The Ultimate Miami Travel Guide - That Goes Beyond Typical Tourist Spots & Info

 

Many Miami travel blogs show you South Beach and South Beach only. This Miami travel guide goes beyond that. 

At this point in my life, Miami is my second favorite city after my hometown Chicago. For me it’s not about the partying, nightlife or pretty privilege stamp of approval, it’s simply an amazing city full of opportunity, art, amazing food, and going there changed my whole life. As someone who is there frequently, at this point I know the city like a local as well as a tourist. This is what makes this travel guide stand out from other travel guides, I will be providing some great places and tips that go beyond the typical tourist spots. 

The information in this blog is based off of places I've personally frequented as well as places recommended by locals I know and off of research. Always be sure to do your own research as well while planning your stay.

How to Get There

Flying 

Your best bet to get to Miami is to fly, especially if you’re outside of Florida and outside of the United States. I’ve flown from Chicago to Miami several times via American Airlines, Southwest, and Spirit. Depending on the season, when you book your trip and where you’re flying from, you can find some pretty inexpensive prices. I’ve paid as low as around $60 (one way to and from Miami) and as high as $120 (round way). 

While it’s ideal to fly into Miami International Airport (MIA), you can also fly into Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL). While searching for flights, compare and contrast the better options and prices between MIA and FLL. Please be sure to factor in the location of your hotel/Airbnb and how long it will take and how much it will cost to get from either airport to your stay. As it will be explained in the next section, you have the option to utilize the Brightline train from Fort Lauderdale to Miami for $10-$24 depending on the day and time. 

Train

If you’re in Florida, particularly in the Central Florida area, the Brightline trains are now up and running and go as far as from Orlando to Miami. Another option for Floridians is to fly into Orlando’s airport (MCO), drive or take a train into Orlando and take the Brightline train from there to Miami. 

In the above section, I mentioned there's an option to fly into Fort Lauderdale and then go into Miami. This option was shunned by many people due to the suggested high ride share and taxi prices, but now vacationers have the option of flying into FLL and taking a Brightline train into Miami. Whatever suits you best, I'm just here to show different options. 

The new kid on the block is Amtrak. In November 2024, Amtrak’s “Floridian” goes to and from Chicago and Miami with several stops in the country including D.C., Pittsburg, and Savannah. While it’s a total of 47 hours, it’s a great alternative for those with extra time on their hands and who wish to gaze upon the views of the country. 

Bus 

Most folks probably wouldn’t think about utilizing the Greyhound to get to Miami, but as she’s a growing city this is another option. This option is especially viable for those living in Florida. Miami’s Greyhound bus stops include Downtown, Miami Beach, and Surfside. 

Driving

If you’re about that road trip life, driving to Miami is an alternative. This may be a more attractive option for people who already live in Florida or in the bordering states of Georgia and Alabama. Routes like I-95, I-75, and I-10 can be used by getting to South Florida.

When To Visit

November to April is the best time to travel for the dry season. After that, and especially during summer, you'll be met with rainy season and hurricane watch, especially during August to September.

Location: Best Areas To Stay & Visit

It’s always best to stay in the most tourist friendly areas when vacationing so you have access to tourist based locations. Ideally, you can stay in whatever area you choose in Miami and the surrounding areas based on your needs and convenience. (Remember, coming in via Fort Lauderdale’s airport or the Brightline train that has stops in Aventura and Fort Lauderdale will afford you the ability to stay in different areas) I’ve stayed in Little Haiti for one visit in an Airbnb and I was able to get to places like Wynwood fairly quickly, but if it’s your first time, stick to tourist friendly spots. Here are some great Miami areas to stay in:

Stay

Miami Beach - Contrary to popular belief, Miami Beach is not apart of the Miami mainland. It’s it’s own island and city. This is where the food and nightlife is although there is an effort to push more cultural, art and family friendly activities. If you’re a major beach bum, this is where you will want to stay to have quick and easy access to the water and waves. 

