A Local’s Guide to Miami

Venetian Pool

Fed by spring water from an underground aquifer, this unique aquatic facility is one of a kind. The pool features two waterfalls and a cave-like grotto that are refilled daily.

Tip: You can rent lounge chairs for the day and their is a concession stand on site.

South Beach

Known for its glamorous night spots, art deco hotels, and celebrity chef eateries, South Beach is an exciting place for all looking for fun in the sun.

Monkey Jungle

Unlike a traditional zoo, Monkey Jungle focuses on natural behaviors in natural environments. If you like to learn about primates and wildlife, this is a must-see.

Rooftop Cinema Club South Beach

Enjoy the ultimate open-air cinema experience with stunning views of the city’s skyline.

Tip: You must be 18 years or older to enter.

Little Havana

Lively Miami district is one of the world’s most famous enclaves where you can experience the best of Latino and Cuban-American culture.

Viscaya Museum and Gardens

One of the most elaborate European gardens in the United States originally built as a winter retreat, this lavish villa is a tribute to Italian Renaissance.

Tip: This is a perfect spot for beautiful photos due to the lush, scenic gardens and incredible architecture.

Miami Design District

A neighborhood dedicated to innovative fashion, design, architecture, and dining experiences. Full of vibrant street art and diverse clientele, this is a perfect spot to walk around, shop, people watch, and spend an afternoon.

Cruisin’ Tiki Miami

Offers a variety of cruises including Celebrity Homes, Miami River, City Lights, and Sunset Cruises. Small personal tours to take in the South Florida scenery by boat.

Day Trips:

Orlando

Orlando is a 3.5-4.5 hour drive away from Miami (depending on traffic). Orlando, located in central Florida, is a city known for its theme parks, entertainment options, and family-friendly attractions. Visit Disney World and Universal Studios for a kid-friendly fun adventure.

Versailles

A favorite of locals, the iconic and authentic Cuban restaurant serves traditional fare in a roomy, vintage dining room full of chandeliers. Versailles has been a Miami staple for over 50 years.

Recommendation: Try their famous Cuban sandwich and Churrasco Special, which includes skirt steak, plantains, rice, and homemade chimichurri sauce.

Tip: Versailles is open late until midnight everyday and 1:00am on Saturdays. They do not take reservations.

Monty’s Raw Bar

Scenic bayside hangout with raw bar, drinks, live music, and weeknight happy hour. Casual vibe with indoor and outdoor seating.

Recommendation: Try the fresh seafood at the raw bar, which is delivered daily from Florida Keys fisherman.

Recommendation: The frozen drinks include the Miami Vice, Rum Runner, and Pina Colada.

Tip: Make sure to get your ticket validated for complimentary up to 3 hours in lot 72.

Gisele Miami

With panoramic views in the heart of downtown Miami, Giselle is an elevated dining experience blending Asian, Mediterranean, and French-inspired cuisine. Upon arrival, guests are transported in a private elevator up to the main entrance of the indoor-outdoor restaurant that features a fully retractable roof.

Tip: Valet parking is available directly in front of the restaurant for $20.

Naked Farmer

Farm-to-table locally sourced seasonal cooking with a heavy emphasis on the fresh vegetables that are harvested daily.

Tip: A must-visit for vegans, vegetarians, and meat eaters alike.

Happea’s

Casual eatery focusing on health-conscious meals, coffee, and smoothies. Light fare perfect for a quick Mediterranean lunch of locally sourced ingredients.

Yardbird

With accolades from James Beard and Bon Appétit, Yardbird pays tribute to crave-able American classics for brunch, lunch, and dinner. They have a large collection of Bourbons and Bourbon Cocktails.

Recommendation: Try the world-famous fried chicken that was voted the Best Fried Chicken in the United States by Southern Living Magazine.

Tip: They offer a basic kids menu that includes a scoop of ice cream for dessert.

Fratellino Ristorante

Warm and friendly restaurant offering traditional Italian fare including vegetarian and gluten-free options. This narrow and cozy restaurant features additional outdoor seating and great ambiance.

Tip: Fratellino was named Top Restaurant in Florida by yelp, so reservations are definitely recommended.

Bayshore Club Bar and Grill

Stunning waterfront with a travel vacation theme, this restaurant was voted Best Waterfront Bar by the Miami New Times. There is a casual vibe with a varied menu that includes fresh seafood.

Tip: Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time on OpenTable.