3 Days in the 305: A Weekend in Miami

A leisurely morning

Start your day early with a delicious breakfast at Rosetta Bakery. Enjoy freshly baked pastries, Italian-style coffee and a variety of savory options to fuel up for the day.

Head to South Beach for a leisurely morning walk along the iconic shoreline. The early hours are perfect for a peaceful experience, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Immerse yourself in the history and architecture of Miami Beach with an Art Deco walking tour. You'll explore the vibrant pastel-colored buildings that define this district, learning about their history and the people who shaped this unique style.

Picnic at the beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on South Beach. Either pack a delicious Publix sandwich (known as a "Pub Sub") or grab a sandwich from La Sandwicherie to enjoy a picnic by the ocean. Soak up the sun, swim in the warm waters and unwind. Don’t forget to bring lots of water and cold drinks. Many underestimate the heat of the Miami sun, especially near the ocean.

Go for an early dinner at Joe’s Stone Crab. It is worth the wait, but there is also Joe’s Takeaway next door if you’re not interested in a formal dinner.

Morning drive to the Everglades

Rent a car and set out early for a day trip to the Everglades National Park. On your way, make a stop at Robert Is Here, a local favorite for fresh smoothies and incredible produce. You can also pick up some snacks for the road.

Once you arrive, explore the Everglades by walking the trails. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including alligators, birds and other native species in this unique ecosystem. Gumbo Limbo and Anhinga trails are my two favorites. You can also drive to Flamingo and rent kayaks, but I would only recommend this in the cooler months. For more adventurous travelers, look into airboat tours with Gator Park. These tours depart from Alligator Alley, so you will miss Robert is Here and some of my favorite boardwalk trails. No matter where you go, please don’t forget your bug spray.

Lunch in the Grove

After your adventure, drive back toward Miami and stop for lunch in Coconut Grove. This charming neighborhood is filled with great dining options, from casual cafes to upscale eateries. Greenstreets Cafe is a longtime favorite for locals and visitors alike. Their menu is huge and their service is reliable. Harry’s Pizzeria has some of my favorite pizzas in the city, as well as my favorite salads. Chef Michael Schwartz is a local treasure.

Walk through the Grove and explore the shops like our favorite local bookseller, Books & Books. Grab an espresso flight and a bag of beans at Panther Coffee.

The complex that holds the Perez and the Science Museum is stunning. If you have any energy left, watch the sunset from the Perez Art Museum before heading back to the beach. Grab a falafel from Safron and rest up for your last day.

Breakfast in Callee Ocho

Start your day with a traditional Cuban breakfast at Versailles, one of Miami’s most famous Cuban restaurants. Enjoy a café con leche and some classic Cuban pastries. I would personally sell my soul for their empanadas.

After breakfast, dive into Miami’s Cuban culture with a visit to Little Havana. Walk down Calle Ocho, visit local markets, watch cigars being rolled and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. I would even recommend taking a walking tour of the area to get the full experience.

An afternoon with the artists

In the afternoon, head over to Wynwood to explore the vibrant street art at the Wynwood Walls. The area is filled with colorful murals, galleries and trendy shops, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll. I think there is a ton to see here, but it is a bit crowded and touristy for my taste.

Head northeast for a stroll through the high-end shops and contemporary architecture of the Design District. Eat dinner at Michael’s Genuine, the recently updated restaurant by Michael Schwartz. We have been patrons for many years and they never disappoint. If you can manage to snag a highly-coveted reservation, I would also recommend the Michelin-starred Boia De.

End your weekend with a bottle of wine at Lagniappe. This outdoor oasis is a dreamy patio with string lights and live Jazz. Pick out some charcuterie and relax after a long three days.