Brickell - Brickell gives major mini New York City vibes. It’s where many of the city’s wealthiest stay and play and where you can find more restaurants and nightlife. There’s plenty of fine dining, higher end stores, and other establishments, so be prepared to spend money. 

Downtown - Downtown is north of Brickell and is one of the main shopping hubs in the city. It’s not as nightclub friendly, but there are plenty of restaurants and other cultural hubs to frequent such as the Perez Art Museum, Kaseya Center where the Heat play and the Bayside Market. 

Airport Area - As quiet as it’s kept, the airport area is a great and underrated location for vacation. Unlike the airports in my hometown, ORD and MID, Miami International Airport is close to everything in Miami. 15 minutes away, tops. What I like about staying close to the airport is having access to a shuttle bus to and from one of the hotels that have this accommodation. 

Edgewater - Edgewater is just north of Downtown and south of the Design District and adjacent to Wynwood. Right on the water, hence the name, Edgewater is mainly a residential area with plentiful luxury high rises. This is an ideal location due to its proximity to tourist friendly areas as well as fine dining spots like Amara at Paraíso. 

Visit

Overtown - Formerly known as “Colored Town”, Overtown was established by Black Americans from other parts of the South and Bahamians from the Caribbean in the late 19th century. Overtown’s night life became popular in the 1940’s and 1950’s as Black acts from Cab Calloway to Josephine Baker came to perform due to segregation. Overtown still has historic gems from her past like the Historic Lyric Theater and the home of Dana Dorsey, one of the first Black American millionaires. 

Miami Design District - Just north of Wynwood is another creative enclave of Miami. The Design District is Wynwood’s fancy older sibling, a neighborhood with luxury fashion stores and boutiques from Louis Vuitton to Chanel. 

Wynwood - Wynwood is the official art district of the city. Surrounded by murals and color at every turn, Wynwood is the place to enjoy local art and of course a hub for nightlife and causal dining. Truly a hipster’s paradise. 

Little Havana - If you’re looking for a more homegrown Miami feel, Little Havana is the place for you. While there aren’t many hotels in this neighborhood and it’s more residential, your best bet will be finding an Airbnb there. There are plenty of local Cuban restaurants there and it’s close to Wynwood, Downtown and Brickell. 

Miami Gardens - Formerly called “Carol City”, Miami Gardens is the home of the Hard Rock Stadium where the Miami Dolphins football team plays as well as University of Miami’s Hurricanes football team. Besides football games, the stadium often hosts big concerts like Jazz in the Gardens and other sports events such as the Miami Open tennis tournament. After catching a game, head to get some soul food in the area. 

Coconut Grove - “The Grove” is south of the main Miami hotspots and has more of a laidback vibe. Visit for a chill day at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, The Barnacle Historic State Park, or The Kampong, National Tropical Botanical Garden. 

Greater Miami-Dade County

Venture outside of the hustle and bustle of the city and visit the surrounding cities of Miami-Dade County. This is great for people who are looking for more quiet, laid back, lowkey, nature, family and/or kid centered activities and events. 

Aventura - Aventura is a small, suburban city north of Miami. While it’s known to be a residential area, it’s also known for the famous Aventura Mall, Ancient Spanish Monastery, and Tidal Cove Waterpark. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the beaches in Miami and Miami Beach, be sure to get into the more lowkey beaches Aventura and other suburban cities have to offer. Aventura is also one stop away on the Brightline train. 

Homestead - Homestead is south of Miami and one of the last cities one would reach when driving to the Florida Keys. Hence the name, Homestead is home to agricultural spaces and it’s adjacent to the Everglades. This suburban town is ideal for those who want to escape the noise of Miami and enjoy some down home vibes. Homestead is abundant with markets and historic sites like the Historic Homestead Town Hall Museum and the Coral Castle. 

Coral Gables - Coral Gables is southwest of the city and is home to the University of Miami. This affluent suburban town has the quintessential relaxed vibe. Attractions such as the Venetian Pool and the Coral Gables Museum along with lavish restaurants and shopping make for perfectly tranquil vacay days. 

