The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need

Disclaimer: this post may contain affiliate links, which at no cost to you I may earn a small commission.

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need

Miami is one of those places where I will never get tired of visiting. Whether you want to spend your time in the sun, trying out new cuisine, or taking in the Art Deco Architecture, there is something for everyone in Miami. I have been returning every year and I always find something new to do that I have to share. Here is my Miami Travel Guide with tips on this fun city.

Where to Stay in Miami

To start this Miami travel guide, ill be breaking down the best places to stay in Miami. This city is not just confined to South Beach. There is a beach called Mid Beach where a lot of beachfront properties are located, as well as Brickell and Downtown Miami.

Each area has its pros and cons. It’s best to know what you plan on doing in Miami so you can better choose a neighborhood.

Miami Neighborhoods:

South Beach & Mid Beach: If going to the beach is your #1 reason to visit Miami, then it’s best you stay on South Beach or Mid Beach.

You’ll be within walking distance to the beach and have your ocean as your front yard. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops in this area as well.

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need | Top Things to do in Miami | Dana Berez Travel Guide

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need | Top Things to do in Miami | Dana Berez Travel Guide

Brickell & Downtown Miami: These neighborhoods are mostly new development high-rises located in the downtown area.

Most of the hotels have a lot more space to work with adding in modern buildings and larger space for amenities with amazing views. However, if you plan on going to the beach, expect to be in a car/ Uber for 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Related: 18 Best Hotels in Miami for Every Budget

Betsy Hotel:

I have stayed all over Miami, and the Betsy Hotel is situated in the perfect location right on South Beach in a 1940ā€™s Georgian Revival building.

This boutique upscale hotel offers a comfortable yet luxury experience and has a different vibe from what the other hotels have to offer on South Beach.

Art and literature is an essential part of the design of the hotel. There even is a writing room where writers and creatives have stayed.

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need | Top Things to do in Miami | Dana Berez Travel Guide

Youā€™ll have plenty of space to explore with a rooftop pool and garden, a courtyard pool, library space, a spa, and of course beachfront views.

There are even two beautiful dogs, Betsy and Katie there to greet you. If you are looking for a place to truly relax in the perfect location in Miami, the Betsy Hotel is for you.

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need | Top Things to do in Miami | Dana Berez Travel Guide

How to Get Around Miami

The best way to get around is by using Uber or Lyft. Parking near the beach is hard to come by and expect to pay $35+ a night parking in downtown Miami.

Being car-free will allow you to walk around and explore.

Renting a bike for the day is another fun way to get around. There is a beautiful bike path along the beachfront where you can take in the Art Deco views and many palms.

You can rent the bikes through the CitiBike stations, or find a rental company near the beach.

When to Visit Miami

If you are headed to Miami in the Summer, don’t be startled when the weather app says thunderstorm every day. While it probably will rain during the wet summer months, it usually lasts just an hour and it passes by.

But that doesn’t mean the humidity will leave. That’s why it’s usually better to visit Miami during the fall to spring months to avoid the dense sticky heat.

However, since summertime is technically low season, there definitely will be better deals on flights and accommodation.

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need | Top Things to do in Miami | Dana Berez Travel Guide

What to Do in Miami

Miami Beaches

Obviously, when coming to Miami, you are coming to the beach. Miami has a beautiful white sand stretch of clear waters and the iconic Miami lifeguard stands.

South Beach is a lively fun beach filled with amazing people watching.

If you are looking for a more quiet beach, I would head more north towards the mid beach.

The northern beaches have dedicated seating to hotel guests, but chairs & cabanas are available to rent for about $25.

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need | Top Things to do in Miami | Dana Berez Travel Guide

TIP: Plan your beach days ahead. Bring your supply of water and snacks, as there hardly is food directly on the beach.

Great takeaway beach grub is Le Sandwicherie, located two blocks from the beach. They have awesome (huge) sandwiches and fresh juices perfect for a sunny day.

Wynwood Art District

If you love street art, then this is a must! Wynwood is a grungy yet cool neighborhood just outside of Miami Beach that has incredible street art murals.

While there is a dedicated area for the murals inside of “Wynwood Walls” the art extends past a couple of blocks in each direction. Be sure to look down a the where the art extends to the sidewalks!

Another reason why I love this neighborhood so much is their number of neat restaurants and fun grungy hip bars to check out!

If you want a quick bite defiantly head to Coyo Taco, a fast-casual spot with amazing tacos.

Vizcaya Museum

Architecture and history fans listen up. There are a 1920’s Italian villa and estate owned by James Deering that you can tour right in Miami. The architecture and gardens of Vizcaya are incredible, but the story behind this mansion is what intrigues me most.

James Deering loved to throw parties and the architecture reflects the many guest rooms that he had. He even had a secret door to his room that leads to one special guest room that always remains a mystery.

His story reminds me so much of the Great Gatsby, it’s worth a visit.

Where to Eat in Miami:

Cecconi’s: Cecconi’s is one of my favorite restaurants for a special night out in Miami.

Youā€™ll dine under the stars in this open-aired restaurant with a romantic ambiance where the cuisine tastes just as good as the restaurant looks.

Time Out Market: Time Out Market Miami is a brand new food & beverage market that originated in Lisbon, Portugal. Itā€™s a great way to sample the best of Miamiā€™s cuisine all in one location.

Whatever cuisine youā€™re craving there will be something inside for you. Also, take advantage of the large open space for seating. 

Chotto Matte: I experienced Chotto Matte first in London, and was thrilled this Asian fusion cuisine was coming to Miami Beach.

Located in a stunning space on Lincoln Road, Chotto Matte offers a unique menu and a chic ambiance.

EspaƱola Way: EspaƱola Way is a historic street lined with palm trees and twinkle lights offering different options of bars and restaurants.

Havana 1957 is a must for classic mojitos and popular Cuban cuisine. Another great spot is Boteco Copacabana for Brazilian meats and seafood. 

Where to Drink in Miami:

Juvia: Take in all the views of Miami Beach at Juvia, a rooftop Japanese-Peruvian Restaurant located on Lincoln Road.

You can opt to dine or you can come for the delicious cocktails. Be sure to come in for happy hour for cocktail and food specials!

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need | Top Things to do in Miami | Dana Berez Travel Guide

Broken Shaker: With locations popping up over the US, including Chicago & New York, the Broken Shaker is known for its promising cocktail program.

Grab a cocktail in the open-aired garden for a fun night out in Miami.

Bodega: One of my favorite places in Miami for Happy Hour!

This classic spot has an awesome happy hour with drink specials & $2 tacos. However, Bodega is probably most known for its popular late-night bar scene.

Related: Miami to Key West Road Trip: Fun 5 Day Itinerary

18 Best Hotels in Miami for Every Budget

 

Hope you enjoyed this Miami Travel Guide! Save it to your pin boards for reference.

 

*Disclaimer this post was in partnership with Visit Miami. All opinions are my own.

Miami Travel Guide | Top Things to do in Miami 2020
Miami Travel Guide | Top Things to do in Miami 2020

One Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *