When it comes to hidden gems in Miami, they’ve got everything from unique museums and cultural centers to nature and foodie destinations. Even we’re ready to pack our swimsuits and come to Miami with an empty stomach and open mind to enjoy these Miami secret spots.
So, pull up your Miami trip planner (or grab a paper and pen) and get ready to save some of the most fun and unique experiences you wouldn’t expect to find in Miami!
Boat Out to a Historical Miami Hidden Gem: Stiltsville
A trip to Stiltsville is a step into a unique side of Miami’s history. Starting in the 1930s and reaching its height in the 1960s with 27 buildings, there were social clubs, businesses, family homes, and interesting happenings such as illegal gambling and wild parties out here.
Unfortunately, residents were evicted when the land became part of the Biscayne National Park. While only 6 buildings remain today, they’re accessible by boat tours for curious and adventurous travelers — which is the perfect idea to spend a day out on the water and check out some hidden gems too.
Appreciate Local & International Arts at the PAMM Museum
The PAMM (Pérez Art Museum of Miami) is one of the best Miami hidden gems for art and culture lovers. Not only is a visit to the museum the perfect way to beat the Miami heat, but it’s also a great way to dive into the culture of Miami through art “that relates to the US Latinx experience, the African diaspora, Latin America, and the Caribbean.”
In addition, PAMM has curated global works for everyone to enjoy, from fun and creative immersive exhibitions to deep and thought-provoking pieces. The architecture is also worth a trip in itself!
Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple
Built-in 1979, the Wat Buddharangsi Buddist Temple invites you to meet the monks, meditate, and appreciate the magnificent architecture. It’s a great way to experience Thai Buddhism and culture without having to go to Thailand!
Still, the visiting etiquette remains the same, including dressing conservatively (no shorts, tank tops, etc.) when visiting the temple. If you’re interested in meditation, the temple even offers weekly meditation classes in English and Spanish.
Catch an Independent Flick (or Past Blockbuster Hit) at the Miami Beach Cinematheque
There’s no better way to enjoy an exclusive viewing experience in a historic gem of Miami than at the Miami Beach Cinematheque. Here, you won’t see your latest films but can catch a unique variety of independent films that encapsulate a range of genres.
This isn’t your ordinary theatre experience, and there’s a chance the films that are playing you may never have the opportunity to see elsewhere! So check their calendar and pencil in a unique movie night while in Miami!
Get Down at the Wynwood Art Walk Block Party
Without a doubt, you’ll experience the Wynwood Street Art while in Miami — it’s a must-visit! But to take your visit up an extra notch, every second Saturday of the month is the best time to visit because that’s when the Wynwood Art Walk and Black Party happens.
Bring your friends (or just yourself!) and jam to live music, feast on the street eats, and buy some locally made crafts. The area is also home to a lot of the most unique places to stay in Florida.
Take in the Views (or Go Fishing) at the South Pointe Pier
Welcome to one of the best free hidden gems in Miami — South Pointe Pier! South Pointe Pier boasts an iconic and less busy viewing point over the Miami coast and is a great place to cast a fishing line.
In addition, South Pointe Pier is right by other attractions such as South Pointe Park and South Pointe Beach, making it a triple whammy of a destination to catch some rays, take in the views, and rest under shady palms. You can also catch a spectacular Florida sunset from here!
Wander the Ancient Spanish Monastery
When we say the Spanish Monastery has got history, we mean it! Originally finished in 1141 and located in Northern Spain, the Monsatary’s cloisters (open area and walkways, essentially) and outer buildings were taken apart and shipped to the United States in 1925 when it was bought by William Randolf Hurst.
Yet the building was not put together again until the 1960s! Fascinating history aside, the Monastery is a beautiful place to visit to uncover some unusual history and take some one-of-a-kind photos!
Find Your Own Miami Secret Spot at the Kampong Gardens
The Kampong Gardens is THE place to get your tropical dose for the day! Find your own Miami hidden places in this sprawling garden filled with fruit trees, flowering plants, palms, and bamboo! Pair your stroll through the gardens with one of their events, such as chocolate tasting, yoga, or candle making (check what’s happening here).
Regardless of what you do, you’re bound to have a wholesome and immersive time at the gardens! You might even meet a local peacock!
Spend a Day at the Deering Estate
The Deering Estate is more than just a place on the US National Register of Historic Places; it’s a stunning 444-acre estate that offers tours, events, and community experiences in Miami. Come along and experience a concert, go on a ghost tour, or kayak the natural scenery. Whatever you’re into, you’re sure to find something to do at the Deering Estate.
Catch a Free Show (or Have a Picnic) at Soundscape Park
Soundscape Park is a creative urban park and gathering space for Miami events such as concerts and movie nights — all of which are free! Even if you visit without the intention of attending an event, you can stroll along the sidewalks, enjoy the bougainvillea flowers, and hang out under a shady tree. If you stay nearby, it’s the ideal place to bring a morning coffee or even your yoga mat to prepare for the day ahead!
Hang Out, Play, and Dine in Brickell
Brickell is your one-stop shop for it all in Miami! Full of hidden gems in Miami, including rooftop bars, green parks, local eateries, and shops, you can indulge all your senses and desires here. There’s even a WeWork if you need an office while traveling in Miami! Check out this article here and get the inside scoop on the best things to do (& best places to eat) in Brickell that you may not have expected.