Where to Stay

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Miami has some of the most luscious hotels and homes in the world. Whether you’re looking for luxurious  5 star stay or a humble, laid back, inexpensive vibe, there are plenty of options no matter what your price range is. Here’s a list of some great hotels and a few homes and properties, some I have stayed in myself. 

Miami Beach

Freehand Miami 3-star

Fontainebleau Miami Beach 5-star 

Hotel Continental Miami Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton 3-star

The Setai Miami Beach 5-star 

The Miami Beach Edition 5-star 

The Balfour Hotel 4-star

W South Beach 5-star 

Casa Sofi 3-star

Generator Hotel 3-star

Viajero Hostels Miami 4-star

The Betsy 4-star

The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club 4-star

The One50 Hotel, BW Signature Collection 3-star

Pelican Hotel & Cafe 4-star

Cavalier South Beach Hotel 3-star

Breakwater Hotel 4-star

Airport Area 

Pullman Airport Hotel 4-star

Hilton Blue Lagoon Airport 4-star

The Miami International Airport Hotel 3-star

Regency Miami Airport by Sonesta 3-star

Embassy Suites by Hilton Miami International Airport 3-star

Executive Airport Hotel

Downtown 

Hilton Miami Downtown 4-star

Hyatt Regency Miami 4-star

YOTEL Miami 4-star

EAST Miami 5-star 

InterContinental Miami, an IHG Hotel 4-star

JW Marriott Marquis Miami 5-star

citizenM Miami Worldcenter hotel 4-star

Gale Miami Hotel and Residences 4-star

The Elser Hotel 4-star

Edgewater 

Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay 4-star

DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay 3-star

Brickell

Novotel Miami Brickell 4-star 

Mandarín Oriental, Miami 5-star

Hilton Garden Inn Miami Brickell South 3-star

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Miami Brickell 2-star

Homewood Suites by Hilton Miami Downtown/Brickell 3-star

Tru by Hilton Miami West Brickell 2-star

SLS Lux Brickell Hotel & Residences 5-star

W Míami 5-star

JW Marriott Miami 5-star

Miscellaneous 

Dunns Josephine Hotel - Overtown 

Arlo Wynwood 4-star - Wynwood 

AC Hotel Miami Wynwood 4-star - Wynwood 

Miami River Inn 3-star - Riverside

Hampton Inn by Hilton, Miami-Coconut Grove/Coral Gables - 3-star - Coconut Grove

Hyatt Regency Coral Gables 4-star - Coral Gables

The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables 4-star - Coral Gables

The Biscayne Hotel 2-star - Little River (Upper Eastside)

Havana Inn Hotel 2-star - Little Haiti 

Toscano Systems INB/Blue House Miami 3-star - North Bay Village

The St. Regis Ba Harbour Resort 5-star - Bal Harbour, Miami Beach

Springhill Suites Miami Downtown/Medical Center 3-star - Downtown

Where to Eat 

Like the different stay options, there are also many options for good eats. Miami has some of the best food I’ve ever tasted. It’s a shame that people are so focused on partying and even clout chasing that there’s rarely any mention on how good the food is. Miami’s cuisine can compete with the best of them from the USA. From the more opulent locations to local mom and pop shops, there are plenty of great options to eat at while in Miami. 

