The 10 Best Historical Tours in Miami
Miami’s appeal isn’t just its sun-drenched beaches or lively nightlife; it’s also the layers of history and culture buried beneath the modern skyline. Known for its Art Deco architecture, vibrant Cuban neighborhoods, and stories of Prohibition-era Stiltsville, Miami offers a surprising depth of historic experiences. Whether you want to explore South Beach’s iconic buildings, cruise Biscayne Bay for a taste of Stiltsville, or walk through Little Havana’s streets, there’s a tour to satisfy your curiosity. We’ve sorted through the options, balancing price, uniqueness, and reviews, to bring you the best historical tours in Miami.
These tours offer more than just sightseeing—they reveal how Miami’s diverse communities, architecture, and even its darker chapters like the cocaine trade shaped the city. If you’re interested in Miami’s architecture, the Miami: History through Architecture Private Tour with Transport is a private, comprehensive journey. For those eager to taste Cuban culture, the Cuban Heritage: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour of Little Havana offers an intimate, cultural deep dive. Below, you’ll find a variety of options, each with its own appeal, to help you pick the perfect slice of Miami’s past.
1. Miami Beach Food & History Tour In Sobe
This Miami Beach Food & History Tour In Sobe combines culinary delights with art deco architecture. Over about 2.5 hours, you’ll cruise down Ocean Drive with a Miami-born guide who shares stories of South Beach’s evolution. You’ll visit some of the most iconic hotels along the way, marvel at the colorful art deco facades, and taste multi-cultural dishes from Peru, Cuba, Italy, and more. The small group size (max 15) ensures a personal experience, perfect for anyone interested in Miami’s architectural style and food culture.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local history and architecture paired with tastings that fill you up. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guide Orlando and the quality of food—particularly the Cuban dishes and mojitos. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, immersive experience that combines sightseeing, history, and authentic food.
Bottom Line: If you want a friendly, informative walk through South Beach’s art deco past with delicious bites, this tour offers great value for its duration and intimacy.
2. Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville
This Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville offers a scenic escape from the city streets—adventure by water. For roughly two hours, a guide will take you around Biscayne Bay, revealing sights like Biscayne National Park, Star Island, and the famous “Scarface” mansion. You’ll also explore Stiltsville—those quirky houses built out over the water, whose history ranges from bootlegging hideouts to movie shoots.
What makes this tour special is its small group setting (capped at a limited number), giving you an intimate view of Miami’s marine environment and coastal legends. If you love spotting dolphins or manatees, the crew will share tips on where marine life has been seen. The boat offers fantastic views of the city skyline, and the stories behind Stiltsville add a layer of Miami’s Prohibition and film history.
Review highlight: “Kim was friendly and knowledgeable, with perfect weather”—a reminder that this tour is weather-dependent but highly rewarding on a good day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxing yet informative water-based experience that combines wildlife watching with Miami’s iconic waterfront landmarks.
3. South Beach Food Tour- Culinary & Art Deco & History
At number 3, the South Beach Food Tour- Culinary & Art Deco & History offers a 2.5-hour walk through South Beach’s most photogenic streets and culinary hotspots. Your guide will introduce you to the district’s Art Deco architecture while you sample food from four different stops, including local restaurants and iconic Ocean Drive venues. There’s plenty of history woven into the sights, from the district’s origins to its heyday in the 1930s.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of architecture, local stories, and delicious bites. Reviewers mention the guide Jennifer’s deep knowledge of Miami’s culture and the quality of the food, which leaves most people full and satisfied. It’s suitable for families, wheelchair users, and anyone wanting an accessible yet educational experience.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine Miami’s architectural beauty with tasty bites and engaging stories, this tour offers good value and fun.
4. Miami: History through Architecture Private Tour with Transport
For a personalized deep dive, the Miami: History through Architecture Private Tour with Transport is a private 4-hour journey. It covers Miami’s key sights, including the Financial District, Coconut Grove, and Vizcaya Museum, with a focus on art deco, colonial, and modern architecture.
This tour is notable for its flexibility and detail: your private guide will tailor the experience to your interests and ensure you see Miami’s most significant neighborhoods and landmarks. It includes hassle-free pickup and drop-off, making it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, comfortable experience. During the tour, you’ll learn about the city’s Cuban influences, its architectural evolution, and local stories that shaped Miami.
Review comment: “Jon was extremely knowledgeable and effortlessly switched topics,” highlights how engaging and flexible this private tour can be.
Bottom Line: Best suited for visitors who appreciate customized tours and want to see Miami’s architectural diversity in a relaxed, private setting.
5. Historic Highlights of Newport, RI with the Gilded Age
While slightly outside Miami, this Historic Highlights of Newport, RI with the Gilded Age offers a charming 90-minute private van tour. It covers Colonial District, 10 Mile Ocean Drive, and the Millionaires Row Bellevue Avenue, showcasing the opulence of Gilded Age mansions and seaside architecture.
