Fancy parties, drinking, tanning, Latin food everywhere. That's what comes to mind when people think of Miami. But where should you start? First of all: don't get stuck in the South Beach touristy party scene. If you really want to go where the locals hang out, keep reading.
South Florida in general is one distinct area that has the best of both worlds. On one side you have the wild and fancy parties and on the other you have complete relaxation by the beach. This, among other things, makes it a hot destination for tourists not only in the United States but all around the world.
There's so many recommendations out there that it's understandable you get overwhelmed easily. We break it down in three areas you must visit in Miami.
Wynwood area
One of the most happening districts. What we love about Wynwood is that there's a little bit of everything. There's places with club-like vibes, breweries with chill music perfect to hang out and still be able to have a conversation, really good restaurants, and overall pretty much everything is artsy. This is an area where you don't need a car. Your Uber can drop you off and you can walk and wander freely. If you do have a car, there's plenty of street parking (except if you go in the late afternoon when the masses arrive). Even though it's the cool place for the young crowd, people of all ages can enjoy Wynwood. Even kids! We've seen a lot of families walking around in the early hours of the afternoon enjoying a refreshing ice cream -or beer- and taking pictures with the murals and graffiti that are all over this district. Keep in mind there's a lot of businesses in Wynwood and plenty of hidden gems, but we know you want a small list to start so here it is!
Club-like places with music, drinks that usually become a party scene: Racket, The Dirty Rabbit, El Patio, The Deck, Astra.
Breweries tend to have live DJs and usually have a small food menu or food trucks. Our favs are: Veza Sur, J Wakefield Brewing, Wynwood Brewing Company.
For delicious food: Wynwood Kitchen & Bar, 1-800-Lucky, Panther Coffee, The Salty Donut, Cielito Artisan Pops.
For more info click here.
Miami Design District
Innovative fashion, modern architecture, terrific art displays, out of this world dining experiences. That's what you'll find at the Miami Design District. This open-space pedestrian-friendly district also features upscale interior design stores and art galleries. But most of all, as you walk around you'll realize that you're surrounded by luxury fashion and jewelry boutiques. And of course let's not forget the top of the line cars.
You've most likely seen pics of the Fly's Eye Dome, designed by inventor Buckminster Fuller. Make sure you go and admire that beauty! It really is a beautiful work of art. You might also see the Miami Symphony Orchestra play live! Led by Music Director and Conductor, Eduardo Marturet, they usually have outdoor concerts at the Palm Court (at least pre-pandemic, hopefully they're back soon). If you're still a bit lost, see below a few places we recommend.
Food: Michael's Cuisine, OTL, Swan Miami, La Duree, Le Jardinier, and the very famous Night Owl Cookies now have a location there.
Shopping: All the luxury brands you can think of are here. We're talking Armani, Versace, Dior, Miu Miu, Givenchy, etc. Just explore!
For more up to date info click here.
Downtown Coral Gables, Miracle Mile area
Similar to Wynwood, Downtown Coral Gables has it all. It features high quality shops, art galleries, salons and spas, theaters, and plenty of restaurants. If you're ever in the "what do you want to eat?" dilemma just head there and you'll 100% find something great. This pedestrian-friendly neighborhood has over 350 merchants that span across 19 blocks. So make sure you wear comfy shoes so you get to walk around and discover beautiful boutiques and your new shopping destinations. Oh and don't miss Books & Books. It's like the "cool" library, they even host events and it has a great cafe right outside.
What also makes this a lovely area are the art displays that are usually held at Giralda Plaza. You've probably even seen pics of them on your Insta feed! T
Arts & culture: Actor's Playhouse at the Miracle Theater, H Benitez Fine Art Gallery, Coral Gables Museum.
Restaurants & bars: Bulla Gastrobar, Copper 29 Bar, Salumeria 104, Calista Greek Seafood Taverna, Morelia Ice Cream.
Fun under the sun: Venetian Pool.
For more up to date info click here.
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