Luxury, Upscale & Fine Dining

Sexy Fish - Brickell 

Kiki On the River - Downtown

Seaspice Brasserie & Lounge - Downtown 

Amara at Paraiso - Edgewater  

Rusty Pelican - Virginia Key 

Casa Madera - Wynwood

La Mar - Brickell

Le Jardinier - Art District 

ConSentido Miami - Brickell

NAOE - Brickell 

American (Burgers, BBQ, etc) 

Flanigan’s - multiple locations 

Crazy About You - Brickell

Fat Man Hotdogs & More - Liberty City

Michael’s Genuine - Miami Design District 

Morgan’s Restaurant - Allapattah

The Henry - Brickell

iBurger - Edgewater 

La Sandwicherie - Brickell, Miami Beach, Wynwood

Orange Blossom - Miami Beach

Soul Food

Lil Greenhouse Grill - Overtown

Eloise & Earnestine Soul Food - Brownsville 

Jackson's Soul Food - Overtown 

World Famous House of Mac - Wynwood 

We Shuckin’ - Miami Gardens

Red Rooster - Overtown 

Grandma’s Kitchen - Coconut Creek 

Theo’s - Liberty City

Sunday’s Eatery - Miami Garden

MLK (My Little Kitchen) - Liberty City 

Sweets 

L’Artisane Bakery & Bistro - Coral Gables

Rosetta Bakery - multiple locations 

Icy-N-Spicy - Miami Beach

The Salty - Wynwood

Louk & Bee Doughpuffs - Wynwood 

dbakers Sweet Studio - Midtown, South Miami

Skoops - Bayside Marketplace

RivaReno Gelato - Brickell 

Sweet Manifesto - Wynwood

Crepes and Waffles Bar - Wynwood 

Azúcar Ice Cream - Little Havana 

Markets/Food Courts

Julia & Henry’s - Downtown

Seafood

Casablanca on The Bay - Edgewater 

Seaspice - Downtown

Joe’s Stone Crab - Miami Beach

Luke’s Lobster - Brickell

KLAW Miami - Edgewater

Cvi.Che 105 - multiple locations 

European 

Santorini by Georgios Greek Restaurant - Miami Beach

Cuckoo Clock Brauhaus Miami - Little Haití 

Tapelia - Miami Beach

Brasserie Laurel - Downtown

Doya - Wynwood

Españolita Miami - Miami Beach

Fritz & Franz Bierhaus - Coral Gables

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon - Design District 

The Drexel - Miami Beach

Nostimo Greek Kitchen - Wynwood 

Latin American

Coyo Taco - Wynwood

Versailles Restaurant Cuban Cuisine - Little Havana 

Old Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina - Little Havana 

Sanguich Little Havana - Little Havana 

Club Típico Dominicano - Allapattah

Yarumba - Miami Gardens

Fritanga Caña Brava - Little Havana

El Bajarenque - Wynwood

Rincón Escondido Tapas & Restaurant - Edgewater 

Steakhouse

El Toro Loco Churrascaria Steakhouse - Little Havana 

COTE Miami - Design District

Smith & Wollensky - South Beach

Lafayette Miami - Brickell 

New Camp Argentino Steakhouse - Miami Beach 

Queen Miami Beach - Miami Beach

Vegan & Vegetarian 

Planta - South Beach

Plantisserie - El Portal

Vegan Cuban Cuisine - Sunset

Love Life Cafe - Wynwood

SoBe Vegan - South Beach

The Vegan Marie - Little Haiti

I Stronga Vegan Cafe - North Miami

L’Artisane Bakery & Bistro - Coral Gables

Asian & Sushi

Negroni - Midtown

Moshi Moshi - South Beach, Brickell, Biscayne 

Hutong Miami - Brickell 

Komodo Miami - Brickell

Mimo Market - Brickell

Wok to Walk - Miami Beach, Dolphin Mall

Yip Dumpling - Wynwood, Doral 

Brunch & Breakfast

Morgan’s Restaurant - Wynwood

Little Hen - Design District

Mayami - Wynwood

Morgan’s Restaurant - Allapattah

Café Americano - Miami Beach

Café Bastille - Downtown

11th Street Diner - Miami Beach

Bistro Cafe - Wynwood 

Cafes, Coffee, & Tea 

Raccoon Coffee & Kitchen - Brickell, Design District

Pure Vida Miami - multiple locations 

Rosetta Bakery - multiple locations 

El Sitio Coffee Bar - Downtown

How To Get Around