Top 14 Best Museums in Miami
The Magic City is more than just brilliant lights and lovely beaches. Miami, with its dynamic arts scene and rich cultural legacy, is home to world-class ... read more...museums that are a must-see on any South Florida itinerary. From famous contemporary art galleries to cutting-edge scientific organizations, you'll find it all here. Toplist examined expert and user comments to offer you the best museums in Miami to help you determine which exhibit is ideal for you. Continue reading to begin arranging your vacation.
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The Jorge M. Pérez Art Museum of Miami-Dade County (PAMM), founded in 1984, is one of Florida's greatest modern and contemporary art organizations. Visitors will enjoy a sculpture garden, a waterfront café, and a diverse collection of international art from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, in addition to breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay. The permanent collection of the museum includes almost 3,000 pieces that reflect Miami's cultural variety, with a concentration on art from Latin America, the Caribbean, and the African diaspora; Pérez also hosts a number of changing exhibits throughout the year. The museum offers regularly scheduled public tours on various subjects on a first-come, first-served basis.
The permanent collection of the museum comprised about 1,800 pieces in 2014, with a focus on 20th-and 21st-century art from the Americas, Western Europe, and Africa. The museum's collection included over 2,000 pieces in 2016. The museum has witnessed record attendance levels since the inauguration of the new museum building at Museum Park, with over 150,000 visitors in its first four months. The museum had expected around 200,000 visitors in its first year at its new site. The museum drew around 60,000 visitors per year at its previous site on Flagler Street.
Google rating: 4.3/5
Phone: +1 305-375-3000
Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States
Architectural styles: modern architecture, Contemporary architecture
Tickets: $12–16
Annual visitors: 150,000
Website: https://www.pamm.org/en/
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HistoryMiami, formerly known as the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, seeks to contextualize the vibrant culture that distinguishes South Florida. Multiple permanent collections are housed in more than 100,000 square feet of space, including one that traces the region's history back to its Native American origins. One of the greatest Pan American World Airways collections in the country, as well as treasures from local artists, singers, and religious relics, are on display. The museum also has yearly rotating exhibits that highlight Miami's effect on American pop culture. Previous displays have included mementos and a movie from the Beatles' 1964 vacation to Miami Beach.
This Smithsonian affiliate also has an archive and research facility, as well as the South Florida Folklife Center, which chronicles and protects the distinctive traditions of Miami's melting pot of diverse Latin cultures. Some visitors were startled by the region's rich history, and they commented that the museum excels in presenting Miami's past.
HistoryMiami is located in downtown Miami, within the Miami-Dade Cultural Center, and across from the Government Center Metrorail station. Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays, from noon to 5 p.m. Adult admission is $10, $8 for seniors and students, and $5 for children aged 6 to 12; children under the age of 6 are admitted free. Take advantage of the city excursions by foot, bike, or boat for a peek at local history outside the museum walls (for an extra fee). HistoryMiami is one of the best museums in Miami.
Google rating: 4.6/5
Phone: +1 305-375-1492
Address: 101 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33130, United StatesTickets: $8–10
Annual visitors: over 237,000
Founded: 1979
Website: https://historymiami.org/ -
The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science distinguishes itself from its competitors due to its diverse range of offerings. Across its huge high-definition screen, the planetarium takes space aficionados on an informative journey through the universe. It also hosts a number of light performances. Meanwhile, the museum's three-level aquarium takes visitors from the Everglades in Florida to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. A rotating collection of supplementary exhibitions covers anything from the human microbiome to aviation at the museum.
Reviewers praised the museum's displays, claiming they cater to tourists of all ages. Visitors praise the museum's interactive displays, which are especially appealing to youngsters, as well as its knowledgeable staff. Recent visitors advised visiting early and allowing several hours to get your money's worth out of the vast museum.
The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is located approximately one mile north of downtown Miami. Across the street from the museum is the Museum Park Metromover Station. Visitors who drive can park in the museum's garage for $8 for the first hour and $4 for each consecutive hour, with a daily maximum of $40. The museum is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday until 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $29.95 for adults, $20.95 for children aged 3 to 11, and free for children under two. Purchasing tickets in advance online saves guests $2 for each ticket. To purchase admission and learn more about the museum's offerings, visit its website.
Google rating: 4.4/5
Phone: +1 305-434-9600
Address: 1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United StatesTickets: $29.95 for adults, $20.95 for children aged 3 to 11, and free for children under the age of two
Annual visitors: over 250,000
Director: Frank Steslow
Website: https://www.frostscience.org/ -
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens which is considered one of the best museums in Miami, located in the Coconut Grove area, were originally built in the early 1900s as a winter house for businessman James Deering. It now functions as a museum, housing works of art ranging from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Recent guests were amazed by the experience's ambiance and architecture. Much of the original home (which covers 38,000 feet) is still standing and has an interesting collection of old furnishings. However, for many visitors, the stunning gardens are the undisputed highlight of any visit here. The gorgeous gardens, according to visitors, are reminiscent of historic European houses.
You may explore the grounds at your leisure, or get an audio tour for $5. For $5, guided 45-minute tours of the main home and grounds are also offered. Daily tours are available at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30, and 2:30 p.m. The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens are a mile southwest of downtown Miami. There is easy access to public transportation from the Vizcaya Metrorail station, but there is also free parking if you want to drive. Adult admission is $22 and children aged 6 to 12 are $10. The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday through Monday.
Google rating: 4.7/5
Phone: +1 305-250-9133
Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129, United StatesTickets: Adult (13 and over). $25; Child (6-12). $10; Children (5 and under). Free
Annual visitors: 320,000
Architectural styles: Baroque architecture
Website: https://vizcaya.org/ -
The eclectic Miami Beach is filled with world-class attractions, including the Bass Museum of Art. While there are some permanent works on display, The Bass is most renowned for its ever-changing arsenal of contemporary art installations. Visitors may be able to take advantage of The Bass's Creativity Center, which organizes a variety of programming for all ages, ranging from art classes to family activities, in addition to many galleries. Recent visitors praised the stunning art deco property and well-curated displays, as well as the courteous and informed personnel. The Bass is also about half a mile from the Miami Ocean Boardwalk, making it ideal for travelers who want to get away from the beach. The museum periodically closes for special events, so check its schedule in advance.
The Bass is Miami Beach’s contemporary art museum. Focusing on exhibitions of international contemporary art, The Bass presents mid-career and established artists reflecting the spirit and international character of Miami Beach. The Bass seeks to expand the interpretation of contemporary art by incorporating disciplines of contemporary culture, such as design, fashion, and architecture, into the exhibition program. The exhibition program encompasses a wide range of media and artistic points of view that bring new thought to the diverse cultural context of Miami Beach.
Central to the museum’s mission, The Bass maintains a vigorous education program for lifelong learning and visitors of all ages. The Bass IDEAS education initiative uses art as a catalyst for creativity and positive growth, especially in the area of early childhood education. The active school program led by the City of Miami Beach called STEAM+ takes The Bass IDEAS off-site by engaging children in Miami-Dade County Public Schools and integrating arts education into the curriculum.Google rating: 4.0/5
Phone: +1 305-673-7530
Address: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States
Tickets: $15.00 to $30.00
Annual visitors: 315,000
Website: https://thebass.org/
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When it comes to the best museums in Miami, can't help but mention Miami Children's Museum. If you're searching for a rainy-day pastime for the whole family, the Miami Children's Museum is the place to go. This top children's institution on Watson Island has almost 57,000 square feet and features 17 galleries and a gift store for visitors to explore, as well as an auditorium that occasionally offers special programs for youngsters. It is, in fact, one of the largest children's museums in the United States. Children can participate in activities such as a children's art gallery, multisensory room, construction zone, music studio, outdoor playground, virtual aquarium, and others. Recent visitors praised the range of interactive displays and stated it was an excellent spot to engage children for a few hours. Before visiting the Miami Children's Museum, guests must purchase tickets online.
