Cheap and Exciting Fun for Tourists in Miami
Moneysaving ways to spend time in Miami for under $11
However, for visitors on a budget, the price of touring, eating and partying in the city can quickly add up. Make no mistake; there are many attractions that are fully worth the price of admission, and should not be missed. Nevertheless, if you are looking for some frugal options to round out your trip to Miami, here are some suggestions that will keep both you and your budget happy. Several of these ideas are free, and none cost more than $11 per person.
Things to do and see outdoors in Miami:
Miami's famous, white sand South Beach
Miami’s South Beach is justly famous, and no one should visit the city without going to the beach to soak up some sun and salt water. A map of South Beach will show the access points for getting to the water, and parking availability. Trained lifeguards are present everywhere. Don’t forget sunscreen, cold drinking water, and towels to spread on the sand (there are usually lounge chairs and umbrellas, but they are reserved for use by hotel guests). If you are feeling particularly adventurous, check out Haulover Beach, Miami’s local nude bathing area.
Cost: free
A historic outdoor swimming pool, the Venetian Pool
The Venetian Pool is located in Coral Gables, one of Miami’s most beautiful residential neighborhoods. It was built in the 1920s to match the Mediterranean aesthetic of the surrounding neighborhood, and boasts a sandy beach, lagoon-style pool, coral caves, a waterfall, and landscaping that provides flowers and shade. If there were a contest for “Most Beautiful Outdoor Pool”, this one would win. Children under three are not admitted.
Cost: $10.50 adults, $6.00 children (cash or cheques only)
Beautiful tropical gardens, palms and orchids, bromeliads, a Japanese garden, strolling walkways, an autograph tree, and lots of photo opportunities. This garden is a feast for the eyes.
Cost: free
A unique, tropical garden: the Fruit and Spice Park
Still craving more flora and fauna? Then check out the Fruit and Spice Park, which is exactly what it sounds like – a botanical garden dedicated to the tropical food we eat. The garden features over 500 varieties of fruit, vegetables, spices and nuts, including over 150 varieties of mangoes alone. If looking at all the abundance of fruit makes you curious to try some, the Park Shop includes a tasting counter.
Cost: $7.00 adults, $1.50 children
Miami's "Taj Mahal" - the Coral Castle
A tribute to unrequited love, the Coral Castle was built singlehandedly by one man after being jilted by the woman he loved. Edward Leedskalnin purportedly carved 1,100 tons of coral rock under the cover of night by a secret method (he himself called it “the secret of the pyramids”) into a fortress-like home and sculpture garden. Think of it as Miami’s Taj Mahal – a testament to undying love.
Cost: $9.75 adults, $5.00 children
Things to do and see indoors in Miami:
The art of design: the Wolfsonian Museum
The Wolfsonian is a museum affiliated with Florida International University, and located on South Beach in the heart of the Art Deco district. The collections are, appropriately enough, all based on the theme of design - design in furniture, appliances, accessories, textiles, books, paintings, industry, and much more. Best of all, if you plan to arrive on a Friday after 6 p.m., admission is free.
Cost: $7.00 adults, $5.00 children, free after 6:00 p.m. on Fridays
Art for the ages: the Bass Museum
The Bass Museum is based on a private art collection that was bequeathed to Miami City forty years ago by John and Johanna Bass. The collection, which spans from the Renaissance to Contemporary art, is not huge, but it includes many wonderful jewels of art which would perhaps escape notice in a larger museum.
Cost: $8.00 adults, $6.00 students and children
Shopping Malls
No shopping trip in Miami would be complete without a visit to one of the many indoor malls that dot the city. From discount to upscale, these malls offer an endless array of things for sale. Of course, the price of the excursion depends on how much you choose to buy. However, if you enjoy window shopping and are looking for an air-conditioned respite from the heat, consider this to be a free trip.
Cost: free
Palm trees sway over South Beach, Miami
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