The Miami Beach Convention Center is set in a stunning part of the United States. There are plenty of things to do and sites to see while you’re in town for a Miami trade show, even if you can only sneak away from the convention center for an hour or two.
Immerse Yourself in Nature at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden
One of the most popular attractions near the convention center is the Miami Beach Botanical Garden—and it’s not a hotspot only because it’s free to visitors. It’s a stunning tropical sanctuary that’s right across Convention Center Drive from the area’s main trade show venue, so you won’t even have to take your car out of the parking lot.
In addition to the Nursery, Propagation Center, and the Botanical Boutique (which sells everything from gifts to seeds and garden equipment), you’ll get to enjoy a variety of different gardens, including:
- Collins Canal Promenade
- Japanese Garden
- Edible Garden
- Orchid Garden
- Flowering Trees
- Native Garden
- Palm Garden
As you stroll past the multiple water features during your visit, keep an eye out for stunning migratory birds and a host of native wildlife such as birds, insects, turtles, and fish.
Peruse the Collection at The Bass Museum of Art
In less than ten minutes, you can walk from the Miami Beach Convention Center to The Bass Museum of Art. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday each week, and although there’s a small admission fee, it’s well worth it.
The permanent collection, which has been growing since the museum’s opening in 1964, includes striking contemporary art from all over the world, plus long-term exhibits and short-term visiting pieces. There’s plenty to see in an hour or two, especially since the facility boasts indoor, outdoor, and public artwork on its grounds.
Stroll—and Eat—Your Way Through South Beach
You technically don’t have to set foot outside of the Miami Beach Convention Center to visit the South Beach neighborhood, because you’re already there! However, since you’re visiting Miami for a few days, it’s definitely worth spending a little time to take in the surroundings.
This walkable neighborhood features white sand beaches on the Atlantic Ocean, which are free to the public (although you can rent chairs or umbrellas if you’d like). The area also boasts a long and impressive list of restaurants, bars, and local breweries for your lunch break or post-show dinner.
During your jaunt through South Beach, keep an eye out for the sites that have been featured in iconic movies and TV shows like Scarface, Miami Vice, and CSI Miami.
Visit the Nearby Parks and Beaches
You won’t have to stray far from the Miami Beach Convention Center to relax in the breathtaking South Florida landscape. Many locals, tourists, exhibitors, and conventiongoers take advantage of their free time at any of Miami’s gorgeous beaches, several of which are just a quick trip away from the expo venue.
If you’d rather not dip your toes in the ocean or sit in the sand, don’t worry: the area boasts multiple parks. Pride Park, Soundscape Park, and Collins Park are all short walks from the convention center, so you can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine even if you only have an hour away from the show floor.
Cruise the Coastline
What better way to see the sites than a leisurely drive? Jump into your car during your show floor break to head up—and then down—the coast. Each mile will be filled with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean on the east coast of Miami Beach and Biscayne Bay on the west coast.
We’ll Handle Things At the Miami Beach Convention Center so You Can Enjoy Every Moment Away from the Show Floor
There’s no trade show setting quite like the Miami Beach Convention Center. After all, what other expo venue is set in an iconic neighborhood and surrounded by parks, beaches, and two coastlines?
We want you to make the most out of every moment you get to spend away from the show floor. Contact us to learn how we can set you up for success…and let you take a break to enjoy the area!
