3 Unusual Things to Do in Miami

Miami has its share of beaches, parties, and ocean views—but what if you’re craving something truly different? There’s a surprising side to the city that many newcomers miss. Miami movers remind you that exploring hidden gems helps you connect faster with your new surroundings and uncover stories beyond the skyline. When you think about the most unusual things to do in Miami, it’s not just about thrills; it’s about discovery. Let’s look at three places that blend history, nature, and unexpected beauty.

What Makes the Cloisters of the Ancient Spanish Monastery So Fascinating?

Built in Spain in 1133, the monastery was later dismantled stone by stone and shipped to the U.S., where it was rebuilt in North Miami Beach. Long distance movers in Florida recommend taking time to visit spots like this once you’ve settled in—they connect you to Miami’s quieter, cultured side. Walking through the cloisters feels like stepping into another century. The limestone walls, lush courtyards, and arched walkways hold centuries of European craftsmanship that somehow found a home in the tropics. The scent of flowers mixes with sea air, and sunlight filters softly through the arches. Few visitors expect to find medieval architecture so far from Europe, which makes this one of the most unusual things to do in Miami. Go early in the morning when the crowds haven’t arrived, and you can enjoy the gardens in peace.

Why Visit the Cloisters of the Ancient Spanish Monastery?

Step into a peaceful world of stone arches and quiet courtyards that feel centuries away from Miami’s bustle. Built in 1133 in Spain and later reconstructed in North Miami Beach, this historic site offers a rare mix of medieval charm and tropical calm.

• Location: 16711 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160
• Working Hours: Wednesday–Friday 10:00 am–4:00 pm; Saturday–Sunday hours vary; closed Monday and Tuesday
• Cost: Adults $10, students and seniors $5

What to do:

• Wander through centuries-old cloisters and manicured gardens
• Enjoy the quiet atmosphere for reflection or photos
• Visit in the morning for fewer crowds and soft natural light
• Admire the fusion of European architecture in a tropical city

Why Is the Historic Venetian Pool Unlike Anything Else?

In Coral Gables, this massive outdoor pool carved from a coral rock quarry dates back to 1924. Local movers in Miami say the Venetian Pool offers more than just a swim—it’s a piece of living history. Fed by spring water and surrounded by waterfalls and caves, it looks more like a movie set than a public pool. Families come here to cool off, but visitors often end up staying longer, captivated by the tropical ambiance and Mediterranean charm. The turquoise water stays crisp and clean thanks to natural filtration, and the bridges and stone details transport you to another time. It’s one of those unusual things to do in Miami that feels both relaxing and adventurous. Arrive early during summer, since capacity is limited and lines can form quickly on hot days.

What Makes the Historic Venetian Pool Stand Out?

This Coral Gables landmark blends history, nature, and relaxation in one unique spot. Carved from coral rock in 1924, the Venetian Pool features spring water, grotto caves, and stunning bridges that make it more than a simple swim.

• Location: 2701 De Soto Blvd., Coral Gables, FL 33134
• Working Hours: Tuesday–Friday 11:00 am–5:30 pm; Saturday–Sunday 10:00 am–4:30 pm; closed Monday
• Cost: Non-resident adults $21–$23; children (3–12) $16–$18; Coral Gables residents receive discounts

What to do:

• Swim in fresh, spring-fed water surrounded by natural rock
• Explore waterfalls, bridges, and shaded cave areas
• Relax under the palm trees and enjoy the historic setting
• Arrive early to secure entry before capacity fills up

What’s So Different About Monkey Jungle?

Tucked away on a 30-acre park south of the city, this wildlife sanctuary flips the traditional zoo experience. Residential movers in Florida remind visitors that this is not your typical tourist stop—you’re the one inside the enclosure while monkeys roam freely above. The park was designed in the 1930s so researchers could study primates in natural conditions, and today, it’s a hands-on adventure for all ages. You walk through tunnel-like cages as squirrel monkeys swing overhead and orangutans observe you from the trees. It’s a strange yet thrilling feeling that turns the tables on what “visiting the zoo” means. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for close-up photos and a genuine sense of being part of the habitat. For animal lovers, it’s among the top unusual things to do in Miami, offering education and excitement in equal measure.

How Does Monkey Jungle Deliver a Unique Experience?

In this one-of-a-kind park, visitors walk through enclosed tunnels while monkeys roam freely above them. Monkey Jungle opened in the 1930s, and it remains a local favorite for anyone who wants a close look at primates in a semi-wild environment.

• Location: 14805 SW 216th St., Miami, FL 33170
• Working Hours: Daily 9:30 am–5:00 pm; ticket office closes at 4:00 pm
• Cost: Adults $20–$30 depending on season; children prices vary

What to do:

• Observe monkeys in natural habitats while walking safely through tunnels
• Explore rainforest paths and feeding areas
• Visit before closing for smaller crowds and active animals
• Bring a camera for great shots of the playful residents

Ready to Experience the Most Unusual Things to Do in Miami?

Miami’s magic goes beyond beaches and nightlife—it thrives in its unexpected corners. The monastery’s timeless beauty, the Venetian Pool’s natural wonder, and Monkey Jungle’s wild twist all show how diverse the city’s experiences can be. For anyone settling in, checking out these unusual things to do in Miami helps you see the city in a new light. You’ll uncover places that surprise you, inspire curiosity, and remind you why this city’s mix of history, art, and nature is so hard to resist.