Lifestyle in Miami

The Magic City elicits images of neon-lit clubs, humid Latin rhythms and shimmering beaches. The lifestyle in Miami is one of its most attractive features.

Whether exploring the restaurants and nightlife of the Art Deco District or gliding along the Everglades in an airboat, residents of Miami can enjoy all the attractions of a world-renowned holiday destination year-round.

Shopping in Miami

Newcomers have various options when it comes to shopping in Miami, whether they want to soak up the sun ambling down the city’s retail avenues or explore the glossy interiors of its shopping malls.

For a more authentic shopping experience, new arrivals can explore the boutiques and independent stores of Bayside Market Place and Mary Brickell Village.

Nightlife in Miami

There are few experiences quite like enjoying the nightlife scene in Miami. The city is famous for its electric evening entertainment, from opulent lounges to tropical bars. It’s perhaps best known for its Latin clubs, from cafés infused with Cuban culture to live music venues that rumble with the flavour of Latin rhythms.

Those moving to Miami will discover that each neighbourhood has a distinct nightlife identity. While Miami may be famous for its beach clubs, neighbourhoods such as Wynwood and Downtown Miami are home to trendy warehouse club scenes.

Sports and outdoor activities in Miami

Newcomers who prefer their entertainment out in the sun will enjoy the range of sports and outdoor attractions on offer in Miami. South Beach is arguably the most celebrated beach in Miami and is broken up into sections to satisfy a wide variety of sun worshippers. 

Lovers of the great outdoors can enjoy nature trails that meander through mangrove forests, visit the renowned Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, or camp in one of the city’s national parks.

Active newcomers will revel in the chance to go boating in Biscayne Bay, cycling along Sunset Drive or doing yoga on the beach. The city also boasts championship golf courses and some of the most famous names in sports, with the Miami Heat and the Miami Dolphins attracting thousands of zealous basketball and football fans to their stadiums regularly.

See and do in Miami

New arrivals to Miami will have a great time finding their way around and discovering the many attractions in the city, from sunkissed beaches to trendy shopping malls. Here’s a selection of what to see and do in Miami.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

This magnificent villa houses original Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical furniture throughout its more than 32 decorated rooms. The manicured perfection of its gardens is simply breathtaking to stroll through – not to mention the opulent grandeur of the villa itself.

Ancient Spanish Monastery

Dating back to 1133 AD, the Monastery of St Bernard de Clairvaux is one of Miami’s most popular tourist attractions. The monastery, which originally came from Segovia in Spain, was brought over to Miami by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in 1925 and rebuilt brick by brick.

Miami Children’s Museum

The Miami Children’s Museum has various interactive, educational exhibits to explore, as well as offering events and camps. It’s a great place for children to learn in a creative atmosphere. 

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science has everything from a planetarium to a wildlife centre. At Monkey Jungle, visitors of all ages can do a guided walk through forest foliage while all manner of monkeys swing in the trees above. This is a great place for children to learn about the natural world around them, as well as the greater universe.

Biscayne National Park

The Biscayne National Park is home to some fascinating coral reefs, magnificent wildlife and even a few eerie pirate shipwrecks. It’s known as one of the best scuba-diving sites in the United States, and visitors have the opportunity to see local wildlife in their natural habitat.

What’s on in Miami

The annual events in Miami are as varied as the city itself. Residents and visitors can choose between a range of festive activities that showcase and celebrate the city’s culture and history.

As a result of the city’s mild weather, there are events all year round. Here are some of the top yearly events in Miami.

Coconut Grove Arts Festival (February)

Each year on President’s Day weekend, the neighbourhood of Coconut Grove plays host to a fabulous outdoor art festival. With everything from photography and jewellery to sculpture and woodwork, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. On top of all the incredible works on display, the event is accompanied by live music and local food.

Calle Ocho (March)

The biggest Hispanic bash in the United States, Calle Ocho is a fantastic way to become more familiar with Miami’s vibrant culture. Newcomers who like a little Latino flavour should head down to the streets of Little Havana to enjoy the shows, parades, dancing and revelry. This massive party has 12 stages and stretches across 20 blocks.

Miami Beach Pride Week (April)

The city’s LGBTQ+ community comes out in full force to celebrate Pride Week, with the Miami Pride Parade being a major highlight. Friends and allies from all walks of life are welcome to join the celebration. The parade is accompanied by live music events and celebrity appearances.

Goombay Festival (June)

The Bahamas culture has been an active influence in Miami since the 19th century. In June of each year, the streets of Coconut Grove are transformed into a celebration of the Bahamas and its people. There is dancing, a street parade, music and streetside Caribbean food, making this a truly unique experience.

Miami Carnival (October)

This cultural celebration of Caribbean-Latin flavour attracts hordes of people each year. The carnival includes four signature events: Junior Carnival, Panorama, J’ouvert and a costumed Parade and Concert, featuring performers, floats and colourful costumes. New arrivals in Miami should head down to the streets to enjoy the festivities.