Miami Mix: 3 Days of Business, Beaches & Bites

For both business travelers and leisure seekers, Day 1 in Miami offers a great mix of productivity and relaxation. Start your day with a visit to Bayside Marketplace. This is a lively waterfront complex perfect for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely stroll during a break from meetings. The shops, restaurants and live music create a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the essence of Miami, making it an ideal spot to unwind or socialize.

For business travelers, Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) provides a peaceful afternoon retreat. Located just a short drive from downtown, the museum offers a calm environment to clear your mind and enjoy contemporary art in a serene setting. The museum’s outdoor spaces also offer beautiful views of Biscayne Bay, perfect for some quiet time before heading back to work.

For those with more time, a boat tour from the nearby marina is a wonderful way to explore the beauty of the area from the water. You’ll get a great view of Star Island and the iconic Miami skyline, making it a memorable experience.

End your day with a relaxing dinner at The Capital Grille in downtown Miami. Known for its refined atmosphere and exceptional cuisine, it’s the perfect spot for both business dinners and a casual meal. Whether you're looking to wrap up a busy day of work or enjoy a quiet night, this restaurant offers a sophisticated setting.

Insider tip: If you’re looking for a peaceful evening activity, consider a walk along Brickell City Centre. You can also visit one of Miami's beautiful parks to unwind and enjoy the evening in a calm, scenic environment.

On Day 2, dive deeper into the rich culture and natural beauty that Miami has to offer. Start your morning with a visit to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, an iconic historical estate nestled by the water. The stunning European-inspired gardens and grand architecture provide the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll. It’s a beautiful and peaceful retreat that offers a glimpse into Miami’s past, and it’s a must-see for anyone looking to enjoy Miami beyond its modern flair.

Afterward, head over to the trendy Wynwood Walls, an outdoor street art museum located in the Wynwood district. The colorful murals and urban artwork offer a fascinating and immersive experience, making it a fantastic spot for photography. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply enjoy unique urban spaces, Wynwood is a vibrant neighborhood that showcases Miami's creative spirit. Wynwood Walls is just a 15-minute drive (about 4–5 miles) from Vizcaya, so it’s quick and easy to reach by car or rideshare.

For lunch, check out Café La Trova, a lively Cuban restaurant in the heart of Little Havana. The atmosphere is both lively and inviting, and the menu offers a delicious selection of traditional Cuban dishes. It's the perfect spot to savor the flavors of Miami’s Cuban culture and take in the vibrant street life. Café La Trova is about a 10-minute drive (2–3 miles) from Wynwood, making it easy to move between the two areas.

In the afternoon, take some time to relax at South Beach. Whether you’re taking a dip in the ocean or simply lounging on the iconic white sand, South Beach offers an ideal setting for unwinding. The Art Deco architecture lining the beach provides a perfect backdrop for a stroll along Ocean Drive. From Café La Trova to South Beach, it’s about a 15–20 minute drive (roughly four miles), so getting there is quick and straightforward.

Finish off the day with a sunset visit to Key Biscayne. The island offers some of the best views in Miami, and it’s less crowded than other spots. It’s a peaceful escape where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area and reflect on your Miami experience. From South Beach to Key Biscayne, it’s a 20–25 minute drive (about seven miles), and the scenic route makes for a beautiful drive.

Insider tip: If you have time, rent a bike or take a walk along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, which stretches from South Beach to North Beach. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to explore the coastline, and the ocean breeze makes it the perfect midday break.

Travel tip: These destinations are all fairly close to each other, and travelers can easily get from one to the next by car, rideshare or public transport. Miami’s public transportation is reliable but can take a bit longer than driving. For convenience, we recommend using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to move between locations.

On Day 3, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Miami. It offers a balance of relaxation and efficient experiences for busy business travelers.

Start your day with a visit to the Miami Seaquarium. Located on Virginia Key, this family-friendly marine park is home to dolphins, sea lions and other aquatic animals. While this stop is a great way for leisure travelers to explore Miami's marine life, business travelers can take advantage of the early morning hours before peak crowds arrive. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the exhibits while planning the day ahead.

Next, head to Coral Gables, a charming neighborhood known for its Mediterranean-inspired architecture and tree-lined streets. For business travelers, Coral Gables offers plenty of opportunities for a productive lunch at Bulla Gastrobar. This is a contemporary Spanish restaurant with a bustling yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for holding informal business meetings, or for some time to relax and recharge before your next appointment. If you're looking for something quieter, head to one of the area’s coffee shops where you can work or catch up on emails in a peaceful setting. Miracle Mile, a vibrant stretch filled with boutiques, art galleries and cafés, is also perfect for an afternoon stroll to clear your mind.

In the afternoon, make your way to the serene Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, a perfect escape from the urban hustle. The garden’s lush landscapes provide the ideal setting for relaxation and reflection. For business travelers who value tranquility and quiet moments, it’s an excellent spot for a brief, peaceful walk or a reflective break between meetings.

To close your day, explore Little Havana, a lively cultural hub where you can experience Miami's Cuban heritage. For business travelers with limited time, it’s worth visiting Calle Ocho to enjoy the vibrant street art and murals. Perhaps grab a quick coffee at Versailles or Ball & Chain for an authentic taste of Cuban culture. Little Havana’s dynamic energy offers an ideal environment to relax or have a light conversation while immersing yourself in local culture.

Getting around: These destinations are close enough to one another to make traveling between them hassle-free. From Miami Seaquarium to Coral Gables is about a 20-minute drive (7 miles). From Coral Gables to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is just a 10–15 minute drive (4 miles). To finish your day, the drive from Fairchild to Little Havana is about 20–25 minutes (8 miles). Using rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft can save time and ensure you arrive at your next location quickly and comfortably, allowing for maximum productivity.

Insider tip: For business travelers, utilizing the convenience of rideshare apps or renting a car is highly recommended to make the most of your time. Miami’s traffic can be unpredictable, and parking can be challenging in some areas. Also, consider utilizing the early morning or late afternoon hours for more tranquil visits to popular spots. This will allow you to enjoy a peaceful experience while staying productive.