Miami Layover Guide (MIA)

What are you looking for in MIA?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

The Miami International Airport (MIA) is commonly known as “the gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean.” It is one of the busiest airports in North America for international travel. The airport is located in an unincorporated area in the Miami-Dade county which is 13 km (8 miles) northwest of Downtown Miami and adjacent to the cities of Miami Springs, Miami, and the village of Virginia. It was first opened to flights in 1920. Miami is known for its non-stop nightlife, pristine beaches, beautiful skyline, stunning architecture, and high-end hotels. Also, it is among the most populous cities in the United States.

Can you leave Miami International Airport (MIA) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Yes, it's possible to visit Miami during a layover. But, certain travelers may require a visa in advance. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Miami Organized Tours

Visit the South Pointe Park

If you have 3 hours for the layover then take a stroll down to South Pointe Park to experience the magnanimous views of the ocean. You can also go to the Miaimi zoo and south beach which is just 10 to 15 minutes away by car from the airport. Also, the park extends to the tail end of the beach. Moreover, walking along the white sandy shore and a short dip in the turquoise waters is the best way to beat jet lag. » book this tour

Get a Compact View of The City with Tour Buses

This can take more time than 4 hours, but you can visit the city depending on how much you want to cover. The tour buses like Miami Double Decker or Big Bus Tour will take you through Brickell, Coral Gables, Downtown, and also to Little Havana. If you want to take a different experience, try the Duck Tours. This boat on wheels will take you to different landmarks on the road and then it will lead you to Biscayne Bay. » book this tour

Tour the Wynwood Art Walk

It is indeed an ideal option if you have enough hours. And you are in the town on the second Saturday of the month. Then, Wynwood Art Walk is a must-visit. It’s a free public event in the evening and a block party with music, food trucks, and people watching the plenty of graffiti art and it is a perfect place for an Instagram shot. » book this tour

Miami Things to do / Sightseeing

Everglades Safari Park

Take a ride on an airboat through the Everglades if you have more time, you can visit the Everglades Safari park. You can enjoy a 30 to 40 minutes airboat ride with an amazing alligator show. Also, you can visit the jungle trail and the museum at the park.

Time required: 5-6 hours.

Airport to here: 40 minutes via public transport.

South Beach

It’s the epitome of Miami, and worth a visit whenever you go to the city. Countless shops, clubs, restaurants, and bars are all housed in a series of Art Deco buildings. They depict the unique style of the city. And with the lots of drinking, eating, and shopping options this beautiful beach has something for every visitor at any time.

Time required: 2-3 hours.

Airport to here: 25 minutes via taxi.

Ocean Drive

For stretching your legs while wandering the art deco building a stroll down to Ocean Drive is a must thing to do. No matter if you want to tour yourself or want to take a guided tour. However, it is recommended that you start at the Art Deco District Welcome Center.

Time required: 3 hours.

Airport to here: 28 minutes via public transport.

Little Havana

Enjoy even more out of your layover by visiting Little Havana. This is an astonishing multicultural city and a few hours of strolling through Miami can surely add extra fun to your layover. Don’t forget to visit the main street Calle Ocho and the Walkway of Stars.

Time required: 1-2 hours.

Airport to here: 12 minutes via private transport.

Speedboat Sightseeing Tour of Miami

If you want to tour Miami with a boat then Cruising the Miami Coastline is a thing for you. You can see the mesmerizing views while the speedboat captain pilots it down the sandy shoreline. It will take you to the beautiful Star Island and Fisher Island.

Time required: 1 hour.

Airport to here: 19 minutes via taxi and 47 minutes via public transport.

Visit the Bayside Marketplace

If you like shopping and that too with a waterfront view can be a great option for you. The Bayside Marketplace and the Biscayne Bay have plenty of options for outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment. The mall sits in between the American Airlines Arena and Bayfront Park. And the mall gives you an eclectic Miami vibe with live Caribbean music and bars.

Time required: 5 hours.

Airport to here: 15 minutes via public transport.

Things to Do in Miami International Airport (MIA)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Irrespective of the class you are flying you can enter the lounges by paying at the door, through a lounge membershop program, or by purchasing the pass. There are several lounges you can enter whether its the Avianca VIP lounge or the Delta Sky Club. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
There are many hotels available in fact the nearest one is inside the airport. And you can also go to the other hotels with the free shuttle service. » view all or book an airport hotel online

Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
There are rest areas available but fairly limited. You can find red couches in the South terminal or you can get the carpeted areas near the Admirals Club in the North terminal.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: WiFi is available at Miami Airport, connect to “MIA-WiFi” network. The access with ads is free but you can take the subscriptions to avoid ads at $4.95 standard subscription and at $7.95 for premium subscription.

SIM/eSIM Card: You can buy the SIM cards from the shops available at the airport. » buy a global esim card for Miami, United States that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis are available at the arrival level of the airport.

Train: The Green Line and Metrorail Orange Line connect the airport with different destinations. Also, the Tri-Rail service links it with West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. (more info).

Bus: Several buses including Miami beach buses and Metro buses provide transportation to the different areas of the Miami Region. (more info).

Shuttle: Many hotels offer shuttle service as the airport transportation service for guests across Miami.

Car rentals: There are multiple car rentals available at the Rental Car Center which is accessible by shuttle bus. » view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Parking lots are located next to the terminal buildings. North Terminal is served by the Dolphin Garage and the others are by the Flamingo Garage.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Baggage carts are available and also you can enjoy layovers in the luggage storage & lockers. You can store your luggage ar the Baggage Checkroom at the Central Terminal. » book a luggage storage or locker at Miami International Airport (MIA) online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Miami International Airport (MIA) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks