Going to Miami and looking suggestions to visit nearby area

Question

Hello, We are going at the end of December in Miami and our stay is for five days. We are looking to visit some tourist spot in Miami and then last couple of days nearby area. 27 and 28. What is the suggestion? Thinking to visit Islamadore ? Please pour ideas! We could have extended to go Orlando but it will be too crowded and do not want to stuck 4 hrs in traffic. We have to be in hotel on by 28. Thank you!

Answer

Spending five days in Miami at the end of December gives you a good mix of city exploration and nearby natural attractions without needing to venture into Orlando, which can indeed be crowded and involve long drives. Since you plan to stay in Miami until the 28th, you can structure your trip with city highlights first and a day or two exploring nearby areas like the Florida Keys.

Here’s a suggested itinerary and ideas for your visit:

Miami City Highlights (first 3 days):
- South Beach and Ocean Drive: Classic Miami experience with art deco architecture, beach walks, and lively restaurants and bars.
- Wynwood Walls: Street art and galleries for a colorful, Instagram-worthy stop.
- Little Havana: Experience Cuban culture, coffee, cigars, and local cuisine along Calle Ocho.
- Bayside Marketplace: Waterfront shopping, live music, and dining.
- Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Historic villa with beautiful gardens overlooking Biscayne Bay.
Nearby Areas / Day Trips (last 2 days):
- Islamorada / Upper Keys: About a 2.5–3 hour drive from Miami, it’s perfect for snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing by the ocean. There are plenty of seafood restaurants, shops, and beautiful views. You can consider staying overnight in the Keys or do a long day trip if you prefer to return to Miami by evening.
- Everglades National Park: Only about an hour from Miami, it’s a great alternative if you want to explore the unique wetlands ecosystem. Airboat tours, wildlife viewing, and short walking trails are all options for a half-day or full-day trip.
- Key Largo: Slightly closer than Islamorada, Key Largo has some of the best snorkeling/diving spots in the Keys and offers a more relaxed day trip option.

Tips for planning:

Start city days early to beat crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures for walking and sightseeing.
For the Keys, consider leaving early in the morning to maximize your time there and avoid heavy weekend traffic.
December weather in Miami is generally warm and sunny, with daytime highs around mid-70s to low 80s°F (24–28°C), perfect for beaches and outdoor activities.
Book any popular tours, like snorkeling, Everglades airboats, or boat excursions, in advance to secure your spot during the busy holiday season.

Summary:

Spend the first few days enjoying Miami’s beaches, art districts, and cultural neighborhoods. For the last 1–2 days, a trip to Islamorada or Key Largo offers beautiful ocean views, water activities, and a more relaxed pace. Alternatively, a day trip to the Everglades provides a completely different Florida experience without long drives. This plan allows you to enjoy Miami and nearby highlights without feeling rushed or stuck in traffic.