A Week to See Miami! It’s just enough time to truly appreciate the different sides to Magic City! The team at Offbeat Miami takes you to all the places you can’t afford to miss. Put on your sandals, pack the sunscreen, let’s go!
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Day 1 : Miami Beach
Miami Beach is what you came here for! Start by cycling down the beach, taking one (or more) stops in front of the Art Deco facades on Ocean Drive until you reach South Pointe Park. Here you will have a view of Fisher Island, the harbor, and the Downtown and Brickell buildings. Chill out after your trip in the clear waters of Miami Beach.
In the late afternoon, head to Monty’s Sunset for a magnificent view as the sun goes down. At nightfall, walk up Ocean Drive and marvel at its colorful lights. Feel like dancing? Stop at Mango’s Tropical Café for an evening of Latin rhythms in a totally unique backdrop!
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Day 2 : Coconut Grove
Credit Photo : miamiandbeaches.com
On your second day, get away from the hustle and bustle of Miami Beach and return to Miami’s roots in Coconut Grove. Start with a visit to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and its beautiful park. This Italian Renaissance-inspired residence holds many treasures and it’s innovative features will inspire you. From the differently styled gardens, you’ll have a wonderful view of Biscayne Bay.
Move closer to the center of the neighborhood for lunch on the terrace in one of the many cafés. Then go and explore the historic center in this former artists’ neighborhood. You’ll also see the oldest houses in the area. Don’t forget to wander the residential streets and their houses covered in exotic plants!
Day 3 : Wynwood and Design District
After the historic areas of South Beach and Coconut Grove, it’s time to make the most of the ultra-modern Design District. Architecture, haute-couture, all forms of art, immaculate streets… this district is set to impress! Just a block North, the former village of Buenavista is the cutest! Take a walk through its streets and admire the Spanish Renaissance architecture.
Then pass by neighboring Wynwood, the Street Art area of Miami. Relish the hipster atmosphere, murals, colors, originality and oddities around every street corner! Take a break at the coolest breweries, bars and restaurants in town. Don’t be scared of getting yourself lost in this neighborhood where art is king!
Day 4 : the Everglades
It’s hard not to think about The Everglades when you say “Miami.” This large and beautiful National Park is located in the west of the city and can be reached in a number of ways. The northern part is the busiest and can be explored by bicycle or tramway from Shark Valley, accessible by car from the city.
Of course, you can’t miss out on a ride on the famous airboats or hydrofoils. The thrill of mother nature awaits you!
Finally, for a more sporty take on the area, go down the road south to the Ernest Coe Visitor Center. From there, you’ll depart on a one-day road trip to the tip of mainland Florida, through the different ecosystems of the Park. Take a kayak tour, a bike ride, or stop at the various viewpoints along the way and don’t forget to walk along the wooden pontoons in search of alligators!
Day 5 : Biscayne Bay or the Keys
Miami is a seaside city, so a boat trip is a must. There are many different routes to take. To explore the Biscayne Bay National Park, you can take a boat to Homestead, south of Miami, where you get to the paradise island of Boca Chita Key (warning – the mosquitoes are everywhere in the summer). Do you prefer the ocean floor? Then go down a little further to Key Largo, the first island on the Keys archipelago. From there, you can embark on a diving trip, with or without tanks, or on a cruise by glass-bottomed boat over the coral reef in the John Pennekamp State Park. Boca Chita Key
Day 6 : Fairchild Botanic Garden and Coral Gables
Credit Photo : theelementsofliving.com
South of Miami on the border of Coconut Grove and Coral Gables is the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden. This huge park is home to the most incredible species. Stroll under the shade of the palm grove, watch the butterflies in the greenhouse, soak up the zen-like vibe of the waterfalls and the beautiful orchids and walk around the lakes. You’ll see turtles, and with any luck, crocodiles!
Keeping with the tropical theme and for a nice change before returning to Miami, explore the streets of Coral Gables and the incredible French, Chinese, Dutch style villas of George Merrick. Imagine you’re a celebrity by stopping off at the superb Biltmore Hotel and dive into the natural waters of their Venetian Pool. You’re sure to be whisked away to another land!
Day 7 : Crandon Park, shopping and Little Havana
It’s already the end of the week and we’re going to have to finish on a high note! Go dancing to the sound of salsa in Little Havana on Calle Ocho. Watch locals play dominoes, visit a cigar factory and stroll along the lively sidewalks of this neighborhood. Start with a good Cuban meal and a strong coffee to make the most of this last day! For a little after lunch nap, top up on your tan at the paradise beach of Crandon Park in Key Biscayne. Sit under the shade of a palm tree for a lazy break or dip your feet in the water on the sandbank of North Beach. With its view of Miami Beach you can soak up the last tropical colors and warmth of Miami! Suitcase almost packed? So you’ll have time for a last dinner in front of the Miami skyline at the Rusty Pelican in Virginia Key then. One last chance to appreciate this immensity and the lights of Magic City! Credit Photo : StevenBrookeStudios
Visit Miami with a local guide!
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