IN-ROOM PUBLICATION FOR GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH HOTELS AND RESORTS
Greater Miami and Miami Beach 2026
EXPLORE
Top Picks for Local Fun T R E AT YO U R S E L F
Shopping, Dining & Nightlife
A LIVING MURAL
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THE HOUSE OF CREED
MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT | 151 NORTHEAST 41ST STREET, SUITE PP143
HOUSE ESTABLISHED 1760
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T H E G R OV E AT G R A N D B AY 2675 S Bayshore Dr #1602S $8,950,000 Experience elevated luxury and modern sophistication in this breathtaking 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath residence at the iconic Grove at Grand Bay. Enjoy sweeping, unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, Downtown Miami, and the lush tree canopy of Coconut Grove. This home showcases a customized floor plan with soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass, and premium upgrades throughout. The gourmet kitchen is appointed with top-tier appliances, custom cabinetry, and elegant marble countertops. The primary suite serves as a serene private retreat, featuring an expansive walk-in closet and a spa-inspired bathroom with a soaking tub, glass-enclosed shower, and dual vanities. Each of the four additional bedrooms offers generous space, beautiful natural light, and its own ensuite bath. Residents of Grove at Grand Bay enjoy world-class amenities, including a 24-hour concierge, valet services, and more.
Contact Information: Madison Duell The Inside Network (305) 433 1776 madison@insidenetworkco.com
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Greater Miami and GreaterMiami Miamiand and Greater Miami Beach MiamiBeach Beach Miami 2024/25
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IN-ROOM PUBLICATION FOR GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH HOTELS AND RESORTS IN-ROOM PUBLICATION FOR GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH HOTELS AND RESORTS
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CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTORS Tristan Alexander; Carol M. Bareuther, RD;
Radmila Lolly A Visionary in Radmila Lolly Fashion and Music A Visionary in Fashion and Music
Shopping, Top T R E Picks AT YO U R S E L F Dining, for Local Fun Shopping, & Nightlife Dining, T& RE AT YO U R S E L F Nightlife Shopping, Dining & Nightlife
A LIVING MURAL
Art, Culture & Creative Energy
Tristan M. Bareuther, RD; ShayneAlexander; Benowitz;Carol J. Kevin Foltz; Paul S. George, Ph.D.; Benowitz; Paul S. George, Ph.D.; Sid Hoeltzell; Shayne Benowitz; Paul S. George, Ph.D.; Sid Hoeltzell; Wyatt Myers; Jorge Ramirez; Donald Rodrigue; Jorge Ramirez; Donald Rodrigue; Sarah Sekula; Jorge Ramirez; Donald Rodrigue; Sarah Sekula; SoleSimundson; Sastre; Sarah Sekula; Lisa Simundson; David Umla Lisa David Umla Lisa Simundson; David Umla
Dixie Highway, Highway, Suite Suite 214 214 1172 S. Dixie 1172 S. Dixie Highway, Suite 214 Gables, FL FL 33146 33146 Coral Gables, Coral Gables, FL 33146 305.531.3553 305.531.3553 305.531.3553 www.gmbha.com www.gmbha.com www.gmbha.com
Take us with you on the go! View the digital edition Take us with you on the go! View the digital edition of Visit Greater Miami & Miami Beach at Take us withofyou onGreater the go! Miami View the digitalBeach edition Visit & Miami at www.northsouthnet.com. and Miami Beach at. of Visit Greater Miami www.northsouthnet.com About the cover: Musical artist and fashion designer Radmila Lolly is making www.northsouthnet.com About the cover: Musical artist and fashion designer Radmila Lolly is making waves in Miami. Learn more about this local sensation on page 30. About the waves cover: in This striking cover features a mural artist @ellestreetart Miami. Learn more about this localby sensation on page 30.
WendyJ.E.Crider Kallergis Curtis Wendy E. Kallergis
M AS RIK AN BU NEETSISN G D E&VE EV LE ON PT MSEM NT &A G E R MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER Faheemah E V E N T S Garzon MANAGER
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Copyright ©2024 by North South Net, Inc. Copyright ©2024 by North South Net, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction by permission only. All rights reserved. Reproduction by permission only. Copyright ©2025 North South Net, Inc. Cover photo: Jorgeby Ramirez Cover photo: Jorge Ramirez All rights reserved. Reproduction by permission only. at the Wynwood Walls. For more on Wynwood Walls, turn to page 54. Cover photo: J. Kevin Foltz V I S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I & M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 4 / 2 5 V I S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I & M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 4 / 2 5
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V AML MALAL. C LL L . C.M C OO MM AVA EA NVETENUNTRTUAURMRAA O
PRESIDENT PRESIDENT & & CEO CEO PRESIDENT & CEO
AV E N T U R A M A L L . C O M
Donald Baechler - Walking Figure
VISIT GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH WELCOME
Dear Visitor, On behalf of everyone in our tourism, hospitality, and events industry, welcome! We are proud to support the Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association and each of our partner hotels that are at the heart of making your visit special and memorable. Visit Greater Miami and Miami Beach is just a glimpse into all there is to see and do here, designed to inspire you to explore even more of our incredible destination. We hope you’ll find many reasons to return soon and continue discovering the magic of our community. For even more information or real-time updates on events during your stay, please visit our website at www.miamiandmiamibeach.com. Once again, welcome to Greater Miami and Miami Beach!
David Whitaker President & CEO Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
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DESIGNED FO R G O LF HOME TO FOUR CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSES, STYLISH ACCOMMODATIONS, A POOLSIDE OASIS, AND AN EXCEPTIONAL SPA, WE SET THE STANDARD IN LUXURY GETAWAYS.
