Downtown Miami offers visitors of all ages breathtaking bay views, towering skyscrapers, and plenty of activities to enjoy.
Art enthusiasts should visit the Perez Art Museum Miami and Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. While you’re there, don’t forget to stroll through 21-acre Maurice A. Ferre Park to take in the view and sculptures.
The Perez Art Museum
The Perez Art Museum (PAMM) is one of Miami’s premier attractions, situated in a modern glass building with stunning views over Biscayne Bay. Displaying both modern and contemporary artwork from around the world, PAMM ensures visitors an unforgettable experience.
The museum’s collection showcases artworks from the 20th century as well as works by international and local artists. It aims to reflect Miami’s cultural diversity through art. PAMM houses works from artists from Caribbean, Latin America and Africa diaspora regions.
Experience the museum’s extensive collection of paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures or take in a show. Alternatively, relax in the cafe while admiring Biscayne Bay’s picturesque view from above.
Visitors to the museum can take guided tours or attend music performances or artist talks. During summer months, you can also enjoy its 2500 square foot garden and outdoor terrace.
Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, the Perez Art Museum is an iconic architectural landmark that showcases both modern and contemporary art. Situated within Museum Park, it was completed in 2013.
Visit the Perez Art Museum to explore its permanent collection which showcases art from the 20th and 21st centuries. There are many captivating exhibits on display from different parts of the globe, as well as a sculpture garden and on-site restaurant.
You may want to book a guided tour of the museum with advance notice. These tours are offered in both English and Spanish, making them accessible for people with hearing and vision impairments.
While at the museum, you can learn about its history and view its collections. Plus, you can visit its cafe and shop to purchase decorative objects, handmade accessories and art books.
The museum also provides educational programs to help children appreciate art’s significance. These include kid’s workshops and classes for preschoolers and teenagers.
The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
The Arsht Center was designed by Cesar Pelli in 2006 and opened as Florida’s largest performing arts complex. Here you’ll find shows such as Miami City Ballet, Florida Grand Opera and touring Broadway productions.
The theater offers an extensive selection of shows and performances throughout the year, so there’s something for everyone. Additionally, many events take place during holidays like holiday concerts and Christmas programs.
If you’re planning to attend a performance or concert, tickets can be found both online and at the box office before the show. Many times, discounts and special deals may be available on tickets to the center – make sure to take a look!
It is recommended to reserve your tickets as far in advance as possible to guarantee the best prices. Additionally, you can subscribe to the center’s email list for event announcements and exclusive offers.
The Arsht Center, one of the world’s premier performing arts centers, has plenty to offer. It boasts several acclaimed resident companies such as Florida Grand Opera, Miami City Ballet and New World Symphony; plus it serves as a platform for arts education and community involvement.
The center also hosts numerous community events and farmer markets, as well as the “Broadway in Miami” series that brings New York’s hottest shows to South Florida. Furthermore, it’s a top destination for family entertainment with plenty of children’s shows available to choose from.
In addition to its stunning architecture, the Arsht Center boasts a number of special features that make it worth visiting. For instance, they offer free behind-the-scenes tours every Saturday and Monday at noon.
This tour offers you an insightful view into the building, its history and those responsible for shaping its mission. It’s an ideal chance to gain more knowledge about this center and how it has transformed Downtown Miami since opening.
The Arsht Center has been a major driving force of economic development in downtown Miami, connecting South Florida to the world through arts and culture. It has attracted billions of dollars worth of new investment into the neighborhood, demonstrating that culture truly builds Florida.
Freedom Tower
One of the most iconic buildings in downtown Miami is Freedom Tower, affectionately known as “Ellis Island of the South” due to its role as a refugee center for Cuban immigrants seeking political asylum from Fidel Castro’s regime. Now owned by Miami Dade College and serving as an art museum, this National Historic Landmark serves as an iconic landmark.
Built in 1925, this building was originally the headquarters for Miami News and Metropolis newspaper at a time when Florida experienced an unprecedented real estate boom. Nowadays it serves as both an office building and contemporary art museum.
After being briefly owned by businessman Jorge Mas Canosa in 1997, the tower was eventually acquired by developer Pedro Martin of Terra Group in 2004. Despite opposition from preservationists, he eventually donated the building to Miami Dade College.
Since 2005, the university has utilized the tower as a cultural and educational hub. Its Museum of Art and Design (MOAD) offers open, critical, collaborative frameworks for artistic experimentation and interdisciplinary risk-taking that promote MDC’s core values while engaging students, faculty and the local community.
At MOAD, visitors have the unique chance to explore art in multiple mediums that further the university’s academic mission and connect local, national and international communities. Its permanent collection boasts works by renowned and emerging artists from around the world that showcase a broad selection of modern, contemporary and international artwork.
MOAD also hosts numerous exhibitions that celebrate Miami and its culture and heritage, as well as temporary displays like the annual Art on the River festival.
After exploring the galleries, visitors can enjoy outdoor spaces and sculptures at the museum. Or, take a trip to the 250-seat Planetarium for an exciting visual journey! This theater boasts 16 million color projection and surround sound technology.
In downtown, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars and shops to enjoy. Bayside Marketplace – an outdoor market popular with both locals and tourists – is one such spot where everyone can grab a bite or shop for goods.
Take Skyviews Miami for a breathtaking aerial view of Miami’s downtown skyline, Biscayne Bay and Bayfront Park. These climate-controlled gondolas feature leather bucket seats with custom LED light show for an unforgettable experience.
Bayside Marketplace
Bayside Marketplace is one of Miami’s top attractions, situated between American Airlines Arena and InterContinental Miami. This entertainment hub offers plenty to do – shop, dine or enjoy live music performances – making it a must-visit for visitors from around the world.
The mall boasts more than 120 stores, including renowned chain brands like GAP, Foot Locker, Crocs, Guess and Victoria’s Secret. Furthermore, the food court features around forty restaurants and bars offering an international selection of cuisines.
For something more local, there are also some shops that sell items made in the area. Check out Artist’s Square to view artwork by local artists or visit Farmer’s Market Sundays for fresh produce and artisanal foods.
Bayside Marketplace not only offers shopping, but you can also enjoy the water. Take a boat tour to take in all of the sights or hire a water taxi shuttle service for some added transportation.
The area offers plenty of shopping and dining options, making it a perfect destination to spend a day or two. You’ll find everything from major brands to smaller boutiques offering locally-crafted goods and hand-rolled cigars. Whatever your taste may be, you’re sure to find something here that suits you perfectly!
It’s an ideal spot to find the latest fashions and buy gifts for loved ones. Plus, there are plenty of eateries in the Marketplace, such as Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Hard Rock Cafe and Los Ranchos.
A vibrant food court offers a diverse selection of treats, from healthy juices to Cajun dishes and everything in between. Plus, you’ll find sit-down restaurants serving authentic Miami cuisine like The Knife steakhouse, Mambo Cafe and Largo Bar & Grill – just to name a few!
At Bayside Marketplace, you can book a fishing charter to suit your needs. They offer both daytime and nighttime options so that whatever works best for you. Or why not treat yourself to a helicopter tour for an exciting way to see the city from above?
If you’re searching for a vacation rental near Bayside Marketplace, Vrbo has something perfect for everyone with its selection of 7,000 vacation rentals. Whether it’s a beachfront condo or cozy house, there’s something on Vrbo that fits everyone’s taste and budget!
