With an unbeatable art scene, Miami has plenty of museums worth exploring. And while we love strolling through The Bass and looking up at the sharks at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, have you thought about Miami’s more under-the-radar museums?
From a museum dedicated entirely to graffiti to a more NSFW erotic art museum, these sites have been elevating culture in the city for years. Perfect for a fun day by yourself or with a group, these underrated museums will keep you entertained for hours:
1. Deering Estate
Everyone knows about Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, but not many know about its ties to the beautiful Deering Estate. This 450-acre site nestled along the waters of Biscayne Bay was once the home of Charles Deering, the brother of James Deering, who owned Vizcaya. It not only became a place to keep Charles’ massive art collection, but showcase South Florida’s natural beauty. Now a public museum and nature preserve, the 1920s era estate offers a range of tours and exhibits for visitors, from butterfly walks to moonlight kayaking.
Where: 16701 SW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33157
2. Museum of Graffiti
Known as the world’s first museum dedicated to graffiti, this is where you’ll learn the rich history and culture of the art form and the many artists that have transformed walls into vibrant masterpieces. You’ll journey through the decades, beginning with the birth of graffiti in the ’70s to its global reach today. In addition to indoor exhibitions and outdoor murals, the museum also features a fine art gallery and a gift shop with merchandise from top artists.
Where: 276 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127
3. Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU details the rich history of the Jewish community in the Sunshine State, at least since 1763. While its exhibits cover the richness and diversity of Jewish life through photos, artifacts, films and more, its central exhibit — named MOSAIC — details more than 250 years of Florida Jewish heritage, arts and culture through compelling stories.
Where: 301 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
4. Gold Coast Railroad Museum
All aboard! This railroad museum is a must-visit for any locomotive and history enthusiast. It features more than 50 historic railcars, including the U.S. Railcar No. 1, “Ferdinand Magellan,” which was used by Presidents Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower and Reagan. You’ll also find the Florida East Coast Steam Locomotive #153 and the California Zephyr. Besides its cars, there’s a model train room, a Naval Air Station Richmond exhibit and more.
Where: 12450 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177
5. Wings Over Miami Air Museum
Jet off to the city’s incredible aircraft museum, which pays tribute to those that pioneered civilian and military aviation, as well as the history and evolution of flight. Partly set in a large hangar, there’s a variety of aircraft on display, including planes from World War II and the Cold War, as well as the F-14D Tomcat which was first commissioned in 1991 by the Navy.
Where: 14710 SW 128th St, Miami, FL 33196
6. Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum
Situated in what was once an active police station and courthouse serving the city’s Black community — until it closed in 1963 when Black officers integrated into the Miami Police Department — this museum displays historical memorabilia, artifacts, documents and stories by the men and women who worked there. There’s no other museum like it in the nation, which is why we think it’s an important stop to add to your plans.
Where: 480 NW 11th St, Miami, FL 33136
7. World Erotic Art Museum
Sure, the Wilzig Erotic Art Museum might seem rather tongue in cheek, but it aims to educate and contribute to the cultural knowledge of erotic art in history, with displays dating as far back as 300 BC. Founded by art collector Naomi Wilzig, the museum is home to a number of explicit artwork, such as a giant penis statue and a bed frame with hundreds of Kama Sutra positions carved into its surface. This goes without saying, but if you’re thinking of visiting, guests must be at least 18 years old.
Where: 1205 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139