Miami is often associated with luxury and high-end entertainment, but there are countless ways to experience the city without overspending. From stunning outdoor attractions to rich cultural experiences, visitors and locals can enjoy various activities that won’t hurt their pockets.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, art or simply soaking up the sun, here are some of the best budget-friendly things to do in Miami.
Zoo Miami
As Florida’s largest and oldest zoo, Zoo Miami offers a unique open-air experience with over 2,000 animals worldwide. Tickets start at just $22.95 for adults, making it a relatively inexpensive way to spend a day getting up close with wildlife.
Visitors generally praise Zoo Miami for its spacious enclosures, which allow animals to exhibit more natural behaviors. The zoo is home to many species, including Cuban crocodiles, orangutans, giraffes and various reptiles. Many reviewers highlight the zoo’s cleanliness, well-maintained facilities and interactive exhibits such as bird feeding, which is particularly popular with kids.
Bayside Ferris Wheel + Bayside Marketplace
Located at Bayside Marketplace, the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel gives visitors a stunning aerial view of Biscayne Bay and downtown Miami. While it’s not free, the ticket price, around $20, offers a budget-friendly way to take in breathtaking sights.
There are no student discounts, but you can enjoy the entire Bayside Marketplace for free. Walk through and explore restaurants, stores, gift shops and more. It’s like strolling along Ocean Drive, but instead, you’re right at the heart of Biscayne Bay.
Walking Tours in Little Havana
Little Havana walking tours range from $34.99 to $169, depending on the length, group size and whether the tour is private. Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the knowledgeable guides, delicious food tastings and immersive cultural experience.
Many consider it a must-do when visiting Miami, as it offers a fun and informative way to learn about the neighborhood’s Cuban heritage while enjoying authentic cuisine.
Frost Science Museum
Located in Downtown Miami, the Frost Science Museum features interactive exhibits, a planetarium and an aquarium. Tickets cost $29.95 for adults and the museum does not offer student, senior or military discounts.
However, the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami offers rush tickets to UM students who present a valid Cane ID. It’s recommended to arrive early and set aside several hours to fully explore the museum’s many attractions.
Wynwood Walls
Wynwood is Miami’s artistic heart and its outdoor museum. Wynwood Walls showcases world-renowned street art. While the official gallery has an admission fee, walking around the neighborhood and seeing the murals is completely free. The walls are located in the Wynwood art district, about a 30-minute drive from campus.
Students with valid ID can enter the Wynwood Walls exhibit for $5, while general admission is $12.
The experience includes interactive displays showing how the art is created, a guided 50-minute tour and accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking.
Public Beaches
If you live in Miami, a beach day is a must every now and then. Public beaches, including South Beach, Hobie Island Beach and South Pointe Park, are free to access. However, you might have to spend some money on renting beach chairs, umbrellas or dining at nearby restaurants.
Other potential expenses include parking fees and transportation. Despite these costs, Miami’s beaches remain one of the best free activities for visitors looking to relax by the ocean.
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
PAMM is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers. General admission is $18, but students with valid ID can enter for $14.
The museum features rotating and permanent exhibits focused on Latin America, the Caribbean and the African diaspora. Educational programs such as lectures, workshops and art talks are also available.
Visitors can enjoy the museum’s sculpture garden, gift shop and the Verde restaurant, which offers contemporary cuisine with views of Biscayne Bay. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, ramps, assistive listening devices and audio tours available.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is a breathtaking estate that offers visitors a glimpse into Miami’s Gilded Age. The museum, once the private residence of a wealthy businessman, features luxurious European-inspired architecture, antique furnishings and lush formal gardens.
General admission is $25 with no student discounts. However, visitors can enjoy free virtual tours and audio guides.
The expansive gardens are a definite highlight, featuring stunning fountains, sculptures and waterfront views. Guests can explore all open areas, including the museum, gardens and café/shop. The estate provides a serene escape from the bustling city, making it one of Miami’s most picturesque and historically rich experiences.
The Watsco Center
Located on the University of Miami’s campus, the Watsco Center is a multipurpose arena that hosts concerts, sporting events and live entertainment.
As a UM student, you have access to discounted or even free tickets for certain events. The easiest way to score free tickets is to check your school email for incoming events and claim student tickets or with the Student Government or Hurricane Productions, which often provide students with complimentary passes to major events.
If you are living on campus, this might be the cheapest transportation option yet. Watsco is less than a five-minute walk from Lakeside Village, Centennial Village and Eaton Residential College and about a 10-minute walk from Pearson/Mahoney Residential Colleges.
Miami offers an abundance of affordable experiences, from art and history to nature and culture. Whether you’re discovering street murals in Wynwood, strolling through the Vizcaya Gardens, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze at one of the city’s free public beaches, there are plenty of ways to explore Miami on a budget.
No matter your interests, these activities prove that you don’t have to spend a fortune to experience the best of what Miami has to offer.