Escape the City: Miami, FL

The hot, city streets of Miami most often conjure images of neon-bathed nightclubs, flashy sports cars, and rum-based drinks served in hollowed fruits. In truth, if this South Beach scene is what you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed throughout a long weekend stay. But those interested in getaways that feature more culture and less sunbathing will be pleasantly surprised by all that Miami has to offer!

 

ACTIVITIES

It turns out, Miami is famed for far more than its glamorous after hours spots – it is a thriving metropolis for artists. The Wynwood district, just a short Uber ride away from downtown, is home to a cluster of exhibition spaces, totalling over 70 galleries, museums and collections. When there, be sure to check out Wynwood Walls – an oasis for fans of urban graffiti art that rotates out larger-than-life pieces and murals by local artists. Did we mention it’s totally free?

On the subject of art, we suggest you avoid the mob of tourists around Bayside all together; but definitely spend an hour or two at the newly renovated Pérez Art Museum!

Another great place to walk around is Little Havana, where a large number of Cuban immigrants live and work. Watch the old men play dominos and cards in the aptly named Domino Park; or grab an ice cream cone from the Azucar Ice Cream Company and stroll along Calle Ocho, a popular landmark in the area. Right by these two venues is Ball and Chain, a historic, open-air bar and restaurant that plays live music daily.

With its pristine (and free) white beaches, South Beach is not a spot to miss. Be sure to set aside at least an hour or two of your trip to walk along the shoreline with flip flops in hand! There are plenty of festivals and events that happen here every year, and are worth a separate trip in and of themselves. But for a leisurely weekend getaway, we highly suggest you explore the bright pastels and stunning architecture around the Art Deco District and soak up some of that SoBe sun!

FOOD

For a low key night out, make the trek north to the Lagniappe House with your girlfriends, significant other, or large group. We promise, it will be worth it! Snuggle up onto a mismatched couch inside this cute wine bar to listen to the live band playing, or head out back and grab a garden in chair. The winding layout of this hidden patio is surprisingly huge and crammed with shabby chic furnishings. The best part? A plate of grilled mahi mahi, salmon, or churrasco, and DIY meat and cheese plates you can create yourself with goodies from their stock refrigerator!

For some seriously delicious late-night Asian fusion, check out The Gang. Find a table or grab a seat at their bar, which is totally constructed out of shiny, new washing machines. The service is admirable, and the food is both fantastic and reasonably priced. Greatest hits included a mouthwatering tuna tartar, creative and addictive green tea crab rangoon, and crispy honey duck leg.

Like Philly, Miami continues to churn out an impressive number of new eateries each season. We’re dying to hit up CVI.CHE 105, PB station, and Bachour Bakery & Bistro. When planning your trip, be sure to make reservations at some of the new spots highlighted by Eater Miami!

 

LODGING

Depending on the season, Miami can be way less populated than one might imagine. If you’re going to visit after Labor Day / before Memorial Day, you might opt for a room at one of the hotels right in the heart of the action. For a 5-star hotel stay, opt for the Hotel South Beach with beachfront views (and, if that’s not enough, four swimming pools); an upscale spa retreat at the Mandarin Oriental in Brickell Key; or the EPIC Hotel high-rise downtown.

Book a room that’s uber affordable at The Clay Hotel in Espanola Way, The Mutiny Hotel in Coconut Grove, or the YVE Hotel Miami Downtown. Or, if you’d rather try the Airbnb route, know that the city doesn’t skimp on public transportation. The Metromover is a monorail that runs from 5 a.m. until midnight, and will take you where you need to get around the downtown area totally free. Traversing an even greater region, the Metrorail from Kendall through South Miami, and the Metrobus operates over 95 different routes, 365 days a year.

 

If you’ve been to in Miami, be sure to share your recommendations on where to eat, sleep, and stay in the comments!