the nearby Nathan's Beach Club comes to life with cocktails, smooth jams, and plenty of loungers. If you're looking for a laid-back time, it's best to head somewhere else. Best Beaches in Miami: Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Miami's Four Seasons Hotel has hosted some of the most recognizable faces of the 20th Century, having put up the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Winston Churchill over the years. The hotel is a mainstay of the Miami skyline, but it's the location's Surf Club, which only opened a few years ago, which takes center stage on this list. Found on the hotel's exclusive stretch of beach, it's a little slice of tropical paradise reserved for guests. Though, if you have the cash to splash, staying at the Four Seasons might be a treat in itself. The Surf Club is just the icing on the cake, allowing you that cocktail-sipping beach experience typically found in the Caribbean. Best Beaches in Miami: Haulover Naturist Beach If you're looking to let it all hang out in Miami, Haulover Naturist Beach is the one for you. And, as Florida's oldest official nudist beach, you'll be in good company. It might not be the place to take the kids, unless you're alright with bits and bobs free from the prison of clothing. Best Beaches in Miami: Soho Beach House If you've not heard of Soho House, it's a chain of exclusive 'resorts' found all over the world. Built for media personalities, it foregoes a dress code (and actively bans suits and ties) for a laid-back escape for people in and around show business to grab a drink, relax on a rooftop, and avoid the prying eyes of journos, and the macho bravado of finance bros. Miami has its very own location called Soho Beach House, where you can grab a drink, a bite to eat and beat the crowds in its exclusive surroundings. But don't worry; even if you're not a member, you get access if you stay over at Soho Beach House's hotel. And those are our picks of the best beaches in Miami! If you're looking to see the best experiences that Miami has to offer during your stay, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Miami's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Is Miami Safe for Tourists to Visit
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Is Miami Safe for Tourists to Visit

Check out our guide to Miami and learn everything you need to know to make your trip safe!
Dom Bewley
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Miami in February

Exciting and buzzing with life, Miami is one of the most popular visitor destinations in the United States – and with good reason. With daily high temperatures ranging around the mid-70s, February is a fantastic time to visit. This is perfect weather for strolls on the beach, a visit to the zoo, or exploring the city’s coolest neighborhoods. With so much to see, do and experience, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you aren’t quite sure where to start, don’t worry – we’ve done all the research for you. Have a read through our comprehensive list of the best things to do in Miami in spring. No matter how you choose to spend your time in the Magic City, we’re sure you’ll have a blast! See the Sites One to definitely add to the top of the travel bucket list is witnessing the majesty of nature close up. With its fantastic tropical climate and undeniably beautiful greenery, Miami presents some of the best zoological gardens in America. Blending the beautiful backdrop of Miami with incredible exotic creatures, Jungle Island delivers the best of both worlds and more. This place has been delighting animal lovers from near and far since 1936, making it our top recommendation for those looking to see some of the natural world’s most impressive specimens. The site has over 3, 000 animals to show, and over 100 exhibits to be enjoyed. Formerly known as ‘’Parrot Jungle’’, you can expect to see a lot of interesting birds in more varieties than you ever thought existed. This place is also home to Miami’s only private beach, which functions as a kids’ waterpark. The park features obstacle courses, riptide rapids, slides, and a climbing wall to keep the little ones occupied – as if the colorful animals weren’t enough! A thoroughly captivating and magical experience for those of all ages, this one should rank way up high on the itinerary. Whilst travelling, one of the best ways to appreciate the area is by visiting a public garden. Our top pick of Miami’s best green spaces has got to be Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for its unique collection of exotic flora. This historic garden is home to some beautiful plants and rare specimens which have been carefully cultivated since the mid-1900s. Spanning over 83 acres of land, this must-see attraction offers a fully immersive rainforest experience for you and your loved ones. Walking through the site, you’ll be able to enjoy thousands of types of plants you wouldn’t normally get to see. In addition, the site is home to the largest palm collection in America, as well as the biggest collection of tropical bamboo in the world. Walking through the site, you’ll also be able to view a lot of interesting wildlife which thrives there, including fish, birds, lizards and crocodiles. Perhaps most captivating, though, is the garden’s small butterfly emporium, with countless species to be enjoyed. No doubt one of the most serene spaces in the city, this place works to showcase the true beauty and wonder of the natural world in all its glory. We recommend setting aside a whole day for this if you’re looking to cover the whole space. Learn Something New The best vacation memories aren’t accordingly made when you’re just kicking back. For those who are looking to incorporate education into their travel experience, we recommend checking out the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum. Both inspiring and fun, this place works well to explain a wide range of topics for a broad audience. The institute houses both a planetarium and an aquarium – so there’s a little something for everybody here. Go back in time to explore the wonders of the natural world. Learn about the amazing story of evolution from start to finish. Or hear about the development and future of scientific discovery. No matter where your interests may lie, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Some of the best trips include a day at the museum. If you’re looking for art and culture in Miami, look no further than the Pérez Art Museum. Situated just downtown, the institute has long served as the perfect spot for creative and intellectual thought. The gallery’s ongoing core collection draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural diversity, while you’ll find many rotating exhibits focusing on important social topics. In total, the museum has over 2, 000 pieces, covering a wide range of styles. In its unique and impressive repository, you'll find everything from avant-garde and surrealist paintings to modern and contemporary sculptures. Famous artists featured here include Frank Stella, Dan Flavin, and Christo and Jeanne-Claude. For anybody wanting to squeeze in a little bit of education on their travels, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend the day. Try Something Different Whether or not you consider yourself a spiritual person, there’s something quite special about visiting sacred sites on your trip. Standing out as the oldest visitor attraction in the city by a long shot, the Ancient Spanish Monastery is not only a mesmerizingly beautiful place to spend the day but well-recognized for its fascinating and storied past. Construction for this unique site began in 1133 AD, near northern Spain. For nearly 700 years following the initial construction, the monastery was run by Cistercian monks. It wasn’t until the 1920s that the monastery first landed on American soil, after being deconstructed brick by brick. By the mid-twentieth century, two entrepreneurs had decided to buy the stones to put back together, one by one, with the intention of building a tourist attraction – the Ancient Spanish Monastery as it is now known. The attraction has been branded as ‘’the biggest jigsaw puzzle in history’’ by Time Magazine, and we can certainly see why! Though the site’s past is pretty far-fetched, the monastery retains much of its architectural excellence. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to appreciate its hand-carved columns, sweeping arches, and beautiful shrines. No doubt one of the most unbelievable attractions in the city, this place is definitely worth a visit. We love Miami. Forever fun and bursting with cool things to do, the city lures those from near and far and its beautiful weather and beachy vibes. 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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