Discover Miami - Sunshine, Culture, and Coastal Chic

Day 1: Art Deco Dreams & Ocean Drive Glamour

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Start your Miami Beach adventure with a classic breakfast at News Cafe (800 Ocean Dr) or Front Porch Cafe (1418 Ocean Dr) for oceanfront views and people-watching. Expect to spend $30-$50 for two. Afterward, dive into the iconic architecture with a self-guided or official Art Deco Walking Tour. The Art Deco Welcome Center (1001 Ocean Dr) offers daily guided tours at 10:30 AM, lasting about 90 minutes. Tickets are approximately $30 per person ($60 for two). You’ll walk about 1-2 miles through the Historic District, admiring pastel-hued buildings and learning about the distinct architectural styles. Practical Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and bring water – Miami sun can be intense!
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 6:00 PM) After the tour, grab a casual lunch. Consider the retro charm of the 11th Street Diner (1065 Washington Ave), a renovated 1948 stainless steel diner, for American comfort food (approx. $40-$50 for two). Post-lunch, immerse yourself in South Beach’s famous sands at Lummus Park Beach (between 5th and 15th Streets along Ocean Drive). Spend a couple of hours swimming, sunbathing, or simply people-watching. In the late afternoon, explore Lincoln Road Mall (Lincoln Rd between Washington Ave & Alton Rd), an outdoor pedestrian mall offering a mix of shops, galleries, and cafes. It’s about a 15-20 minute walk from Lummus Park, or a short ride on the free South Beach Local Trolley.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Catch a breathtaking sunset with cocktails at a rooftop bar like The Betsy Rooftop (1440 Ocean Dr) for elegant views (cocktails typically $18-25 each, budget ~$50-70 for a round). For dinner, indulge in a vibrant South Beach experience. Larios on the Beach (820 Ocean Dr) offers authentic Cuban cuisine in a lively setting with live music, or try Dolce Italian (1690 Collins Ave) for excellent Italian fare in a chic atmosphere. Budget $120-$180 for dinner for two. After dinner, stroll along Ocean Drive to experience its illuminated Art Deco splendor and soak in the buzzing nightlife. For a fun, energetic experience, walk past Mango’s Tropical Cafe (900 Ocean Dr) to catch the street performances, or find a quieter spot for a nightcap.

Day 2: Cuban Rhythms & Wynwood Wonders

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your day with breakfast at a charming spot on Española Way (between Washington Ave & Drexel Ave), like A La Folie Cafe for French pastries and coffee (approx. $30-$40 for two). Explore this historic pedestrian street with its Mediterranean Revival architecture and quaint shops. Around 10:30 AM, take an Uber/Lyft (approx. $15-20, 20-30 min ride) to Little Havana. Immerse yourself in Cuban culture along Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street). Watch cigars being hand-rolled at Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co. (1528 SW 8th St), sip on a strong Cuban coffee at a ventanita (walk-up window), and observe intense domino games at Maximo Gomez Park (1501 SW 15th Ave), affectionately known as Domino Park.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:30 PM) For an authentic Cuban lunch, head to the legendary Versailles Restaurant (3301 SW 8th St) for hearty portions of classic dishes like Vaca Frita or a traditional Cuban sandwich (approx. $40-$50 for two). After soaking in the Little Havana vibes, take another Uber/Lyft (approx. $10-15, 15-20 min ride) to the Wynwood Arts District. Spend a couple of hours marveling at the vibrant street art at the Wynwood Walls (2516 NW 2nd Ave). Admission is typically $12 per person ($24 for two). Afterward, explore the surrounding streets, which are essentially an open-air gallery, filled with unique murals, art galleries, boutiques, and breweries.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Wynwood offers a fantastic array of trendy dining options. For dinner, consider Bakan (2801 NW 2nd Ave) for delicious modern Mexican cuisine, or KYU Miami (251 NW 25th St) for Asian-inspired wood-fired dishes. Budget $100-$150 for two. After dinner, grab a craft beer at a local brewery like Wynwood Brewing Company (565 NW 24th St) or enjoy cocktails at a stylish bar like Gramps (176 NW 24th St). Budget $40-$60 for drinks. Take an Uber/Lyft back to South Beach (approx. $20, 20-30 min ride).

Day 3: Beach Bliss & Fond Farewells

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Enjoy a leisurely morning. If you’re an early riser, catch a stunning sunrise over the Atlantic from South Beach. For brunch, indulge at a chic spot like Nikki Beach Miami (1 Ocean Dr) for a lively atmosphere, or The Palace Bar (1200 Ocean Dr) for drag brunch entertainment (check schedule). Expect to spend $80-$100 for two. After brunch, perhaps enjoy one last dip in the ocean or take a relaxing stroll along the boardwalk. This is also a good time for any last-minute souvenir shopping around Ocean Drive or Lincoln Road Mall.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Depending on your flight schedule, you have a few options for the afternoon. For a touch of culture, visit The Bass Museum of Art (2100 Collins Ave), focusing on international contemporary art, just a short walk from many South Beach hotels. Admission is around $15 per person ($30 for two). Alternatively, simply relax by your hotel pool, enjoy a final walk through a favorite area, or revisit a charming cafe for a coffee and dessert (budget ~$20). Allow ample time to head back to your accommodation, pack up, and prepare for departure.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Depending on your flight time, you might grab a light, casual dinner before heading to the airport. Consider a quick bite at a place like My Ceviche (multiple locations) for fresh seafood. Hail an Uber/Lyft to Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). The ride to MIA is approximately $35-50 and takes 30-45 minutes, while FLL is $50-65 and takes 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Practical Tip: Confirm your airport transfer well in advance, especially during peak hours.

Day 1: Wynwood’s Vibrant Canvas

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive at Miami International Airport (MIA). Take an Uber/Lyft to your accommodation (estimated cost: $25-35, 20-30 min drive depending on traffic). Check in and drop off your bags.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Head to the Wynwood Arts District. Start your exploration at the iconic Wynwood Walls (entrance fee: ~$12-15 per person, ~$24-30 for two), an outdoor museum of street art. Afterwards, wander through the surrounding streets to discover more murals, galleries, and unique boutiques. Grab a casual lunch at one of the many food trucks or cafes in the area.
  • Practical Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen. Many areas are free to explore, but the official Wynwood Walls exhibit has an admission fee.
  • Distance/Cost: Uber/Lyft from Midtown/Downtown to Wynwood: ~$8-12 (10-15 min drive). Lunch: ~$30-40 for two.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Enjoy dinner in Wynwood. The district boasts a diverse culinary scene from casual to upscale. After dinner, consider a leisurely stroll to admire the illuminated art or grab a drink at a local bar.
  • Dining Recommendation: Bakan (Mexican, vibrant atmosphere, delicious tacos and margaritas).
  • Cost: Dinner at Bakan: ~$70-100 for two (excluding excessive drinks). Uber/Lyft back to hotel: ~$8-12.

Day 2: Little Havana’s Heartbeat & Downtown Views

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Immerse yourselves in the vibrant Cuban culture of Little Havana. Begin with a traditional Cuban coffee (cafecito) and a pastry from a “ventanita” at Versailles Restaurant. Stroll along Calle Ocho, watch master cigar rollers, listen to live music, and observe locals playing dominoes at Maximo Gomez Park (Domino Park). Don’t miss a scoop of exotic ice cream from Azucar Ice Cream Company.
  • Practical Tips: Bring cash for small purchases and tips. Most of the experience is free, but enjoy supporting local businesses.
  • Distance/Cost: Uber/Lyft from hotel to Little Havana: ~$10-15 (15-20 min drive). Coffee/Pastries: ~$10-15 for two. Ice cream: ~$10-12 for two.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Head to Downtown Miami and the Brickell financial district. Explore Bayside Marketplace, a lively open-air complex offering shops, restaurants, and scenic views of Biscayne Bay. Consider a short, casual boat tour from Bayside if you wish (optional, ~$30-40 per person). Alternatively, take a free ride on the elevated Metromover to explore parts of Downtown and Brickell.
  • Practical Tips: The Metromover is an excellent, free way to get around Downtown and Brickell.
  • Distance/Cost: Uber/Lyft from Little Havana to Bayside: ~$8-12 (10-15 min). Lunch at Bayside (casual): ~$30-40 for two.
• Evening (7:00 PM onwards) Dine in the modern Brickell neighborhood, known for its sophisticated eateries. Afterwards, enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar for stunning panoramic views of the city skyline.
  • Dining Recommendation: Crazy About You (Mediterranean, beautiful waterfront views, good value).
  • Cost: Dinner at Crazy About You: ~$80-120 for two. Rooftop drinks (e.g., Area 31 or Sugar, one drink each): ~$30-50 for two. Uber/Lyft back to hotel: ~$8-12.

Day 3: South Beach Glamour & Coastal Charm

• Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Journey to iconic South Beach. Embark on a self-guided walking tour of the Art Deco Historic District, marveling at the pastel-colored buildings along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue. The Art Deco Welcome Center offers maps and information.
  • Practical Tips: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential. Guided Art Deco tours are available (approx. $30-40 pp) if you prefer more in-depth commentary.
  • Distance/Cost: Uber/Lyft from hotel to South Beach: ~$15-20 (20-30 min drive, depending on traffic). Self-guided tour is free.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Indulge in classic Miami beach time! Relax on the famous white sands of South Beach, take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, or stroll along the boardwalk. Afterwards, head to Lincoln Road Mall, a pedestrian-only outdoor mall, for window shopping and a casual lunch.
  • Practical Tips: Beach chair/umbrella rentals are available but can be pricey (~$20-30 per item); consider bringing your own towel.
  • Cost: Lunch on Lincoln Road (e.g., Havana 1957 for Cuban fare): ~$30-40 for two.
• Evening (7:00 PM onwards) Experience the vibrant dining scene on Española Way, a charming pedestrian street reminiscent of a Spanish village. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and soak in the lively atmosphere.
  • Dining Recommendation: Tapas y Tintos (Spanish tapas and paella, often with live flamenco music).
  • Cost: Dinner at Tapas y Tintos: ~$80-110 for two. Uber/Lyft back to hotel: ~$15-20.

Day 4: Everglades Echoes & Design District Chic

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Embark on a thrilling half-day adventure to Everglades National Park. It’s recommended to rent a car for the day for convenience (estimated rental cost: ~$50-80, plus gas ~$10-15). Take an exhilarating airboat tour at Everglades Alligator Farm or Everglades Safari Park to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat (airboat tour + show: ~$30-40 per person, ~$60-80 for two).
  • Practical Tips: Book your airboat tour in advance. Wear insect repellent, a hat, and sunscreen.
  • Distance/Cost: Drive from Miami to Everglades: ~45-60 min each way. Total estimated for car + activity: ~$120-175 for two.
• Afternoon (2:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Drive back from the Everglades and head to the Miami Design District. This upscale neighborhood is a hub for luxury fashion, cutting-edge art installations, and design showrooms. Explore the unique architecture and public art, such as the Fly’s Eye Dome. Visit the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA Miami), which offers free admission. Grab a light late lunch or snack here.
  • Practical Tips: Parking in the Design District can be pricey (~$10-20 for garage).
  • Cost: Lunch/Snack: ~$30-40 for two.
• Evening (7:00 PM onwards) Enjoy a sophisticated dinner in the Design District or nearby Midtown.
  • Dining Recommendation: Mandolin Aegean Bistro (charming outdoor setting, excellent Greek and Turkish cuisine).
  • Cost: Dinner at Mandolin Aegean Bistro: ~$100-150 for two. Uber/Lyft back to hotel (if rental car returned): ~$8-12.

Day 5: Key Biscayne’s Tranquil Shores & Departure

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Escape to the serene island of Key Biscayne. Visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park (park entrance fee: ~$8 per vehicle). Climb the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the Miami skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. Afterwards, relax on the tranquil, less crowded beaches.
  • Practical Tips: Lighthouse tours have specific operating hours; check in advance. Bring beach essentials.
  • Distance/Cost: Uber/Lyft from hotel to Key Biscayne: ~$15-20 (20-30 min drive).
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:00 PM) Enjoy a final leisurely lunch on Key Biscayne at a casual spot or head towards Coconut Grove, a charming neighborhood close to the airport, for your last Miami meal. Return to your hotel to collect luggage.
  • Dining Recommendation: The Golden Hog Market & Deli (Key Biscayne) for gourmet sandwiches or GreenStreet Cafe (Coconut Grove) for a lively outdoor dining experience.
  • Cost: Lunch: ~$30-40 for two.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Take an Uber/Lyft to Miami International Airport (MIA) for your departure.
  • Cost: Uber/Lyft to MIA: ~$25-35.