When you think of Miami you probably think – of beaches and nightlife. I mean I wouldn’t blame you if you did because we have some of the best beaches and when it comes to nightlife we definitely know how to turn up also. But there is so much more to Miami than meets the eye! It turns out the path less traveled can present hidden gems, and experiences of a lifetime that aren’t just your typical Miami beaches and pool parties. Take a look on the other side of the velvet rope and learn about the Miami experiences you have been missing out on! One thing’s for sure – you WILL NOT be disappointed.
Hidden Culinary Delights
What’s a trip to Miami without a food journey? The city is such a melting pot of cultures, people from around the world come here, live here—and of course, eat here—giving Miami one of the most diverse—and tasty—palates of any city in the US. That’s something you need to celebrate, and celebrate you will. While you’re hitting up the old, reliable ones –Joe’s Stone Crab, since 1913, and Versailles to name a few — you should be taking your taste buds on a wild trip to a safari…of flavor.
If you don’t already have plans, maybe skip breakfast, and head straight east to Little Havana. There are dozens of establishments here waiting for you to order a cortadito and guava pastry, or a cool bar to sit at—the historic Ball & Chain—and drink with live entertainment and a dancefloor
The Miami Design District is home to some of the most amazing restaurants in Miami. Head over to Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, Mandolin Aegean Bistro, and more where sinful, scrumptious bites —many of them meant to be poured over a little before you consume—are right at home.
Cultural and Historical Tours
There’s more to Miami than nightclubs – take a handful of guided tours and it’s easy to gain insight into the city’s storied past and multicultural present. The best of these tours includes an outing through the streets of Little Havana, the city’s center of Cuban culture. See cigar factories big and small, then find out about the artists painting murals throughout the primary cultural district.
For a more in-depth look at local history, step inside the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens as well. This grand estate was constructed during the early 20th century and then modeled after European architecture. Not only does it provide an answer to the question of what Miami was like during the Gilded Age, but the grounds are still among the best maintained in town.
Head on over to Coconut Grove to visit Barnacle State Park. The highlight of this urban park is the original 1891 house but the space is also one of the oldest pieces of property in the area. Considering the sprawling size of the park, it’s also one of the best places in the city to enjoy a picnic that’s set to the soundtrack of rustling trees and nearby Biscayne Bay.
Unique Shopping Experiences
In Miami – shopping is a sport that you can win big while you are here! There are few good places where you can perfect the art of shopping. Find a few hot spots to train those shopping muscles from Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami where you can shop all day. Also be sure to check out the shopping at Lincoln Road Mall in South Beach with great shops, sidewalk cafes, and street performers that all add to the Miami flavor!
If shopping is your escape, spend time at Brickell City Centre for all the luxury brands and boutique shopping. For more off-the-beaten-path shopping opportunities, there are many Miami markets like… Wynwood Marketplace, Miami Flea, and so much more.
Exploring Miami’s Art and Culture Scene
Miami’s art scene is pretty much elevated more or less by the world-building of geniuses and visionaries. The modern and historic legends of the art world alike have each pruriently contributed to propelling Miami’s artistic skyline among one of the most colorful on the globe. A glimpse at the streets-turned-museum spectacle known as Wynwood Walls, with its vast, stunning murals from some of the most well-known street artists to ever live is all the proof anyone needs. Get out and you may very well feel as though you are exploring an open-air gallery of avant-garde art exhibits. Quite literally a live, loud, and romancing love letter to the earth of street art.
Miami has more to offer than just beaches. Miami’s hidden gems are endless fun things to do outside of the borders of long beaches! From vibrant art, culinary dining, outdoor adventure, and local fun, there is always something to do and you’ll love doing all of them. Do one or all when you’re in Miami. There is a lot out there… just ask around! Have FUN on your exploration!
