What to Do in Miami as a Student

In this article, we’ll guide you through what to see in Miami. From its diverse student communities and higher education options to the many activities and attractions that await you, Miami has a little bit of everything for everyone.

And because we understand the importance of budgeting, we’ll share insider tips on where to find affordable eating-out spots and how to save money while exploring all that Miami has to offer. So, get ready to embrace the Miami experience and create memories that will last a lifetime, all while staying within your student budget.

Introducing Miami – Florida’s coastal city

 

Miami is known for its fantastic multicultural atmosphere. You can expect to meet people from all corners of the globe, indulge in mouth-watering cuisines, and soak up diverse cultures from the first moment of walking down Miami’s streets.

What’s more, it’s not just the stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife that make Miami a top student destination, but also its thriving academic institutions and student-friendly environment. Miami is home to Carlos Albizu University and the University of Miami, as well as some other higher education institutions offering a wide range of programmes and hosting international student communities.

For those that graduate in this vibrant city, Miami is also a hub for industries like tech, finance, and entertainment, making it an ideal place to kick-start your professional journey.

Overall, it’s an appealing student destination because there is always something to do in Miami. So it’s no wonder that many international students that want to study in the USA choose Miami as their study destination.

What to do in Miami?

Miami stands out with its stunning beaches, rich culture, and electrifying nightlife. It also offers many attractions and activities that make it an ideal destination for students seeking a memorable experience. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on pristine beaches, immerse yourself in the city’s cultural scene, explore the great outdoors, or discover exciting nightlife, Miami has something for everyone. Let’s dive into things to see in Miami and other recommendations on what to do in the city as a student.

Relax on one of the many beaches

Enjoying beaches is one of the best free things to do in Miami as a student! The city has some of the world’s most renowned coastal gems. South Beach, with its iconic Art Deco architecture and lively atmosphere, is a must-visit for students seeking sun, sand, and people-watching. Crandon Park Beach, located on Key Biscayne, offers a calmer setting, perfect for relaxation and picnics.

Miami presents a diverse range of water sports options for students with a bit of extra cash to spare. They can dive into thrilling activities like jet skiing, paddle boarding, or snorkelling, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the vibrant underwater world and the captivating marine life. However, for students on a tighter budget, a simple game of beach volleyball with friends, followed by a refreshing swim in the crystalline waters, can be just as enjoyable.

Embrace the city’s cultural and artistic scenes

 

Miami is a place to be for students interested in exploring art, history, and diverse cultural experiences.

• The Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is a must-visit, showcasing contemporary art from around the world and offering thought-provoking exhibitions. If you bring your student ID, the ticket will cost you $12.
• Another highlight to explore is the Wynwood Walls, an open-air street art museum showcasing captivating murals created by acclaimed artists from across the globe. With its vibrant and captivating artworks, visiting this unique museum on a sunny day feels like an immersive outdoor activity. And the best part, for students the entrance price is only $5.
• Let’s not forget the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. This museum offers captivating exhibits and interactive experiences that make science come alive. Find a perfect blend of educational and entertaining elements in this top Miami museum destination. The ticket prices vary between $30 to $33 and, unfortunately, there are no student discounts.

Come to Miami when things are happening

 

Throughout the year, Miami hosts numerous cultural events and festivals that celebrate its multicultural heritage. Don’t miss out on:

• Calle Ocho Festival – a lively street party celebrating Latin American culture and featuring lots of delicious food.
• Art Basel Miami Beach – an internationally acclaimed art fair that transforms the city into an artistic wonderland.
• Miami International Film Festival – a prestigious event that showcases a diverse selection of films from around the globe.
• Miami Fashion Week – a fare for fashion lovers. This event brings together renowned designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts, featuring runway shows, exhibitions, and exclusive parties, highlighting Miami’s growing influence in the fashion world.

• Ultra Music Festival – one of the largest electronic music festivals in the world.

Explore Miami’s outdoors

 

For those that are seeking adventure in the great outdoors, Miami offers an abundance of natural wonders.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Miami is an enticing destination because of its breathtaking botanical displays, beautiful landscapes, and diverse plant species. The park offers a serene and picturesque setting where students can explore nature’s wonders, learn about plant diversity, and gain a deeper understanding of environmental sustainability. And as a student, you can purchase a ticket with a discount, only for $15.95.

One of the free things to do in Miami is to visit Bayfront Park – a downtown waterfront park. This park is a legendary place, holding some notable events such as the Ultra Music Festival and the Miami Reggae Festival. The park is also a venue for live concerts where well-known bands and artists perform.

Located at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, South Pointe Park offers stunning views of the ocean, a fishing pier, picnic areas, and walking paths. Entry to this park is free, which makes South Pointe Park an ideal spot for a calm city escape.

Finally, check out the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse while visiting Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. The park is open every day of the year, and you can enter it by paying a small $2 fee. The area offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, as well as exploring the modern village of Key Biscayne.