Ideal for history lovers interested in early American wealth and elite lifestyles, it’s a relaxing way to explore Newport’s storied past. Many reviewers praise the guide’s professionalism and deep knowledge, making it an engaging experience.
Bottom Line: A perfect add-on for those interested in Gilded Age architecture or visiting Newport’s historic coastal mansions.
6. Little Havana Walking Tour for History Buffs
This Little Havana Walking Tour for History Buffs dives into Miami’s Cuban roots. Over about 2 hours, you’ll explore Domino Park, Calle Ocho, and the Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park with a guide who shares stories that don’t usually make it into tourist brochures.
The tour is particularly well-suited for those interested in Cuban culture, immigration stories, and local traditions. Visitors love the opportunity to meet locals and learn about Cuba’s influence on Miami. Highlights include tasting pastries and Cuban coffee, and seeing murals and monuments dedicated to Cuban heroes.
Review quote: “Very interesting commentary” and “a relaxed walk with lots of stories” reflect its appeal for history thinkers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a personal, in-depth look at Little Havana’s cultural history.
7. Miami Cocaine Capital in the 80’s – History Tour
This Miami Cocaine Capital in the 80’s- History tour focuses on Miami’s dark chapter—the rise of the cocaine trade. Led mainly in Coconut Grove, the 1-hour tour covers famous landmarks like condominiums, sailboats, and the Mutiny Hotel, which played a role in the drug war.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on how drug money fueled Miami’s real estate boom and local culture. The guide shares stories from the 1980s, making it perfect for history fans interested in crime and economic history.
Review: “Fun facts and good guide,” shows it’s a quick but intriguing peek into Miami’s less-glamorous past.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those fascinated by Miami’s crime history and urban development during the 1980s.
8. Historical Walking Food Tour in Calle 8
This Historical Walking Food Tour in Calle 8 offers a 2-hour stroll through Little Havana’s most iconic landmarks and authentic food. You’ll visit the Bay of Pigs Monument, Party Cake Bakery, and the historic Guantanamera Cigars shop, tasting Cuban snacks and coffee.
While it doesn’t have reviews yet, the itinerary emphasizes history, culture, and culinary traditions. It’s suited for travelers who want to combine learning with tasting Cuban classics in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: A good choice for those seeking an authentic, flavorful introduction to Little Havana’s history and cuisine.
9. Jewish Sites Miami History Private Guided Walking Tour
This private tour explores Miami Beach’s Jewish community, visiting landmarks like Temple Emanu-El and the Holocaust Memorial. It’s a focused 2-hour walk guided by an expert who shares stories of resilience, migration, and cultural impact.
Ideal for travelers interested in religious history and community stories. The tour offers an intimate look at Miami’s Jewish heritage, with an emphasis on personal stories and cultural landmarks.
Review: No reviews yet, but the personalized approach promises a meaningful experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a thoughtful, in-depth exploration of Miami’s Jewish history.
10. Cuban Heritage: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour of Little Havana
Finally, the Cuban Heritage 2-Hour Private Walking Tour provides a tailored experience through Little Havana. It covers Domino Park, Cigar Boutique, Celia Cruz Star, and Bay of Pigs Monument, with stops that highlight Cuban art, music, and history.
This private tour is perfect for travelers wanting a customized, in-depth look at Cuban influence, with the flexibility to focus on specific interests like cigars or music. It’s priced per group, making it a good value for families or small groups.
Review notes: It’s a comprehensive and personal way to connect with Cuban heritage.
Bottom Line: Best suited for visitors wanting a flexible, immersive Cuban cultural experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Miami History Tour
When picking a tour, consider your budget, time availability, and specific interests. For architecture lovers, the private Miami: History through Architecture offers an in-depth, customizable experience. If you’re curious about Cuban culture, the Little Havana walking tours and Cuban Heritage private tour are excellent choices. For those interested in Miami’s colorful waterfront, the boat tour provides scenic views and marine stories.
Budget-wise, the Calle 8 food tour offers a flavorful, affordable taste of history and culture. Conversely, private tours like the Miami architectural tour come at a higher price but provide personalized attention.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, and always confirm the tour times align with your schedule. Remember, some tours focus on specific themes—crime, architecture, or culture—so pick one that matches your curiosity.
Final Thoughts
Miami’s history and culture are as diverse as its neighborhoods. Whether you’re captivated by Art Deco buildings, intrigued by Cuban heritage, or fascinated by the city’s darker chapters, there’s a tour suited for you. For a comprehensive experience, the private Miami: History through Architecture is hard to beat, while the small-group boat tour offers a scenic adventure for water lovers. For a more focused cultural dive, the Little Havana walking tours and Cuban Heritage private tour are excellent options.
Whatever your choice, early booking ensures you won’t miss out. Dive into Miami’s past—its stories, architecture, and flavors—and enjoy a trip full of discoveries.