Things to Do in Coconut Grove Miami: The Definitive Guide

Nestled along Biscayne Bay just south of downtown, Coconut Grove embodies Miami’s laid-back, tropical charm. This historic neighborhood offers a delightful mix of activities from outdoor recreation to cultural attractions.

Keep reading for the ultimate guide of the top things to do in Coconut Grove Miami. With this list, you can plan an amazing trip to this charming bayfront community.

Wander CocoWalk

CocoWalk remains the commercial hub of the Grove and a great place to soak up the tropical ambiance. This pedestrian-friendly, open-air plaza contains over 50 shops, restaurants, and lounges.

Popular boutiques include Salt Life for beach apparel, SunDog for island-inspired accessories, and DNA Paris for luxury French perfumes. Grab a coffee or bite at one of the al fresco cafes.

At night, locals and visitors mingle under string lights over a meal or beers at CocoWalk’s casual bars. Special events like live music and yoga classes keeps the plaza lively.

Location: 3015 Grand Ave, Miami, FL 33133

Tour Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Just north of Coconut Grove, the magnificent Vizcaya Museum and Gardens transports visitors back to Miami’s glamorous beginnings. This 1914 Gilded Age mansion built by industrialist James Deering contains a fascinating collection of art and furnishings.

The 34-room home exemplifies European luxury merged with tropical accents. Outside, traditional gardens and fountains round out the estate’s beauty. The adjacent mangrove shoreline now comprises the Vizcaya Marine Preserve.

Vizcaya offers a glimpse into Miami’s early 20th century rise as a vacationer’s paradise. Don’t skip the lovely cafe for snacks or tea.

Location: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129

Relax at Peacock Park

Shaded by native vegetation, Peacock Park spans 22 acres along Biscayne Bay. Visitors will find walking paths under a leafy canopy, benches overlooking the water, and facilities for sports.

The park also contains the Kampong—a lush botanical garden open for self-guided exploration. Sign up for events like gardening workshops or yoga on the lawn.

Peacock Park provides the perfect spot for a picnic, reading break, or simply reconnecting with nature amidst the bustle of Miami.

Location: 2820 McFarlane Rd, Miami, FL 33133

Stroll through Barnacle Historic State Park

History buffs will love exploring Barnacle Historic State Park, the oldest house in Miami-Dade County still in its original location. This 1891 home built by Florida pioneer Ralph Munroe now functions as a museum.

In addition to touring the house, its park grounds offer splendid views across Biscayne Bay. Paths wind through tropical foliage down to the rocky shore where Munroe docked his boats. Plan a picnic on the lawn to fully soak up the relaxing atmosphere.

Location: 3485 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133

Bike the Commodore Trail

Commodore Trail stretches nearly 6 miles from Coconut Grove to Coral Gables along bountiful Biscayne Bay. This paved path makes for a flat, scenic bike ride passing marinas and waterfront mansions.

Public parks like Peacock Park and Coral Bay Park offer places to stop and enjoy the views. Riders can also connect to trails through David Kennedy Park and beyond.

Rent a bike, pack some snacks, and hit this trail for an effortless way to soak up the best of the bay breeze and scenery.

Location: Trail runs from Peacock Park to Coral Gables Waterway

Get Cultural at Plymouth Congregational Church

Music and arts lovers shouldn’t miss visiting this historic church known for its Spanish Mission style architecture. Since 1917, Plymouth Congregational Church has stood as a Coconut Grove institution and cultural hub.

The church hosts musical performances and events like the Miami-Dade County Auditions. Visitors can attend Sunday services or simply admire the striking exterior architecture. Don’t miss the ornamental iron gate created by famed designer Walter de Lamater.

Location: 3400 Devon Rd, Miami, FL 33133

See a Show at Cotai Arena

Coconut Grove’s Cotai Arena accommodates events of all sizes in its flexible theater space. Concerts by artists like Chris Tomlin and Jill Scott grace the intimate 400-seat venue.

