Miami Travel Guide
Miami is a vibrant city and probably one of my favorites. I have so many fond memories of this city from the time I was four years old. We’ve been coming to Miami pretty regularly, however, much has changed since the late ‘90s. We decided to go off the beaten path this time, aside from a couple of spots. Typically, we spend the majority of our time lounging around South Beach. This specific trip, I wanted to enjoy some of the other neighborhoods in Miami and be more spontaneous. Keep reading for a guide on things to do, where to eat, places to stay and more! Also, check out my vlog on YouTube to see more from the trip.
Things to Do
South Beach
South Beach is lively with an exuberant nightlife scene that is even runs on Monday nights. Catch some rays in the morning and swim in the warm waters before freshening up for dinner. Be sure to come back around sunset/dusk for some gorgeous cotton candy skies and blue water.
Wynwood Walls
This district is so colorful and eye-catching. Wynwood Walls is a collection of street art and graffiti that I adore. The best part is that they’re open quite late for my fellow night owl friends. There are plenty of cute bakeries, coffee shops, bars and markets in the area to explore as well.
Institute of Contemporary Art
This museum looks so fun and I can’t wait to come back and check it out. Unfortunately, the museum is closed on Monday and we went to Key West on Tuesday which left little time to explore with the Thanksgiving holiday approaching. This museum has free admission and it is recommended to reserve tickets online.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Another museum with gardens to stroll around. Vizcaya is the backdrop to so many wedding and engagement photoshoots and more. As a former estate to businessman James Deering, I can see how its charm and grace inspire romance and beauty.
Coconut Grove
This is an upscale neighborhood with an abundance of shopping and restaurants to try. Coco Walk is currently under construction but should be reopened in a couple of years.
Bayside Marketplace
Another shopping experience with unique small business vendors, big brands and lively entertainment is Bayside Marketplace. The shopping is out in the open and perfect on those warm, Florida nights.
Where to Eat
Dreamer - Açai, Juice, + Matcha Bar
I have a more detailed review of Dreamer here. Healthy choices such as açai bowls, cold-presses juices, smoothies, matcha lattes, chai, coffee and avocado toast are all available here.
El Taquito
El Taquito is a small Mexican joint located in Coconut Grove. However, there are three locations around Miami. It was super delicious and I can’t wait to try more. Had I known, I would have saved some room for more food.
Versailles
This is the world’s most famous Cuban restaurant with three different models: a bakery, a casual cafe and a proper sit-down option. Each area has a variety of offerings and it pretty good.
Naked Taco at The Dream Hotel
Naked Taco is located adjacent to the Dream South Beach Hotel. It is another great taco option close to the beach and Collins Avenue. #getnaked
Lulu in the Grove
Lulu in the Grove has some fresh, organic and unique menu items that look absolutely scrumptious. A great pick for a group looking for good ambiance, cocktails and new American dining.
Places to Stay
Dream South Beach
A luxury four-star boutique hotel located in South Beach. The decor here is vibrant and there is a rooftop pool on the property.
Faena Hotel
Faena Hotel in Miami Beach is well-known for it’s golden mammoth skeleton display and five-star luxury amenities. With red accents and opulent golden elements, this hotel is luxurious yet minimal in the right places.
Kimpton Epic
Shoutout to the Kimpton family at Epic! This is a four-star luxury hotel located in downtown Miami with a fun and exciting ambiance.
W Miami
This is a five-star hotel located in the Brickell neighborhood. The W is a stylish hotel with the cutest pool overlooking the water. The decor is vibrant and has pink accents which reflect the brand so well.
1 Hotel South Beach
1 Hotel South Beach is a five-star hotel with a gorgeous rooftop pool and beach access. This is a boutique hotel with minimal accents and earthy tones.
Shopping
Urban Planet
This store has a ton of great buys at such affordable prices. They also have great fitting jeans. I honestly wish I bought more pairs because I love the one I purchased to death.
Plant the Future
This is a store that offers succulents and other plant babies. Perfect for any #plantladyisthenewcatlady
Aesop
A skincare brand from Australia with such gorgeous and apothecary-looking packaging.
Sweat Records
A record store that any music lover would love to explore.
LF
A clothing store with trendy and vintage pieces.
Kith + Kith Treats
Honestly, the sweet tooth in me is just here for the ice cream but Kith has some dope pieces and footwear. Also, the store is gorgeous and that in itself is worth checking out. It’s very different from the New York location.
I hope you enjoyed this quick guide. There’s honestly so much more that I haven’t been able to cover in this post. I am hoping to go back and give you some more travel guides based on occasion or interest. If you’re heading to Miami, do let me know what your plans are while on vacation in the comments below. I’d love to hear more suggestions and broaden this list!
xo,
Christine Celine