20 Things To Do In Day Trip to Miami from Orlando 2024

Taking a day trip to Miami from Orlando can be a fun way to experience a different part of Florida without having to commit to an overnight stay. The two cities are only about 235 miles or 4 hours of driving time apart along scenic highways and roads. With some planning, you can maximize your time to see key attractions and destinations in the exciting and colorful city of Miami.

Transportation from Orlando to Miami

The most convenient and fastest transportation option for getting from Orlando to Miami is renting a car or driving your own vehicle. This allows you the most flexibility to make stops and manage your own itinerary. Some key things to consider:

Renting a Car

Renting a car for a one-way trip from Orlando to Miami can cost $50-$100 depending on the rental company, vehicle type, and dates of travel. Be sure your rental agreement allows for one-way travel. Fuel will be an additional expense as well. Shop around among major rental companies for the best deals.

Tolls

There are several tolls along major highways from Orlando to Miami that should be factored into cost. Having cash, change, or using electronic toll payment transponders can help you save money and avoid fines. Expect to pay about $10-$15 in tolls each way.

Parking in Miami

Parking in popular Miami destinations and neighborhoods can cost between $20-$40 for the day. Look for discounted hotel parking rates if available or use ride share services to avoid parking fees.

Driving Time

The drive along the Florida Turnpike and I-95 highways takes roughly 4 hours from Orlando to Miami in normal traffic conditions. Add extra time for traffic delays, especially around Miami. Having someone to switch driving duties is helpful for this long drive.

Transportation Method	Cost (roundtrip)	Duration	Key Consideration
Rented Car	$100-$200	4 hours drive (each way)	Allow time for stops; pay tolls
Bus	$80-$100 per ticket	6-7 hours (each way)	Less flexibility; long transit
Flight	$200+ per ticket	1 hour (each way)	Add ground transportation cost

 

Top Attractions to Visit

Miami offers great diversity when it comes to attractions and destinations to explore on a quick day trip from Orlando. Prioritize your interests and must-see spots as you plan your day. Here are top Miami attractions to consider:

South Beach

The vibrant neighborhood of South Beach is likely high on your list with its colorful art deco buildings, white sand beaches, Ocean Drive, and lively entertainment district. Give yourself at least 3 hours to stroll, shop, eat and people watch along South Beach.

Bayside Marketplace

This waterfront open-air shopping center has lots of stores, entertainment options and places to eat. Dance to Latin music or take a boat tour during your visit. You’ll want 2-3 hours to experience Bayside Marketplace.

Wynwood Walls

For cutting-edge street art and the coolest murals, head to the Wynwood district. Wander the Wynwood Walls and surrounding streets to see amazing graffiti style works of art. You’ll need 1-2 hours minimum to see key parts of Wynwood.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

This beautifully preserved early 20th century estate and European style villa makes for a fascinating tour. Marvel at the architecture, interiors, furnishings and expansive gardens during your 1-2 hour visit to Vizcaya.

Key Biscayne

For natural scenery, visit Key Biscayne, just a 15 minute drive from downtown Miami. Stroll beaches, see Cape Florida Lighthouse or explore Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. You’ll want at least 2 hours to enjoy this barrier island respite.

Little Havana

Experience Cuban culture, cuisine, music, cigar shops and street festivals that give Little Havana its latin flair. Be sure to try an authentic Cuban sandwich or strong cafecito coffee during your 1-2 hour visit.

With some selective planning, you can potentially see attractions in South Beach, Bayside Marketplace and one other area of Miami in the span of an 8 to 10 hour day trip. Having a clear map of distances and directions planned out is essential to make the most of your time.

Essential Miami Experiences

In addition to seeing the top attractions, here are a few quintessential Miami experiences to work into your day:

• Walk along Ocean Drive to see Art Deco buildings
• Look for murals and street art in Wynwood and South Beach
• Eat Cuban food in Little Havana
• Sample fresh tropical fruit from a roadside stand
• Splurge on stone crab claws or key lime pie
• Feel the rhythm during a salsa dance performance
• Spot luxury cars and yachts
• Shop for souvenirs on Lincoln Road or in Bayside Marketplace
• Take selfies and soak up vibes in Miami’s trendiest neighborhoods

Sample Miami Day Itinerary from Orlando

To help you maximize a 10 to 12 hour visit to Miami, here is a sample optimized one day itinerary you could follow:

7:00 am – Leave Orlando

8:30 am – Stop for breakfast in Fort Pierce

11:00 am – Arrive in Miami; head to South Beach

11:30 am – Walk around Ocean Drive

12:30 pm – Lunch at South Beach restaurant

2:00 pm – Visit Wynwood Walls and see murals

4:00 pm – Shop at Bayside Marketplace

5:30 pm – Early dinner in Little Havana

7:00 pm – Drive south along the coast

8:00 pm – Return to Orlando

This allows you to see the main attractions of South Beach, Wynwood, Bayside Marketplace and Little Havana in one packed day. You could also substitute other destinations like Vizcaya Museum or Key Biscayne depending on your interests. Just be sure to account for At least 30 minutes to an hour of transportation time between each area you want to visit in Miami.

What to Expect with Miami Weather

South Florida and Miami have a sub-tropical climate that should be taken into consideration as you plan your day from Orlando. Here is an overview of typical Miami weather:

Winter – December to February has average highs of 76°F to 77°F and cooler nights with lows around 60°F. Pack layers for evening.

Spring – March through May has warm weather building to high temperatures averaging 82°F-84°F. Have sun protection.

Summer – June to August is hot and humid with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. Afternoon storms are common.

Fall – September to November is warm and less humid as heat starts decreasing. Temperatures remain in the mid 80s during the day.

There really isn’t a bad time weather-wise to plan a Miami day trip. Just be prepared with proper clothing and protection from rain or sun depending on time of year. Weather can also vary in different parts of Miami on any given day. Checking forecasts the week of your trip is recommended.

Food and Drink Options

One of the best parts of visiting Miami is experiencing the diversity of cuisines and food fusions from Latin American, Caribbean and other global influences. On a short visit, you’ll have to be selective, but here are ideas for Miami meals and snacks during your day trip from Orlando:

Breakfast

Start your day off fresh by finding a local Cuban bakery or café for strong, sweet Cuban coffee and flaky pastelitos filled pastries. Or try a fruit smoothie bowl topped with grains, nuts and honey. Grabbing light snacks is ideal to save time and room for upcoming meals throughout the day.

Lunch

There are endless great lunch options in Miami depending on which neighborhood(s) you are touring. Ocean Drive in South Beach, Bayside Market in downtown Miami, and Little Havana all have plenty of restaurants, cafes and fast casual dining choices. Key Miami cuisine to try includes Cuban sandwiches, ceviche, tostones plantain chips, and tropical infused bowls or salads.

Dinner

You have more flexibility for a longer dinner on the early side before needing to drive back to Orlando. For authentic dishes, try family-run Cuban, Nicaraguan, Venezuelan or other Latin restaurants, many with live music and fun atmospheres in Little Havana or other ethnic enclaves. Seafood dinners with fresh Florida fish or shellfish are also popular. And Miami’s multicultural options range from Haitian stews to Argentinian steaks to Asian fusion tacos and more.

Dessert

Don’t skip dessert – Miami has awesome sweets! Look for key lime pie, flan custard, chocolate Cuban coffee beans, and mouthwatering ice cream or sorbet options. You can also pick up guava or mango pastries at local bakeries. And don’t forget the classic American dessert staples as well!

Nightlife Extras

If timing and budget allow, consider staying later into the evening to experience more of Miami’s famous nightlife scenes. Sip tropical cocktails at an eclectic bar or club along South Beach. Or watch locals play dominos while you smoke a cigar at a Little Havana hangout. Catching a vibrant salsa dance show is also highly recommended for thrill-seekers!

When to Visit Miami from Orlando

Miami draws visitors year-round with its beautiful weather and beaches, attractions, dining, nightlife and more. But here are some key annual events and seasons that might help determine when you want to plan your Miami day trip from Orlando:

December – Art Basel Miami and the holidays make this one of Miami’s busiest tourist months

January/February – Great time to visit with smaller crowds and nice weather

March – Enjoy the Miami Open tennis tournament and events surrounding spring break

July/August – Popular with families for summer break though heat is intense

September/October – Fewer crowds again; weather still hot early fall

November – Cooler weather arrives but attractions start getting busier for the holidays

If big crowds and peak hotel rates are something you want to avoid, late winter, early spring and fall are good targets. Use flexibility in your schedule if possible. Keep in mind rainy season in Miami runs June through October as well.