Comedy shows, music festivals, film screenings, and dance performances round out the diverse event calendar. Cotai Arena also hosts acting and dance classes.

With superb acoustics, high-tech lighting and sound, and cozy capacity, this professional performance space shines within the neighborhood.

Location: 3015 Grand Ave Suite 301, Miami, FL 33133

Shop the Streets

Coconut Grove invites leisurely shopping with its relaxed village feel. Meander down streets like Main Highway and McFarlane Road to uncover chic boutiques and galleries.

Some favorites include Coco boutique for women’s fashions, Whole Foods Market for organic groceries, and the Streets of Mayfair boutique mall housing upscale shops.

Don’t miss pedestrian-only Commodore Plaza with eateries like Spris Pizza and Los Pinareños Frutería fruit stand. It’s easy to while away an afternoon browsing Coconut Grove’s shops.

Location: Main Highway & McFarlane Rd, Miami, FL 33133

Sip with Monty’s Coconut Grove

One of Miami’s classic watering holes, Monty’s Coconut Grove draws in locals with its warm ambiance and potent cocktails. Striking banyan trees drape over the outdoor garden seating perfect for happy hour lounging.

Inside, the cozy space displays a sailing and maritime theme paying homage to its Bahamian owner. Sip their signature Monty’s Margarita or Scorpion Bowl cocktail while you relax.

Location: 2550 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133

Discover Miami City Ballet

Miami City Ballet calls Coconut Grove home with both its studios and theaters housed within the neighborhood. Watching this world-class troupe rehearse or perform makes for a memorable cultural experience.

Enjoy productions of classics like The Nutcracker or cutting-edge ballets at the intimate, opulently decorated theaters. Miami City Ballet’s complex also contains open-air plazas and studios for visitors to explore.

Location: 2200 Liberty Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Play at The Kampong

Part lush botanical garden and part interactive play space, The Kampong enchants families with children. This former estate of horticulturist Dr. David Fairchild now serves as a center for botany.

Beyond marveling at rare fruit trees and flowers, kids adore areas like the Children’s Garden. Here they can interact with musical instruments, climb a web sculpture, or get lost in a bamboo maze. It’s both educational and fun.

Location: 4013 Douglas Rd, Miami, FL 33133

Paddle at Kennedy Park

David Kennedy Park spans 50 waterfront acres nestled in the heart of Coconut Grove. Head to the bay side of the park for top-notch kayaking and paddleboarding.

Rent gear from Grove Paddle Surf and Kayak to explore waters flanked by maritime forests. They offer rentals for adults and kids plus lessons and guided eco tours.

Paddling lets visitors experience this lush park from an on-the-water perspective. Afterwards picnic at the pavilion or play volleyball.

Location: 2475 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133

See Miami Improv Comedy

For laughs close to home, catch a show at Miami Improv Comedy Club right in central Grove. Both professional and amateur comedians take the intimate stage for improv acts, sketch comedy, and stand-up routines.

Special shows like urban comedy nights and ladies night keep things edgy and current. Affordable tickets and 2-for-1 happy hour drinks make this club accessible for some hilarious nights out.

Location: 3119 Commodore Plaza, Miami, FL 33133

Play Disc Golf at Peacock Park

Disc golf combines the rules of golf with frisbee-like discs instead of balls. Peacock Park installed an 18-hole disc golf course along the waterfront adding a creative recreation activity.

Rent discs in the park or bring your own. Navigating wooded holes and the bay-front layout proves both challenging and picturesque.

The course’s surprising scenic beauty and addicting play make this one of the Grove’s unique outdoor offerings.

Location: 2820 McFarlane Rd, Miami, FL 33133

Pamper Yourself at The Mayfair Spa

After exploring the Grove, indulge in treatments at The Mayfair Spa tucked within the Mayfair Hotel. Their relaxing services span massages, body wraps, facials, mani-pedis and more using natural products.

