While Miami may be known for its lavish hotels and nightclubs, it also offers plenty of attractions for travelers on a shoestring budget. Don’t let money stand in the way of enjoying a blissful vacay in this beachside city. Here are our picks for cheap and free things to do in Miami. What are you waiting for? Read on and book that weekend trip.
Explore the beaches
You don’t need to part ways with your hard-earned cash in order to enjoy one the dozen or so white sand beaches that Miami has to offer. When you take into consideration that this city offers year-round sun, you can never go wrong with adding a beach adventure to your to-do list. Take a swim, build a sandcastle, snap a selfie or simply people watch. There are endless free activities to partake in while you soak up some vitamin D.
Check out some graffiti art
If you’re up for exploring some amazing graffiti art AND getting some exercise, you should make your way to Wynwood and check out their one-hour bike tours. Although it is a BYOBike situation, they can be rented for cheap and allow you to explore the not-to-be-missed murals that Wynwood has to offer.
Free yoga at Bayfront Park
Interested in maintaining some sort of exercise routine while in Miami? You can check out free yoga every Monday (6 p.m.), Wednesday (6 p.m.) and Saturday (9 a.m.) at Bayfront Park. Wouldn’t it be nice if between the shopping, eating and sight seeing, you could find a little zen? Recharging your batteries in a completely new environment will help you to appreciate your vacation even more.
Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
If exploring cultural hot spots is in your wheelhouse, then you definitely don’t want to miss touring the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, with its art, 50-acres of European-inspired gardens and of course, the immaculate and historic villa on the water. The cost of checking out this beautiful landmark is $18 for adults (with discounts for students, veterans, children and seniors), making it an enjoyable and affordable way to spend the afternoon.
Cultural Friday’s in Little Havana
If you happen to be visiting Miami during the last Friday of the month, spend the evening exploring the streets of Little Havana. During this time, this area of the city comes alive with dancing, art, domino games and cigar rolling (to name a few activities). There is no charge to attend, but we suggest paying the small fee for an authentic mojito.
Partake in Sweatstock
Far more enjoyable than it sounds, this free all-day block party in Little Haiti is designed to excite the senses. Also, by saving on entertainment, you are able to “splurge” a little on some delectable coffee or local shopping.
Get on with Groupon
Before heading to this sunny city, peruse Groupon deals that are offered exclusively in Miami. With just the click of a button, you can find super cheap deals on things like catamaran cruises, trips to the zoo and wine tastings. There are deals for anyone, with any interest, at any age.
Explore farmers markets
There is no cost attached to people watching, window shopping and food sampling. If you are staying at a place that allows you to cook your own meals, purchase some local food and save by not going out for dinner. Is there anything more satisfying than enjoying a home cooked meal with locally grown ingredients?
Tour the neighborhoods
A trip to Miami isn’t complete without strolling through the lively neighborhoods of Bal Harbour, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Design District, Little Havana and Miami Beach. Each area of the city offers a unique offering of food, drinks, shops and sights.
Do you have any tips for enjoying Miami on the cheap? Let us know in the comments.
Main image: iStockphoto/FotoMak