The Miami Children’s Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational institution that meets the needs of all children in the multicultural community. The Museum offers interactive exhibits, programs, and learning materials related to the arts, culture, and the community. The Miami Children’s Museum encourages visitors of all ages to play, learn, imagine, and create together. By engaging the community and cooperating with civic leaders and organizations to address the needs of children and their families, the Miami Children's Museum serves as a model for children's museums in the twenty-first century. Through artistic programs, they collaborate with other children's museums, cultural institutions, and community and national groups to emphasize issues such as literacy, science, culture, history, careers, the environment, and much more.
Google rating: 4.5/5
Phone: +1 305-373-5437
Address: 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132, United States
Tickets: $20 for adults and children, $15 for Florida residents, and free for MCM members and children under 12 months
Annual visitors: 445,000
Founded: 1983
Website: http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org/
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The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, located in the Miami Design District, strives to inspire creativity and community by presenting the work of local, developing, and under-recognized contemporary artists. Exhibits change very often, and the museum's free public events stimulate creativity and inventiveness. Recent visitors praised the Institute of Contemporary Art's tiny, intimate feel and said it's worth a visit if you're in the neighborhood or searching for an intriguing spot to escape the Florida heat. Although admission is free, recent visitors are advised to reserve timed tickets ahead of time.
The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) is dedicated to promoting continuous experimentation in contemporary art, advancing new scholarship, and fostering the exchange of art and ideas throughout the Miami region and internationally. Through an energetic calendar of exhibitions and programs and its collection, ICA Miami provides an important international platform for the work of local, emerging, and under-recognized artists and advances the public appreciation and understanding of the most innovative artists of their time. The museum is deeply committed to providing open, public access to artistic excellence by offering year-round free admission. This museum is said to be one of the best museums in Miami.
Google rating: 4.5/5
Phone: +1 305-901-5272
Address: 61 NE 41st St, Miami, FL 33137, United StatesTickets: free
Annual visitors: 250,000
Website: https://icamiami.org/ -
The Wolfsonian, a museum, library, and research center affiliated with Florida International University, is located in the heart of the South Beach district and has one of the country's biggest university art collections. The museum houses almost 200,000 artifacts dating from 1850 to 1950, ranging from crucial war propaganda to commonplace home goods that give historical context. While much of this large collection comes from the United States, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands, it also has a presence in Latin America, Asia, and Africa. In the summer, The Wolfsonian-FIU organizes activities such as live music performances.
The Wolfsonian-FIU museum illustrates the impact of decorative and advertising art on everyone's daily lives. Mitchell Wolfson spent several years assembling his "treasures," which include over 7,000 artifacts from North America and Europe that illustrate political, cultural, and technical progress on the globe prior to WWII.The museum has a variety of strange artifacts, such as furniture, paintings, literature, sculptures, ads, and ornamental pieces from the modern era that attempt to make sense of the creator's and audience's thoughts, wants, and motives. Among the oddest items in the exhibit is a braille edition of Hitler's book, Mein Kampf.
Google rating: 4.7/5
Phone: +1 305-531-1001
Address: 1001 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United StatesTickets: Adults: $12 Seniors, students with ID, and children 6–18: $8
Annual visitors: 245,000
Artwork: Menneske Pyramid
Website: https://wolfsonian.org/ -
One of the reasons a once run-down area acquired new life as Miami's art hotspot is this open-air street art project, which is one of the largest in the world. The Wynwood Walls, an outdoor art gallery encompassing more than 80,000 square feet of abandoned warehouse walls, was founded in 2009 as a strategy to jump-start regeneration in the region between downtown and the Design District. The neighborhood reacted so positively to the walls that a year later, the next property became known as the Wynwood Doors, where metal roll-down gates were changed into even more canvas. Bright, colorful street art and amusing graffiti cover the walls and doors. Since its inception, the walls have been brought to life by more than 50 artists from 16 nations.