Soothe sore muscles in the hydrotherapy pool or steam room. The spa’s serene ambiance whisks you away from city life. Services like couples’ massages allow you to relax with friends.

Location: 3000 Florida Ave, Miami, FL 33133

Tour Ermita de la Caridad

One of Miami’s most iconic religious spaces, this National Shrine of Our Lady Charity astounds with its grand sanctuary and grounds. Inside marvel at stained glass, a 50-foot tower, and ornate statues honoring the patroness of Cuba.

The lush Plazoleta offers al fresco prayer and reflection amidst fountains and monuments. Guided tours provide a deeper look at this Catholic shrine’s history, art, and architecture.

Location: 3609 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33133

Catch a Show at Actors’ Playhouse

Housed within the historic Miracle Theatre, this 300-seat regional theater produces musicals, comedies, and children’s shows. Since 1989, Actors’ Playhouse earned acclaim for high-caliber performances and productions.

Broadway musicals like In The Heights contrast with more obscure works. The theater also runs classes for kids and adults in their ground floor studio spaces.

Location: 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL 33134

Shop at CocoWalk

CocoWalk serves as the central shopping and dining hub of Coconut Grove. This pedestrian-only plaza lines three blocks filled with boutiques, cafes, lounges and studios.

Fashionistas browse stores like Bella Bridesmaids and Onyx & Ashes for chic styles. Activewear shop Lululemon caters to neighborhood yogis.

CocoWalk also hosts regular craft markets and community events amidst its breezy, tropical ambiance.

Location: 3015 Grand Ave, Miami, FL 33133

Tour the Historic Sites

Several sites around Coconut Grove provide windows into early Miami history. Learn about local pioneers at the 1891 Barnacle Historic State Park cottage.

See Miami’s oldest house still standing—the lush Stonewall Jackson House built in 1900. The Kampong preserves a botanist’s 1920s homestead.

The Coconut Grove Playhouse first opened in 1927 and still hosts theater despite requiring renovations. architectural walking tours also uncover the area’s roots.

Enjoy Live Music

Coconut Grove loves tunes, whether at an outdoor festival or intimate club. Groove to reggae at Mr. Moe’s tiki bar or rock at dive Tavern in the Grove.

Latin jazz sizzles at the annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival each February. Catch indie acts at The Anderson or nationally touring bands at The Barnacle Historic State Park.

Upcoming concerts at venues like the Olympia Theater or Ball & Chain ensure Coconut Grove always swings to an eclectic beat.

Work Up a Sweat

Stay active amidst the Grove’s lush greenery. Practice yoga, cycling or Pilates at area studios like Brickhouse Gym and Yoga by the Grove.

Walkers enjoy scenic routes through Peacock Park and along Biscayne Bay. Rent kayaks, sailboats or stand up paddleboards to get your workout on the water.

Coconut Grove’s outdoor vibe makes it easy to stay fit in paradise.

Hit the Green at Melreese Golf Course

Adjacent to Coconut Grove, golfers adore teeing off at this scenic public course operational since the 1920s. Designed by Donald Ross, the Melreese course offers 18 challenging holes stretching nearly 7,000 yards.

Natural coral rock walls, sparkling water hazards, and exotic foliage give the course an Amazon jungle feel, while downtown skyscrapers loom in the distance. Reserve your tee time to experience this unique tropical golfing experience.

Location: 1802 NW 37th Ave, Miami, FL 33125

Conclusion

With its chill village character and diversity of attractions, Coconut Grove delivers the quintessential Miami experience beyond the glitz of South Beach. Spend days paddling mangrove coves, touring lush estates, and dining al fresco under swaying palms.

The Grove’s laid-back culture, twinkling bay views, and breezy patios cast a relaxing, tropical spell. For an authentic taste of Miami’s cultural melting pot and old Florida charm, make time to linger in this historic seaside hamlet.

Let the Grove’s infectious easygoing vibes and breezes transport you on your next Miami getaway.