The Magic City, as Miami is known, pulsates with a vibe unlike any other place. The fusion of cultures, the sparkling ocean washing onto the beaches, and the astronomical array of things to do, see, taste, and explore are all calling your name. Book your tickets and get down to one of the most visited cities in all of the Sunshine State. Here’s a quick guide of what you shouldn’t miss!
Check out the Art Deco District
One thing you will likely recognize about Miami immediately is the amazing Art Deco style. Bike rentals make it easier and breezier to explore though you can always wander around by foot and see the many architectural landmarks from the 1920s. Make it more in depth by joining a narrated tour
if you choose!
Snap selfies in Wynwood
Rewind 20 years ago and Wynwood was merely a deserted district of warehouses with a few galleries. After a much-needed renaissance, this area is brimming with galleries and cafes, along with plenty of street art to serve as your Instagram selfie backdrops.
Spend the day on the beaches
Especially if you’re coming from somewhere cold and dreary, Miami’s plentiful beaches are the place to go during your visit. Soak up the sun, grab tropical cocktails at any of the bars, or get out on the open water with watersports or a charter boat tour. There’s nothing like catching a photo of that Miami skyline from a boat!
Dance your cares away
They may say New York is the city that never sleeps, but neither does Miami. Get ready to party all night at the hottest clubs like LIV or Story where you may just wind up dancing among the famous. If you’d prefer a more subdued evening though, there are plenty of other little bars and hotspots tucked all around Miami that may be more your speed.
Don’t miss the Everglades
There is nothing like the Everglades anywhere else on Earth, so head off the beaten path to that River of Grass, as Marjory Stoneman Douglas so famously wrote. The boardwalks provide a way to explore without walking through the swamplands with the gators though an airboat ride will surely be the coolest way to see it all.
Cool off in the Venetian Pool
Your hotel will likely have a sweet pool area to enjoy, but the Venetian Pool is an iconic spot from 1923. Once a coral rock quarry, it is a gorgeous place to swim and explore the grottos. Plan on arriving early because they limit capacity and once it’s full, you’re out of luck!
Do some shopping under the sun
You can shop in a mall anytime, but in Miami, you can shop outdoors in a variety of fantastic locations. There’s the Lincoln Road Mall in South Beach, Bayside for a more touristy experience, Bal Harbour for the ultimate in luxury, or the unparalleled Design District for something more unique.
Find a quiet place
Because Miami tends to come on strong and overload your senses, if you need an escape, head to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. These soothing Japanese-style gardens often have yoga sessions though there are always quiet spaces that will help you channel your inner calmness.
Step into the past at Vizcaya
This former estate of James Deering has opulent décor and some of the most splendid gardens in the entire Miami area. It’s an amazing landmark and museum that will help you check off a bit of history during your stay.
Go to Joe’s
You’ll have no shortage of amazing restaurants to dine at while in Miami, but if you have to choose just one, make it Joe’s Stone Crab. It’s been a legend for over 100 years. When visiting between October and May, otherwise known as ‘stone crab season,’ make sure you get a taste of these delectable claws and you’ll be hooked. Also, save room for the key lime pie, another iconic menu item that sets the bar for the state’s treasured pie.
Sample some Cuban food too
You can’t come to Miami and not taste true Cuban food. Versailles is one that never fails, however, for a lesser known option, Islas Canarias is the place to go!
Get a historic drink
Since 1926, Mac’s Club Deuce has been serving up drinks to Miamians and visitors alike. It’s the oldest bar in Miami, so let that be the reason you come for a Bloody Mary by morning and stay through the night. It’s casual so no need to dress up, and best of all, it features happy hour daily from 8am to 5pm with 2-4-1 drinks.
See it all without sore feet
Miami is so chock full of things to do and see, it’s impossible to do it all on a short trip. Even for longer spans, you’ll have to pick and choose from all the beaches, galleries, museums, landmarks, outdoor activities, restaurants, and bars. The Duck Tours give you an amphibious ride around by land and sea, complete with narration that will give you a chance to explore much more while you put your feet up and relax.
Stay somewhere nice
It’s not like you get to visit Miami every day, right? The Eden Roc is worth the splurge with 4 pools to luxuriate in, along with a spa and access to watersports. If it’s out of your budget, you can still reserve activities here and live your mostly best life. The Standard is a bit more affordable though incredibly luxurious. Plus, it’s got Hammam baths and Finnish saunas at its spa. For around the same rates as The Standard, you can stay where Frank Sinatra himself did ages ago at The Fontainebleau.
There’s plenty more magic to be had in Miami, so get there and enjoy your time in the sun!