Best Hidden Gems in Miami
Everyone knows that beautiful Miami is among the best places to visit in Florida. Famous for its pristine beaches and tropical climate, this coastal metropolis dazzles visitors with fantastic shopping, dynamic nightlife, beautiful Art Deco architecture, high-end hotels, and a fascinating skyline.
While the standard attractions are all worth a visit, some people seek a more unique stay. If you’re one of them, read on as we’ve dug up some of the best-hidden gems in Miami for you.
1. Boat to Stiltsville
If you hope to avoid the crowds, head over to one of the hidden gems in Miami, Stiltsville. Only accessible by boat, this chill hangout spot can be found about 5 miles off the shoreline of Miami’s Key Biscayne.
Composed of seven different stilt houses in water, you can visit this year-round destination for free, swim in the area, explore the different houses, and learn about their history.
2. Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple
About a 40-minute ride from Miami International Airport, the Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple in Homestead, Florida, sits on 5 acres of rural land and features an impressive 23-ft tall image of Buddha.
You can marvel at the intricate South East Asian architectural designs that include “chofas”, which are Lao and Thai architectural decorative ornaments that traditionally adorn palace roofs. Professionally sculpted in Thailand, these golden horn-like spires were later shipped to Miami.
Learn about the temple’s rich history and take some pictures with your family or friends in one of the hidden gems in Miami.
3. Visit Deering Estate
A breathtaking place of opulent grandeur, the Deering Estate in Miami features historical buildings, mangrove forests, tropical Rockland, and much more. Located on the South Dade Coast, this picturesque 21st-century house museum is an environmental preserve listed on the National Register of Historic Places, owned by the State of Florida, and managed by Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Department.
It provides excellent recreational and cultural activities for guests, including canoe tours, butterfly walks, and guided museum and outdoor area tours. The Deering Estate is one of the hidden gems in Miami that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
4. Enjoy a Day at Giralda Plaza
While you’ve most likely seen pictures of Giralda Plaza and its different art installations, it’s not usually overrun with tourists. If you don’t have a rental car, take a bus or subway to the Giralda Plaza in Coral Gables to enjoy a musical performance, an outdoor screening of a family-friendly film, an art installation, or simply shop and dine in a less crowded place in Miami. The Plaza features the infamous colorful umbrella ceiling art installation which is a popular picture-taking spot for tourists and locals alike.
5. Go on a Clear-Bottom Kayak Tour
Miami is vibrant and exciting, but sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find some peace and quiet in nature. Kayaking in Miami is one of the best ways to do this. During our guided tour in a clear-bottom kayak, you get to venture through enchanting mangrove tunnels and relax among lush green and fascinating wildlife.
Starting in East Greynolds Park, the trip leads through beautiful waterways where you get to see local wildlife and marine life up-close and personal. Since the waters are shallow and the kayak clear, you’ll be able to see right into the water beneath you. Look out for manatees, different species of birds, fish, rays, iguanas, and more!
Great for a light workout, for relaxing in nature, and for beautiful photo opportunities, this kayak adventure is one of the hidden gems in Miami.
6. Miami Beach Cinematheque
When you travel to Florida and want your trip to lead you to all the hidden gems in Miami, you can’t miss out on the Miami Beach Cinematheque: a lovely place for movie lovers to watch art films and classics in South Beach.
Perfect for a romantic date, this charming movie theatre is located in the historic Miami Beach City Hall building.
7. Watch the Sunset at South Pointe Park
Miami sunsets are breathtaking and South Pointe Park is an excellent place to watch them. Go for a hike along the local trails, take a picture with the South Pointe Park Lighthouse and let your kids enjoy the splash pad while you bask in the rainbow of colors of the setting sun.
8. Dance the Night Away in Brickell
Miami is infamously pricey for a night out on the dance floor, but you don’t have to go to Ocean Drive to have fun with your friends.
South Florida’s financial district Brickell features a number of excellent restaurants and bars, including Blue Martini, Barú, and Blackbird Ordinary where you can order the ‘blue motorcycle,’ a pricey but excellent cocktail that’ll most likely be the only thing you drink all night.
Explore Miami off the Beaten Track
If you’re headed to Miami with your lover, friends, or family, you’ll surely want to check out the famous Ocean Drive, bask in the sun in South Beach, and explore all the popular tourist attractions.
However, there’s more to see and experience in Miami, away from the busy tourist attractions and crowded city. From kayaking in Florida to art installations in Coral Gables and dance parties in Brickell, go try something new and different by enjoying all the best hidden gems in Miami.