4 Miami Day Trips To Make Your Vacation More Fun
While there are plenty of things to do in Miami, it would be a shame to miss out on some of the amazing nearby attractions Southern Florida has to offer.
Want to take a day trip to The Keys, the Everglades, or even drive up to Disney World during your Miami trip?
Planning ahead is key!
And you’ll likely want to rent a car to make it happen, since driving is the main form of transportation in the US outside major city centers.
Renting a car in Miami
Traffic in Miami, like in many other big cities, is no joke. It can be busy, and depending where you stay in the city, may make more sense to walk or take an Uber.
Word on the street is that if you’re renting a car during your trip to Miami, be sure your hotel has available parking, whether it is included or for a nightly fee. This will be the easiest way to access your car during your trip.
Day Trips From Miami
While there are group tours around the world that include transportation, I’ve often found them to feel a little too touristy.
When I stayed in Auckland, New Zealand, I went on a day trip with a tour company to see the glow worm caves. The caves were amazing, but we took a bulky coach bus that was stuffy and crowded. While I’m happy I went, renting a car would have allowed me the opportunity to be flexible with my time and not have to stay attached to a group of 55 people.
When you stay in Miami, there are many things to do in the surrounding area that will allow you to make the most out of your time in the area!
The Florida Keys
It only takes about an hour and a half to get to the north end of The Florida Keys from South Beach, depending on traffic. From there, you can decide how far down the keys you want to go!
South Beach to Key West is about a 3.5 hour drive according to Google Maps, which could be a fun day trip if you leave early enough to make the most of your time.
You’ll drive across bridges that connect the 31 Caribbean islands that are part of Florida.
Yes - you’re driving on bridges over the Caribbean Sea. Amazing!
The Everglades
Ever popular, The Everglades are about an hour and a half drive from Miami Beach.
If you want to see animals like a real Florida ‘gator (alligator) and glide through through the marshy wetland area on a guided airboat, this is the place to do it.
I mean, where else will you be able to have an experience exactly like this?!
It will feel like a completely different world, and it’s only a short drive from Miami.
Little Havana
Only a 20-minute drive from Miami Beach, Little Havana is - you guessed it - a thriving Cuban neighborhood community.
Feel like you (almost) took a step into Cuba without having to leave the USA, or even venture far outside downtown Miami or the beaches.
Walt Disney World
“The happiest place on Earth” (or so they say) is up in Orlando, a 3.5-4 hour drive depending on traffic.
Disney World needs no introduction as I’m sure you’re familiar with this magical theme park suitable for fun at any age!
This would be a very long day trip if you want to spend some quality time at the park, so consider spending a night or two nearby!
How to Rent a Car in Miami
Like I wrote above, planning ahead is key.
If you decide to rent a car during your Miami trip, it’s smart to book before your go.
Luckily Viajemos makes the process simple and streamlined. You can book your rental car for Miami directly on their website here.
Have fun on your trip to Miami!
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This rental car series was brought to you by our partner, Viajemos.