Miami besides the party scene

10+ Things to Do in Miami Besides Party

You'll forget all about the nightlife!
By Go City Expert

If you’re planning a trip to Miami, you’re probably looking forward to the nightlife in one of America’s most vibrant cities. And why wouldn’t you? South Beach is known far and wide for its club scene, and there is no shortage of fun to be had, mingling well into the morning hours with beautiful people while great music plays in the background.

At the same time, however, there is much more to Miami than just the bars and nightclubs. There’s something there for everyone, regardless of what you might be interested in. While it’s probably impossible to count all the things to do in Miami besides partying, we’ve put together a list of attractions you should check out, including...

  • Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Miami Tour
  • Jet Boat Miami
  • The Florida Everglades
  • Duck Tours South Beach
  • and much more!
     

Big Bus Miami Hop On Hop Off Tour

A Hop On Hop Off Tour lets you enjoy the best of what Miami has to offer, from the beautiful beaches to the restaurants and clubs, all with the freedom to hop on or off the bus at whatever stops you want. Want to visit Little Havana or the Art Deco District? Feel like spending the morning lounging at South Beach, and then continuing your tour of Miami at your leisure?

With Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours you’re in control, while still having access to an expert tour guide who can fill you in on city history as well as the best places for sightseeing, nightlife, dining, or beach-going. Big Bus Tours Miami offers three different loops, each of which brings something unique to the table. 

Getting In: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Miami Tour tickets are included with all Go City® Miami passes.

The Official Art Deco Tours

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If you loved the historic Art Deco district on your hop-on and hop-off tour, then you'll want to give a little more love to this amazing collection of architecture. Take a 90-minute guided walking tour of Miami's Art Deco district to see a beautiful collection of buildings constructed in this unique architectural style. Some of the examples you'll see include hotels, restaurants, and numerous other commercial buildings, including the chance to tour select interiors.

But there's a ton of variety: the most famous example of Art Deco in Miami is, interestingly enough, the U.S. Post Office building! Tours are run by the Miami Design and Preservation League, so you know they're true experts on historic architecture, urban planning, and all that goes into designing that perfect beautiful building. 

Getting In: Miami Art Deco Tour is separately ticketed.

Jet Boat Miami

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Tired of boat tours that crawl along at a snail’s pace? If you spent your last tour on the water wishing your captain would go a bit faster, Jet Boat Miami is well worth checking out. Each tour, starting and ending at Sea Isle Marina, can reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour, and the captains are always determined to give you an adrenaline rush you won’t be able to forget. A rollercoaster of the sea!

Jet Boat Miami is sightseeing with a twist! See Downtown Miami, Hibiscus Island, San Marco Island, and Star Island, all while using hundreds of horsepower to execute tight turns, 360-degree spins, and bursts of high speed. And if that isn’t enough for you, just let the captain know and he’ll give you and your fellow passengers some extra twists and turns! 

Getting In: Jet Boat Miami is separately ticketed.

Miami Seaquarium

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If you have an appreciation for aquatic wildlife, you can’t afford to miss out on the Miami Seaquarium, which is widely considered to be the premier attraction in South Florida. You can relax and watch marine animal shows, or you can pay a visit to the sea lions and other fascinating creatures that call this place home.

Although there are countless things to do here, the Seaquarium isn’t just an entertainment center. It has no shortage of educational tidbits for you to enjoy while you check out the various sights.

The park is also known for its commitment to the rescue and conservation of marine mammals, which began before it opened to the public. Ever since its first rescue of a manatee in 1955, Miami Seaquarium has rehabilitated and released countless whales, sea turtles, manatees, and dolphins. If you’re seeking out a fun day experiencing and learning about marine life, this is a stop you have to make when you’re in South Florida. 

Getting In: Miami Seaquarium tickets are included with all Go City® Miami passes.

Jungle Island

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Do you like the idea of going on a wild safari adventure? Or attending a show starring gifted performers who also happen to be exotic birds? Or would you rather take pictures up close with tiger cubs and monkeys? If any of these activities interest you, luckily enough you can find them all at the same place.

If that sounds hard to believe, you’ve obviously never been to Jungle Island. This landmark of South Florida offers visitors a chance to experience some of the world’s most fascinating, beautiful, and dangerous wildlife, all in one incredible park.

You can get up close and personal with lemurs, listen to talking and singing parrots, or even visit the Lion’s Den, where the park’s majestic white lion can be seen, plus Royal Bengal and white tigers. If you’ve got kids in tow, the park also features a large playground as well as a Petting Farm. And don't miss their summer pop-up: Neo Splash Water Park! 

Getting In: Jungle Island is separately ticketed.

Everglades Alligator Farm & Airboat Ride

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You may not want to pet one of them, but there’s no denying the draw of a dangerous reptile like the alligator, the most notorious resident of South Florida. Everglades Alligator Farm & Airboat offers visitors the chance to see these alarming creatures up close and personal, with alligator shows that educate you about the animals while also entertaining you with demonstrations of primitive Native American capturing techniques.

