Miami’s historical tours pack centuries of fascinating stories into focused, educational experiences. The Art Deco District walking tours stand out for their architectural insights and local guides who share authentic neighborhood stories. South Beach’s food-history combo tours offer the perfect mix of cultural context and Cuban-American flavors.
I especially love the vintage yacht harbor tours – they’re less crowded than bus tours and provide a unique view of Miami’s coastal development. The guides do a terrific job explaining how this former swampland transformed into today’s glittering metropolis.
For the money, South Beach bike tours deliver the best value, letting you cover more ground while avoiding the tourist crowds. The morning rides are particularly pleasant, with stops at hidden architectural gems most visitors miss.
Let’s explore the most worthwhile historical tours Miami has to offer.
Key Points
- The Miami Beach Art Deco & History Bike Tour provides a unique, non-touristy way to explore the Art Deco district and learn about the city’s history.
- The Newport, RI Gilded Age Tour offers a private van tour showcasing the Colonial District, 10 Mile Ocean Drive, and optional access to historic mansions.
- The Miami Vintage Yacht Cruise provides a 1.5-hour journey highlighting the city’s transformation from swamp to metropolis, with a small-group and professional bilingual guide.
- The Savoring South Beach Culinary Tour combines food and history, offering a 2.5-hour guided experience with 4 culinary stops and flexible booking options.
- The Miami Beach Art Deco Walking Tour offers a non-touristy exploration of the Art Deco hotels and the city’s history, including the Great Depression, cocaine cowboys era, and Gianni Versace’s murder.
Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Bike Tour
The Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Bike Tour offers travelers a unique and captivating exploration of South Beach’s rich cultural heritage.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars and recommended by 99% of past participants, this 3-hour bike tour takes guests through the Art Deco district, Miami Beach, and local haunts.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the city’s fascinating history, including its ties to Miami Vice and the cocaine cowboys era.
Travelers will appreciate the insider’s perspective and the opportunity to experience Miami Beach from a local viewpoint.
With included bicycles, water, and equipment, this tour is an excellent choice for most visitors, though it’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Bike Tour Review
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Historic Highlights of Newport,Ri With With the Gilded Age
A private van tour takes travelers on a captivating exploration of Newport, Rhode Island’s historic highlights and the captivating Gilded Age.
The 90-minute tour, with an optional mansion entry, covers the Colonial District, 10 Mile Ocean Drive, and Millionaires Row, offering a scenic midway stop for photos.
Guests can choose to enter the Gilded Age mansions of Marble House and Breakers for an additional fee.
Led by knowledgeable guides like Larry, the tour provides a personalized experience in a comfortable private vehicle, unlike crowded buses.
Mansion admission tickets can be purchased from the guide, and the tour is conducted in English.
Read our full review: Historic Highlights of Newport,Ri With With the Gilded Age Review
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Miami: History of Miami Vintage Yacht Cruise
Aboard a vintage yacht, travelers embark on a captivating cruise that unveils the rich history of Miami.
This 1.5-hour tour showcases the city’s transformation from swamp to metropolis, highlighting the visionary work of Julia Tuttle and Carl Fisher.
Guests can expect an immersive experience, distinct from other Miami cruises, as they navigate through the city’s famous islands and spot celebrity homes.
With a small boat capacity of 25, the cruise offers an intimate and cozy setting, complete with an experienced captain, professional bilingual guide, and the option to purchase beer, wine, and soft drinks.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 9 reviews, this vintage yacht cruise is a must for history enthusiasts and those seeking a unique perspective of Miami.
Read our full review: Miami: History of Miami Vintage Yacht Cruise Review
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Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Bike Tour
For those seeking a unique and immersive way to explore Miami Beach’s rich history, the Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Bike Tour offers a captivating experience.
Priced at $79 per person, this 3-hour guided tour covers approximately 20 miles, showcasing the area’s diverse architectural styles and hidden gems beyond typical tourist routes.
Led by a passionate local historian, the tour provides insights into the city’s evolution, including its man-made origins and the influence of events like the Great Depression and the cocaine cowboys era.
With a 5-star rating based on 11 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for its educational value and enjoyable cycling experience.
Read our full review: Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Bike Tour Review
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Savoring South Beach – a Journey Through Food and History
Savoring South Beach – a Journey Through Food and History is a 2.5-hour guided tour that immerses visitors in the culinary and historical delights of this vibrant neighborhood.
For $67 per person, guests can explore iconic Ocean Drive, discover Art Deco architecture, and indulge in 4 culinary stops that equal a full meal.
Expert guides provide insights into the area’s food, architecture, and cultural heritage. The tour is wheelchair accessible and operates rain or shine.
Booking is flexible, with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Comfort recommendations include wearing comfortable clothes and bringing rain gear if needed.
Gratuities for the guide are included, and hotel pick-up and drop-off are provided.
Read our full review: Savoring South Beach – a Journey Through Food and History Review
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Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Walking Tour
Frequently, visitors to Miami Beach encounter the area’s renowned Art Deco architecture and captivating history along the city’s iconic streets.
The Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Walking Tour offers an immersive experience to explore these hidden gems. Led by a passionate local historian, the 2-hour tour takes guests on a journey through South Beach’s exquisite Art Deco hotels and unveils the city’s intriguing past, from the Great Depression to the cocaine cowboys era.
Travelers can expect to learn about Miami Beach’s unique architectural styles, the influence of Miami Vice, and even the tragic murder of Gianni Versace.
With its 5-star reviews and flexible booking options, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Miami’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Miami Beach Art Deco & History Non-Touristy Walking Tour Review
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Sum Up
Miami offers a diverse range of historical tours, from exploring the Art Deco architecture and bygone gangster era in Miami Beach to cruising the waters on vintage yachts. These tours provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to discover the city’s rich past and vibrant culture. Whether you prefer a guided bike ride or a walking tour, there’s a historical adventure to suit every interest and preference.