Miami Shores is a tranquil, tree-lined village in Miami-Dade County, known for its small-town charm, historic architecture, and friendly community atmosphere. Located just 20 minutes north of Downtown Miami and a short drive from Miami Beach, this area offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, family fun, and culinary delights. Here’s your complete guide to the best things to do in Miami Shores.
1. Explore Outdoor and Recreational Activities
- 🌴 Miami Shores Village Bayfront Park – Stretching from 94th to 97th Street along Biscayne Bay, Bayfront Park offers one of the most scenic spots in the area. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the paved waterfront paths while taking in views of sailboats gliding by and the Miami skyline shimmering across the bay. The park also provides benches for quiet reading, shaded picnic areas for families, and a small dock that’s perfect for sunset photography. Early mornings are ideal for jogging, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the sea breeze, while evenings transform the park into a serene retreat under pastel skies.
- 🎨 Optimist Park & Sculpture Garden – This charming outdoor space combines creativity and nature, featuring vibrant metal sculptures by renowned artist Alberto Cavalieri. Each piece brings color and life to the green surroundings, making it a delightful place for a walk or a quick break. The park also hosts occasional art events and community picnics, giving visitors a chance to mingle with locals. Shaded benches, flower beds, and open lawns make it a lovely destination for both art lovers and families seeking a relaxed afternoon outdoors.
- 🕊️ Memorial Park – Nestled across from Optimist Park, Memorial Park is a peaceful green sanctuary honoring Miami Shores’ veterans. Monuments and plaques throughout the park tell stories of courage and sacrifice, while the central fountain offers a tranquil ambiance. It’s not only a place of remembrance but also a gathering space for live concerts and seasonal events. On weekends, you’ll often find locals practicing yoga on the grass, children playing nearby, or families enjoying a picnic under the towering oaks.
- 💦 Miami Shores Aquatic Center (Wild Waters Park) – A favorite among both locals and visitors, this aquatic complex is perfect for a full day of fun. The Olympic-sized pool caters to swimmers and fitness enthusiasts, while the Wild Waters splash zone delights kids with water slides, fountains, and spray tunnels. Certified lifeguards ensure a safe environment, and shaded cabanas provide the perfect rest spot between swims. Seasonal swim meets, water aerobics, and family events make this a vibrant community hub, especially during Miami’s hot summer months.
- ⛳ Miami Shores Country Club – A stunning 18-hole golf course surrounded by lush greenery, stately oaks, and scenic views of Biscayne Bay. Open to the public, the course challenges both beginners and seasoned golfers with its thoughtfully designed fairways. The elegant clubhouse features a restaurant, a bar, and event spaces frequently used for weddings and celebrations. Beyond golf, it’s a local favorite for brunches on the terrace and sunset drinks overlooking the greens.
- 🏖️ Nearby Beaches – Although Miami Shores sits along Biscayne Bay rather than the ocean, some of Miami’s most beautiful beaches are only a short drive away. Surfside Beach and Bal Harbour Beach, known for their soft sand and calm waters, are just 15 minutes east. North Beach offers a more vibrant atmosphere with boardwalks, cafes, and beachside rentals. Visitors can easily spend the morning exploring Miami Shores’ parks and the afternoon basking under the Florida sun. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports, these nearby beaches offer a refreshing coastal escape.
2. Discover Dining and Local Eateries
- 🍸 Sins Gastrobar – Known for its innovative fusion dishes and expertly crafted cocktails, Sins Gastrobar has become a cornerstone of Miami Shores’ dining scene. The restaurant features an industrial-chic design with warm lighting, wooden accents, and lush greenery that create a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The menu combines international flavors—think Korean BBQ sliders, truffle fries, and seafood risotto—with creative mixology, including signature cocktails like the Sins Margarita or Tropical Vice. Live music and DJ nights on weekends make it a popular evening hangout, while weekday happy hours draw both locals and visitors looking to unwind.
- ☕ Tinta y Café – This Cuban-inspired café offers more than coffee; it’s a cultural experience. Serving perfectly brewed cafecitos, flaky pastelitos, and hearty Cuban sandwiches, it captures the spirit of Miami’s Latin heritage. The cozy interior is filled with local art and vintage décor, and the outdoor patio is shaded by palms—ideal for working remotely or catching up with friends. Their breakfast options, from tostadas con mantequilla to avocado toast, pair beautifully with the rich espresso blends roasted in-house. Locals praise its warm hospitality and nostalgic ambiance.
- 🥖 Cote Gourmet – A charming French bistro that transports guests straight to Paris. Run by French owners, this intimate restaurant offers a romantic, candle-lit setting and an authentic menu featuring escargots, duck à l’orange, onion soup, and quiche Lorraine. The desserts—especially the crème brûlée and profiteroles—are legendary. Cote Gourmet also serves brunch on weekends with freshly baked croissants, omelets, and mimosas. Its personalized service and attention to detail make it one of the most memorable dining experiences in the area.