20 Things To Do In Day Trip to Miami from Orlando 2024

1. Walk Down Iconic Ocean Drive

Take a stroll down the vibrant Ocean Drive running parallel to the beaches in the Art Deco historic district of South Beach. Soak up the sights of the colorful architecture, check out hotel pools and patrons, and people watch from sidewalk cafes.

2. Relax on the White Sands of South Beach

Nothing says Miami quite like picturesque South Beach. Lay out your towel and work on your tan against the backdrop of swaying palms, lifeguard towers, and the Atlantic Ocean. Or be active by swimming, jet skiing or trying beach yoga.

3. Explore Trendy Wynwood Walls Street Art

This cutting-edge enclave has exploded with over 50 murals and graffiti street art installed on warehouses and buildings. Wander around capturing selfies and snapping pics of the ever-changing collection from world renowned artists.

4. Eat and Drink in Little Havana’s Calle Ocho

Experience old Cuba without the travel restrictions by visiting Miami’s Little Havana. Take a food tour for tamales, croquetas, guava pastries and Cuban sandwiches before stopping at Calle Ocho’s cigar shops, domino parks and azucar (sugar) street.

5. Marvel at Miami Views from a Rooftop Bar

Day or night, some of the best views of Miami are from the plentiful rooftop watering holes dotting the city. Have a cocktail high atop hotels like the Biltmore or the Standard Spa with sparkling poolscapes below and Miami shimmering around you.

6. Sightsee Art Deco by Segway

Miami Beach has over 800 iconic Art Deco buildings. Riding a Segway makes gliding by them breezy. Appreciate preserved architecture as you roll along the boardwalk from South Pointe Park up to scenic Mid-Beach for about 2 hours.

7. Shop the Miami Design District

This neighborhood dedicated to innovative fashion, architecture, dining and arts hosts over 130 boutiques and showrooms. Spend the afternoon browsing expensive stores and checking out public art installations around Palm Court.

8. Take Boat Tour of Biscayne Bay

See Miami and Miami Beach skylines, cruise by celebrity mansions on Star Island, check out Stiltsville houseboats, and gain unique water perspectives of the downtown during a 1 to 2 hour boat ride along the beautiful Biscayne Bay.

9. Have Dinner and Dance in Little Havana

Don’t leave Little Havana without experiencing the nightlife! Restaurants like Hoy Como Ayer have live salsa music and dancing while you dine on traditional plates and sip rum cocktails in a vibrant historic setting.

10. Relax in Lummus Park on South Beach

If South Beach seems too crowded, head a few blocks north to scenic Lummus Park running along the beach behind Ocean Drive hotels. Find a shady spot under a palm to picnic, play games, or just chill people watching.

11. See a Show or Exhibit

Catch an artistic performance at one of Miami’s great theaters like the Fillmore Miami Beach or Adrienne Arsht Center. Or check out latest exhibits at museums like PAMM (Perez Art Museum Miami), Frost Science Museum or the Bass Museum on Miami Beach.

12. Have Sunset Cocktails at a Rooftop Lounge

There’s no better way to cap a day in Miami than watching the sunset with tropical drinks in hand from a hip hotel rooftop bar. Early happy hours mean cheaper prices on top shelf cocktails to enjoy soaking up views as the sun sinks.

13. Ride a Jet Ski off South Beach

If you want some adventure on the water without leaving South Beach, rent a jet ski by the hour from a concession like South Beach Watersports right off the sand. Get safety tutorial then zip through waves doing your best stunt moves.

14. Stroll through Colorful Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

This preserved waterfront Italian Renaissance estate from early 1900s has elaborate architecture and decor along with 10 acres of formal gardens for wandering. The mansion interior and grounds offer a beautiful aesthetic escape while in Miami.

15. Eat at a Hip Miami Restaurant

World-class dining abounds in Miami featuring everything from tapas and ceviche to farm-to-table fusion. Make dinner plans at one of the latest hot chef establishments like Ariete, Boia De, Ola or Dirt. Just be ready to splurge a little.

16. Have Dessert on Española Way

This charming historical area designed like a Spanish village has a pedestrian mall lined with restaurants, shops, flowers and fountains. Grab gelato, sorbet, sweets or coffee at any number of cafes perfect for an afternoon sugar fix.

17. Lounge at the Beach

Pack or rent chairs and umbrella on any section of Miami’s beaches from Sunny Isles down through South Beach and just relax looking out at the water. Sip cocktails brought to you beachside while sunbathing or take a dip to cool off.

