Miami's Hidden Gems

Think you know Greater Miami & Miami Beach? Even if you’ve lived here all your life or have visited numerous times, you may still want to dig deeper to discover something new or unique to do. We’ve uncovered a list of under-the-radar experiences for your next outing in Miami.

Experience Out-of-the-Box Arts and Culture

With Miami’s year-round balmy weather, we don’t always watch movies in a theater – sometimes, we like our cinema with a side of fresh air and breathtaking views. Situated next to the New World Center in South Beach, home of the New World Symphony, the sprawling green space of Soundscape Park comes alive at night from fall through spring. Join locals who bring blankets, chairs and even over-the-top picnics to enjoy free movies projected on the towering wall, as well as WallCast live classical music concerts.

Another place to enjoy an al fresco movie experience is at the Rooftop Cinema Club South Beach on Lincoln Road, where stunning views mingle with creative cocktails and food and, of course, movies. Watch a pick-of-the-week, including cult favorites, classics and new releases as the stars twinkle above you.

While most know about the popular art-centric neighborhoods of Wynwood and the Miami Design District, art connoisseurs should also consider gallery hopping in the burgeoning neighborhood of Allapattah. In fact, some of Miami’s most acclaimed art curators have taken up residence here. Venture to the Rubell Museum to see the Rubell family’s large and diverse private collection of contemporary art, enjoy interactive digital art at Superblue and meet local art pioneers, such as Mindy Solomon at her namesake gallery. Cap off the day by sipping spirits at Tropical Distillers.

Discover Natural Gems

Locals and visitors alike flock to beautiful Biscayne National Park for good reason. Located within the park is Elliott Key, a large, uninhabited island and a must-see hidden gem. The island is the northernmost key of the Florida Keys and can be reached only by boat or kayak (note that kayaking there can be challenging, so you’ll need to be an experienced sea kayaker), but it’s worth making the trek. Visitors can take a scenic hike, throw something on the grill and enjoy a picnic at one of the tables, or even camp overnight. It’s also an ideal spot to snorkel and see an array of marine life. There are guided snorkeling and boat trips that either pass by Elliott Key on the way to Boca Chita Key or lead snorkelers along the mangroves that fringe Elliott Key.

Between Downtown Miami and South Beach, on tiny Watson Island, visitors will find a fun and active adventure. Tucked inside the beloved Jungle Island is a new experience called Treetop Trekking Miami. This wild adventure allows people of all ages to navigate ropes courses and swinging bridges, and soar above the animals and vegetation of Jungle Island on zip lines. Courses range in difficulty, making it a unique experience for many age and fitness levels.

Miami is home to gorgeous gardens such as Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Coconut Grove. Close by, you’ll find a lesser-known Coconut Grove gem, The Kampong. This hidden garden, the former estate of botanist David Fairchild, is filled with Instagram-worthy scenes of eye-popping beauty and a fascinating array of exotic plants and tropical fruit trees. Under a thick canopy of trees, stroll the paths that lead to the sparkling bay, where you’ll find a bright-red bench that beckons you to sit and take in the waterfront views. You can also participate in a guided tour to see what’s currently growing in the garden.

Under-the-Radar Beach Time

While glamorous South Beach often gets all the attention (for good reason), you’ll also find other picturesque white-sand beaches worthy of unfurling a towel and staying awhile. Escape to Surfside for serene, family-friendly beaches during the day. When evening comes, take a food crawl through its tiny downtown that offers a surprising number of eclectic restaurants. Within a one-mile radius, the area is packed with every type of cuisine you can imagine, from a longtime Jewish deli to newcomers such as the Israeli/Mediterranean restaurant, Neya, and posh spots like The Champagne Bar inside the Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club.

Check Out a New-To-You Neighborhood

Explore a new neighborhood with HistoryMiami. This popular museum offers city tours that include walking, biking, and even boating tours led by experts who talk about Miami’s history and culture. For instance, you may take a tour through one of Miami’s lesser-known neighborhoods, such as Spring Garden. This community on the banks of the Miami River has a unique history along with a plethora of homes exemplifying Miami’s early architecture, such as a Hollywood-inspired house nicknamed the “Hindu Temple,” the site of the first motion picture filmed in Miami. Some HistoryMiami boat tours will also zip guests out to another gem, Stiltsville, a sprinkling of houses that jut out of Biscayne Bay on stilts and have a storied history.

Hidden Hideouts in South Dade

South Dade is a treasure trove of farmlands, fruit stands and even a place that makes wines and beers from Florida fruits – Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery – but it’s also home to lesser-known spots where locals and visiting nature lovers can truly unplug.

While this tip may not be a secret to locals, visitors should be encouraged to bring back the most delicious souvenir from South Dade – the coveted, gooey cinnamon rolls from Knaus Berry Farm. Keep in mind these treats are seasonal and the farm is only open from November to mid-April. Pro tip: visit early on a weekday to avoid long lines.

Consider visiting  the beautiful Wat Buddharangsri Buddhist temple, where monks welcome visitors for conversation, education and prayer. It’s important to note that this is a place of worship, so make sure to dress conservatively.

Looking to hide away at a secret lagoon? You’ll enjoy Blue Lagoon Farm Miami where, as suggested by the name, the centerpiece is a massive blue-spring pool meant for swimming and those brave enough to try a cannonball from above. The five-acre farm’s gorgeous surroundings of coral rocks, a 75-foot waterfall and a grotto create the perfect backdrop for events ranging from weddings to birthday celebrations, and even photo shoots with mermaids. The farm is open to the public every day, with a food truck on the premises to satisfy any snack cravings.

Another under-the-radar spot many locals have never heard of is Patch of Heaven Sanctuary. This forested retreat is dotted with a koi pond, Zen garden and a historic main house. It’s open to the public from Wednesday through Sunday and offers guided tours by appointment to educate visitors about nature, conservation efforts and even forest bathing rituals.

Nightlife (on the Chill Side)

Lovers of nightlife can go beyond the typical bars and clubs and find their way into hidden speakeasies, like the swanky Tea Room at the EAST, Miami Hotel. Perched high above Brickell and veiled behind a black door, this Hong Kong-inspired hot spot offers live music, creative cocktails and an Asian Night Brunch.

Another newcomer to the late-night scene is The Pink Room, a plush speakeasy lounge in Wynwood with bespoke cocktails and DJ-spun tunes.