SCAN TO BOOK
STAY & PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF PACKAGE Enjoy luxurious accommodations, lavish amenities, and four iconic golf courses. Elevate your stay with premier dining, The Trump Spa, and a variety of recreational activities. Stay and play in unparalleled style at Trump National Doral Miami, where luxury and golfing converge for an unforgettable experience. 4400 N.W. 87TH AVENUE MIAMI, FL 800.713.6725 TRUMPHOTELS.COM/MIAMI
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VISIT GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH WELCOME
Dear Visitor, Welcome to Greater Miami and Miami Beach! Whether this is your first visit or a return to our sunny shores, I’m delighted to have you here. On behalf of our dedicated hoteliers, world-class chefs, talented artists, and everyone who calls this vibrant community home, I invite you to explore, experience, and enjoy everything our city has to offer. Wander through the iconic Art Deco Historic District, soak in our lively arts and culture scene, and treat yourself to internationally acclaimed cuisine — from MICHELIN-recognized restaurants to beloved local favorites. Take in our museums, enjoy live music and sporting events, or simply savor the energy of a city that truly never sleeps. We welcome travelers from every background to enjoy our sun-kissed beaches, colorful neighborhoods, and unique experiences. Try sunrise yoga on the sand, join a beach cleanup, stroll through our lush gardens, or savor one of Miami’s most famous seasonal treats — stone crabs, available from October 15 through May 15. For the latest happenings and inspiration, visit our partners at the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau at www.miamiandmiamibeach.com. Thank you for choosing to spend your time with us. I hope your visit is filled with memorable moments, laughter, and a little sand in your shoes — a small reminder of your time in our beautiful city. Warmest regards,
Curtis J. Crider President & CEO, Greater Miami & the Beaches Hotel Association
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WILD EXPERIENCE OUR OUR EXPERIENCE
WORLD
Strollor orcycle cyclethrough throughstunning stunning Stroll botanicalgardens, gardens,marvel marvelat atexotic exotic botanical animalsfrom fromAfrica, Africa,Asia, Asia,the the animals Amazon, and right here in Florida. Amazon, and right here in Florida. Whetheryou youcreate createlifelong lifelongmemories memories Whether withfamily familyor orenjoy enjoyaasolo soloescape escapeinto into with nature, every step you take helps make nature, every step you take helps make difference. aadifference. Comefor forthe theanimals, animals,stay stayfor forthe the Come adventure––because becauseat atZoo ZooMiami, Miami,every every adventure visithelps helpsprotect protectthe theplanet. planet. visit
VISITZOOMIAMI.ORG ZOOMIAMI.ORGTO TOGET GETYOUR YOURTICKETS TICKETSTODAY! TODAY! VISIT
VISIT GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH CONTENTS
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305 Lifestyle Only in Miami..................................12 Find Your Flow............................. 20 Cruise the Magic City................. 26 Coral Gables at 100.....................30
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Go. See. Do. Unveiling the Magic City................38 Wynwood Walls..............................54 Grove Grandeur............................. 56 Fun for All...................................... 66
C
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Eat & Drink Alive with Flavor...........................72 305 Nighttime Vibe.....................84
88
M
Y
CM
MY
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CMY
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Splurge A Stylish Escape............................ 90 Just Keep Swimming.................. 98
102
The Sporting Life The Competitive Edge................ 104 Getting Around............................110
114
A City of Possibilities.................... 116 Bring the Resort Home...............120 Art City, World Stage................... 122 Calendar of Events...................... 124 Index of Advertisers................... 126
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J. Kevin Foltz (4)
Luxe Life
A Century of Luxury Immerse yourself in timeless sophistication and elegance at The Biltmore. Celebrating 100 years, this National Historic Landmark has been a favorite destination for world leaders, celebrities, and guests seeking luxurios amenities and elevated experiences. Indulge in award-winning dining. Find sanctuary at our full-service European Spa & Salon. Tee off where legends have played on our Donald Ross-designed, championship golf course. Sit back and unwind at our iconic swimming pool with daybeds and private cabanas.
1200 Anastasia Avenue Coral Gables, Florida 33134
305-445-1926 www.biltmorehotel.com
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LIFESTYLE ON LY I N M I AM I LIVE WELL SPOTLI GH T
J. Kevin Foltz
HI STO RY
305 LIFESTYLE ONLY IN MIAMI
Only in
MIAMI
GET OFF THE BEATEN TOURIST PATH AND DISCOVER THE REAL MIAMI BY ENJOYING EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE THE CITY TRULY UNIQUE.
By Vanessa Molina Santamaria
reater Miami and Miami Beach do plenty of things well — beaches, nightlife, design — feel singular to the 305. Consider this your insider primer to the stories, sights, and small moments you can only find here. What makes Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District unique is its concentration of over 800 preserved buildings, more than any other city in the world. It’s no wonder that it’s been listed in the National Register of Historic Places since 1979. These structures, often referred to as “Streamline Moderne,” feature nautical elements such as porthole windows, sleek curves, and horizontal lines that evoke the glamour of ocean liners, reflecting the city’s connection to the sea.
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Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
but a handful of local rituals and landmarks
Art Deco in Miami Beach
305 LIFESTYLE ONLY IN MIAMI
S TI LT S V I LLE A mile off the southern tip of Miami Beach, several wooden houses hover on pilings above Biscayne Bay. This improbable community — born in the 1930s and once a raffish hideaway for anglers, socialites, and the occasional rumrunner — now sits inside Biscayne National Park. legend remains.
THIS IMPROBABLE COMMUNITY — BORN IN THE 1930S AND ONCE A RAFFISH HIDEAWAY FOR ANGLERS, SOCIALITES, AND THE OCCASIONAL RUMRUNNER — NOW SITS INSIDE BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK.
How to see it: You’ll need to go by water. Look for guided tours with Biscayne National Park Institute or charter a captain out of Coconut Grove or Key Biscayne. Go at high tide for mirror-calm photos and bring a long lens: Landing on the structures is limited to permitted groups that work with the Stiltsville Trust. Insider tip: Ask your captain to idle as the sun drops. The skyline glows to the west, and the houses silhouette against a bay the color of antique glass.
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Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
Hurricanes and time have whittled the village down, but the
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
F R E E D O M TOW E R AT 1 0 0 Miami’s “Ellis Island of the South” turns the page on a
Why it matters: Few buildings in Miami hold more meaning
century. The Mediterranean Revival tower rose in 1925 as
per square foot. Exhibits and programs trace the journey of
the Miami News headquarters, then became a processing
families who remade the city, connecting past to present
center for Cuban refugees in the 1960s and 1970s. Today,
along Biscayne Boulevard.
it’s a National Historic Landmark and an anchor of the city’s immigrant story.
Insider tip: Pair a stop at the tower with a stroll through nearby Museum Park or Bayside Marketplace. Then enjoy a bite at one of the many restaurants in the area.
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LIFESTYLE 305 ONLY IN MIAMI
CREATE YOUR OWN ITINERARY DO ONE OF THESE OR DO THEM ALL. Book a boating adventure and spend an afternoon at a sandbar or head out to Stiltsville when the weather’s right, catch Ocean Drive lit up in neon, Freedom Tower history lesson to a Little Havana domino table and a 3:05 p.m. pick-me-up. That’s the 305 way: sun on the water, stories in the streets, and a coffee strong enough to carry you into the night.
S A N D BA R C U LTU R E On any sunny weekend, the city’s real block party happens on the water. Boats nose up in knee-deep seas at Haulover Sandbar, off the north end of Miami Beach, and at Nixon Beach Sandbar near Key Biscayne. Coolers open, floaties inflate, music drifts, and strangers become neighbors for the afternoon. How to do it: Rent a boat with a licensed captain or join a small-group charter. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water, and a trash bag — leave it cleaner than you found it. Go early; tides and parking both matter. Etiquette: Keep speakers reasonable, respect swim zones, and watch for manatees. And yes, the sandbar taco vendor is a thing — cash helps.
