Miami Vacation Guide
The first priority of a Miami vacation is sun and sand. Thankfully, there’s plenty of it, along with tall glasses of fruity rum cocktails and a thriving nightlife. I’ve lived in Miami for over 35 years. I can tell you that the beaches and clubs are only the tip of what the city has to offer. From high-end shopping to fine dining, and from museums to animal reserves, this is a diverse and multi-cultural place. There’s truly something for everyone to do in the Magic City. I’ve put together a comprehensive list—this is everything you need to know for a fabulous Miami vacation. Be sure to scroll down to the end for packing must-haves!
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Where to Stay in Miami
Miami hotels are just as spectacular as its beaches. The Shelborne hotel was originally built in 1940 and designed by Art Deco architects Igor Polevitsky and Thomas Triplett Russel. It was the epitome of classic South Beach opulence and glamour throughout the 1960s. Today, you can still enjoy spirited pool parties while spotting celebrity guests. The Art Deco pool is perfect for a relaxed South Beach vibe. The amazing Oasis Garden offers gorgeous moon-watching events.
Other iconic hotels to consider are 1 Hotel South Beach, Faena Hotel Miami Beach, Mandarin Oriental Miami, The Setai Miami Beach, and the world-famous Fontainebleau.
What to Do in Miami
If you want to immerse yourself in the cultural side of Miami, there are plenty of exhibits to choose from. Visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), The Bass, the Frost Science Museum or the Instagrammable experience Womanish.
Explore mind-blowing street art at Wynwood Walls for a fresh take on the art scene.
Architecture enthusiasts would love a walking tour of South Beach’s Art Deco District.
If shopping is more your speed, stroll through an array of luxury stores in the Miami Design District, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops or Brickell City Centre.
Finally, if you need some more family-friendly activities, check out Zoo Miami, Venetian Pool, Miami Seaquarium, or Jungle Island.
Where to Dine in Miami
Enjoy a diverse culinary scene with places like award-winning sushi restaurant, Uchi, in the Wynwood district.
The Lincoln Eatery is a modern Miami Beach food hall with a selection of 13 unique global concepts.
Mamey, boasts exotic island flavors by James Beard nominee Chef Niven Patel, inside the THēsis Hotel.
Asian flavors meet American barbecue at EST. 33 Thai Craft Brewery & Kitchen, at Brickell City Centre.
And OLA Miami, short for “Of Latin America,” has helped define the modern Latin food scene at The Gates Hotel South Beach.
Have you visited Miami? Tell us about it! Are there any cities you’d like me to write about in a future blog post? Please share in the comments below! Need more travel destination inspiration? Check out our picks for the 10 best foodie travel destinations in the US here. Plus, more of my travel posts here.
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