Join in for the nightlife fun in Miami

 

Miami has a legendary nightlife scene where students can party in its electric atmosphere. We recommend checking out these three areas for a fun night out:

• The Miami Design District – a popular destination, offering an array of trendy bars, clubs, and lounges where you can dance the night away. Live music, DJ sets, and the opportunity to socialise in stylish and lively venues are what you can expect from this area.
• Downtown Miami and Brickell – a place to go if you’re in search of happy hours. With plenty of cocktail bars and nightclubs, on the weekends this area welcomes a youthful crowd looking forward to exploring the city’s nightlife.

• Coconut Grove in Miami is another popular area for students to enjoy the city’s nightlife. It’s a historic neighbourhood overlooking Biscayne Bay and Dinner Key Marina. Because of the nearby University of Miami, Coconut Grove is a place where lots of students go to explore Miami’s nightlife.

Seek more entertainment

 

For a good laugh or an entertaining night, you can also choose to visit some of the other legendary venues in Miami. More fun things to do in Miami include:

Going out to the Churchill’s Pub. Known as a legendary live music venue, Churchill’s Pub offers a diverse range of genres, from rock and punk to reggae and jazz, providing students with an authentic and energetic atmosphere to enjoy live performances and discover local talent.

• Challenge your laughter by visiting Improv Comedy Club. It’s a place where talented comedians take the stage and offer amusing performances every week.
• Explore the rich history of The Lyric Theater in Miami. This iconic venue showcases diverse performing arts, making it an ideal destination for students seeking cultural enrichment through live theatre, music performances, and engaging productions.
• Visit the golden age of jazz hotspot Ball & Chain. A vibrant and historic venue in Little Havana, Ball & Chain hosts live music events featuring Latin rhythms like salsa, jazz, and Afro-Cuban beats. Prepare to dance the night away because these rhythms will surely make you move.

Where to eat in Miami?

 

When it comes to culinary adventures, Miami has something for every taste bud and budget. From mouth-watering food trucks to upscale restaurants, this city is a food lover’s paradise. If you’re a student looking for some tasty and pocket-friendly options, you’re in luck! Miami is home to plenty of student-friendly dining spots that will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

One of the best ways to explore Miami’s diverse food scene is by checking out the numerous food trucks scattered throughout the city. These mobile kitchens offer a wide range of cuisines, from savoury tacos and juicy burgers to flavourful bowls of Asian fusion. Head to Time Out Miami or the Food Truck Village at Tropical Park to indulge in a delicious meal while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

For those seeking a sit-down dining experience without breaking the budget, Miami has plenty of affordable gems. Little Havana is a must-visit neighbourhood where you can find tasty Cuban sandwiches, crispy empanadas, and refreshing mojitos at budget-friendly prices. The neighbourhood also has small mom-and-pop restaurants serving traditional Latin American dishes that won’t disappoint.

To truly experience all the delicacies that this city has to offer, we suggest four dishes and places where to visit in Miami:

• Delicious tacos at Coyo Taco.
• Cuban sandwiches at Sergio’s.

• Key lime pie at Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe.
• Stone crab at Joe’s Stone Crab.

Student budget tips for visiting Miami

 

We understand that budgeting is essential for students, especially since big cities like Miami can be quite pricey. For a more relaxed Miami visit, we’ve put together a list of money-saving tips to help you make the most of your time in the city.

1. Always carry your student ID with you. Most entertainment, culture, and art places offer student discounts. However, you need to be able to prove that you are enrolled in an academic institution. Thus, having your student ID card with you can seriously save you some money.
2. Visit The University Network to find more discounts on specific eating-out places, museums and art establishments.
3. Consider using Miami’s public transportation system for getting around the city. Use transportation, such as buses and Metrorail, which offer affordable fares and convenient routes to explore the city. You can purchase an EASY card, or if you’re living in the city or visiting it for a longer time, look into getting a 1-Month College Mobile Pass to save money on transportation.
4. Take advantage of free admission days at certain museums in Miami. For example, the Pérez Art Museum Miami offers free admission to students on the second Saturday of every month.
5. Keep an eye on daily deal websites like Groupon and LivingSocial, where you can find discounted offers for various activities, dining experiences, and services in Miami. These platforms often have specific sections for student deals or extra discounts.

Final words about the city

 

Miami is a city that truly has it all for students. From its vibrant student communities to the many activities, dining options, and nightlife, there’s something for everyone.

Just remember, while you’re exploring the city, don’t forget to indulge in a delicious Cuban sandwich and take a moment to dance to the rhythm of the city’s vibrant music scene. So pack your sunscreen, embrace the Hispanic vibes, and get ready for an unforgettable student adventure in the city. And don’t be shy to try out your dance moves – Miami loves a good salsa shuffle!