4 days in Miami itinerary
A balanced 4-day Miami itinerary mixing beaches, neighborhoods, contemporary art, gardens, Cuban culture, and standout local restaurants. Uses realistic travel times and breaks to keep each day relaxed and varied.
Highlights
- South Beach & South Pointe Park
- Wynwood Walls and independent galleries
- Little Havana culture and Domino Park
- Vizcaya Museum & Gardens and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
- Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and Design District contemporary art
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival and an easy South Beach afternoon with a park walk and dinner nearby.
Hotel check-in
Arrive and check in to your base on Miami Beach; drop bags and get oriented.
Local tips:
- Standard hotel check-in is usually mid-afternoon; leave valuables in the safe.
- Ask the front desk for a map of nearby beaches and restaurants.
Stroll Ocean Drive & South Beach (light walk)
Walk along Ocean Drive and the beach promenade to soak in art deco architecture and the ocean breeze.
Local tips:
- Bring sunscreen and a hat for the afternoon sun.
- If you want photos, the early afternoon light is good and crowds are lighter than sunset.
Transfer to casual sandwich spot
Short walk or quick ride to a popular local sandwich counter for a light snack.
Local tips:
- Most spots in South Beach are within walking distance; consider a short rideshare if you prefer not to walk.
- note
Coffee or light snack at La Sandwicherie
Grab a French-style sandwich or coffee — a quick, reliable local favorite.
Local tips:
- They do great vinaigrette-style sandwiches; order to-go if you want to picnic at the park.
- Cash and cards accepted; expect a short line during peak times.
Transfer to South Pointe Park
Short move to South Pointe Park for sunset-friendly ocean views and a relaxed walk.
Local tips:
- There are scenic lookout points and benches — a great spot to watch boats and the sunset.
- Restrooms available near the park pavilion.
Walk and relax at South Pointe Park
Leisurely walk along the waterfront, pier, and grassy areas — ideal for people-watching and views of Government Cut.
Local tips:
- Bring a light layer if the sea breeze picks up.
- There's a small cafe nearby if you want another drink or snack.
Transfer to dinner in South Beach
Short drive or walk to a well-regarded Italian spot for a relaxed first-night dinner.
Local tips:
- If it's a weekend, consider reserving a table in advance.
- Allow a few extra minutes for finding parking if driving.
Dinner at Macchialina
Enjoy chef-driven Italian plates in a cozy, local favorite atmosphere.
Local tips:
- Share a couple of pastas and a starter to sample the menu.
- Reservations recommended for dinner.
Day 2
Wynwood art, coffee culture, and Design District galleries with an evening in a relaxed Aegean bistro.
Breakfast at the hotel
Casual breakfast at your hotel to fuel a full art-focused day.
Local tips:
- Choose something with protein to keep you energized for a lot of walking.
- Ask the concierge about local transit options to Wynwood.
Transfer to Wynwood
Drive or rideshare to Wynwood to start the neighborhood exploration.
Local tips:
- Morning traffic is lighter than late afternoon; rideshares are common and convenient.
- Street parking in Wynwood can be limited — consider a paid lot.
Coffee at Panther Coffee (Wynwood)
Start with specialty coffee at a local roaster known for quality beans.
Local tips:
- Try a locally roasted espresso or a cold brew if it's warm.
- Seating is limited; this is a grab-and-go favorite for many locals.
Transfer / walk to Wynwood Walls
Short walk to the outdoor mural park — entrance and ticketing are handled on site.
Local tips:
- Arrive earlier to avoid later-day crowds and tour groups.
- Bring water and a phone with plenty of battery for photography.
Explore Wynwood Walls
Spend time taking in large-scale murals and changing street-art exhibitions.
Local tips:
- Some pieces rotate frequently; local guides and plaques provide background on artists.
- Go upstairs for different vantage points and murals.
Wynwood neighborhood walk & galleries
Browse smaller galleries, artisan shops, and mural-lined side streets.
Local tips:
- Check gallery hours in advance; some open later in the day.
