Miami is one of the best places to visit when you want tropical vibes without breaking the bank. This south Florida city has a special type of energy and vibrancy. With sun, beaches and some of the best restaurants and clubs, its no wonder Miami is one of the top vacation destinations in the US.
Miami is a mix of city and beach, culture and nightlife, old and new. It’s a city that perfectly melds natures with glitz and glam. This complete travel guide covers the hippest hotels, tastiest restaurants and the best things to do in Miami.
If you’re interested in the best Instagram spots in Miami, check out my guide here.
When to visit
Miami is a great destination year round. It’s location at the southern tip of Florida means consistent tropical weather and warm temperates. However, there are some months that are best to visit Miami.
Miami is a popular spring break destination, which occurs around March and April. Expect heavy crowds and high hotel prices during this time. The holiday season, especially New Years, is another busy time when prices skyrocket.
Another thing to keep in mind is the weather. Summer is less popular, but the heat and humidity can be intense. Summer through autumn is also hurricane season. You’re likely to find good prices, but your trip could get impacted by storms.
Breaking down Miami’s tourist neighborhoods
Miami encompasses a large area. There’s so much going on, it can be hard to get a lay of the land. It’s important to understand how the city is laid out to determine the best area to base yourself.
Miami Beach– This is an island where much of the action is. The south end of the island is called South Beach, and this is what most people envision when they imagine Miami. Here you’ll find the glitziest hotels, restaurants and nightclubs. This is also where the famed art deco district is located.
Wynwood– This hipster neighborhood is the Brooklyn of Miami. It’s not on the beach but is still a big tourist destination due to its street art and Instagramable murals.
Little Havana– Miami’s famed Cuban neighborhood is a foodie’s dream. It’s filled with culture and Miami Cubans take great pride in this area. It’s also home to the famous Calle Ocho strip.
Design District– This fashionable area is home to some of the city’s best designer stores.
How to get around Miami
Miami is a very walkable city. Especially if you’re staying in South Beach, most of what you want to see and do will be nearby. If you need to go farther than walking will allow, public transportation and ride shares are available. I typically use Uber when I travel and have used it around Miami successfully. If you’re interested in the more cost effective public transportation, you can find information here.
Miami also offers a free citywide trolley service. The trolley won’t get you everywhere, but it could help. More info on the loops it makes can be found here. Renting a car is another option. I personally love to have a car when I travel so I can come and go as I please. If you do rent, watch out for hotel parking fees. I’ve seen prices as high as $60 to park a car overnight at a hotel!
Miami’s best hotels
There’s so many different areas to explore in Miami, but I think it’s best to base yourself in South Beach. This area has the highest concentration of activities and it’s very walkable. It’s also on the beach!
Recommended South Beach hotels
1 Hotel South Beach– If you’re looking for eco-friendly luxury, this is your place. 1 Hotel boasts the only water facing rooftop in Miami and it offers guests complimentary beach cruiser rentals, cocktail classes and guided meditation on the beach.
The Setai– This hotel is a five star experience. The Asian inspired suites and amenities are ultra luxe. The private pool area is an oasis in Miami and a celeb hot spot.
Delano– This is an iconic Miami hotel. It’s an Art Deco gem with modern white rooms and a bopping pool scene.
Recommended hotels outside of South Beach
Fontainebleau Hotel– This is an iconic hotel situated in Miami Beach, just north of South Beach. The Fontainebleau opened in 1954 and is prominent in Hollywood history- it was a favorite hangout of Frank Sinatra and The Rat Pack. Now, it’s known for its parties and DJs and is home to one of the biggest clubs in the city, LIV.
Faena– This is where you’ll find the Instagram famous gilded Woolly Mammoth. Faena is located north of South Beach and it’s a glamorous hotel with crimson and gold accents.
Miami’s best restaurants
The food in Miami is a major highlight! The city is a true melting pot with residents coming from all over the world, and that diversity is represented in its cuisine. The great thing about Miami is you can find all types of restaurants. From historic seafood restaurants, to trendy bars to hole in the wall sandwich shops, there are so many culinary experiences to be had in Miami.
Joe’s Stone Crab– This is a Miami institution. Joe’s serves some of the best, and freshest, stone crab you’ll find. The restaurant closes out of stone crab season, so ensure it’s open before you visit.
Alter– Located in the hip Wynwood neighborhood, this restaurant features an ecclectic tasting menu and a robust wine list.
Versailles Restaurant– Hands down the most famous Cuban restaurant in Miami. Versailles has been open for over 40 years and is located in the heart of Miami’s Cuban neighborhood.
Zak the Baker– One of the top bakeries in Miami. You’ll find his bread on the table at most restaurants in Miami, and you can visit his shop for pastries and a full menu.
Best things to do in Miami
Explore the Art Deco Historic District– Miami has the nation’s largest concentration of Art Deco architecture, with over 800 buildings. Many of the buildings can be found along Collins Ave, Ocean Drive and Washington Ave. Spend an afternoon admiring the architecture with a guided walking tour led by the Miami Design Preservation League. You can also visit the Art Deco Museum to learn about the cultural heritage of Miami Beach.
See Street Art in Wynwood– Wynwood is an eclectic neighborhood known for its street art and galleries. Spent a day exploring this colorful area and don’t miss Wynwood Walls, an outdoor graffiti museum.
Go Clubbing– Miami has a booming nightlife scene. You’ll find something from everyone, from dance clubs to chic cocktail lounges. Even if clubbing isn’t normally your thing, plan to go to one for the Miami experience. Some of the most popular clubs are:
LIV– The quintessential nightclub in Miami. Located in the iconic Fontainebleau Hotel, LIV is a huge 22,000 square foot dance club that consistently ranks among the best in the world. A rotating list of top DJs and musicians host special events.
The Blind Barber– Speakeasy housed in the Nautilus Hotel. This space is more intimate and has a nicer Art Deco design than your typical club. You’ll also find a more elevated cocktail list here.
E11even– This is another massive nightclub with a lot going on. You’re likely to find acrobats, aerial performers and rappers here. While E11even consistently ranks among the top nightlife spots in Miami, be mindful that there is also a strip club component here.
Lounge on the Beach– Miami is known for its beaches, and for good reason. Miami beaches are pristine with fine white sand and bright turquoise water. All beaches in Miami are open to the public, but most hotels offer beach service and will set up lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests. If you’re looking to beach hop this guide to the different Miami beaches and their vibes will determine the best one for you.
Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens– This is a beautiful European inspired villa and garden that was once the home of businessman James Deering. The 50-acre estate was built in 1914 and includes an Italian renaissance garden, native woods and a historic village outbuildings compound. Visitors can tour the home and gardens.
Drive to The Keys– The Florida Keys archipelago is located just south of Miami. While I recommend spending at least four nights in The Florida Keys, a visit to the northern keys, Key Largo and Islamorada, is doable. Check out my full travel guide to The Florida Keys here.
Shop– Miami is home to some fabulous shopping. If you’re a fan of designer fashions I recommend visiting the beautiful Bal Harbour Shops. Lincoln Road is another outdoor shopping destination in Miami that’s full of boutiques, large stores and restaurants.
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