Being one of the most sought-after holiday destinations across the globe, Miami truly needs no introduction. It is world-famous for its sunny beaches, lively beach parties, delectable food and extravagant shopping scenes. No wonder it features in the bucket list of almost every traveller owing to its vibrant culture. 

We recently got to experience this glamorous paradise and we are already making plans for our next trip because you can never have enough of Miami’s blue skies, culinary delights and laid-back vibes. Trust us.

Here’s how you can spend your time in Miami if you are planning a trip there soon.

THINGS TO DO:

• It would be no less than a crime if you began your vacation in Miami with anything else other than the iconic Miami Beach. Unarguably, it is the best place to soak up some sun and just relax in the lazy vibes of the beach. South Beach is renowned as the most popular section of Miami Beach that you can find thronged with tourists almost any time of the year. 

• Check out the Art Deco district in the Ocean Drive area and explore the architecture of the beautifully restored buildings of the 1930s era. The historic district has more than 800 buildings in shades of baby blue, pale greens and pastel pinks next to each other making for a great backdrop for clicking pictures.

• Reserve the day for visiting the most unusual public park in the USA sprawled over 1.5 million acres of sub-tropical jungles, saw-grass prairies and swamps. Everglades National Park is a short drive from Miami and plays host to an extensive range of exotic wildlife species that you cannot find anyplace else. From different species of snakes and crocodiles to alligators and a whole host of birds, the park is any wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true. There are boardwalks and walking trails to enhance your wildlife viewing experience. However, the best option would be a high-speed airboat which offers phenomenal views taking the tourists deep into streams and marshes. Some of the rare species that you can spot here include the Florida Panther, the American Crocodile and the West Indian Manatee. Kayak, canoe or enjoy an overnight camp to revel in the adventure this national park has to offer. 

• Bayfront Park is a popular tourist spot in Miami known for holding concerts and serve as a centre for holiday celebrations. The palm-tree studded park is beautiful and offers ample opportunities to enjoy a leisurely stroll by the water. It is also home to several monuments and important memorials including the World War II Memorial.

• Your visit to Miami stands incomplete if you don’t visit the historical 50-acre Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Its stunning architecture, grounds and artwork have been known to lure tourists for many years. The well-manicured gardens and the European-style mansion are known to host many weddings, galas and other entertainment events. 

• If you want to immerse yourself in the Cuban cultural atmosphere, don’t forget to visit Little Havana which is the Cuban heart of Miami. With its round-the-clock thumping Latin music drifting through the streets to its speciality shops and open-air social areas, this place is truly magical.

WHERE TO EAT:

Havana 1957

From traditional Cuban breakfasts to staples like vaca frita and pollo a la plancha, the uber-classy restaurant Havana 1957 indulges the foodie inside you like no other. Situated at South Beach, the throwback restaurant combines the finesse of 1950s Havana with the traditional Cuban cuisine to put its customers into a food coma. 

Nexxt Café

Located at Lincoln Road, one of the most prime locations of Miami, Nexxt Café is local’s go-to restaurant for its award-winning cocktails, wholesome portions of food and scenic vistas. While you are here dig into their Thai Coconut Lime Chicken and Grilled Baby Back Ribs to treat your palate. 

Versailles

More famous than its namesake in France, Versailles is a massive Cuban restaurant that has fans all over the world. Grab their hot Cuban coffee and toasted Cuban sandwich and you’ll find yourself delightfully nodding in agreement. Also, don’t miss Versailles adjacent bakery selling key lime pies and mini flans that make you go weak in your knees.

WHERE TO STAY:

Freehand Miami

If you are looking for pocket-friendly options, fares at this chic hostel/hotel start as low as £24 for a dorm. Private rooms start at around £100. Freehand Miami has a big courtyard, a communal space, a famous bar and a pool to splash in. It’s a great option if you are looking to meet like-minded folks who are as enthusiastic about socialising as you are.

YVE Hotel Miami

If you want to be in the centre of things but not pay premium prices for it, YVE Hotel Miami is your best bet. Located by the Bayside Marketplace and Bayfront Park, the rooms here start around £130. The best part of this smart hotel is that it’s only a short drive from South Beach and, being a high-rise hotel offers breathtaking vistas.

WHERE TO SHOP:

Lincoln Road

Designed in the 1950s by one of Miami’s most famed architects, Morris Lapidus, Lincoln Road is any shopper’s paradise. It is dotted with restaurants, shops, high-end boutiques and venues for art and culture. From Swarovski and Guess to Armani, there is hardly any brand here that you won’t find here.

Miami Design District

This ergonomic design district of Miami appeals to anyone who is even remotely fascinated with fashion and all things trendy. Top designers and decorators have stores here in open-air shopping complexes such as Paradise Plaza and Palm Court. If you don’t have the budget to shop, don’t worry as you can check out the free museums and galleries that are cropping up in the neighbourhood.

Brickell City Centre

If you are looking to buy electronic gadgets, this is the place. Once only known as the financial centre of Miami, Brickell has off-late become known for its shopping areas, luxury hotels and high-rise condos. So, you can shop and also refuel yourself when the hunger pangs strike.

TRAVEL TIPS:

• You’d be soaking up a lot of sun on your Miami vacation. Your sunscreen will be your best friend. Carry loads of it.

• Traffic rush gets the worst on major highways between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Plan your commutes keeping this in mind.

• Parking fares are expensive near famous spots like Brickell, South Beach and Wynwood. A good option would be to find the nearest parking lot and pay a flat fee for the entire day instead of street parking by the hour which is way costlier.

• Unlike other cities in the US, you cannot carry around an open container of alcohol in public places in Miami. It is best to not walk around with a beer in your hand unless you want to get caught by a Miami police officer.

Now that you know all the good things Miami has in store for you, we hope you enjoy your trip thoroughly. Happy vacationing!

Share your experiences with us by leaving a comment below. Also, do check our travel guide of New Orleans.