With so many free things to do in Miami, you’ll never get around to it all. So, why not start with the cheap options and work your way around the city from there? With so much lush, tropical nature available to enjoy, there’s an endless list of ways to get outdoors in this sunny city, and they don’t cost a dollar. Beyond that, you can experience cultural events, community happenings, and more, all free of charge if you know where to look and how to find them. 

The Best Free Things to Do in Miami

Nature 

Scenic Walks 

During the pandemic, everyone came to appreciate the power of a nice long walk. For those who live in Miami, scenic walks stretch out from everyone’s backyards. Take a stroll in South Pointe Park on South Beach, around one of the city’s public golf courses, like Granada Golf Course in Coral Gables, or on the boardwalk and winding paths starting at Coconut Grove’s Marina Park.

Beaches 

It goes without saying that one of the token free things to do in Miami is go to the beach. Miami Beach’s long strip of beach goes from North Shore Open Space Park all the way to South Pointe Park at the tip of South Beach. Each beach emanates a distinct personality, and we recommend spending an afternoon lounging around to really capture the feel and find “your beach.” Miami also has beach options off of Miami Beach, including Key Biscayne. 

Art 

Wynwood 

Just over a decade ago, there wasn’t much to see in the then industrial neighborhood. Today, Wynwood makes for an iconic visit to Miami and the perfect place to soak up an afternoon of street art without spending any money at all. Most of Wynwood’s most notable art is on public, large-scale displays on walls that you can view as you stroll through the busy streets. The streets of Wynwood are basically a free graffiti museum, with works from the genre’s most famous names on exhibit for the enjoyment of all. 

Art Deco 

For an entirely different kind of art stroll, check out the Art Deco Historic District on Miami Beach, stretching between 5th and 23rd Streets on Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, and Washington Avenue. The 1920’s and 1930’s art deco architecture in this area is unrivaled anywhere else in the world. The funky and fun pastel hues and shapes will put a smile on your face for free. 

ICA 

The Design District is, in many ways, a free walking destination on its own, although the area’s retailers sell mostly uber-high-end luxury brands. However, you won’t want to miss the free gem tucked right into the neighborhood’s center: the Institute of Contemporary Art. Get free, timed tickets to enjoy the visiting exhibitions, including some of the buzziest names in the contemporary art world, like Yayoi Kusama. 

Culture 

Books & Books 

Books & Books, a local bookstore, truly acts more like a cultural community hub than a mere retail destination. The dedicated staff put together free readings almost every night at their handful of locations scattered around the city. The Coral Gables flagship location is worth checking out for the cozy interior space and chic tropical courtyard alone. While most of the readings are free and open to the public, they sometimes charge for higher-profile authors, so check in advance. 

Viernes Culturales 

Get in the spirit of Little Havana when you join in a free art and culture walk on the last Friday of the month in this lively neighborhood. Live music, art displays, interactive activities, and more offer free fun for all ages along the main stretch of Calle Ocho and beyond. 

Moving to Miami?

This list of cheap things to do in Miami will keep you humming along when you live in this beautiful city. For help finding a place to live here, let AptAmigo do the hard work for you. Our free service lets you relax and enjoy the apartment hunting process, while we find the best buildings to match your needs and schedule tours for you. And, with local experts heading your search, you gain an insider’s knowledge of the area that you won’t get anywhere else.