Landmarks are iconic structures or pivotal places that have come to represent entire cities. Miami, Florida, has more than its fair share of landmarks. Still, the number of famous buildings, parks, and statues in and around Brickell is simply staggering.

You can actually see several important buildings just by looking at the skyline. For the rest, you’ll have to get out there and explore. If you have a layover at Miami International Airport, you may have the opportunity to do just that. Situated just over 15 minutes from the airport, Brickell offers plenty of Miami landmarks to see.

Traveller's Tip: Don’t drag your luggage along as you tour the trendy neighbourhood of Brickell. Instead, find a luggage storage locker near Miami International Airport  to drop your bags before exploring.

Brickell Key

It’s amazing what sorts of things people can build. With enough ingenuity and experience, people can create entire islands. Brickell Key is precisely that – a man-made island with luxury condos, hotels, and walking paths. It’s right off the coast of Brickell, connected to the mainland by a small bridge.

Privacy and exclusivity are Brickell Key’s main draws. However, visitors can enjoy scenic views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline while walking along the island’s perimeter.

Crandon Park

If you have time on your journey from Miami airport to Brickell, then located on Key Biscayne, about 20 minutes from Brickell, Crandon Park is one of Miami’s favourite beach destinations. This park spans over 800 acres and offers not only beautiful beaches but also a golf course, tennis centre, and nature trails. From the park, you can enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby Fisher Island.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Located in Coral Gables, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is about a 25-minute drive from Brickell. It’s renowned for its vast collection of tropical plants and exhibits. Fairchild features a unique rainforest exhibit, beautiful palm trees, and a diverse collection of cycads. It also hosts art exhibitions that blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.

Freedom Tower

The Freedom Tower is one of Miami’s most significant historic landmarks. Originally built in 1925 as the headquarters for the Miami News, it later became a Cuban Refugee Centre. Now, it houses a contemporary art museum and stands as a symbol of Cuban-American heritage in Miami. Its distinctive architecture makes it a standout in the city’s skyline.

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

The Pérez Art Museum Miami, located in Museum Park in Downtown Miami, is a must-visit for lovers of contemporary and modern art. PAMM features a mix of permanent collections and rotating exhibitions, focusing on 20th and 21st-century art. The museum’s architecture and outdoor installations are attractions in their own right.

The Underline

The Underline is an innovative linear park currently under development underneath Miami’s Metrorail. When completed, it will span 10 miles and feature different sections for various activities. The park includes areas for exercise, relaxation, and children’s activities, making it a vibrant addition to Miami’s urban landscape.

Mary Brickell Village

If you're looking for a lively spot to explore in Brickell, Mary Brickell Village is an excellent choice. This open-air shopping and dining complex offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering everything from casual dining to upscale eateries.

Whether you're in the mood for Italian or Latin cuisine, you'll find something to satisfy your taste buds. The vibrant atmosphere and convenient location make Mary Brickell Village a perfect place to unwind and explore during a layover.

Venetian Pool

Located in Coral Gables, the Venetian Pool is a historic public swimming pool known for its stunning beauty. Carved from a coral rock quarry in 1923, the pool is fed by spring water and surrounded by lush landscaping and Mediterranean-style architecture. It’s a great spot to relax before heading back to the airport and wrapping up your exploration of landmarks in Miami.