You’ll even get a chance to take a picture with a baby alligator after the show if you stick around! That’s just the tip of the iceberg though, as you can also take an exciting tour of the swamp on an airboat, or proceed on foot to see alligators, caimans, crocodiles, and other forms of local and exotic wildlife.

There are snakes as well, and if you’re looking to make some new, slithering friends, Everglades Alligator Farm also has a snake show that can teach you what to look out for when you’re exploring the nearby wilderness. You’ll even get the chance to pass around a snake and take a picture.

Getting In: Everglade Alligator Farm & Airboat Ride tickets are included with all Go City® Miami passes.

Island Queen Millionaire's Row Sightseeing Boat Cruise

On this cruise, you'll sit back and enjoy the natural beauty of the Venetian Islands and Biscayne Bay, as well as the stunning homes of the rich and famous located around South Beach. You’ll see numerous landmarks as well, but if you’re concerned about being stuck on a crowded vessel you’ll be pleased to know that the three boats available with Island Queen Millionaire's Row Sightseeing Boat Cruise offer a much more intimate experience than what you’d find with most boat tours.

The boat tour begins and ends at Bayside Marketplace, where you can do even more sightseeing — unless you’d rather get some shopping done. There is also a wide range of entertainment and dining options available as well, which can ensure that you finish your day off in style after your tour is over. 

Getting In: Island Queen Sightseeing Boat Cruise tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

Duck Tours South Beach

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It’s safe to assume you’ve never been on a tour anything like this one before. Embark on a fully narrated, interactive trip that covers both land and sea in an amphibious vessel, guided by people with extensive knowledge of the city.

The Duck Tours South Beach guides are all well-versed in both comedy and acting, meaning you will experience timeless Art Deco-style architecture and the mansions of the rich and famous all while being entertained by jokes and fun games. Tours offer an up-close look at the most exclusive properties on the gorgeous Biscayne Bay, plus Miami’s other most popular spots. 

Getting In: Duck Tours South Beach tickets are included with all Go City® Miami passes.

Bike and Roll Miami: Bike Rental

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Strolling around in Miami Beach city, enjoying the sunshine, and watching the sights sounds like a great way to spend a day or two. The only thing that could make it even better... is a set of wheels! Bike and Roll Miami lets you take advantage of the city’s countless trails and bike lanes as you experience Miami on a pair of skates, a bicycle, or even a segway. Tours are available but optional, and there are even tandem bikes and quadcycles for groups that want to ride together.

Once you have your bike and the necessary equipment, you can begin riding in the picturesque Art Deco district with a map to help guide your trip. The map has a distance chart that can assist you, but you decide where to go. South Beach, the Venetian Causeway, and Little Havana are just a few possibilities, in addition to the sights as you ride through South Florida. 

Getting In: Bike and Roll Miami Bike Rentals are included with all Go City® Miami passes.

Key West Day Trip

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Seeking out the best way to enjoy a day out in a beautiful environment with no stress or worries? A Key West Day Trip is the answer. Sightseeing tours, group events, outdoor cafés, and quaint shopping areas are just the beginning of what you can do in a day in Key West. If you’re looking for things to do in Miami besides party, Key West has what you need.

Want to go parasailing? Or how about a voyage on a glass-bottomed boat or a snorkeling cruise? Key West has countless attraction options, and it all begins with the laid-back, Caribbean atmosphere that sets your mind and body at ease. Whether you want to take a ride on a winding road atop an open-air train, or you’d prefer to simply sit back and enjoy delicious food and drinks, a Key West Day Trip is just the thing every South Floridian vacation needs. 

Getting In: Key West Day Trip from Miami tickets are included on the Go City® Miami All-Inclusive Pass only.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

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Your trip to Miami is bound to include lots of sunshine and sightseeing among other relaxing and exciting activities, but it wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. At Vizcaya, you'll be transported to another world, where the homes of the wealthy were inspired by European palaces, and where natural beauty and timeless art go hand in hand.

The museum itself features 34 rooms containing over 2,000 pieces of art and classic furnishings, accessed via a fountain-lined walkway cutting through a lush, subtropical forest. You can then take your pick between the main house, filled with artifacts and other treasures from all over the world, or the outside where you can view the gorgeous Biscayne Bay, and beautiful gardens and statues dotting the scenery.

Getting In: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

Pérez Art Museum

If the idea of visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens sounded appealing to you, then you'll also want to hit up the Pérez Art Museum Miami for an extra dose of artistic inspiration. Exhibitions particularly focus on the unique artistic culture of Miami, with its confluence of diverse methods and traditions in a distinctive geographic locale.

You'll get to enjoy everything from painting and sculpture to photography and textile arts. In addition to their exciting regular collections, they also offer many special exhibits on a variety of themes, Miami-inspired and otherwise. Plus, the building itself has a unique architectural design, so it's a pleasure to visit even if you don't spend too much time perusing the contents inside. Be sure to check out their excellent selection at the gift shop, too. 

Getting In: Pérez Art Museum tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

To sum up...

As you can see, there's so much more to do in Miami besides party - although there's nothing to say that you can't combine a little club-hopping with any of these top attractions during the day. From bike rides to museums to tours and beyond, there's something to appeal to every taste and every style of travel in sunny South Beach.