Visitors to the area praise the variety of artwork and describe it as a fascinating and unique spot to explore. The surrounding neighborhood, particularly the eateries, was also praised by reviewers. Wynwood Walls, located at 2520 NW Second Avenue between 25th and 26th streets, are open to the public for free exploration. Outside the guarded gates, there are over 70 art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and pubs. The neighborhood is still experiencing gentrification, but the center of the arts area can be located on NW Second Avenue between 23rd and 29th streets.Monday through Thursday, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.; Friday through Saturday, from 10:30 a.m. to midnight; and Sunday, from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, official guided tours cost $20 per adult and $15 for children 17 and under. Tours are available every hour between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. There are also guided tours provided by various tour firms.
Google rating: 4.7/5
Phone: +1 305-576-3334
Address: 266 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127, United States
Tour: $20 per adult and $15 for children 17 and under
Tickets: free
Annual visitors: over 6 million
Website: https://museum.thewynwoodwalls.com/
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Miami's Museum of Graffiti arrived in Wynwood in 2019, with its focus on the history of street art providing useful context for the adjacent Wynwood Walls. Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, youngsters in big cities across the United States established a new art form that began with writing their names on neighborhood walls. Local governments conducted cleaning operations and ordered the arrest of young authors for vandalism, but the movement could not be halted. Unstoppable young individuals raced ahead at breakneck speed with inventive ideas, inspiring generations of new practitioners.
In a short time, the wall inscriptions had gotten more sophisticated and artistic. Using distinct and identifiable signifiers like arrows, crowns, and other design and color advances, this became the pattern for tags, throw-ups, masterpieces, and the intricate works seen today.
The Museum of Graffiti was founded fifty years later to preserve graffiti's history and commemorate its growth in design, fashion, advertising, and galleries. An interior exhibition area, eleven outside murals, a fine art gallery, and a world-class gift shop filled with limited-edition souvenirs and unique items from the world's most creative graffiti artists are all part of the Museum experience. Museum of Graffiti is considered one of the best museums in Miami.Google rating: 4.6/5
Phone: +1 786-580-4678
Address: 276 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127, United States
Tickets: from $16.00 per adult
Annual visitors: 400,000
Website: https://museumofgraffiti.com/
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Few individuals can claim to have climbed a skyscraper, fought a dragon, or flown on a magic carpet trip. You can't either, but your Instagram followers don't need to know. The Museum of Illusions, located in the busy metropolis of Miami Beach, provides an interactive optical experience suitable for both adults and children. Pose in front of more than 40 3D illusions, or go to the "Smash It!" area, where guests may let off steam by hurling and shattering plates in a safe environment. Guests, who must be at least 12 years old, are given markers with which to customize three plates with any bad energy they choose to expel. Entry to the "Smash It!" area is distinct from ordinary admission to the Museum of Illusions. However, combination tickets and special VIP packages are available.
Guests may expect to soar on the magic carpet, stroll on the brink of the skyscraper, and even cross the lava bridge. And, of course, break the plates with your stressed-out thoughts to relieve your anxiety. Flash photography is not only permitted, but also encouraged. The Museum of Illusions is the place to be if you want to make memories and let your imagination run wild. The Museum of Illusions, designed by some of the world's top artists, is one of Miami's most well-known attractions. Act quickly and buy your tickets!
Google rating: 4.3/5
Phone: +1 305-604-5000
Address: 536 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States
Tickets: Adult (ages 13+): $23.49 Child (ages 5 - 12): $17.49 Military*: $20.49 Seniors* (ages 60+): $20.49 Child (age 4 & under): Free Family (4+ Pack)
Annual visitors: 150,000
Website: https://miaillusions.com/
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The World Erotic Art Museum (WEAM) first opened its doors in 2005, when renowned art collector Naomi Wilzig decided to put her long-held love for collecting exquisite erotic art into a public exhibition focusing on the complexities of human sexuality. WEAM is now the only museum in the United States dedicated to erotic art, and it has one of the world's greatest collections of erotic art, with over 4,000 works. Pieces date back to 300 B.C. and represent a diverse range of civilizations and styles, including surrealism, realism, and art deco. WEAM is noted for hosting various rotating exhibits throughout the year, in addition to a well-rounded permanent collection.