- 🥗 Amaranthine Mediterranean Bistro – This hidden gem serves fresh, healthy, and flavorful dishes inspired by the Mediterranean coast. The menu includes mezze platters, grilled lamb chops, moussaka, and vibrant Greek salads topped with feta and olive oil imported from Greece. The interior reflects a modern coastal theme with soft blue hues and whitewashed walls. Guests can enjoy outdoor seating under twinkling lights, making it a perfect dinner spot. The restaurant is also known for its warm bread served with house-made dips and friendly staff who make every visit feel special.
- 🍕 Mama Jennie’s Italian Restaurant – A neighborhood institution that has been serving locals for over four decades. With red-checkered tablecloths, vintage Italian posters, and the smell of fresh pizza dough in the air, it’s a slice of old-school charm. The extensive menu covers everything from lasagna and spaghetti with meatballs to seafood linguine and calzones. Regulars love the family-style portions, affordable prices, and nostalgic atmosphere. It’s also a go-to spot for birthdays and casual celebrations, offering generous portions and a welcoming staff that treats every guest like family.
- 🌭 Proper Sausages – This boutique butcher shop and restaurant elevates comfort food to gourmet heights. Every sausage is handcrafted on-site using ethically sourced meats from Florida farms. The rotating menu includes specialties like lamb merguez, maple-bacon breakfast sausage, and their famous Proper Burger. In addition to sandwiches and charcuterie boards, guests can shop for fine wines, artisanal cheeses, and local condiments. It’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts who appreciate craftsmanship and bold flavors.
- 🍷 Flight Wine Lounge & Shop – A refined yet approachable wine bar that offers an immersive tasting experience. Guests can choose from curated “flights” featuring wines from different regions—California, Argentina, France, and beyond. Knowledgeable sommeliers guide visitors through each tasting, while charcuterie boards, bruschetta, and desserts complete the experience. The lounge hosts themed nights such as Wine Flight Wednesdays and pairing workshops, making it both educational and entertaining. Its boutique shop also carries rare and small-batch labels perfect for collectors or casual enthusiasts alike.
3. Experience Culture and History
- 🎭 Miami Theater Center (MTC) – Housed in a historic 1940s movie theater, MTC is one of Miami Shores’ most cherished cultural landmarks. Beyond its vintage Art Deco marquee, this venue offers a diverse lineup of live performances, independent films, children’s productions, and community workshops. Visitors can catch experimental plays, music performances, and even educational theater classes for kids and teens. The intimate setting makes every show feel personal, while its beautifully restored architecture serves as a reminder of Miami’s golden entertainment era. MTC also frequently collaborates with local schools and arts programs, fostering creativity and cultural engagement throughout the community.
- 🎨 Barry University Arts Venues – The Shepard & Ruth K. Broad Performing Arts Center and the Andy Gato Gallery together form the creative heart of Barry University. The Performing Arts Center regularly hosts student theater productions, visiting musicians, and public concerts, offering affordable access to the performing arts. Meanwhile, the Andy Gato Gallery showcases contemporary exhibitions featuring emerging local artists and thought-provoking installations from international creators. These venues collectively create a space where students, residents, and travelers alike can experience Miami Shores’ artistic pulse in a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment. Guided tours, art talks, and seasonal performances are often open to the public.
- 🏛️ Historic Architecture – Stroll through Miami Shores to admire its architectural diversity, a reflection of Miami’s evolution through the decades. From Mediterranean Revival homes with terracotta roofs and wrought-iron balconies to sleek Art Deco structures adorned with geometric lines, the village’s residential streets offer an open-air museum of design. Don’t miss the Miami Shores Village Hall with its elegant façade or the picturesque St. Rose of Lima Church, both testaments to the community’s deep historical roots. Exploring these neighborhoods provides an authentic glimpse into the craftsmanship and character that define this tranquil corner of Miami.
4. Shop Local and Support Boutiques
- 🛍️ Village Place District – Miami Shores’ main shopping area features boutiques, cafes, and small businesses along NE 2nd Avenue. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the quaint streets lined with local storefronts, coffee shops, and street art. Seasonal events such as outdoor markets, sidewalk sales, and art walks add to its community feel, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists who want to experience the authentic side of Miami Shores. Grab a coffee, browse local art, and meet the shop owners who give the neighborhood its warm character.
- 🕯️ Home Crush – A stylish boutique offering curated home decor, candles, and gifts. Beyond selling elegant home accessories, Home Crush also provides interior styling tips and often features collections from emerging local designers. From coastal-inspired furniture to handmade ceramics, this shop is a dream come true for design enthusiasts. It’s the perfect place to find thoughtful housewarming gifts or unique decor items that embody Miami’s relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic.
- 🧺 Mima Market – This artisan market connects local makers with shoppers, selling handcrafted foods, eco-products, and unique gifts. Inside, you’ll find locally roasted coffee, vegan pastries, organic honey, and artisan soaps. Mima Market emphasizes sustainability and community, frequently hosting workshops, tastings, and pop-up events highlighting local producers. The friendly staff are passionate about supporting small businesses, and their recommendations often lead to delightful new discoveries.