Explore the Marvel of the Coral Castle
Miami’s Coral Castle Museum is one of the most unique hidden Gems in Miami that will not only visually stimulate you but also mentally intrigue you. After all, the Coral Castle is a mysterious wonder, created by Edward Leedskalin, who carved over 1,000 tons of coral rock with only hand tools, into various sculptures. Visit and admire the sculptures, join a tour, and you, too, can immerse yourself in this perplexing destination.
Encounter Wildlife at it’s Best at the Monkey Jungle
Did you know you can visit adorable monkeys in Miami? The Monkey Jungle is an experience where guests can visit birds, gorillas, and monkeys in a thriving environment. Experience one of their shows where guides will interact with the animals (and give you chence as well!), and afterward stroll the grounds to see other exhibits like the birds and the monkey pool. With passionate guides, you’re sure to not only learn a lot about the animals but be impressed with the overall experience.
Enjoy an Afternoon at the Giralda Plaza
The Girlada Plaza is a pedestrian walkway brimming with cafes, bars, international cuisine, and art installations that honestly almost feels like Europe – with a twist. Enjoy an afternoon coffee here or come during the evening for an upscale dinner and cocktails — regardless of how you enjoy it, the plaza is the place for a relaxing but fun way to experience local Miami.
Visit the Only World Erotic Art Museum in the United States
The Wilzig Erotic Art Museum is the only erotic art museum in the United States — so if the subject interests you, you ought to visit while in Miami! Located in South Beach, the museum houses more than 4,000 works from around the world, and includes photography, art deco, sculptures, and glass pieces. Come along and explore the more intimate side of human nature and creativity in a way you’ll only find here in this Miami hidden spot that is fun and risque!
Lounge and Take a Dip at the Historic Venetian Pool
The Venetian Pool in Miami may be one of the most historical and aesthetic public pools in the United States. Opened in 1924, the Venetian pool embraces Mediterranean architecture. It is filled with spring water from an underground aqueduct, refilled every day for a fresh splash!
To visit, be sure to grab your pass ahead of time, and don’t forget your sunblock and swimsuit! If you’re not a fan of the ocean and the sand, this pool is the next best thing. If you take some photos, make sure to use these Florida instagram captions when you post them!
Discover Miami Hidden Gems in Coconut Grove
Miami’s Coconut Grove is the perfect escape from the city’s center into a down-to-earth neighborhood with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, shops, beaches, and activities. Come down to the first Miami suburb for the day and enjoy some rays on the beach, relax at a trendy cafe, and maybe even find some live music!
There’s a range of unique businesses and things to do beckoning you to visit them. If you’re planning to visit the Kampang Gardens, which are located in Coconut Grove, make sure to spend some extra time in this special place!
Visit The Circle, Miami’s Most Popular Ancient Site
During an excavation in the 1990s, development was halted when something interesting was discovered: The Circle, a historical site in Miami dating back over 1,000 years. Historians believe the 38-foot diameter limestone circle was created by the Tequesta Native American Tribe and was potentially part of a larger structure.
It’s worth a visit for history lovers, and you can even bring along a picnic to enjoy at the park. After all, it’s quite the contrast to find ancient history in the hustle and bustle of modern Miami!
Dive Down to the Neptune Memorial Reef
This one’s for all our scuba divers out there: the Neptune Memorial Reef! This Miami secret place is 40 feet underwater and over 3 miles offshore. Fun fact: It’s the largest man-made reef in the world and is designed to look like the lost City of Atlantis.
And we’ll admit it, you CAN snorkel here, but being 40 feet underwater, this might be the perfect reason to get scuba certified to visit the reef up close and personal and of course, take some photos to share with family and friends.
Explore Haitian Culture & Food at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex
A visit to the Little Haiti Cultural Complex is a great way to immerse yourself into a slice of Haiti in Miami. The complex hosts an art center and gallery, theatre, and marketplace (check out their events here). Although open almost daily, save time on Saturday to visit during Carribbean Market Day and catch live performances, art, and shop local crafts and artisan work.
Indulge on Gelato Treats at POP LOVE
When people make multiple visits to Italy to create the perfect gelato, you KNOW they’re serious about making the best gelato they can and serving it straight to you! Welcome to one of the best delectable Miami hidden places: POP LOVE.
With two locations in Wynwood and Ave Maria, they serve fruit and milk-based gelato pops hand-crafted with love and little sugar! In addition, they serve up the most delicious-looking milkshakes, drinks, and even Colombian baked goods such as pandebono! It also has a cute and colorful design we love.
Embark on an Everglades Escapade
There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Florida’s nature than visiting the Everglades National Park. With over 1,500,000 acres of land, the Everglades is one of the world’s largest wetlands, where you can see a diverse biosphere of life from birds, to plants and animals such as alligators and otters! Go on a tour and have it all taken care of for you — from learning about the area to being taken to see the “locals” up close!
Shop and Dine at the Bayside Marketplace
The Bayside Marketplace is one of the best ways to enjoy shopping and dining in Miami — rather than hanging out in an indoor complex, you can hop from shop to shop or from cafe to restaurant while strolling along the open-air market of the Miami Harbor. In addition, if you’re looking to book some tours, you’ll find tour operators along this walk you can visit in person to see what special Miami experiences await you!
Treat Yourself to Baked Goods at the Majestic Portuguese Bakehouse
While you’re in Miami, we know you’re bound to be eating the best Cuban and Caribbean food, so let’s share one of the hidden gems in Miami you might not think to check out: The Majestic Portuguese Bakehouse. Serving intricate soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods, your taste buds will thank you! Stop by for a coffee and dessert, or go all in on one of their breakfast or lunch plates. You’ll thank us later.
