Nestled along Biscayne Bay between Downtown Miami and the Design District, Edgewater has quietly become one of Miami’s most desirable neighborhoods. Known for its bayfront parks, art-filled surroundings, and a perfect balance between city life and laid-back charm, Edgewater is ideal for visitors who want both tranquility and easy access to the action.
Here’s your complete guide to the best things to do in Edgewater, from scenic outdoor activities and art experiences to great dining and vibrant nightlife.
🌴 Outdoor & Recreational Activities
- 🏞️ Margaret Pace Park: Eight acres of waterfront parkland with jogging trails, basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, outdoor gym, dog park, and picnic areas. Free entry, open daily from sunrise to sunset. Grab a sandwich from The Daily Creative Food Co. nearby and enjoy skyline views of Biscayne Bay. The park also features plenty of shaded areas, fountains, and art installations, making it a pleasant spot to spend the day. Families often gather for picnics, yoga classes take place in the mornings, and the evenings bring out joggers and dog walkers. You’ll find water fountains, restrooms, and even small food trucks on weekends offering smoothies and snacks. For photographers, sunrise over the bay paints the skyline in warm hues—an unmissable sight.
- 🚴 Venetian Causeway & Baywalk: Scenic route connecting Miami to the beach, ideal for walking, cycling, or running. Offers stunning bay views and plenty of photo opportunities. The Baywalk on N. Bayshore Drive is another perfect spot for a calm stroll. Early mornings provide the quietest atmosphere, while evenings bring vibrant colors reflecting off the water. Cyclists love this route for its dedicated lanes and safe, smooth path. Along the way, you can stop by small marinas or benches that offer breathtaking views of yachts and sailboats. Bring a camera and sunscreen—it’s a route that perfectly combines fitness with sightseeing.
- 🛶 Kayaking & Paddleboarding on Biscayne Bay: Rent from local operators near Sea Isle Marina for about $25–$40 per hour. Paddle along calm waters with panoramic city views—best enjoyed in early mornings before the heat. Guided tours are also available for beginners, offering insights into local wildlife like manatees, pelicans, and even occasional dolphins. Some rental companies provide night paddling experiences with LED-lit boards for a magical after-dark adventure. Whether solo or with friends, it’s one of the most peaceful ways to appreciate Miami’s natural beauty.
🎨 Art, Culture & Museums
- 🖼️ Wynwood Walls & Street Art: Just minutes west of Edgewater, Wynwood is a global art mecca featuring over 35 large-scale murals by world-famous artists. The entire district feels like a living art gallery—perfect for exploring on foot. Spend an afternoon wandering through vibrant alleys filled with graffiti, pop art, and abstract creations that change every few months. Don’t forget to visit the local boutiques, small art galleries, and cafes that surround the Walls. Many artists paint live during the weekends, and guided tours are available to explain the stories behind the murals. (Hours: Daily 10:30 AM–6:30 PM; Admission: ~$12 adults, kids under 12 free)
- 🏛️ Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): A modern art lover’s paradise located on the bay just south of Edgewater. Highlights include 20th- and 21st-century works from across the Americas and lush hanging gardens with waterfront views. The museum itself is an architectural masterpiece with shaded terraces and outdoor swings that overlook Biscayne Bay. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions, photography collections, and educational programs. Its café and shop are also highly rated, offering scenic views and creative souvenirs. (Hours: Thu 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Mon 11 AM–6 PM; Admission: ~$16 adults)
- 🔭 Frost Science Museum: Next door to PAMM, this museum features a planetarium, aquarium, and interactive science exhibits—ideal for families. Don’t miss the massive three-level aquarium that simulates the Gulf Stream ecosystem, or the planetarium shows that use cutting-edge projection technology. The rooftop observatory offers breathtaking city and ocean views, making it a favorite among photographers. The museum also hosts night events like stargazing parties and special holiday-themed programs. (Hours: Daily 10 AM–5 PM; Admission: ~$30 adults)
- 🎭 Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts: Miami’s leading venue for Broadway shows, symphonies, and ballet performances. The center hosts over 300 performances a year, ranging from global orchestras and Grammy-winning artists to local cultural showcases. The outdoor plaza frequently holds free community events, and the interior architecture alone—modern, sleek, and acoustically impressive—is worth a visit. Check the schedule online for a night of theater, dance, or even a free outdoor concert under the stars.
- 🧩 Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA): Located in the nearby Design District, ICA Miami showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary works and offers free admission. The museum supports emerging and mid-career artists, featuring installations, sculptures, and digital media. Outside, you’ll find public sculptures and creative spaces designed to spark curiosity. Pair your visit with a stroll through the Design District’s luxury stores, art installations, and Instagram-worthy architectural gems. Many visitors also enjoy grabbing coffee or gelato at one of the open-air cafés nearby.
🍽️ Best Dining in Edgewater
- 🍤 Amara at Paraiso: Elevated Latin-American cuisine with unbeatable bayfront views. Try ceviche, grilled seafood, and cocktails at sunset. Ideal for couples and special occasions. The atmosphere is modern yet warm, with both indoor and terrace seating that captures Miami’s coastal energy. The Sunday brunch buffet is an event in itself, featuring seafood platters, tropical fruits, and bottomless mimosas. Service is refined yet relaxed, making Amara one of the most memorable dining experiences in Edgewater.
- 🥪 Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop: A beloved Miami classic, serving authentic Cuban sandwiches, croquetas, and café con leche in a nostalgic diner setting. Loved by locals, this spot exudes old-school charm and flavors that have stood the test of time. Try their Pan con Bistec or a Medianoche sandwich paired with a strong cortadito. Despite its humble setting, Enriqueta’s remains one of the most popular lunch stops for professionals and students alike.
