Historical tours in Miami offer time-tested gems that bring the city’s past to life. The Art Deco District walking tours stand out for their expert explanations of Miami Beach’s 1920s and ’30s architectural treasures. I especially love the Little Havana food and culture tours – they combine Cuban coffee stops with fascinating stories of immigrant life.
Walking through Coconut Grove’s historic mansions reveals Miami’s Gilded Age elegance, while South Beach tours showcase the area’s preservation success story. Each tour provides clear historical context, and most guides do a superb job sharing authentic local perspectives.
These are my favorite history-focused tours in Miami:
Key Points
- Miami Beach Art Deco Tours offer engaging bike and walking tours showcasing the city’s architectural styles, local history, and intriguing crime stories.
- The Newport Gilded Age Experience provides a private van tour through historic Newport, highlighting the Colonial District and opulent Bellevue Avenue Mansions.
- Cuban Cuisine & Cultural Tours immerse visitors in the culinary and cultural heritage of Little Havana, including cigar factory visits and iconic landmark exploration.
- South Beach Food Tours combine culinary experiences with historical insights, offering a 2.5-hour journey through the neighborhood’s diverse food scene and past.
- The Little Havana Walking Tour provides an in-depth look at the cultural heritage of the neighborhood, featuring a coffee tasting, pastry, and a Badge of Excellence rating.
Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Bike Tour
One of the best ways to experience the vibrant history and culture of Miami Beach is through the Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Bike Tour.
Lasting 3 hours, this bicycle excursion covers the Art Deco district, Ocean Drive, and hidden local gems.
Led by the knowledgeable guide Damian, travelers will learn about Miami’s captivating past, including its infamous “Miami Vice” era and the “cocaine cowboys”.
With a maximum group size of 30, the tour offers an intimate and non-touristy experience.
Travelers consistently praise the guide’s expertise, the enjoyable biking, and the fascinating historical insights provided throughout the tour.
Read our full review: Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Historic Highlights of Newport,Ri With With the Gilded Age
Nestled along the picturesque Rhode Island coast, the historic city of Newport offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the Gilded Age.
Visitors can embark on a private van tour that takes them through the city’s Colonial District, 10 Mile Ocean Drive, Millionaires Row, and Bellevue Avenue Mansion District. The tour, which lasts 1.5 hours with an optional 1-hour mansion entry, is priced at $225 per group and features a knowledgeable guide who brings the area’s history to life.
Guests can also opt to visit popular mansions like Marble House and The Breakers. With positive reviews highlighting the tour’s personalized experience and the guide’s expertise, this tour provides an immersive exploration of Newport’s Gilded Age splendor.
Read our full review: Historic Highlights of Newport,Ri With With the Gilded Age Review
Book now: Check availability
Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Walking Tour
Visitors to Miami Beach can embark on an immersive walking tour that explores the city’s captivating Art Deco heritage and its intriguing history of crime.
The “Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Walking Tour” is a 2-hour guided experience led by the knowledgeable and passionate guide, Damian. Participants will explore the architectural wonders of the Art Deco district, visit iconic hotel lobbies, and uncover the cultural significance of Miami Beach.
With a maximum of 50 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and engaging atmosphere, suitable for all ages. Consistently praised for its informative and enjoyable nature, this tour is a must-do for anyone interested in Miami’s rich history and architecture.
Read our full review: Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Walking Tour
Though Miami Beach may be known for its vibrant nightlife and sandy beaches, the “Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Walking Tour” offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Hosted by a passionate local historian, the 2-hour tour explores Miami Beach’s history, architecture, and notorious past, including the cocaine cowboys era and the influence of Miami Vice.
Guests will discover iconic streets and hidden gems, learning about Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and MiMo styles.
With rave reviews praising the knowledgeable and charismatic guide, Damian, this tour provides an insightful and entertaining way to appreciate Miami Beach’s unique story.
Read our full review: Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Exclusive Cuban Cuisine & Cultural Tour – Private Groups
Immersing guests in the vibrant flavors and rich cultural tapestry of Little Havana, the “Exclusive Cuban Cuisine & Cultural Tour – Private Groups” offers an unparalleled gastronomic and experiential journey.
With a 100% traveler recommendation, the private tour showcases traditional Cuban cuisine through tastings at multiple locations, amounting to a full meal. Guests can savor a refreshing mojito cocktail while exploring a cigar factory, Domino Park, and other iconic landmarks, all with the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour caters to a wide range of participants, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic and immersive Cuban experience in Miami.
Read our full review: Exclusive Cuban Cuisine & Cultural Tour – Private Groups Review
Book now: Check availability
Savoring South Beach – a Journey Through Food and History
Embarking on a culinary and historical odyssey through the vibrant enclave of South Beach, the “Savoring South Beach – a Journey through Food and History” tour offers guests an unparalleled exploration of this iconic Miami neighborhood.
Priced from €63.40 per person, the 2.5-hour English-language tour includes four culinary stops equivalent to a full meal, as well as guided visits to Ocean Drive and the area’s captivating Art Deco architecture.