Don't forget, you can visit many Miami attractions with Go City.

With an All-Inclusive Pass, you can visit attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your Miami must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you've chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you're dreaming of ticking off. Pick your Miami pass and save while you sightsee! 

☀️ Compare San Diego passes ☀️– 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 –  ✈️ Buy a pass ✈ 

Go City Expert
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Best Museums in Miami

Set along the southeastern coastline, Miami is often recognized for its year-round wonderful weather and natural beauty. Still, those looking to squeeze in a bit of education on their vacation will not be disappointed with what the city has to offer. With specialties ranging from contemporary art and graffiti to science and Jewish history, there’s a little something for everybody here. For those who aren’t quite sure where to start, don’t worry – we've pulled out all of our absolute favorites for this one. If you’re anything like us, you’ll love these museums to visit in the city. If you only have a few days in Miami, make time to check out some of these incredible cultural amenities. See the Sites For many travelers, a trip to the art gallery is the perfect way to spend the day. And if you’re a fan of contemporary art, we know just the place. Standing out for its comprehensive collection of 20th- and 21st-century work, Pérez Art Museum has been a long-time favorite for locals and visitors alike. It might be hard to tear yourself away from Miami’s sunny tropical beaches – but we promise this place is worth it. Though the museum is small, it’s home to a wonderful and impressive repository that’s well worth seeing. Frank Stella, Dan Flavin, and Christo and Jeanne-Claude are just a few of the influential artists on display here. From surrealist paintings and bold pop art pieces to modern sculpture and photography, there’s a lot to sink your teeth into. Great for those of all ages, this rich creative site is the perfect stop for all art lovers. Science and fun don’t have to contradict one another. For an exciting day of learning, head over to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum. An attraction for those with curious minds, this place works to break down complicated ideas for a broad audience. Learn about the past, present and future development of science through a number of immersive and engaging exhibitions. The institute houses both a state-of-the-art planetarium and a cutting-edge aquarium, so there’s plenty to see here. Aside from which, its exhibits cover everything from evolution and the ice age to psychology and technology. With so much to see, do and experience, this scientific fun house is most certainly not to be missed. We recommend setting aside a good few hours for this, since there’s a lot to cover. Learn About the Area If you’re want to learn about the rich background of the city, HistoryMuseum Miami is a great place to start. An affiliate of the Smithsonian, this place is recognized as the second oldest museum in South Florida and the largest in the whole state. The museum’s permanent exhibition, Tropical Dreams: A People’s History of South Florida covers over 10, 000 years of the history of the area in great depth. And if that’s still not enough Florida for you, don’t worry about it, because there’s plenty more to see here. In fact, the museum’s repository is comprised of over 1,000, 000 photographs and 30, 000 3-dimensional artefacts. Past exhibits have covered specialist topics such as transportation, cultural diversity, and environmental changes in Miami. Not only one of the best cultural institutions in Miami, but quite possibly Florida as a whole, this place makes for a fantastic day trip. When travelling, it’s always interesting to learn about the culture of the area. Built into Miami beach’s first synagogue, the Jewish Museum of Florida works to preserve, protect and showcase the fascinating history of Jewish life in the Sunshine State. The institute’s extensive repository reflects the background of the community going way back to 1763, with historic documents, photographs, artwork and more. The institute’s mainstay exhibit, MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida tells the immigration story, with personal anecdotes and artefacts along the way. The museum also has rotating exhibits and educational programs throughout the year. An engaging educational excursion, this specialist museum is great for those visitors with a thirst for knowledge. Try Something Different With the beautiful Miami weather, you’d be crazy not to check out some of the city’s wonderful outdoor museums. For those looking for something a little different, Coral Castle is a great way to soak up the sun and learn a little about the history of the area at the same time. Located in the suburbs of Homestead, this extraordinary attraction is known for its unusual method of construction – or rather lack thereof. Built out of several tons of monolithic stone in the early 1900s, the sculpture garden was made in secret. To this day, nobody is quite sure how artist Edward Leedskalnin created the piece. Either way, Coral Castle draws in hundreds of thousands of visitors a year for its handiwork alone. A thoroughly one-of-a-kind experience, this place is sure to take your breath away. Once a punishable offence by law, graffiti has now become a mainstream modern art form in its own right. So popular, in fact, that there are museums where you can go to view some of your favorite urban artists, should that be your jam. Whilst Wynwood Walls has received some criticism for trying to take away graffiti’s anti-authoritarian edge, it works to bring a lot of great artists together. Here, visitors can enjoy works by some of the world’s most renowned street artists as well as talented up-and-comers. From bold political statements and messages of hope to great humor pieces, the walls have a lot to say. If you’re looking to take some great vacation snaps, this is the place to go. We suggest sticking around to explore the surrounding area, since there’s a lot to see here. So, there you have it: some of the best collections and exhibitions in Miami right this minute. Whether you’re looking to learn something new or planning a fun family day trip, the city is filled with great cultural attractions. From hip downtown galleries to interesting outdoor museums, there’s something around every street corner. Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’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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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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