- Look for independent boutiques and local studios off the main blocks.
Lunch at KYU (Wynwood)
Popular Asian-inspired wood-fired menu — ideal for sharing.
Local tips:
- KYU can be busy; reservations or walk-in timing around 12:30 usually works.
- Try a couple of small plates and a main to sample their flavors.
Short transfer to a local brewery for a break
Relax with a craft beer or soft drink and rest your feet.
Local tips:
- Wynwood Brewing Company has outdoor seating and a relaxed vibe.
- Good spot to check local beer labels and recharge before heading to the Design District.
Break at Wynwood Brewing Company
Unwind with a local brew or non-alcoholic beverage.
Local tips:
- Try a tasting flight if you want to sample a few beers.
- They occasionally host events — check the schedule if you're interested.
Transfer to Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (Design District)
Short drive to the Design District for contemporary art and rotating exhibits.
Local tips:
- There are curbside pick-up points and public parking in the Design District.
- Design District has several galleries and fashion stores if you have time before the museum.
Visit Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA)
Explore cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions and architecture.
Local tips:
- Check current exhibitions and guided tour times at the front desk.
- Allow time for the outdoor sculpture and plaza areas.
Transfer to Mandolin Aegean Bistro
Move to a relaxed Mediterranean spot for a calm evening meal.
Local tips:
- Short drive or rideshare; the restaurant often fills up early on weekends.
- If you prefer, request a table on the outdoor patio.
Dinner at Mandolin Aegean Bistro
Enjoy fresh Mediterranean dishes in a leafy, relaxed setting — great for sharing small plates.
Local tips:
- Order a few mezze dishes to sample a range of flavors.
- Outdoor seating can be especially pleasant in the evening.
Day 3
A culturally rich day: Little Havana in the morning, then Coral Gables gardens and local dining in Coconut Grove.
Breakfast in Little Havana at Enriqueta's
Start with a Cuban-influenced breakfast sandwich from a beloved neighborhood spot.
Local tips:
- Try a medianoche or café con leche for a classic start.
- Enriqueta's is popular with locals, so service is efficient but seating is casual.
Stroll along Calle Ocho
Explore Little Havana's main artery — murals, cigar shops, and cultural markers.
Local tips:
- Keep an eye out for the Walk of Fame and local bakeries.
- Carry small bills if you plan to sample snacks from street vendors.
Visit Maximo Gomez Park (Domino Park)
Watch locals play dominoes and soak up neighborhood life at this iconic gathering spot.
Local tips:
- Respect the players and ask before taking close-up photos.
- The park is a great place to observe daily Cuban-American community routines.
Late-morning coffee or cocktail at Café La Trova
Enjoy classic Cuban flavors and mixology in a stylish, music-forward spot (early afternoon menu available).
Local tips:
- Café La Trova integrates classic cocktails with live music nights; check the schedule if interested.
- Reservations are helpful in the evening; mornings are usually easier.
Transfer to Venetian Pool (Coral Gables)
Head to Coral Gables to visit the historic Venetian Pool — a unique public swimming spot.
Local tips:
- Venetian Pool has limited entry and may require advance tickets on busy days.
- Bring swimwear, towel, and pay attention to the pool's hours and closing times.
Visit Venetian Pool
Enjoy or view the historic spring-fed pool, grottoes, and surrounding architecture (swimming optional).
Local tips:
- If you plan to swim, arrive early as capacity can be limited.
- There are shaded areas and a cafe nearby for light snacks.
Transfer to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Short drive into lush grounds for a relaxing garden experience.
Local tips:
- Fairchild is best enjoyed with comfortable walking shoes and water.
- Check for seasonal exhibits, tram tours, or guided walks.
Explore Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Wander the extensive tropical collections, conservatory, and shaded walkways.
Local tips:
- Allow time for the butterfly garden and conservatory.
- Bring insect repellent and a refillable water bottle.
Transfer to Peacock Park (Coconut Grove) for a short rest
Move to Coconut Grove and relax at a green neighborhood park before dinner.
