Your 2026 Miami Bucket List – Coconut Grove Edition
- December 12, 2025
- Chloe Ketterer
Your 2026 Miami Bucket List – Coconut Grove Edition
If Miami is calling your name in 2026, there’s no better neighborhood to anchor your adventure than Coconut Grove, a tropical, bohemian pocket of the city where banyan trees twist over sidewalks, sailboats line the bay, and creativity lives on every corner. The Grove feels like a lush village nestled within a bustling metropolis, offering the perfect blend of laid-back charm and vibrant Miami energy. From world-famous art events to local festivals, cultural gems, waterfront adventures, and hidden neighborhood delights, Coconut Grove has something magical waiting for every traveler. To help you plan the ultimate escape, here are 26 must-do experiences.
1. Wander Through CocoWalk’s Revamped Outdoor Plaza
CocoWalk has transformed into a lively entertainment hub where open-air terraces, tropical landscaping, and chic boutiques create a perfect Miami vibe. You can stroll between artisan shops, grab a refreshing juice, or settle into a café for premium people-watching. Street musicians often add an unexpected soundtrack to your visit, giving the atmosphere an artistic flair. Whether you’re window shopping or treating yourself, CocoWalk sets the tone for an unforgettable day in Coconut Grove.
2. Grab Brunch Under the Banyans on Commodore Plaza
Few places in Miami offer brunch settings as charming and shaded as Commodore Plaza. Its tree-lined streets are filled with outdoor cafés serving everything from upscale avocado toast to Latin-infused comfort dishes. The ambiance feels both effortless and luxurious, perfect for relaxing into Grove life. With a mimosa in hand and sunbeams flickering through the banyan leaves, you’ll understand why locals consider brunch here a weekend ritual.
3. Attend the 2026 Coconut Grove Arts Festival
This iconic waterfront festival draws top artists from around the world, transforming South Bayshore Drive into a giant outdoor gallery. You’ll find everything from bold acrylic canvases to handcrafted jewelry, live music, culinary demos, and family-friendly experiences. The energy is infectious! People wander for hours discovering new favorites and chatting with creators. By the end of the day, you’ll leave inspired (and likely with a new piece of art to take home).
4. Catch a Sunset at Dinner Key Marina
Dinner Key Marina offers some of the most breathtaking sunset views in the entire city. As sailboats sway peacefully and the pastel sky reflects on the bay, it feels like Miami slows down just for this moment. The boardwalk is ideal for a quiet stroll, couples’ photos, or simply soaking in the tropical atmosphere. Bring a cold drink, find a bench, and let the evening wash over you.
5. Rent a Paddleboard at Peacock Park
Nestled right by the water, Peacock Park is a perfect launching spot for paddleboarding adventures along Biscayne Bay. Whether you’re gliding over crystal-clear shallows or catching views of Coconut Grove’s lush shoreline, the experience is peaceful yet invigorating. Beginners love the calm waters, while more experienced paddlers explore farther into the bay. It’s one of those Miami activities that feels like a mini-vacation within your vacation.
6. Explore Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Vizcaya is a European-inspired dreamscape with ornate rooms, sprawling gardens, and breathtaking waterfront terraces. Every corner of the estate boasts photo-worthy architecture, featuring gilded furniture and marble courtyards. As you wander the maze-like pathways, it feels like stepping back into a romantic, bygone era. Don’t forget to pause by the stone barge for an unforgettable view of the bay.
7. Bike the Commodore Trail
The Commodore Trail winds through some of Miami’s prettiest residential streets and lush canopies, perfect for a breezy ride. Cyclists love its mix of scenic waterfront sections and shaded tree tunnels. Whether you’re exploring casually or tackling the full route, it’s a great way to see the Grove from a new perspective. Stop along the way for photos; this route is pure tropical eye candy.
8. Sip an Iced Café Cubano at a Sidewalk Café
Miami runs on strong, sweet Cuban coffee, and Coconut Grove offers plenty of chances to try it like a local. Order it iced for the perfect pick-me-up on a warm Florida day. The combination of bold espresso and sugar packs a delicious punch. Sit outside, watch the foot traffic, and enjoy one of Miami’s simplest pleasures.
9. Shop the Grove’s Boutique Fashion Scene
Coconut Grove’s independent boutiques offer carefully curated clothing, accessories, and home goods you won’t find anywhere else. Browsing these shops feels more like stepping into small galleries, each with its own aesthetic. Whether you’re into boho-chic, beach-luxe, or minimalist elegance, there’s a boutique just for you. It’s the perfect way to bring home a piece of laid-back Grove style.
10. Catch a Live Performance at The Barnacle Historic State Park
The Barnacle is one of Miami’s oldest homes, and its waterfront lawn becomes a magical outdoor venue throughout the year. Between bluegrass nights, folk concerts, and family-friendly events, there’s always something happening beneath the stars. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and relax as live music drifts through the sea breeze. The atmosphere feels intimate, unique, and unmistakably Coconut Grove.
11. Take a Sailing Lesson on Biscayne Bay
Coconut Grove is Miami’s sailing capital, and there’s no better place to try your hand at navigating the turquoise waters. Local instructors make the experience fun and accessible, even for beginners. As the wind fills your sails and the Miami skyline sparkles in the distance, you’ll feel an exhilarating sense of freedom. It’s one of the most memorable ways to connect with the Grove’s nautical heritage.
12. Picnic at Kennedy Park
Kennedy Park offers open green spaces, playgrounds, and a breezy waterfront path perfect for a relaxed afternoon picnic. Grab a chilled coconut from a nearby vendor and settle under a shady tree. Locals come here to exercise, walk dogs, or simply decompress in nature. It’s a peaceful break from Miami’s buzz, yet only minutes from all the action.
13. Attend Art Basel Miami Beach 2026
Art Basel brings the global art world to Miami each December, featuring world-class galleries, cutting-edge exhibits, and a vibrant atmosphere of celebrity energy. It’s not just a show, it’s a citywide takeover filled with pop-ups, parties, and cultural experiences. Even casual art lovers will find pieces that surprise, challenge, or inspire them. Be sure to explore satellite fairs too.
14. Explore the Miami Design District
Just a short ride from the Grove, the Design District offers high-end shopping, eclectic public art, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re browsing luxury boutiques or snapping photos of its avant-garde installations, the neighborhood feels like an outdoor art museum. Grab a pastry from a trendy café and wander the polished streets. It’s a vibrant contrast to the Grove’s leafy charm.
15. Take a Scenic Stroll Through the Kampong Botanical Garden
Step into a tropical escape at The Kampong, one of Miami’s most enchanting hidden gems. This historic botanical garden, once the home of famed horticulturist David Fairchild, is filled with rare fruit trees, exotic plants, and serene waterfront views. Wandering its peaceful pathways feels like stepping into a secret jungle oasis far from the city’s bustle. Guided tours offer fascinating stories about the garden’s origins and global plant discoveries. It’s a quiet, soulful experience that perfectly complements Coconut Grove’s love for nature and history.
16. Enjoy Rooftop Drinks With a View of the Grove Skyline
Coconut Grove’s rooftops offer breezy, elevated spaces where cocktails and sunsets take center stage. With panoramic views of the bay and village below, the atmosphere feels both glamorous and relaxed. Add a handcrafted drink and some small bites, and you’ve got the perfect evening. It’s ideal for date nights, celebrations, or simply savoring the Miami mood.
17. Do a Wellness Morning at Regatta Harbour
Regatta Harbour’s waterfront spaces have become hot spots for outdoor fitness and wellness experiences. Start your morning with yoga, grab an açai bowl, or simply enjoy a mindful walk along the shoreline. The blend of calm water views and ocean air makes it an energizing place to reset. It’s a refreshing reminder of Miami’s natural beauty.
18. Ride the Free Coconut Grove Trolley
The Grove Trolley is both charming and incredibly convenient for exploring the neighborhood without a car. Its bright colors and vintage style make it feel like a ride through Miami’s history. Hop on and off at boutiques, parks, cafés, and marinas. It’s transportation with character and zero stress.
19. Go Antiquing at Local Grove Shops
Coconut Grove is full of quirky antique and vintage shops where you can uncover treasures from Miami’s past. Each shop feels like a small museum packed with stories waiting to be discovered. From retro décor to rare collectibles, you never know what you’ll find. It’s a delightful adventure for shoppers who love the thrill of the unexpected.
20. Visit Perez Art Museum Miami
PAMM is known for its stunning architecture, innovative exhibits, and sweeping bay views. The hanging gardens alone are worth the visit, creating a serene backdrop for the museum’s modern and contemporary pieces. Inside, rotating installations keep the experience fresh year after year. It’s a cultural highlight just 15–20 minutes from Coconut Grove.
21. Dance the Night Away During Ultra Music Festival 2026
Ultra transforms downtown Miami into an electrifying playground of lights, sound, and global energy. World-famous DJs, immersive stages, and nonstop beats make it one of the top electronic festivals in the world. Even if you’re not a die-hard EDM fan, the atmosphere is unforgettable. It’s Miami at its most intense and most exhilarating.
22. Dine at La Placita
La Placita brings bold flavors, vibrant colors, and warm hospitality. Located at The Mutiny Hotel, the menu features mouthwatering Puerto Rican classics and modern Caribbean-inspired dishes that you’ll crave long after your trip. Whether you’re sitting indoors or enjoying the lively ambiance outside, the experience is as joyful as it is delicious. Best of all? It’s right downstairs from your suite.
23. Try a Sunset Catamaran Cruise
A catamaran cruise offers an unbeatable way to watch the sun melt into the horizon over Biscayne Bay. With soft music, cool breezes, and sparkling water, the experience feels both luxurious and calming. Keep your eyes open for dolphin sightings. It’s the perfect pre-dinner or end-of-day outing.
24. Take a Day Trip to Key Biscayne Beaches
Key Biscayne offers some of Miami’s most tranquil, picture-perfect beaches, just a short drive from Coconut Grove. Soft sand, clear waters, and gentle waves make it ideal for swimming or lounging. Families love its calm atmosphere while couples appreciate its romantic seclusion. Don’t forget to climb the historic lighthouse for incredible views.
25. End the Night With Live Jazz at a Grove Lounge
Coconut Grove’s nightlife isn’t all about clubs; its jazz lounges offer something smoother, deeper, and more soulful. Imagine dim lighting, candlelit tables, and musicians playing saxophone just feet away. The vibe is intimate and refined, a perfect contrast to Miami’s high-energy scenes. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a full day of exploring.
26. Stay at The Mutiny Hotel
For the full Coconut Grove experience, book your stay at The Mutiny Hotel, a boutique gem with a rich history. Spacious suites, lush surroundings, and a prime location put you steps from parks, marinas, cafés, and the neighborhood’s artistic heartbeat. With La Placita right onsite, incredible dining is always within reach. The Mutiny blends comfort, elegance, and tropical ambiance, everything you want in a Miami stay. Start your 2026 Miami journey by checking in. Your adventure begins here!