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Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
and plan a culture-filled day that arcs from a
A R T D E CO N E O N AT N I G HT Miami Beach’s famous pastel hotels are one thing by day and another after dark. When the sun slides behind the skyline, Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue flicker to life in neon — marquees and eyebrows glowing turquoise, magenta, and electric blue. Self-guided route: Start at 10th Street on Ocean Drive and walk north to 14th, then cut over to Collins and loop back south. Don’t miss the Colony, Beacon, and Carlyle facades; pop into a lobby or two to see terrazzo floors and porthole details up
DON’T MISS THE CARDOZO, BEACON, AND CARLYLE FACADES; POP INTO A LOBBY OR TWO TO SEE TERRAZZO FLOORS AND PORTHOLE DETAILS UP CLOSE. AIM FOR THE SWEET SPOT BETWEEN GOLDEN HOUR AND FULL DARK FOR THE BEST PHOTOS.
close. Aim for the sweet spot between golden hour and full dark for the best photos. Insider tip: Weeknights offer easier angles. On weekends, go later, after dinner, when the sidewalks thin and the neon reflects
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
off the pavement.
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305 LIFESTYLE ONLY IN MIAMI
D O M I N O E S I N LIT TLE H AVA N A At Domino Park, lively locals slap tiles with surgical precision while neighborhood life hums by on Calle Ocho. Games run fast, but the banter runs faster — and it makes for a unique experience. How to do it: Stand back, watch a round, then step across the street for a pastelito (Cuban pastry) and a colada (Cuban coffee) to share. If you’re invited to play, say yes, keep the table tidy, and learn the rhythm: Defend your partner, read the board, and don’t hover over the tiles. Make it a walk: Pair the park with shopping stops for guayaberas, hand-rolled cigars, artisanal ice cream, or live music in the evening. Murals and mosaic roosters make easy photo breaks along the way.
C A F E C ITO AT 3 : 0 5 Around here, afternoon coffee has a time and area code — the city pauses for a small, strong shot of espresso sweetened with sugar. It’s fuel, yes, but also a handshake, a bridge between coworkers, a quick hello across a ventanita (café windows where you can order coffee and grab a quick bite). What to order: A classic cafecito (small, strong, and sweet), a colada (a larger portion of a cafecito to share; usually comes with tiny plastic shot cups on the side), or a cortadito (espresso “cut” with a splash of milk; sweeter and slightly lighter than a straight cafecito). At a ventanita, pass the tiny cups to friends or people in line. The gesture is the point. Insider tip: Try Versailles or La Carreta on Calle Ocho for tradition, then branch out to neighborhood windows at smaller Cuban cafés.
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Top to bottom: J. Kevin Foltz, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
a meaning. At 3:05 p.m. — a wink to Miami’s
Experience the Future of Travel at MIA! With our historic Modernization in Action (M.I.A.) Plan, we’re preparing to accommodate 77 million travelers and four million tons of freight by 2040. More than $9 billion in capital investments and upgrades are transforming MIA into a FUTURE-READY, world-class hub for generations to come.
Join us as we pave the way to a more connected future.
iflyMIA.com
305 LIFESTYLE LIVE WELL
Find Your
FLOW
START YOUR DAY WITH SUNRISE YOGA, PADDLE CALM WATERS AT DAWN, WANDER THROUGH TROPICAL GARDENS, OR RESET WITH ROOFTOP RITUALS — THIS IS WELLNESS, MIAMI-STYLE.
By Vanessa Molina Santamaria
mid the vibrant rhythm of the Magic City, moments of stillness are never far from reach. Greater Miami and Miami Beach offer an abundance of ways to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with yourself — often with the ocean breeze or the rustling of palms as your soundtrack. Whether you crave sunrise movement, a quiet garden escape, or a restorative ritual by the water, here’s where to embrace the art of living well in Miami.
R E S TO R ATI V E R E TR E AT S Miami’s grand gardens remain some of the city’s most soothing sanctuaries. Wander through Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, a lush wonderland of rare orchids, tropical blooms, and serene pathways that seem made for meditative
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Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
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strolling. Nearby, Pinecrest Gardens invites introspection with its meandering trails, shaded groves, and calming water features that inspire a slower pace. For a more intimate connection with the natural world, The Kampong — the former home of botanical explorer Dr. David Fairchild — offers an oasis of tranquility tucked along Biscayne Bay. Here, exotic fruit trees and rare tropical plants create a serene backdrop for quiet reflection. In the heart of South Beach, Miami Beach Botanical Garden delivers a pocket of peace amid the city’s buzz, with tropical flora, koi ponds, and yoga sessions hosted on the lawn.
A VISIT TO VIZCAYA IS LIKE STEPPING INTO A EUROPEAN FAIRY TALE. THIS HISTORIC ESTATE’S GARDENS ARE A MASTERPIECE OF FORMAL LANDSCAPING, BLENDING RENAISSANCE ITALIAN AND FRENCH DESIGNS WITH LUSH TROPICAL FLORA.
Step into another era at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, where manicured European-style landscapes, ornate sculptures, and sweeping bayfront views create a dreamlike setting perfect for mindful wandering. Just south, Deering Estate blends history and ecology across a sprawling preserve filled with tropical hammocks, mangroves, and peaceful waterfront overlooks — ideal for those seeking grounding moments in nature.
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Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
LIFESTYLE 305 LIVE WELL
Miami Beach Botanical Garden
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Pinecrest Gardens
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (4)
Pinecrest Gardens
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305 LIFESTYLE LIVE WELL
MINDFUL MORNINGS Begin the day the Miami way — with movement, salt air, and soft sunrise light. Start with sunrise beach yoga, where the stretch of Atlantic horizon amplifies every breath and intention. If you prefer a more active ritual, paddle out for a dawn stand-up paddleboarding session on Biscayne Bay, gliding along calm morning water as the city slowly wakes. Down by the bayfront, wellness communities host guided breathwork sessions that harness the ocean breeze and the sound of lapping waves, helping you drop out of the day’s noise and into a deeper sense of calm. As the wind picks up later in the day, the scene shifts: Bright kites arc across the sky, and riders skim the surface of Biscayne Bay. For those craving a dose of adrenaline with their mindfulness, kitesurfing offers a thrilling counterpoint to sunrise paddles — part workout, part moving
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (3) (5)
meditation, all set against Miami’s glittering skyline.
