Miami City Guide

Miami pulse radiates from South Beach, where the world-famous Art Deco Historic District showcases neon-lit charm and pastel architecture. Visitors flock to the white sands along Ocean Drive to soak in the Atlantic breeze before exploring the curated boutiques and outdoor cafes that define the area's glamorous identity.

Beyond the shoreline, the city creative soul thrives in Wynwood, an open-air museum where massive murals by global artists transform warehouse walls into vibrant canvases. For a taste of authentic heritage, Little Havana offers a sensory journey through Calle Ocho, complete with the aroma of Cuban coffee, the sound of dominoes clacking in Máximo Gómez Park, and soulful live salsa music.

To experience historic elegance, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offers a stunning Italian Renaissance-style estate overlooking Biscayne Bay. This tranquil retreat, with its elaborate formal gardens and antique-filled rooms, provides a sophisticated contrast to the high-octane energy found in the city’s bustling downtown core and luxury shopping districts.

While South Beach captures the headlines, locals find their rhythm in spaces that celebrate Miami’s unique geography and urban evolution. The Underline is a primary example, transforming the land beneath the Metrorail into a lush urban trail and public art space. It is a favorite for morning jogs or evening strolls away from the coastal wind.

For an evening that feels worlds away from the velvet ropes of the nightclubs, Lagniappe offers a backyard party vibe in the heart of Midtown. This New Orleans-style wine house invites guests to select their own bottles and cheese plates to enjoy under string lights while listening to live jazz. It is the definitive spot for a relaxed, authentic Miami night.

Further south, Stiltsville remains a captivating mystery rising from the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay. These historic wooden houses, perched on stilts above the turquoise sea, are best viewed by boat and offer a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Miami’s bohemian past.

Navigating Miami is a mix of scenic walks and efficient transit systems. The Metrorail provides a direct link from Miami International Airport to Downtown, while the Metromover offers a free, elevated loop through the city’s urban core, including Brickell and the Arts & Entertainment District. For a more local feel, the free Miami Trolley serves popular neighborhoods like Wynwood and Little Havana, though most visitors rely on Uber or Lyft for door-to-door convenience, especially when crossing the causeways to South Beach.

Ridesharing is ubiquitous and often the fastest way to travel between disparate neighborhoods. While South Beach is highly walkable once you arrive, the rest of the city is quite spread out. For those looking for luxury and speed, the Brightline high-speed rail connects Downtown Miami to northern destinations like Aventura and Fort Lauderdale. Taxis remain a steady option at major hotels and transit hubs, often offering fixed rates for specific zones.

Budgeting for transportation is straightforward. A Metrorail fare from the airport to Downtown is $2.25. Rideshare services from the airport to South Beach typically cost between $25 and $40 depending on the time of day, while a traditional taxi offers a flat rate of approximately $35 to the same area. Local rides within the city center usually range from $10 to $20, making it an accessible city to explore regardless of your preferred pace.

Miami offers a diverse retail landscape ranging from world-class luxury to bargain-filled outlets. For the ultimate high-end experience, the Design District and Bal Harbour Shops provide sleek environments filled with international fashion houses and contemporary art. Those seeking a more eclectic, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere should head to Lincoln Road Mall in South Beach, where mainstream brands meet local boutiques under the Florida sun.

Savvy shoppers hunting for deals will find plenty of options at the sprawling Dolphin Mall, known for its extensive collection of factory outlets. For a uniquely Miami souvenir, explore Little Havana for authentic hand-rolled cigars or browse the vibrant boutiques of Coconut Grove for breezy resort wear. Aventura Mall stands as a massive retail destination that balances high-street favorites with premium department stores, ensuring there is something for every budget.

In Miami, tipping follows standard American customs, though service charges are frequently added to bills in popular tourist hubs like South Beach. For restaurant dining, a gratuity of 18% to 22% is expected; however, always check your receipt for an included "service charge" or "auto-gratuity" before adding more. At bars, tipping $1 to $2 per drink or 20% of the total tab is the standard practice.

Beyond dining, it is customary to tip valet attendants $5 upon retrieving your vehicle and bellhops $2 to $5 per bag. For hotel housekeeping, leaving $3 to $5 per night is a highly appreciated gesture. All transactions are conducted in US Dollars (USD).

The best time to visit Miami is between March and May, when the city enjoys pleasant temperatures in the high 70s and 80s without the peak humidity of summer. While winter (December to February) offers a sunny escape from northern climates, it also marks the height of the tourist season, bringing premium pricing and dense crowds, particularly during major events like Art Basel.

For budget-conscious travelers, the summer months offer the lowest hotel rates but come with intense heat, high humidity, and the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. The autumn shoulder season provides a middle ground with fewer tourists and manageable prices, though brief tropical showers are frequent. For the most balanced experience, aim for the spring window to enjoy Miami's beaches and vibrant outdoor culture in peak comfort.