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Discover some of South Florida’s most enchanting sights and scenes. iStock-felix mizioznikov Miami rarely plays it safe. The city thrives on a heady mix of sun and swagger, where historic villas and neon-lit art spaces mix and coral reefs sparkle just beyond the skyline. It’s a destination that rewards curiosity, drawing travelers who often want more than beach chairs and cocktails. Here, culture and nature collide in ways that feel distinctly Miami, from avant-garde museums to lush botanical escapes. What makes the Magic City unforgettable — beyond its famous beaches and globally celebrated culinary, spa and hotel scenes, of course — is its constant reinvention. Storied landmarks sit beside fresh arrivals that capture the moment while hinting at what’s next. Whether you crave an ocean adventure, a gallery crawl or a night of world-class performance, these 10 attractions showcase the best of Miami right now. Get to the heart of Miami’s cultural scene. iStock-Pgiam Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts This sleek performing arts complex anchors Miami’s cultural scene, hosting Broadway tours, symphony performances and global dance companies. Its dramatic architecture and diverse calendar — which can range from Kind of Blue: Celebrating the Music of Miles Davis to flamenco performances to comedy shows — make it a prime stop for anyone seeking a night of high-caliber entertainment. Soak in the breezy views. iStock-benedek Biscayne National Park Just a short drive from downtown, this watery wonderland protects emerald islands, coral reefs and centuries of maritime history. Visitors kayak through mangroves, snorkel above shipwrecks and soak in breezy views of aquamarine water and the distant city skyline. The park is 95% water, so you’ll want to book a boat tour with the Biscayne National Park Institute ahead of time. As a bonus, Everglades National Park is within an hour of Miami, too. Explore the breathtaking gardens. iStock-Jillian Cain Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Eighty-three acres of exotic flora showcase rare palms, orchids and tropical fruit trees. Here you can stroll shaded paths, explore the butterfly garden and join seasonal festivals that celebrate everything from mango harvests to world-class garden design. Consider this a living laboratory that reveals Miami’s subtropical soul. Stroll the colorful promenade. iStock-Flavio Vallenari Lincoln Road Miami Beach’s eight-block pedestrian promenade hums with galleries, boutiques and outdoor cafés. Sunday mornings bring a bustling farmers market and free yoga, while year-round public art installations add an extra dose of only-in-Miami creative spark. It is a place to linger, people-watch and feel the pulse of Miami Beach. Admire cutting-edge exhibits. iStock-Orietta Gaspari Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) A striking bayside space designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron, PAMM, as it is lovingly known, blends cutting-edge exhibitions with sweeping views of Biscayne Bay. The museum’s indoor-outdoor design and destination restaurant, Verde, encourage guests to slow down, savor the art and soak in the glorious waterfront setting. Enjoy the planetarium, aquarium and much more. iStock-felix mizioznikov Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science Families and science lovers flock to this downtown complex for its planetarium, multi-level aquarium and interactive STEM exhibits. The dramatic Gulf Stream tank and rooftop observation decks keep locals and visitors engaged for hours while showcasing the natural forces that shape South Florida. Superblue Miami Step inside a 50,000-square-foot world of light, sound and large-scale installations in the burgeoning Allapattah neighborhood. This immersive art playground invites visitors of all ages to wander, touch and even become part of the ever-evolving exhibitions. It is a place where art really does feel alive, blurring the line between viewer and participant. For an extra cultural experience, hit the Rubell Museum across the street. Dive into one of America’s unique public pools. iStock-Wirestock The Venetian Pool Carved from a coral rock quarry in 1924, this spring-fed Coral Gables swimming hole remains one of America’s unique public pools. Its waterfalls, grottoes and Mediterranean Revival architecture make a dip here feel like a trip to the Amalfi Coast, complete with crystal-clear water that stays refreshingly cool. Tour an estate from the early 1900s. iStock-Global_Pics Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Miami’s grandest historic estate marries Italian Renaissance architecture with subtropical gardens along Biscayne Bay. At this one-of-a-kind cultural attraction you can wander through the 34 ornate rooms open for public viewing, stroll the formal grounds and glimpse the city’s early 20th-century glamour while enjoying a quiet respite from the usual urban buzz. Be amazed by all of the murals. iStock-MDVEdwards Wynwood Walls A global epicenter for street art, Wynwood Walls bursts with color and creativity. Thirty-five thousand square feet of ever-changing murals by more than 100 artists ensure each visit feels fresh, luring art lovers and photographers back again and again, often discovering the next big name in contemporary muralism in the process. MORE FROM FORBES ForbesThe World’s Best Airlines And Airports Of 2025, According To Forbes Travel GuideBy Jennifer KesterForbesWhy Las Vegas Keeps Scoring With Sports FansBy DeMarco Williams ForbesHow To Fly Like A VIP Without Chartering A JetBy Chris DongForbes7 Best London Hotels For FamiliesBy Eva Ramirez Editorial StandardsReprints & Permissions