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W E LLN E S S I N M OTI O N For urban explorers, The Underline’s newest miles offer a fresh way to move mindfully through the city — bike, jog, or stroll under native trees and art installations that turn a simple walk into a sensory experience. This newly upgraded linear park runs beneath the elevated Metrorail line, offering a safe, shaded route ideal for both casual riders and fitness cyclists. Cyclists should also head to Key Biscayne’s picturesque
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
Rickenbacker Trail. Hop on this 9-mile stretch along the causeway and feel the bay breeze as you take in the blue-
CYCLISTS SHOULD ALSO HEAD TO KEY BISCAYNE’S PICTURESQUE RICKENBACKER TRAIL. HOP ON THIS 9-MILE STRETCH ALONG THE CAUSEWAY AND FEEL THE BAY BREEZE AS YOU TAKE IN THE BLUE-WATER VIEWS OF BISCAYNE BAY AND THE DISTANT DOWNTOWN SKYLINE.
water views of Biscayne Bay and the distant downtown skyline. When you’re ready to unwind, head to one of Miami’s elevated wellness hubs for rooftop recovery sessions, complete with cold plunges, saunas, mobility labs, and pop-up treatments overlooking Miami’s shimmering skyline. Whether you’re exploring a quiet garden, moving mindfully
MIAMI SPA MONTHS Looking for even deeper relaxation? Miami Spa Months offers exclusive spa deals every July and August at many of the region’s top
at sunrise, or indulging in a moment of pampering, Greater
wellness destinations. Enjoy luxurious treatments
Miami and Miami Beach offer endless opportunities to reset
— massages, facials, body therapies, and more — at
and recenter. Take time to savor the outdoors, immerse
special rates designed to help you refresh, restore,
yourself in wellness, and rediscover the simple joy of
and truly indulge in self-care.
breathing deeply in a place designed to restore the spirit.
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305 LIFESTYLE SPOTLIGHT
Cruise the
MAGIC CITY
ENJOY THE LIFESTYLE OF THE RICH AND FAMOUS AS YOU SAIL THROUGH THE VENICE OF THE AMERICAS.
By Donald Rodrigue
merald-green waters ripple against pastelwashed shores and graceful palms as golden sunlight glints off the sleek yachts weaving through Miami’s iconic waterways. It’s a cinematic scene — one that has long lured directors, scriptwriters, and producers to film here, using Miami Beach and its surrounding islands as the breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable stories. While it’s no secret that Hollywood’s brightest stars have long lounged on the decks of mansion-side yachts, cruising past waterfront estates and skyline views, that once-exclusive experience is no longer reserved for the silver screen. Today, visitors and locals alike can savor the privilege through bespoke yacht charters that transform a day on the water into a luxury escape.
C H A R T YO U R OW N CO U R S E While South Florida offers its fair share of boat tours and water taxis, nothing compares to the flexibility, comfort, and bespoke experience of chartering your own yacht. With a private vessel at your disposal, your itinerary truly becomes your own. Imagine: no preset schedules, no crowded decks, and no sacrificing where you want to drop anchor or how long you want to stay there — just total freedom. For groups of up to 12 passengers, options abound. Choose between sleek sport yachts, graceful sailboats, spacious catamarans, and even fully equipped
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sportfishing vessels. Whether you prefer a half-day cruise or a
Heading south from Aventura or marinas near Miami Beach
full-day escape, these boats offer effortless luxury and ample
reveals another world entirely. This route traces Miami’s
room to relax. Travelers can even extend their journey beyond
skyline from downtown to Key Biscayne, then slips into
Miami’s waters, venturing to the nearby Bahamas or the
Biscayne Bay before arriving in Coconut Grove, each stretch
Florida Keys for unforgettable multiday voyages.
revealing a different face of the city. Best of all, because
Those with limited time to explore — such as visitors
you’re in command of the itinerary, you can pause wherever
on a weekend getaway or locals celebrating a birthday,
suits your fancy: Take a midday swim in turquoise water, pick
engagement, anniversary, or graduation — can enjoy a scenic
a spot for a scenic lunch along the shore, or enjoy dinner
half- or full-day cruise heading northward up the Intracoastal
onboard. Larger vessels may offer full galleys and dining
Waterway from Miami Beach or departing from Fort
rooms, allowing meals to be enjoyed onboard without the
Lauderdale in either direction. From Miami Beach or Aventura,
need to stop at a dockside restaurant.
you’ll glide past the waterside panoramas of Haulover Beach, Hallandale, and Hollywood, while a Port Everglades departure
S AY I N G “ I D O” U N D E R S A I L
point in Fort Lauderdale provides tours of the Pompano Beach
Few wedding venues offer an experience quite as intimate —
area, including Lighthouse Point and the Hillsboro Inlet. The
or as breathtaking — as exchanging vows aboard your own
latter offers anchoring spots for snorkeling or swimming in a
private yacht. Picture your closest family and friends gathered
peaceful cove or, for the thrill seekers, a heart-pounding ride
along the deck, the ocean breeze lifting your veil, and the
on a WaveRunner — if your vessel is equipped for it.
glittering South Florida coastline serving as your open-air
andresr
A charming alternative is a leisurely cruise along the New River in Fort Lauderdale. Here, your yacht will wind through serene residential neighborhoods and under picture-perfect drawbridges, offering an intimate look at the waterfront mansions.
chapel. A wedding on the water is a truly special moment that blends romance and adventure in equal measure. For celebrations of this caliber, size matters! Couples typically opt for larger vessels, often in the 80- to 100-foot range, that
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305 LIFESTYLE SPOTLIGHT
seamless setting. These yachts offer generous deck space,
WATE R FA NTA S E A S : E X PE R TI S E A N D E F F O R TLE S S P L A N N I N G
elegant interiors, and the flexibility to configure the event exactly
Since 1994, the professional team at Water Fantaseas
as you imagine it, from a minimalist gathering with Champagne
has transformed birthdays, weddings, holiday soirees,
and hors d’oeuvres to a full-scale soiree complete with live
and corporate events into unforgettable on-the-water
musicians, curated décor, and multicourse gourmet dining.
experiences. Its fleet of modern yachts and sailing vessels
Whether you envision an understated elopement at
is captained by fully licensed professionals who know South
comfortably host both the ceremony and reception in a single
sunset or an all-out celebration that feels like a floating
Florida’s waterways intimately, ensuring each and every
private estate, South Florida’s yacht charter market offers
journey is smooth, scenic, and perfectly timed.
a wide range of vessels and onboard amenities perfect for bringing your dream wedding to life.
Whether your dream is to cruise with family off Miami Beach, glide across Biscayne Bay aboard a catamaran, or listen to a pianist perform onboard the 80-foot Solstice
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CO R P O R ATE C H A R TE R S A N D E X E C UTI V E R E TR E AT S
Luxury yacht along the Intracoastal Waterway, Water
For companies looking to elevate their gatherings, South
choose the ideal vessel, their team can offer guidance
Florida’s yacht scene offers a memorable alternative to the
on the thoughtful details that will truly make your journey
typical ballroom or boardroom. Whether you’re thanking top
one to remember. The team will gladly assist with
clients, hosting investors, raising funds, or strengthening
everything from finding lunch stops on smaller boats to
your internal team, a private charter provides an exclusive
designing an onboard dining experience aboard the 100-
setting with panoramic waterfront views and an unmatched
foot Midnight Sun, both equipped with full galleys and
level of hospitality that makes everyone feel valued.
dining rooms.
Smaller departments or project groups may enjoy a serene
Couples marrying at sea will find stress-relieving support
catamaran cruise — ideal for team-building conversations and
at every step, with optional service add-ons such as floral
strategic planning — while larger vessels can host cocktail
design, photo and video coverage, luxury transportation, and
receptions, brand activations, or incentive events with full-
even honeymoon charters. Rest assured that whether you’re
service catering. Convention groups in town for a conference
hosting an intimate team gathering or reserving a yacht for up
often find that nothing impresses quite like seeing Miami from
to 120 convention attendees, Water Fantaseas delivers the
the Intracoastal Waterway or Biscayne Bay, where the South
perfect vessel and experience to meet your needs. For more
Florida skyline glitters like no other.
information, visit www.waterfantaseas.com. VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Tverdohlib
Fantaseas brings that vision to life. Beyond helping you
Breathtaking views. Indulgent dining. Classic cocktails.
OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Established in 1994, we have become the market leader in half and full day charters in South Florida. Last year, we completed over 350 charters, of which 150 were corporate events which included private regattas, executive outings, and lavish dinner cruises. Extensive fleet of sport yacht, motor yachts, sailing and catamaran for groups from 2-400 guests. Ideal for weddings, corporate events, and safe fun on the water. As we continue to grow, we continually strive to offer our clients not only superior service but also new and exciting chartering options unavailable elsewhere in the market.
waterfantaseas.com (305) 531-1480
100 ft. Midnight Sun Up to 120 guests
62 ft. Private Motor Yacht Up to 13 guests
80 ft. Solstice Up to 45 guests
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305 LIFESTYLE HISTORY
Coral Gables at
100:
THE VISION, THE BOOM, AND THE LEGACY OF AMERICA’S CITY BEAUTIFUL
By Paul S. George, Ph.D. Resident Historian, HistoryMiami Museum
ittle more than a century ago, the land that would one day become Coral Gables was a rugged sweep of pine forest, scrub, and stubborn saw palmetto — hardly the setting one might imagine for one of the most desirable communities in the United States. Today, the 13-square-mile city is home to more than 50,000 residents, international businesses, and consulates from around the world, with neighborhoods that rank among the most expensive housing markets in the country. Yet despite its meteoric rise, the story begins with a homestead, a determined family, and one young visionary who believed a city could be intentionally designed — and truly beautiful.
F R O M PI N E WO O D S TO PI O N E E R S E T TLE M E NT The earliest chapter opens in the late 19th century, when William and Sarah Gregory first arrived from South Carolina and settled on 160 acres granted to them through the Homestead Act of 1862. The land was remote and difficult to clear, but in 1899 the Gregorys sold the property to the Merrick family, setting the stage for a radical transformation. Reverend Solomon and Althea Merrick moved their family from Massachusetts to Miami in hopes of a healthier climate after the loss of one of their daughters to pneumonia. Though it was quite a change from their familiar New England
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J. Kevin Foltz
305 LIFESTYLE HISTORY
landscapes, the family embraced South Florida’s subtropical world, carving out a life for themselves as farmers. Althea designed a limestone home along the narrow dirt road that would one day become Coral Way. Known as Coral Gables, this house — still standing today at 907 Coral Way — became their homestead’s centerpiece. Their surrounding acreage became known as Guavonia due to its abundant guava trees, and the Merricks’ grapefruit groves soon made them among Florida’s largest exporters.
When Reverend Merrick died in 1909, his son, George, and
DURING THE 1910s, GEORGE MERRICK BEGAN EXPERIMENTING WITH CREATING AN AESTHETICALLY COHESIVE COMMUNITY, BUILDING OOLITIC LIMESTONE HOMES ALONG CORAL WAY.
32
Althea continued operating the plantation. But George was more than just a grower. A poet, planner, and voracious reader, he became captivated by the City Beautiful movement: a national push for cities that emphasized harmonious architecture, green spaces, and civic pride. During the 1910s, George Merrick began experimenting with creating an aesthetically cohesive community, building oolitic limestone homes along Coral Way using stone quarried on what is now the site of the Venetian Pool. His service on the Dade VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Courtesy of HistoryMiami Museum (3)
GEORGE MERRICK AND A V I S I O N FO R A C IT Y
County Commission helped improve the region’s road network,
the city’s promise with gusto.
strengthening the connections that would later support
Development surged, and the Granada Golf Course, the
his development plans. By the early 1920s, after acquiring
Venetian Pool, ornate entrances, plazas, and early commercial
additional land and studying model communities such as
districts soon followed. As the community grew, the
Shaker Heights, Merrick was ready to build his dream city.
Mediterranean Revival style — marked by arched doorways, red tile roofs, courtyards, and stucco textures — became Coral
B U I LD I N G A C IT Y B E AUTI F U L
Gables’ architectural signature.
To realize his vision, Merrick assembled an extraordinary cousin, architect; H. George Fink, provided early architectural
A S H I N I N G S TA R O F TH E F LO R I DA L A N D B O O M
direction, while landscape architect Frank Button, fresh from
By the mid-1920s, South Florida was in the midst of a real-
helping design the “White City” at the 1893 Chicago World’s
estate frenzy. In 1925, Miami issued nearly $60 million in
Fair, planned boulevards, plazas, and parks. Phineas Paist, a
building permits, and Coral Gables was a centerpiece of the
leading creative force behind Vizcaya, served as supervising
boom. That year alone:
team. His uncle, illustrator and architect Denman Fink, and his
architect; and to round out the roster, the charismatic Edward
Land sales surpassed $100 million.
“Doc” Dammers handled sales with theatrical flair.
Building permits exceeded $25 million.
The first auction of Coral Gables lots in November 1921 drew more than 5,000 prospective buyers along dusty roads lined with conquistador cutouts urging them to “Follow the Galleon.” Standing atop a wagon, Dammers promoted
Merrick’s estimated wealth, at least on paper, approached $100 million. In response to criticism that Coral Gables lacked waterfront access, Merrick purchased extensive coastal land, including acreage on Key Biscayne from the Deering family, allowing the city to boast “40 miles of waterfront” in national advertising. Merrick also invested heavily in promotion of the community, hiring prominent journalists and bringing William Jennings Bryan on board as spokesman. A charismatic speaker, Bryan once famously addressed crowds while standing on a raft floating in the Venetian Pool. As 1926 approached, Coral Gables added several iconic landmarks to its acreage: the Douglas Entrance, international “thematic villages,” and the grand Biltmore Hotel with its Giralda-inspired tower. In addition, the city made a major investment in the University of Miami, made possible by Merrick’s donation of land and a $5 million pledge.
CO LL A P S E A N D R E S I LI E N C E But this incredible boom — and the prosperity that came with it — was unsustainable. By 1926, Florida’s market softened, and in September, a devastating hurricane struck Miami, destroying buildings, flooding streets, and abruptly ending the frenzy. By 1927, Coral Gables faced overwhelming financial strain. Buyers defaulted, investors fled, and half-finished structures dotted the landscape. Merrick was forced off the City Commission, drowned in debt, and eventually moved to Matecumbe Key to run a modest fishing lodge. In a twist of fate, the man who once had millions soon struggled to replace
33
305 LIFESTYLE HISTORY
a tire on his Cadillac. He died in 1942, at just 55 years old,
result, major landmarks including the Douglas Entrance, the
without having regained financial stability.
Alhambra Water Tower, and The Biltmore were saved from
Unsurprisingly, the city also suffered. It owed creditors
deterioration or demolition. In 1976, the city purchased and
$35 million, the University of Miami entered bankruptcy,
restored the Merrick House to its original 1926 appearance,
and The Biltmore began to repeatedly change ownership.
reopening it to the public afterwards in 1978 as a tangible link
In 1932, at the depths of the Great Depression, only four
to its origins. Due to the 1980s Mediterranean Architectural
building permits were issued.
Ordinance, which incentivized developers to build in styles
And yet, through hardship, Coral Gables preserved its identity. The 1928 City Hall, funded through bonds, became
echoing Merrick’s original vision, much of today’s downtown blends modern needs with historic character.
a powerful civic anchor in the city’s tumultuous years. As Miami transformed into an international hub, the city of
World War II dramatically reshaped South Florida. The
Coral Gables became a magnet for multinational corporations
Biltmore became a U.S. Army Air Forces hospital, and the
and consulates. Its lush canopies, ample cultural amenities,
University of Miami began hosting training programs for
and elegant design still remain central to its appeal today, just
U.S. and British forces. After the war, the GI Bill brought
as George Merrick intended.
soaring enrollment, stabilizing the university at last. The
In 2006, the city unveiled a 12-foot bronze statue of
surrounding area continued to grow as well, including the
Merrick outside City Hall. Map in hand, he stands as a
opening of Doctors Hospital in 1949.
poignant reminder of the dreamer who imagined a beautiful
Postwar prosperity fueled expansion. Land south of U.S. Route 1 soon evolved into lush residential neighborhoods,
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A G LO BA L C IT Y R O OTE D I N V I S I O N
city where others saw only wilderness. A century later, Coral Gables remains exactly that:
and in the 1970s, the upscale Cocoplum community
an enduring testament to vision, resilience, and the
emerged, echoing Merrick’s early waterfront ambitions.
transformative power of thoughtful design.
PR E S E RVATI O N A N D A N E W C E NTU RY
PA S T M E E T S PR E S E NT
By mid-century, Coral Gables’ population surged once
Discover Miami’s rich and diverse history at the HistoryMiami
more, and Miracle Mile debuted as a sophisticated new
Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate located in the heart of
retail corridor. As modern glass towers began appearing
Downtown Miami. Explore fascinating exhibits that bring the
in the 1970s and 1980s, residents pushed to protect the
Magic City’s unique heritage to life, offering an in-depth look
city’s architectural heritage, prompting Coral Gables to
at the local culture and historic attractions that define this
establish the county’s first historic preservation board. As a
vibrant metropolis. www.historymiami.org
/ 46
G/R V I S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I & M I A M I B E ACVI H S2I0T2 4 2 5E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
WA R , R E COV E RY & R E N E WA L
Explore 10,000 years of South Florida history. Find us in Downtown Miami.
Take a picture of this ad for $2 off admission.
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
DO. GO. SEE.
N EI GH BORHOOD S
FAM I LY FUN
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
Unveiling the
MAGIC CITY
FROM HIDDEN GEMS TO ICONIC HOT SPOTS, GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH’S NEIGHBORHOODS ARE FULL OF SURPRISES AT EVERY TURN. DIVE INTO THE UNEXPECTED CORNERS OF THIS EVER-EVOLVING WORLD-CLASS DESTINATION.
By Lisa Simundson
t’s true that Greater Miami and Miami Beach are known for their nightclubs like a glamorous calling card. But peel back that dazzling wrapper, and what do you find? A captivating mosaic of neighborhoods where the real magic happens in the Magic City. In Miami’s early days, when the wild Florida jungle stretched from the coast to the Everglades, visionaries like Julia Tuttle, George Merrick, and Carl Fisher saw what many didn’t: a balmy haven for winter-weary travelers. Their dreams launched Miami into perpetual prominence, evolving from a seasonal escape to global economic powerhouse without sacrificing a single ounce of allure. Make no mistake — Miami’s beaches are spectacular, but these shores merely hint at the authentic experiences waiting to be discovered. From Aventura’s northern sophistication to Homestead’s down-home charm, distinct communities across the city with unique personalities and hidden gems create a tropical tapestry like no other. So, why settle for first impressions? Immerse yourself in
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VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
Brickell Avenue
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
the vibrant neighborhoods that define the true character of Greater Miami and Miami Beach and unlock the unexpected treasures that most visitors leave untouched.
M I A M I B E AC H Once only accessible from the mainland by boat or ferry, Miami Beach owes its glittering reputation to a simple bridge — one built by automotive entrepreneur Carl Fisher in 1913. In doing so, this man unknowingly started the island on its path to
Miami Beach
being a global resort populated by vacationers and the who’s who of celebrities, who still flock to the area’s
Step into the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU, another cultural
oceanfront hotels, high-end shopping, and legendary hot spots.
landmark, to discover a living archive where over 250 years of
Vintage Miami Beach vibes still permeate the area, most
rich Jewish heritage comes alive. This one-of-a-kind museum
notably in South Beach’s Art Deco District, where pastel
safeguards more than 100,000 treasures that weave together the
hotels lined up in a colorful parade along Ocean Drive form
tapestry of Florida’s Jewish history, arts, and cultural contributions.
the world’s largest Art Deco collection. This eye-catching
Escape the South Beach whirl and step into the relaxed
district showcases hundreds of structures spanning from
rhythm of Mid Beach, where time seems to slow between 23rd
1923 to 1943, featuring Art Deco, Mediterranean, and
and 63rd Streets. Here, legendary hotels like the Fontainebleau
Streamline Moderne architectural styles.