With expert guides providing insights into the neighborhood’s history and culture, the wheelchair-accessible tour immerses participants in South Beach’s diverse community and vibrant atmosphere.
Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with a 24-hour free cancellation policy for a full refund.
Read our full review: Savoring South Beach – a Journey Through Food and History Review
Book now: Check availability
South Beach Food Tour- Culinary & Art Deco & History
The South Beach Food Tour offers visitors a captivating blend of culinary delights and in-depth exploration of the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage.
Featuring a series of four carefully curated stops showcasing vibrant local cuisine, this tour provides an opportunity to savor a variety of delectable local foods, with a special focus on the renowned Cuban cuisine.
Along the way, an expert guide offers engaging commentary on South Beach’s Art Deco architecture and hidden gems, enhancing the overall experience.
With small group sizes, free cancellation, and wheelchair accessibility, the South Beach Food Tour is a must-try for anyone seeking to enjoy the vibrant flavors and history of this iconic Miami neighborhood.
Read our full review: South Beach Food Tour- Culinary & Art Deco & History Review
Book now: Check availability
Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Bike Tour
On this illuminating Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Bike Tour, visitors embark on a captivating exploration of the city’s storied past.
Led by a passionate local historian, the 3-hour, 20-mile journey delves into Miami Beach’s unique history, from the Great Depression to the Cocaine Cowboys era.
Participants discover the area’s architectural gems, including Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and MiMo styles, and uncover true crime stories and scandals.
The tour explores iconic streets, hotels, parks, and historical sites, providing insights into the evolution of this man-made metropolis and its cultural influences.
With a 5/5 rating from 11 reviews, the tour is praised for its engaging content and knowledgeable guide, making it a must-do for anyone interested in Miami’s captivating history.
Read our full review: Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Miami Beach Food & History Tour In Sobe
Complementing the immersive Art Deco and historical bike tour, the Miami Beach Food & History Tour in South Beach offers a captivating exploration of the area’s culinary and cultural heritage.
Rated 5.0 out of 45 reviews, the private tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and includes tastings at multiple locations equivalent to a full meal, as well as a guided tour of the Art Deco district.
Led by a local expert guide, the experience provides a well-rounded perspective on the flavors and history of South Beach.
Wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, the tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive cultural experience in Miami.
Read our full review: Miami Beach Food & History Tour In Sobe Review
Book now: Check availability
Little Havana Walking Tour for History Buffs
Exploring the vibrant cultural tapestry of Little Havana, the Little Havana Walking Tour for History Buffs offers an immersive experience for those captivated by the neighborhood’s rich heritage.
This highly-rated tour boasts a Badge of Excellence and 15 glowing reviews, inviting visitors to uncover the area’s storied past. For €38.49 per person, travelers can expect a walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide, along with a Cuban coffee tasting and guava & cheese pastry.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate up to 15 participants, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. While some reviewers desired more historical content, the tour’s highlights include insights into Cuban culture and interactions with community members.
Read our full review: Little Havana Walking Tour for History Buffs Review
Book now: Check availability
Miami Cocaine Capital in the 80S- History Tour-
For those captivated by Miami’s gritty past, the “Miami Cocaine Capital in the 80s – History Tour” offers an immersive exploration of the city’s notorious drug trade era.
Aboard a convertible Jeep, groups of up to four guests embark on a captivating journey through the streets that once swarmed with cartel activity.
The tour boasts a 5.0 rating from 9 reviews, promising an engaging experience enhanced by Bluetooth connectivity for personal music and a knowledgeable driver guide.
With bottled water, bathroom facilities, and gratuities included, this history-focused excursion provides an accessible and informative look into Miami’s turbulent past.
Read our full review: Miami Cocaine Capital in the 80S- History Tour- Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Tours?
Generally, visitors are allowed to take photos during historical tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some locations may have restrictions or require permission. Following the tour guide’s instructions ensures an enjoyable and respectful experience for all participants.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children?
Most historical tours are suitable for children, providing an engaging way to learn about the past. Tour guides often offer family-friendly content and activities to keep young visitors entertained and educated throughout the experience.
Do the Tours Provide Transportation to the Sites?
Many historical tours provide transportation to the sites, making it convenient for visitors. This allows them to focus on the historical content without the hassle of driving and parking. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator for specifics.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Interests?
Many tour providers allow customers to customize their itinerary to suit individual interests. This flexibility enables visitors to focus on the historical sites and activities they find most compelling during the tour.
Are There Any Age or Physical Requirements for the Tours?
Most historical tour companies allow guests to customize their itinerary to personal interests. However, there may be age or physical requirements depending on the activities involved. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific details.
The Sum Up
Miami offers a variety of historical tours that cater to diverse interests, from the city’s art deco architecture and Gilded Age history to its past as the “Cocaine Capital” in the 1980s. Whether you prefer a walking, biking, or culinary-focused experience, there’s a tour that’ll provide an in-depth look into Miami’s rich and captivating past.