It’s free to visit the Vizcaya Musuem and Gardens on the last Sunday of the month in the summer.
The idea that summertime means easy living is certainly true in Miami. While there are plenty of things to do in Miami to occupy your time–shopping, going to shows, hitting the clubs—it can also make a dent in your wallet. However, for as many things that cost in Miami, there are enough opportunities to enjoy yourself for an entire weekend for free.
Fridays
Start off your weekend with some free culture. At the Wolfsonian-FIU art museum, located in a Mediterranean revival-style warehouse, you’ll be able to observe the paintings, ceramics, furniture and more on exhibit for free on Fridays from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Get a taste of the gallery life on the first Friday of every month during the Gables Art Walk along Ponce de Leon Boulevard. The galleries keep their doors open late to dispense art advice; a trolley will transport you between galleries. Music lovers gather at the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami on the last Friday of each month for live jazz—the concert is free and the museum is open by donation.
Miami’s diverse culture is on display on the third Friday of the month during Big Night in Little Haiti and the last Friday of the month is Viernes Culturales in Little Havana. These street festivals are filled with artists and musicians performing and showcasing their creations, illustrating the color and vibrancy of these neighborhoods.
For the kids, the Weintraub Observatory Star Show is held on the first Friday of each month; on the third Friday of each month, the Miami Children’s Museum is free, giving access to hundreds of hands-on exhibits that children and their parents can explore together.
Saturdays
Start the day off right with free yoga on beach at Bayfront Park, which takes place every Saturday (and Mondays and Wednesdays). Whether you’re an accomplished yogi or an intrigued beginner, everyone is welcome.
From there, make your way to Coral Gables for the Farmer’s Market. Even if you’re not looking for organic produce or local artisan crafts, it’s a great place for people watching and browsing.
Check the calendar—the Pérez Art Museum Miami is free on the second Saturday of the month from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.; not only can you wander the collection of contemporary art, but there’s also guided tours, live music and storytelling and games for the kids. That evening, head to the Wynwood Art District for a leisurely art walk. This district and its neighbor, the Design District, keep the gallery doors open late for perusing.
Sundays
Step back into history at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables with a free tour on Sundays and enjoy stories of the hotel’s most famous guests. Or explore the Vizcaya estate, a 50-acre spread that houses the Vizcaya Musuem and Gardens. On the last Sunday of the month in the summer, admission is free to this national historic landmark; there is also special programming like lectures and demonstrations. Take to two wheels and explore the Wynwood neighborhood by bike on Sundays—the free tour showcases the wall murals that have made this area famous.
Of course, you don’t have to wait for the weekend to enjoy Miami for free. There are miles of free beaches where you can relax and catch some rays, like South Pointe Park or South Beach. Expand your knowledge of rum at Casa Bacardi, which offers free tours of this world-famous spirit, which was created in 1862.
Whatever you decide, there are plenty of options for enjoying Miami—without having to pull out your wallet.
16 Free Things to Do in Miami This Summer from Miami Things to Do