Things to do at/near Miami Airport during 5 hr layover?

We've got a 5 hour layover at MIA next week on our flight out to the Caribbean (get in around 10am, leave 3pm) and are trying to figure out what to do. Is there shopping nearby, potentially a grocery store as well (We are staying in a condo so could stock up on things to carry on-board).



If we stay in the terminal, anything interesting to do? Things to do at/near Miami Airport during 5 hr layover?
I know from experience the MIA airport. It's a rather large airport %26amp; since you're flying to the Caribbean, I assume that you will be in the International portion as I was. There are shops there, including a store that sells things for under $20 ( I don't remember the name). Not far from there is a Cuban restaurant which was fairly good. The are fast food places like Dukin Donuts, Burger King, etc. There isn't a grocery store inside, however there are the airport markets. The nearest grocery store is probably a 10-15min drive out. I would recommend staying in the airport rather than venturing out, as to make sure that you make your flight on time. Things to do at/near Miami Airport during 5 hr layover?
The airport is in a part of town that is either hotel-corporate park type area or "gee, this a scary part of town" area. Find a cab driver that will charge you by the hour or rent a car for the day. Traffic is too bad for words to describe even when there is no construction in the area, and there is always construction in the area. You probably will have just enough time to go grocery shopping and maybe squeeze in a quick, non-airport meal.



On the plus side, the MIA terminal is a great place for people watching. Things to do at/near Miami Airport during 5 hr layover?
With Miami traffic, five hours is not long enough for you to actually leave the airport, do your shopping, then come back and go through security again. Best advice is to browse the duty-free shops, get a cup of coffee, and watch the people. There are a couple of Cuban restaurants in the airport; if you've never had Cuban food, give them a try.