Home - Travel Destinations - Miami’s Must-Sees — Just Steps from Your Stay
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Home - Travel Destinations - Miami’s Must-Sees — Just Steps from Your Stay
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Yes, Miami is more than beaches and nightlife — it’s a city of stories, skyline views, and soul-stirring landmarks. From the leafy calm of Bayfront Park to the grandeur of the Freedom Tower, Downtown Miami invites you to wander, wonder, and feel the rhythm of a city that never stops evolving.
Featuring the iconic Freedom Tower
Best Stay in Miami
In 2025, the JW Marriott Marquis Miami earned the title of Florida’s Leading Business Hotel at the World Travel Awards, and it’s easy to see why.
📍 Located in the heart of Downtown Miami, this sleek skyscraper blends luxury with laser-sharp functionality. Think skyline views, high-tech meeting spaces, and a location that puts you steps away from Miami’s most inspiring attractions.
So, whether you’re in town for a pitch, a conference, or a creative recharge, the following noteworthy attractions are all within a short walk or drive from the hotel. For your convenience, we’ve included estimated distances from the JW Marriott Marquis Miami.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens (4.1 km)
Why it stands out: A breathtaking European-style villa with lush gardens and Biscayne Bay views. It’s a Mediterranean Revival estate and one of Miami’s most iconic and photogenic landmarks — perfect for architecture lovers and history buffs.
Freedom Tower (1.2 km)
Why it matters: This historic landmark was once the headquarters of the Miami News and later became a symbol of Cuban-American immigration. It’s now part of Miami Dade College (you also get your tickets from them) and often hosts exhibitions and cultural events. It’s visually striking and emotionally resonant, especially for those interested in Miami’s immigrant story. You can admire the architecture for free, but interior access requires a ticket. As of its reopening in October 2025, general admission is ticketed. You cannot go to the top of the tower. The exhibitions are housed on lower floors, and while the building’s architecture is iconic, the upper levels are not open to the public.
🎒 Travel Tip(s):
Children under 6, MDC students/staff, active military personnel, veterans, and visitors with disabilities are exempt from paying an entry ticket.
Frost Science Museum (2 km)
Why it’s cool: A planetarium, aquarium, and science museum rolled into one. The Frost Science Museum is great for families, curious minds, and anyone who loves interactive exhibits.
HistoryMiami Museum (1 km)
Why it’s insightful: The HistoryMiami Museum deep dives into South Florida’s past, from indigenous cultures to modern urban evolution.
🎒 Travel Tip(s):
The HistoryMiami Museum is not always free, but it does offer free admission on select days and for specific groups:
Bayfront Park (600 m)
Why it’s relaxing: It’s a waterfront green space with walking paths, sculptures, and frequent events. It’s right next to Bayside Marketplace, so you can pair nature with shopping and dining. Bayfront Park is an open-access waterfront park with walking paths, sculptures, and skyline views
Jose Marti Park (1.7 km) – Why it’s local: A community gem along the Miami River, with sports courts, shaded benches, and a laid-back vibe that feels authentically Miami — free access
Jungle Island (3.6 km)
Why it’s fun: A tropical park with exotic animals and adventure activities. Great for families or anyone craving a nature-meets-thrill combo.
Location: Jungle Island is located on Watson Island, which sits between mainland Miami and Miami Beach.
📍 Address: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail It’s just across the MacArthur Causeway from Downtown, making it a quick 10-minute drive from JW Marriott Marquis Miami
🎒 Travel Tip(s):
Miami-Dade County teachers receive free admission year-round with valid ID
Tickets & Attractions
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens | Jungle Island | The HistoryMiami Museum | Freedom Tower (ticketed by Miami Dade College)
Getting Around
Miami-Dade Transit (Metrorail, Metrobus, Metromover) | Top Miami day trips | Miami bike rentals | Save up to 50% with a Go City Explorer Pass
Beach & Park Info
Bayfront Park hours and amenities | Jose Marti Park hours and amenities
Maps & Neighborhood Guides
Safety & Essentials
Distance: ~50 mi (80 km) / 2 hours by ferry from PortMiami
Why Go: Snorkeling at the SS Sapona shipwreck, beach clubs, dolphin encounters, and island vibes
Vibe: Caribbean escape without a long flight
Distance: ~30 mi (48 km) / 45 minutes by car or Brightline
Why Go: Las Olas Beach, canalside dining, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, and upscale shopping
Vibe: Sophisticated beach town with a quieter pace than Miami
Distance: ~230 mi (370 km) / 3.5–4 hours by car or 3 hours by Brightline
Why Go: Theme parks galore — Disney, Universal, SeaWorld — plus outlet shopping and family fun
Vibe: High-energy, kid-friendly, and packed with entertainment
Distance: ~3 mi (5 km) from Downtown
Why Go: Street art, galleries, creative cafés, and fashion-forward shops
Vibe: Urban, edgy, and perfect for a half-day extension
Distance: ~70 mi (113 km) / 1.5 hours by car
Why Go: Gilded Age mansions, upscale boutiques, beaches, and the Flagler Museum
Vibe: Elegant, historic, and perfect for a luxe day trip
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