Local tips:
- Peacock Park is a pleasant spot to sit and recharge; it's central to Coconut Grove's walkable area.
- Nearby cafes are available if you want a quick refreshment.
Break at Peacock Park
Relax on the lawn or grab a light snack from a nearby cafe and enjoy the neighborhood feel.
Local tips:
- This is a good downtime slot for email catch-up or a short nap if needed.
- If you want a coffee, there are several nearby specialty cafes.
Transfer to Ariete (Coconut Grove)
Short walk or drive to one of Coconut Grove's best dinner restaurants.
Local tips:
- Ariete is popular — reservations are recommended for dinner service.
- Street parking is limited; consider arriving a bit early to find a spot.
Dinner at Ariete
Enjoy modern American dishes with Cuban influences in a creative neighborhood favorite.
Local tips:
- Try a chef-recommended tasting or a few shared plates to sample the menu.
- Ask your server for local wine or craft cocktail recommendations.
Day 4
Historic Vizcaya and waterfront museums, ending with a sunset-friendly Brickell/ waterfront dinner.
Hotel breakfast and check-out prep
Final hotel breakfast and prepare for a museum-heavy day; arrange luggage if needed.
Local tips:
- If you're checking out later, ask the hotel about luggage storage while you explore.
- Have a day bag ready with water and comfortable shoes.
Transfer to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Drive or rideshare to this historic estate for a morning of art, architecture, and gardens.
Local tips:
- Vizcaya opens in the morning — earlier arrival helps avoid crowds and harsh light for photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes for garden paths and terraces.
Explore Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Tour the historic house museum and its extensive Italian-style gardens overlooking Biscayne Bay.
Local tips:
- Guided tours are available and add context to Vizcaya's architecture and history.
- Allow extra time for garden photography and the bayside terraces.
Transfer to Glass & Vine (Coconut Grove) for lunch
Short transfer to a relaxed garden restaurant set within Coconut Grove's park.
Local tips:
- Glass & Vine is park-side with a calm setting — good for a leisurely midday meal.
- If weather is nice, ask for a table on the patio.
Lunch at Glass & Vine
Enjoy seasonal dishes in a leafy park setting — a relaxing midday stop before central Miami museums.
Local tips:
- Portion sizes are generous; share plates if you'd like to sample multiple dishes.
- Great spot for a calm, local-feel lunch away from tourist crowds.
Transfer to Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Head into Museum Park for contemporary art with waterfront views.
Local tips:
- PAMM has both permanent and rotating exhibits; check current shows in advance.
- There are lovely Bayfront paths adjacent to the museum worth a short stroll.
Visit Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Explore modern and contemporary art with strong regional representation and bayfront outdoor spaces.
Local tips:
- Allow time for both indoor galleries and the outdoor terraces overlooking Biscayne Bay.
- If interested, check PAMM's schedule for docent tours or special events.
Transfer to Brickell neighborhood
Short move into Miami's Brickell district for an urban stroll and skyline views.
Local tips:
- Brickell is walkable; head toward the Mary Brickell Village area for shops and bars.
- If you want rooftop views, allow a bit more time to find a venue with views.
Brickell stroll & skyline walk
Walk the tree-lined streets and waterfront paths, catch the skyline and local urban energy.
Local tips:
- Stop at a cafe or gelato shop if you want a quick refresh before dinner.
- Brickell has several elevated rooftop bars if you'd like a pre-dinner drink with views.
Transfer to La Mar by Gastón Acurio (waterfront dinner)
Move to a waterfront Peruvian restaurant for a special final-night dinner with bay views.
Local tips:
- La Mar is popular for classic and contemporary Peruvian dishes; reservations are recommended.
- Ask for a table with bay views if available for sunset dining.
Dinner at La Mar by Gastón Acurio
Enjoy elevated Peruvian cuisine, ceviches, and seafood with rooftop or waterfront ambiance.
Local tips:
- Try the ceviche and anticuchos for a well-rounded introduction to the menu.
- Pair dishes with a pisco-based cocktail for a classic Peruvian experience.