and Eden Roc stand as glamorous monuments to Miami’s
Stroll down South Beach’s enchanting Española Way and
golden era. Linger along the breezy boardwalk that hugs the
you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported straight to Europe.
shoreline, tee off at the historic 18-hole golf course, or simply
This Mediterranean Revival gem, mirroring the charm of Spain’s
marvel at the architectural wonders scattered throughout this
San Sebastián and France’s Cannes, buzzes with unique
captivating neighborhood. Those hungry for an extra dose of
eateries, charming boutiques, character-filled hotels, and the
local culture can check out the exciting Faena District, pulsing
rhythmic energy of late-night salsa dancing.
with artistic energy year-round, while the dazzling Art Basel art
Once you’ve filled your phone with selfies along the picturesque Ocean Drive and Española Way, head two blocks west to Washington Avenue. This essential thoroughfare not
fair transforms the Miami Beach Convention Center into a global capital of artistry every December. Venture north of 63rd Street to North Beach, a laid-back
only delivers bars, nightclubs, and eclectic shops but also
oasis of family-friendly beaches and recreation areas like
packs a serious cultural punch — it’s where the legendary
North Beach Oceanside Park, along with golf courses, tennis
Muhammad Ali perfected his knockout moves at the famed 5th
courts, and a skate park. History buffs will be eager to explore
Street Gym! The star-studded avenue also attracted musical
landmarks like the historic Miami Beach Bandshell that hosts
royalty like Prince, who established his own club here, and
diverse performances from around the globe. And to top it all
continues to celebrate entertainment at the iconic Fillmore
off, all of this sits along iconic Collins Avenue — your direct
Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theater.
route to anywhere on Miami Beach, from lively South Beach to
Stroll up to Lincoln Road, the northern frontier of the Art
uptown and upscale Sunny Isles.
40
lost its glamorous shopping appeal. Today, this area buzzes
D OW NTOW N M I A M I
with eclectic sidewalk cafés, artistic galleries, lively bars,
Downtown Miami is the place where history meets innovation
and spontaneous entertainment. Make sure you don’t miss
in spectacular fashion. Strategically positioned between
the crown jewel: the magnificent Colony Theatre, standing
the Miami River and the sparkling Biscayne Bay, Miami’s
as a cultural landmark that adds Art Deco flair amid the
downtown hub has transformed from small bayside town to
promenade’s endless charm.
dazzling metropolis in just over 100 years. VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
J. Kevin Foltz
Deco District, and discover a pedestrian haven that hasn’t
A N I C O N O F M I A M I F O R S H O P P I N G , D I N I N G A N D E N T E R TA I N M E N T
BENIHANA EXPRESS C OYO TAC O H A AG E N DA Z S HARD ROCK CAFE HUMMUS MEDITERRANEAN IT’SUGAR L U P I TA TAC O S Y T E Q U I L A PIER 5 S TA R B U C K S SUNGLASS HUT U.S. P OLO AS S N . V I C T O R I A’ S S E C R E T
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
Dive right into the area’s diversity as you explore a
the Black Archives Cultural Arts Complex amid a blossoming
multifaceted arts and shopping scene, savor global flavors at
scene of captivating restaurants and attractions. Legends like
world-class restaurants, and survey it all from high above in
Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Nat King Cole all graced the
luxury hotel towers. Cultural landmarks punctuate the skyline:
stage here at this illustrious venue.
The magnificent Adrienne Arsht Center stages unforgettable
Just north of Overtown and stretching across the
performances, the Pérez Art Museum Miami showcases
neighborhoods of Lemon City and Little River, Little Haiti’s
breathtaking works of art, and the waterfront Kaseya Center is
Creole-speaking community mirrors its Caribbean roots
home to all the excitement of the Miami Heat.
with distinctive architecture, traditional churches, and the
A premier destination on Biscayne Bay, Bayside Marketplace
tantalizing aromas of authentic island cuisine. The Little
features top shopping, dining, and attractions, such as Skyviews
Haiti Cultural Complex serves as the heart of the area,
Miami’s 200-foot-high gondola ride and Thriller Miami’s 45-minute
where weekly marketplaces burst with color, art galleries
speedboat tours around the city and Miami Beach.
showcase local talent, dance studios move to tropical
Just south of the heart of downtown, the Brickell Business
rhythms, and lively festivals bring the neighborhood to life.
District is one of the world’s financial powerhouses — but don’t let the Wall Street vibe fool you! This “Manhattan of the South” stays open well beyond banking hours. Adjacent to sleek bank towers, the open-air Mary Brickell Village offers sophisticated shopping and dining options, creating an unmatched urban pairing of business and pleasure. Turn north to find Overtown, Miami’s second-oldest neighborhood after Coconut Grove. Once known as the “Harlem of the South,” Overtown’s Lyric Theater regularly welcomed musical luminaries in its heyday and remains the centerpiece of
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
Bayside Marketplace
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VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Planetarium Aquarium Museum
PLAN YOUR DAY AT FROSTSCIENCE.ORG
1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132 | 305-434-9600 | frostscience.org | @frostscience The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is supported by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners of Miami-Dade County. This project is supported by the Building Better Communities Bond Program and the City of Miami. Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the National Endowment for the Arts. The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and a member of the Association of Science and Technology Centers.
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
Aventura Mall
Miami International Airport
M I A M I I NTE R N ATI O N A L A I R P O R T A R E A Whether you’re just passing through or settling in, this vital hub serves up delightful dining and entertainment experiences. Right inside the terminal, treat yourself to fresh stone crabs, sip an expertly made mojito, or dive into mouthwatering authentic Cuban dishes that bring the flavors of Miami directly to your table. For those staying awhile, premier accommodations with familiar names like Hilton, DoubleTree, and Embassy Suites are a shuttle ride away. If you feel like going a few rounds, Miami Springs Golf & Country Club sits practically within swinging distance of the those looking for a fun diversion, MIA also provides easy access to three major shopping centers: Miami International Mall, Dolphin Mall, and Midway Crossings. Saying goodbye to Miami is never easy, but a variety of shuttles, luxury sedans, and stylish limos will get you to your
The highlights of this massive mall include a collection of
flight on time and in style! Executive minibuses and coaches
the world’s most coveted brands and boutiques; the Foster +
are also on hand for larger groups.