- 🦪 Mignonette: An elegant oyster bar and seafood bistro set in a 1930s gas station, offering a cozy, vintage vibe. The restaurant’s curated oyster list changes daily, featuring East and West Coast varieties. Don’t miss their lobster roll, scallops, or perfectly seared fish dishes, complemented by a rich wine selection. The staff’s knowledge of pairings enhances the fine-dining feel, while still keeping the atmosphere unpretentious.
- 🍛 Sabor a Perú: A family-friendly gem known for its authentic Peruvian cuisine and huge portions of ceviche mixto, lomo saltado, and arroz con mariscos. The flavors are bold, the service is warm, and the prices are reasonable, making it a top choice for both locals and visitors. The restaurant is open late, making it perfect for a hearty dinner after exploring the neighborhood. Expect a vibrant, casual atmosphere and quick service that makes you feel like part of the family.
- 🥗 The Daily Creative Food Co.: A bustling breakfast and lunch café offering creative sandwiches, hearty salads, fresh juices, and smoothies. The décor is colorful and modern, reflecting Miami’s lively energy. The extensive menu features something for everyone—from healthy grain bowls to indulgent breakfast burritos. Ideal for digital nomads or travelers on the go, it’s also perfect for picking up food before a picnic at Margaret Pace Park.
🌆 Nightlife & Entertainment
- 🎷 Lagniappe: A New Orleans–inspired wine garden near Edgewater, considered a hidden gem. Enjoy live jazz under string lights with a bottle of wine and a cheese plate. The outdoor seating is cozy and communal, surrounded by lush greenery that makes it feel like a backyard party. The venue offers a wide selection of wines and charcuterie boards you can customize, plus nightly performances by talented local musicians. The crowd is diverse—artists, locals, and travelers mingling under twinkling lights. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed, soulful evening where the music and atmosphere do the talking. No reservations—just pure atmosphere that perfectly captures Miami’s creative energy.
- 🍸 Edgewater Rooftop Bar (Marriott Biscayne Bay): Offers breathtaking skyline views, ideal for cocktails at sunset or a romantic nightcap under the stars. The rooftop features comfortable lounge seating, soft lighting, and a laid-back ambiance perfect for conversation. Signature drinks like passionfruit mojitos and lychee martinis pair beautifully with the warm ocean breeze. Whether you’re a guest at the hotel or a local dropping by, the vibe is both upscale and welcoming. Occasional live DJ sets and happy hour specials make it a great spot to start or end your night.
- 🍺 Wynwood Breweries & Bars: Wynwood’s lively nightlife is just minutes away, featuring spots like Veza Sur, Wynwood Brewing Co., El Techo, and The Oasis. Expect DJs, craft beer, and vibrant street-art vibes late into the night. Each venue has its unique flair—Veza Sur’s open-air patio with Latin beats, Wynwood Brewing’s chill industrial taproom, El Techo’s rooftop salsa nights, and The Oasis’ massive outdoor courtyard with live concerts. Visitors can create their own mini bar crawl, exploring everything from craft cocktails to local brews. The energy peaks on weekends when art, music, and dance blend into an unforgettable Miami experience.
🚴 Group Activities & Tours
- 🍴 Wynwood Food & Art Tour: Combine art and cuisine in a guided walking tour through Wynwood’s murals and local restaurants (~$89/person). Admission to Wynwood Walls is included. Tours typically last around 2.5 to 3 hours and include stops at five to six culinary hotspots, each offering a signature tasting that reflects Miami’s multicultural identity. Expect to sample Latin fusion dishes, artisanal desserts, and creative cocktails while your local guide shares insights into the history and meaning behind the murals. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, and small groups looking for a fun and delicious afternoon.
- 🚲 Cycle Party Wynwood: A pedal-powered bar crawl perfect for groups and celebrations (~$49/person). Participants ride a large, open-air vehicle while music plays, stopping at some of Wynwood’s most popular bars and breweries. Each stop offers discounted drinks, photo ops, and a chance to mingle with other travelers. The experience lasts about 90 minutes and is BYOB-friendly, with coolers provided on board. This activity is especially popular for bachelor or bachelorette parties and provides a unique, energetic way to see the city’s art district.
- ⛵ Biscayne Bay Cruises: Departing from nearby Bayside Marketplace, these 90-minute boat tours explore Miami’s celebrity homes and island views (~$30–$40). Many operators offer themed options such as sunset cruises, private charters, or party boats with live DJs. Guests enjoy panoramic skyline views, see the luxurious mansions on Star Island, and occasionally spot dolphins along the route. Cruises typically include onboard bars and live narration, making them both educational and entertaining. They’re suitable for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxing yet scenic way to experience the beauty of Biscayne Bay.
🕶️ When to Visit Edgewater
The best time to visit Miami is December through April, when temperatures are mild and skies are clear—ideal for outdoor exploring. Summer (June–September) brings humidity, afternoon showers, and fewer crowds (along with restaurant deals like Miami Spice). Always wear sunscreen and stay hydrated while outdoors.
🏝️ Final Thoughts
Edgewater perfectly balances scenic bayfront serenity with Miami’s cultural pulse. Whether you’re strolling through Margaret Pace Park, exploring Wynwood’s murals, or dining at Amara’s waterfront terrace, every corner of Edgewater offers a glimpse of the city’s creative energy and coastal beauty.
It’s not as flashy as South Beach or as bustling as Brickell—and that’s exactly why visitors fall in love with it. In Edgewater, Miami slows down just enough for you to enjoy it.
