10 Tips to Save Money in Miami

Miami is a highly walkable city with a lot of beautiful neighborhoods to explore but renting a bike will get you even further. If you want to travel longer distances – while still saving money – renting a Citi Bike is the way to go. 

Citi Bike is a bike-sharing and rental system that gives Miami residents and vacationers a fun way to get around the city. Bikes can be picked up or dropped off at docking stations all over Miami, and they're available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Depending on the length of your stay, you can opt for a bike-share membership or hourly rentals.

Miami is known for its coastal beauty and is one of the best places to go for a beach vacation. All of Miami's beaches are open to the public, so they won't cost you anything. You can find beaches to suit just about anyone. 

Some beaches are sheltered and quiet, which is perfect for families, while others are known for picturesque palms, hopping beachfront bars and clubs, or strong surf for water sports. Some of the top picks are Lummus Park Beach, a postcard-perfect beach with grassy areas and a promenade, and Haulover Beach, a scenic beach with picnic areas, nightlife, and a ‘clothing optional’ area for the daring.

Viernes Culturales, or Cultural Fridays, are the perfect way to experience Miami culture on the cheap. The free festival features lively musical performances, artwork from local artists and artisans, and other cultural events in the heart of Little Havana. 

During the festival, you can peruse the numerous fine art galleries along the street, grab a snack or dinner at a local restaurant, or just stroll around to see the sights. If you want to break away from the tourist attractions and immerse yourself in the local culture, there's no better way than with a few hours at Viernes Culturales.

Biscayne National Park is a protected reef and coastal ecosystem and one of Miami's gems. The park is close to the city and holds a variety of wildlife and diverse ecosystems of coral reefs, islands, and ocean waters teeming with unique creatures. The environment serves as a habitat for endangered species, tropical waterfowl, migratory birds, and hundreds of species of reef fish. 

There's no shortage of things to do at the national park, ranging from fishing, diving, snorkeling, paddling, hiking, wildlife viewing, and boating. You could also take a boat tour of the park or partake in special events such as art exhibits and range programs.

Many of Miami's hottest venues offer free or cheap movie screenings outside. You can bring a blanket or chairs and relax under the stars while watching classics for all ages, including animated films from Aladdin to How to Train Your Dragon. The venues also offer refreshments including drinks and snacks, while some allow you to pack your own. 

Whether you're looking for a cheap or free night out with all the kids or just some time enjoying the warmth of Florida in the evening, seeing screenings of classic movies in places like Founders Park and McBride Plaza is bound to entertain. Be sure to check the schedule to see which movies catch your attention.

The American Museum of the Cuban Diaspora is the place to start if you want to learn more about the history and culture that shaped Miami. The museum documents and showcases the historic and cultural contributions of the Cuban exile community in Miami. 

Located close to Little Havana, the museum holds both permanent and temporary exhibits related to Cuban historic milestones, cultural artifacts, and various artworks.

Coral Gables Museum is housed in a historic coral building in the heart of the planned community of Coral Gables. The museum is a fascinating attraction with exhibits on architecture, urban design, and environmental preservation. 

In addition to artworks, photography, and historic jail cells and courtrooms in the Old Police and Fire Station, the museum also offers lectures, tours, educational activities, and special events. The museum offers free admission to military families, members, and children under 6 years of age.

Food trucks are a hot trend in most major cities, and Miami has some of the best. You can find everything from renowned chef creations to traditional breakfast and creative desserts in local food trucks, all at half the price of dining in. 

Some of the top names in food trucks in Miami are Ms. Cheezious Food Truck, which serves South Florida favorites like fried chicken and waffle melts, and Twice Butter, a Mexican-fusion truck with unique food combinations. You'll also like Purple People Eatery, a gourmet burger truck with game options and gourmet ingredients and condiments.

The Jewish Museum of Florida is a fascinating museum housed within 2 historic former synagogues. One of the buildings is a celebrated art deco masterpiece with stained-glass windows, a copper dome, and other period accents. 

Within the museum, you'll find over 100,000 artifacts, documents, religious objects, and photos that celebrate the Jewish experience in Florida since 1763. The museum also hosts walking tours and special exhibitions with prominent Jewish residents.

It's wise to book your Miami travel early since it's a popular travel spot, especially for northerners looking to escape the cold, and families or students on summer break. The best way to save on your airfare and accommodation is by booking early. You'll not only have a better chance of getting great flights and the best vacation rental options, but you'll also save a bundle. 

If you wait until the last minute, you may get stuck with last-resort accommodation and sky-high airfare and room rental rates. Once you plan your itinerary, you may even find deals on early booking for tours, exhibitions, and outdoor activities, so you can save even more on the trip.