- 🌿 Pebble & Vine – A lush plant and flower boutique where you can shop for succulents, houseplants, and botanical decor. The shop doubles as a mini urban jungle, filled with natural light and the calming scent of fresh greenery. Knowledgeable staff help you choose plants that suit your space and provide care tips to keep them thriving. They also create custom arrangements and terrariums, making it a go-to destination for plant lovers or anyone wanting to bring a bit of Miami Shores’ tropical charm home.
5. Enjoy Nightlife and Entertainment
- 🎶 Sins Gastrobar (Evenings) – Transformed by night with live bands, craft cocktails, and an energetic yet intimate ambiance, this is Miami Shores’ go-to nightlife spot. The gastropub’s outdoor seating twinkles under string lights, creating the perfect backdrop for conversations or casual dancing. Happy Hour specials run throughout the week, and weekend evenings often feature talented local musicians playing everything from acoustic jazz to Latin fusion. Whether you’re meeting friends for cocktails or seeking a relaxed date night, Sins delivers a sophisticated but approachable vibe that defines Miami Shores after dark.
- 🍷 Flight Wine Lounge – Perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or a romantic night out, Flight Wine Lounge features curated wine tastings, themed events, and occasional live music. Guests can sample international varietals, enjoy expertly paired cheeses and charcuterie, or attend one of their popular “Wine Flight Wednesdays.” The lounge also doubles as a boutique wine shop, so you can take home your favorite bottle. The dimly lit interior, cozy seating, and knowledgeable staff make it a must-visit for wine lovers.
- 🎡 Community Festivals – Miami Shores hosts beloved annual events like Green Day and Unity Day, both transforming the streets into a celebration of music, art, and local culture. Green Day highlights eco-friendly living with workshops, artisan vendors, and live performances, while Unity Day celebrates community diversity with food trucks, dancing, and family-friendly activities. These festivals run into the evening with live bands, outdoor movie screenings, and pop-up beer gardens—bringing the whole community together under the stars.
- 🌆 Nearby Nightlife – For those craving a livelier scene, nearby neighborhoods like the MiMo District, Wynwood, and Downtown Miami offer endless options within a 15–20 minute drive. Wynwood is packed with rooftop bars, live music venues, and street art lounges, while MiMo’s retro motels now house trendy cocktail bars and gastropubs. Downtown Miami adds another layer with upscale lounges, DJ sets, and waterfront bars overlooking Biscayne Bay. Visitors can easily combine a peaceful dinner in Miami Shores with a high-energy night out in the heart of Miami’s nightlife.
6. Family-Friendly Fun
- 💧 Aquatic Center & Splash Park – The Wild Waters area is a favorite among families with children, offering safe and fun water play zones. The splash park includes interactive fountains, mini slides, and shaded seating areas for parents. Seasonal programs like swimming lessons, summer camps, and aquatic fitness classes make it an all-year favorite. Lifeguards ensure safety, and snack kiosks serve light bites and ice cream—perfect for hot Florida afternoons.
- 🛝 Tot Lot Park & Memorial Park – Both parks provide playgrounds, open lawns, and shaded picnic areas, ideal for young children and family gatherings. Tot Lot Park features colorful play structures designed for toddlers, while Memorial Park offers plenty of benches, walking paths, and a charming fountain where kids love to toss coins. Many families enjoy weekend picnics here under mature oak trees. Memorial Park also hosts occasional movie nights and community fairs.
- 🎭 Miami Theater Center Family Shows – Catch a kid-friendly play or puppet performance at MTC’s weekend matinees. The theater runs interactive storytelling sessions, educational drama workshops, and special holiday-themed shows that captivate children and adults alike. Parents can join family acting classes or enjoy behind-the-scenes tours. It’s one of the most enriching cultural experiences for families in Miami Shores.
- 🧃 Smoothie Express & Mama Jennie’s – Two local eateries loved by families for their casual menus and kid-friendly vibes. Smoothie Express offers smoothies, wraps, and fruit bowls that keep kids energized, while Mama Jennie’s serves pizza, pasta, and desserts perfect for shared family meals. Both spots provide outdoor seating and a relaxed environment where parents can unwind while children play. The staff often greet regulars by name, making it feel like part of the community.
- 🧩 Miami Shores Community Center – A hub for family activities offering sports leagues, arts and crafts workshops, and weekend events like family yoga or storytime. The recreation fields host soccer, baseball, and volleyball games throughout the year, and parents can sign kids up for after-school programs. It’s also the site of neighborhood festivals and holiday celebrations, adding a strong sense of togetherness.
- 🚴 Outdoor Adventures for Kids – Families often enjoy cycling through quiet tree-lined streets or exploring the village parks’ walking trails. Kayaking excursions on nearby Biscayne Bay are available for older children and teens, offering a chance to learn about local marine life while having fun on the water. These outdoor experiences make Miami Shores an ideal destination for family bonding and active weekends.
Conclusion
Miami Shores perfectly balances tranquility with cultural vibrancy. Whether you’re walking under banyan trees, exploring local art, or enjoying a family outing at the splash park, this neighborhood offers a rich yet relaxing experience. It’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking the warmth of a community and the convenience of nearby Miami attractions.
