Miami Beach has long been a popular travel destination due to its stretch of white sandy beaches and historic hotels. Plus, it's home to a renowned art and architecture scene, particularly during Art Basel, the world-class international art fair held each December. Now more than ever, visitors can enjoy style and art in the heart of Miami Beach while taking advantage of the plentiful sunshine and fun atmosphere.
Here are our recommendations on everything to see, do, and eat — as well as where to stay — while in town.
What to See & Do in Miami Beach
The best way to appreciate Miami Beach’s incredible architecture is to visit the Art Deco Welcome Center. We also recommend signing up for the 90-minute Art Deco walking tour, which takes you through the Miami Beach architectural historic district. Expect an in-depth look at the iconic architectural styles (think: Mediterranean Revival, Art Deco, and Miami Modern) that have made the destination so famous.
The collection at the Wolfsonian-FIU Museum beautifully highlights the persuasive power of Miami Beach's art and design. With nearly 180,000 pieces dating from the height of the Industrial Revolution to the post-World War II era, the museum serves as a potent reminder of how elements of style and innovation shape our history and our collective consciousness.
Art, style, culture, and design lovers alike will love the Faena District, which is lined with luxury condos and high-end boutiques. It's also here where you'll find the dazzling, design-forward Faena Miami Beach hotel. Lavish, extravagant, and overwhelmingly gold, it’s hard not to get caught up in the glamour and opulence of it all.
Where to Eat & Drink in Miami Beach
Pao by Paul Qui, Faena’s in-house restaurant, serves bold and modern Asian cuisine. Surrounded by lush greenery and a golden dome — and watched over by Damien Hirst’s half-gold, half-vivisected unicorn — a meal here is one for the books. Be sure to order the uni and grilled sweet corn pudding (aptly named "The Unicorn"), the restaurant’s show-stopping signature dish.
Alternatively, transport yourself to the streets of northern Thailand with the menu from NaiYaRa in Sunset Harbour. Take advantage of the shareable portions and order a wide variety of dishes, such as the lightly fried street dumplings served over an oyster and chili sauce and the fragrant Khao Soi curry noodles with skirt steak.
For lighter fare during your stay, head to Under the Mango Tree, a local favorite. This small organic juice bar also churns out fantastic acai bowls, making it the perfect place for a quick — and delicious — breakfast or snack.
Where to Shop in Miami Beach
Make your way to Lincoln Road to peruse the boutiques, art galleries, outdoor cafes, and restaurants. Other must-visit shopping spots include Española Way and Sunset Harbour, where you can easily spend an entire afternoon.
Where to Stay in Miami Beach
Reserve a room at the Winter Haven Hotel and thank us later. The historic hotel offers a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of Miami Beach — despite being located in the center of South Beach. The dynamic property retains the look and charm of its architectural heritage while blending in modern furnishings and chic tropical decor.
Luxury lovers should check into the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, a sparkling oceanfront resort that's home to 10-plus bars and restaurants, two nightclubs, a 40,000-square-foot spa, and 11 distinct pol experiences, including a buzzy day club. Additionally, those traveling with children especially love the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, which offers impressive family-centric program offerings, spacious accommodations, and a central beachfront locale.