18. Explore the Everglades

Just a short drive from Miami, discover wonders of the Everglades ecosystem on airboat rides, wildlife walks with alligators, biking trails or just by taking in beautiful wetland scenery whether via road, waterway or walking paths.

19. See Miami from Above

Get amazing aerial city and water views during helicopter tours, seaplane rides or from observation decks like those on SkyRise Miami tower or 360-degree terrace perches from some high-end hotel pools in Miami Beach.

20. Experience Miami by Night

Don’t end your whirlwind Miami day too early! Extend into the nightlife scene starting happy hour late afternoon then bar/club hopping till the sun comes up again. South Beach and Brickell neighborhoods have extensive nightlife, with venues staying open till 5am daily.

Helpful Day Trip Planning Tips

Taking a whirlwind day trip to Miami from Orlando is ambitious. Applying these planning pointers will help your day go smooth as possible:

• Pack Light – Only take essentials so you don’t have to keep up with bags and don’t get bogged down carrying stuff in heat.
• Map Routes – Determine driving directions and distances between Miami spots in advance. GPS helps too.
• Wear Comfy Shoes – You’ll be on your feet a lot sightseeing so wear supportive, breathable footwear.
• Stay Hydrated – Carry water bottle and drink frequently. Dehydration sneaks up on you in tropical climates.
• Confirm Parking – Research parking costs/locations at Miami destinations to simplify finding options.
• Have Backup Plans – Be ready to adjust for rain delays, traffic jams or other unpredictable circumstances that pop up.
• Divide and Conquer – For larger groups, split up occasionally to tackle different tasks then reconnect.
• Watch Time – Check in with your schedule periodically to keep on track and know when you need to move on.
• Capture Memories – Take lots of pictures but remain present to soak up real-life moments in amazing Miami.

The more you plan and research, the less stress you’ll have trying to wing things on your whirlwind Miami day adventure. Staying centered and going with the flow when needed will also allow you to best enjoy this high energy, vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it realistic to visit Miami from Orlando in one day?

Yes – if you map out a focused itinerary in advance, have an early start, stay on the move to maximize time, and limit extensive lingering at any one place. Trying to see too much inevitably leads to feeling rushed and overwhelmed though.

How should I get around Miami?

Driving or ride sharing is easiest for Miami day trip itineraries rather than relying on public transportation. Just know that traffic, finding parking, and navigating Miami’s neighborhoods and attractions can be challenging for non-locals. Stay patient.

Where can I get good, affordable Cuban food in Miami?

Some top rated spots in Little Havana include Versailles Restaurant, El Pub Restaurant, Los Pinarenos Fruteria and Azucar Ice Cream Company. Look for hole-in-the wall cafes too for authentic Cuban sandwiches and coffee.

What is there to do on Miami Beach besides laying out?

Miami Beach offers world-class people watching, attractions like the Bass Art Museum, chic hotel restaurants and bars, excellent shopping at outdoor malls, picturesque parks, bike and Segway tours along the boardwalk, paddleboarding and watersports rentals, and so much more!

What should I know about visiting Everglades National Park near Miami?

The Everglades make for an awesome ecotourism experience including wildlife spotting, swamp walks, airboat rides and educational exhibits. But it’s at least an hour drive from Miami. Save the Everglades for an overnight Miami stay rather than a rushed day trip.

Is public transportation a smart way for me to explore the city?

Miami does have transit options like the MetroBus system, Metrorail elevated train, and the free Metromover in downtown. But trying to navigate between attractions and neighborhoods by bus or rail with limited time can be challenging for non-locals. Ride share, taxi or rental car is best for Miami day trips.

Conclusion

A day trip to Miami from Orlando packs tons of sights, sounds and experiences into a short 24 hour visit. Making smart plans for transportation, mapping out locations for top attractions and must-try restaurants, while also allowing some spontaneity for unexpected Miami moments will lead to an unforgettable adventure.

Soak up that vibrant latin culture, marvel at the colorful architecture, indulge in incredible cuisine, absorb spectacular street art, enjoy gorgeous sunny beaches and waterfronts, and don’t stop moving until it’s sadly time to cruise back to Orlando with amazing new Miami memories!

External Links and Resources:

Visit Florida – Miami Travel Guide

TripAdvisor – One Day in Miami Itinerary Ideas

GPS My City – Miami Attractions Map

Miami on a Tankful from Orlando