Naomi Wilzig, an American art collector and writer, created the 12,000-square-foot museum, which has the world's biggest public collection of erotic art. There are works by well-known painters such as Rembrandt, Rodin, Picasso, and Dali on show, as well as current items such as endless sex toys in all shapes and dominatrix Barbie dolls.If you're startled to see Rembrandt's name on this list of notable painters, you'll quickly discover his sensual works. "Rembrandt's Erotic Secrets" is a 20-etching exhibition, many of which are now permanently placed at the museum. "African Treasures," which investigates fertility worship in Africa as it pertains to artifacts and activities both within and outside the bedroom, is another popular show.
Google rating: 4.3/5
Phone: +1 305-532-9336
Address: 1205 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United StatesTickets: $20 for admission for two ($30 value); $33 for admission for four ($60 value)
Annual visitors: 30,000
Director: Helmut Schuster
Website: https://www.wilzigmuseumbuilding.com/ -
The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum at Florida International University, one of South Florida's major academic art museums, opened its doors in 2008. This Smithsonian Affiliate museum has a broad permanent collection of about 6,000 artifacts, with a focus on 20th and 21st century American and Latin American art. In addition, the museum is displaying an increasing number of Asian and African artefacts. In addition, for those looking to further their knowledge, the Frost Art Museum provides instructive gallery tours, seminars, and hands-on workshops.
The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum's mission is to provide transformative experiences through art; collect, exhibit, and interpret art across cultures; and advance FIU’s stature as a top-tier research university. One of the largest academic art museums in South Florida, the Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum provides the community with free access to world-class art that spans cultures and time periods. The museum started as a small space in FIU’s Primera Casa building in 1978. As the collection and programming grew, the university recognized the need for a dedicated museum space. The museum now resides in a beautiful 46,000 square foot building designed by Yann Weymouth and situated in the heart of FIU’s Avenue of the Arts.Google rating: 4.6/5
Phone: +1 305-348-2890
Address: 10975 SW 17th St, Miami, FL 33199, United StatesTickets: $29.95
Annual visitors: 35,000
Founded: 1977
Website: https://frost.fiu.edu/ -
The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU (JMOF-FIU), founded in 1995, is the sole museum dedicated to portraying the narrative of more than 250 years of Jewish history, arts, and culture in Florida, with a growing collection of over 100,000 pieces. It is located at 301 Washington Avenue in South Beach's popular SoFi district. The Museum is located in two historically restored structures that were previously synagogues for Miami Beach's first Jewish congregation. The first synagogue was constructed in 1929, while the second, constructed in 1936, was designed by Art Deco architect Henry Hohauser and contains 80 stained-glass windows, a copper dome, and a marble bimah. The Bess Myerson Gallery, named for former Miss America Bess Myerson, connects the two buildings.
JMOF joined FIU in 2012, establishing a historic alliance that combines the Museum's and FIU's resources to usher in a new era of multidisciplinary teaching and research. Through the prism of the growing immigration experience of Jews in Florida, JMOF-FIU acts as a venue for broad audiences to promote tolerance, increase global understanding, and develop linkages to Jewish culture, history, arts, and modern civic life. JMOF-FIU has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums for its technique for research, collecting, conserving, archiving, storing, and interpreting its assets.The Museum's extensive collection of artifacts, documents, photographs, and oral histories focuses on the people who have shaped and continue to influence the development of their state, drawing critical connections between their contributions and the social, political, economic, cultural, and religious aspects of Jewish life in Florida, as well as Jews' relationship to the dominant non-Jewish population. As such, the collection provides a multitude of research opportunities for students, researchers, historians, and journalists. JMOF-FIU also serves as an extended classroom for thousands of Miami-Dade County Public School children, encouraging them to learn about their own cultural history as well as the cultures of other ethnic groups in the multicultural community.
Google rating: 4.5/5
Phone: +1 305-672-5044
Address: 301 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United StatesTickets: Adult General Admission ( $12.00 ); Senior General Admission ( $10.00 ); Student (with valid ID) General Admission ( $10.00 )
Annual visitors: 750,000
Founded: 1936
Website: https://jmof.fiu.edu/