day in the car, where to go

Question

We are arriving on a cruise early and our flight home isn't until 9.20pm at night so we have hired a car at Miami airport. Question is where do we go? We went all around South Beach and the bayfront last year so want to head out. Any suggestions? We need to be back at the airport at 5pm, and we are collecting the car at 9am

Answer

Since you’ve already explored South Beach and the bayfront, and you have roughly 8 hours with the car, there are several options for a day trip or a relaxed drive around Miami and nearby areas. With your flight at 9:20pm and needing to return the car by 5pm, you have to plan for roughly 2–3 hours of driving buffer for airport return, leaving about 5–6 hours for sightseeing or activities.

Here are some suggested destinations and activities within a reasonable drive:

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Located in Coconut Grove, about 20–25 minutes from Miami Airport. This historic villa with beautiful European-inspired gardens offers a serene, cultural experience without requiring a lot of walking.
Little Havana: About 20 minutes from the airport, you can explore Calle Ocho, grab Cuban coffee, see local art galleries, and watch cigar rolling. It’s a great spot for a quick cultural immersion.
Coral Gables / Miracle Mile: A 25-minute drive from the airport. You can stroll the streets, visit boutique shops, and have a meal at one of the many restaurants. Coral Gables is picturesque and perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Key Biscayne: Around 35–40 minutes from the airport, you can visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, enjoy scenic beaches, and see the historic lighthouse. Great for a short nature escape.
Everglades National Park (Shark Valley Visitor Center): About 45–50 minutes from the airport. You could do a short tram tour or a walk along the boardwalk to experience the Everglades wildlife. Ideal if you want something very different from the city.

If you prefer something food-oriented and relaxed:

Eat in Coconut Grove: Grab lunch or an early dinner at one of the waterfront cafés or casual eateries.
Ocean Drive alternative spots: Skip the crowded South Beach area and head to quieter waterfronts like Matheson Hammock Park, which is 25 minutes from the airport and has scenic views and picnic spots.
Shopping break: Consider Bayside Marketplace again, or head to Brickell City Centre for a more modern mall experience with coffee or dessert.

Tips for timing and logistics:

Pick one or two destinations maximum to avoid feeling rushed and ensure you can return the car by 5pm.
Factor in traffic, especially leaving or returning through downtown Miami; mid-morning to mid-afternoon can be busy on weekdays.
Plan meals strategically, either at your stop or via takeout for a quick picnic to maximize sightseeing time.

In summary, for a day in the car without retracing your South Beach steps, options like Little Havana, Vizcaya, Coral Gables, or Key Biscayne give you culture, history, and scenic views within a short drive of the airport. Prioritize one or two stops to enjoy them fully and comfortably return your car on time.

day in the car, where to go

More Miami Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions