“If Miami hasn’t got it, they haven’t invented it yet.” – Miami Vice
Last year my husband and I travelled to New York City for March break and though we enjoyed ourselves and made some wonderful memories, it was freezing and there was actually a blizzard. We made a note to ourselves that if we were to travel again in March, it had to be some place guaranteed to be warm. We ventured to Miami with another couple on the recommendation of my husband’s cousin. A frequent Miami traveller, he was able to give us great advice on where to stay and what to do. Miami wasn’t entirely a tough sell, though. My husband and I are big Miami Vice fans and loved the idea of visiting Crockett and Tubb’s home turf. Overall, we really enjoyed our trip. We got the weather we wished for, and easily fell in love with the city’s architecture and aesthetic.
Where to sleep.
We were recommended by multiple people to stay on Miami Beach above 15th St., which was perfect for us. We were actually in Miami during spring break, and it got pretty crazy the more south you got, which isn’t really our scene. The hotel we chose fit both our budget and taste. The Gale (1690 Collins Ave.) had a classic art deco vibe, and our room was spacious with a large terrace.
What to do.
By far, our favourite Miami activity (besides eating and drinking) was spending time at the beach. We would take quiet strolls at night, and spent a day soaking up the much missed and needed sun. Wynwood Walls is a cool hipster area on the mainland with murals on every wall and building. It’s like Eastern Market on steroids. Another highlight was Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, which is a stunning European style mansion that was built between 1914-16. We also enjoyed The Bass, a small contemporary art museum on Miami Beach. Walking down Ocean Drive and checking out all the art deco buildings is also not to be missed.
Where to eat & drink.
Before we left, almost everyone told us Miami was expensive. They were not wrong. Some of the drinks are as pricey as $25, but you can get better deals during Happy Hour. You could easily spend a night wandering from hotel to hotel to find the bar or restaurant you like best. Listed below are some of our favourite places we ate and drank on Miami Beach:
Employees Only | Casual and elegant prohibition style bar | 1030 Washington Avenue
The Broken Shaker | Super hipster tiki cocktail bar | 2727 Indian Creek Dr
Pane & Vino | Classic, fresh, and delicious Italian with amazing service | 1450 Washington Ave.
Byblos | Mediterranean small plates |1545 Collins Ave.
Sushi Garage | Delicious and innovative Japanese fare | 1784 West Ave.
Stay tuned for more Miami posts featuring Miami Beach’s art deco style, Wynwood Walls, Vizcaya, and The Bass!