Partners–designed Apple Aventura with an outdoor Genius Grove; a selection of chef-driven restaurants; the eclectic
44
AV E NTU R A
Treats Food Hall; and the museum-worthy Arts Aventura Mall
One of Miami’s newest and northernmost neighborhoods
collection, which includes the landmark 93-foot-tall Aventura
turned the big 3-0 in 2025, but all ages are sure to enjoy
Slide Tower by artist Carsten Höller. Aventura’s outdoor
its extraordinary culinary scene and unparalleled shopping
setting equally captivates with flowing waterways, rolling golf
variety. Without a doubt, this is most impressively showcased
courses, and tranquil parks. For the perfect finish, end your
at Aventura Mall, the largest mall in Florida and fifth largest in
day at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center and enjoy live
the United States.
theater, concerts, or dance performances. VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Top to bottom: Courtesy of Aventura Mall, J. Kevin Foltz
airport, as is Grapeland Water Park (open seasonally). For
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
Bal Harbour
S U N N Y I S LE S B E AC H Experience the transformed Sunny Isles Beach, where luxury now meets legacy. Connected directly to Haulover Park’s recreational paradise, this once-unassuming destination has elevated its appeal with stunning hotel towers that command the same golden shoreline families have known and treasured for generations. Your perfect day awaits! Indulge in oceanfront relaxation, then take advantage of the free SIBshuttle to Aventura Mall and Bal Harbour Shops
premium shopping destinations just moments from your hotel. Why choose between activity and tranquility when Sunny Isles offers plenty of both? The four acres of Heritage Park playground that completes this unmatched coastal escape.
BA L H A R B O U R Find the ultimate fusion of fashion and beachside elegance on Miami Beach’s northern edge, where the exclusive village of Bal Harbour offers a distinctive mix of world-class shopping and coastal tranquility. Indulge yourself in the spectacular Bal Harbour Shops, an open-air people-watching enclave equipped with lush gardens, koi ponds, refined boutiques, and popular restaurants. Situated just steps from the beach, Bal Harbour Shops recently completed a large-scale expansion, nearly doubling in size, to add new retail, restaurants, and green spaces.
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VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
INDULGE YOURSELF IN THE SPECTACULAR BAL HARBOUR SHOPS, AN OPEN-AIR PEOPLE-WATCHING ENCLAVE EQUIPPED WITH LUSH GARDENS, KOI PONDS, REFINED BOUTIQUES, AND POPULAR RESTAURANTS.
deliver the ideal balance, featuring a performance stage and a
Beyond shopping, Bal Harbour is ready to elevate your
This rare tropical sanctuary offers every diversion under
cultural experience through its innovative Unscripted public art
the sun. Set sail from Dinner Key Marina, the heart of the
program, showcasing pop art sculptures by Kenny Scharf as
Grove’s boating scene, where the Coconut Grove Sailing
well Marc Quinn’s iconic sculpture of a Kate Moss yoga pose.
Club offers lessons for aspiring mariners. Dive into local lore
The Art Access Card is a vital part of Unscripted that provides
at The Barnacle Historic State Park or step back in time at the
complimentary access to Miami’s finest museums, turning your
breathtaking Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, a waterfront mansion
vacation into a sophisticated journey through both luxury and
from the early 1900s that houses treasures dating back to the
art that simply cannot be replicated anywhere else.
Italian Renaissance.
CO CO N UT G R OV E
itineraries. The community’s crown jewel is the Coconut
Poised on Biscayne Bay south of downtown, Miami’s oldest
Grove Arts Festival, held every Presidents’ Day weekend as
neighborhood boasts authentic Bahamian roots stretching
it fills the streets with nearly 300 talented artists showcasing
back to the 1800s. No other part of Miami offers “the
everything from glass sculptures and fine art to striking
Grove’s” unique blend of past and present — here, you’ll
photography. Each year, more than 100,000 art lovers gather
find that culturally significant Black churches, colorful farmers
to browse, buy, dine, and dance.
Special events in the Grove are a must on many
markets, and diverse art galleries share the leafy sidewalks
Ever heard of “the weirdest parade in the universe”? That
with world-class dining, premium open-air shopping, cutting-
would be the King Mango Strut in the Grove! At this parade,
edge nightlife, and artisanal coffee culture.
you’ll witness delightfully bizarre floats and participants,
A Jewel Nestled in Miami Beach Open Wednesday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free on Saturdays
301 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-672-5044 | jmof.fiu.edu
47
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
The Biltmore Hotel
ranging from The League of Dead Voters and Cuban Eye for the Gringo Guy to Weapons of Mass Distraction and Insurrectionist Barbie. End your day with a walk on the wild side. When the sun sets, Coconut Grove’s dining scene seamlessly morphs into an electric nightlife hub. Pro Tip: Snag a room at a nearby hotel so you can soak up every moment of the Grove’s day-to-night transformation.
CO R A L GA B LE S Miami pioneer George Merrick had a Matheson Hammock Park
singular dream: to craft a paradise reminiscent of the Spanish and Italian Rivieras. The result was Coral Gables — one of America’s first fully planned communities, an enclave of stunning fountains and elegant plazas, magnificent terra-cotta-colored homes, and serene waterways winding through the landscape. The name itself comes from Merrick’s own family home, a beautiful gabled coral structure built in the 1900s that you can still visit today as a museum. As you stroll through Coral Gables, you’ll instantly feel the magic of Merrick’s “City Beautiful” vision that sets this area apart from anywhere else in South Florida. Lucky residents come to marvel at breathtaking landmarks ranging from the majestic city hall to the legendary Biltmore Hotel, whose history is as rich as its design. A visit to downtown Coral Gables is like being transported to a European village bathed in South Florida sunshine. Downtown hotel guests are mere steps from Miracle Mile, where local boutiques beckon and corner bakeries tempt you with the irresistible aroma of fresh pastries and coffee.
A Touch of Málaga on Miracle Mile A bold new mural infuses Coral Gables with the
vibrant spirit of southern Spain. Created by acclaimed
Spanish artist Lalone (Lalo Luque Puertas) in partnership
with the Consulate of Spain, the Málaga-inspired artwork now brightens the west side of McBride Plaza at 150
Miracle Mile, adding a colorful, cultured statement to one of the city’s most iconic streets.
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Top to bottom: Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2), J. Kevin Foltz
call this architectural wonderland home, while visitors
Wynwood Walls
Key Biscayne
along a mile-long shoreline, spin on an antique carousel with breathtaking ocean views, hop aboard a charming miniature train, and meander through coastal hammock trails on picturesque boardwalks. Tennis and golf enthusiasts, Key Biscayne’s got your game! The Crandon Tennis Center boasts a whopping 28 courts (with 15 illuminated for evening play), complete with expert lessons and exciting tournament action. Meanwhile, nearby Crandon Golf — the only public golf course overlooking the bay — offers 18 holes weaving through water, tangled mangroves, and
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
One national treasure in the City Beautiful is Matheson
luxuriant subtropical foliage for a satisfying challenge.
Hammock Park, a verdant preserve that offers a scenic
Be sure to indulge in the village’s charming boutiques and
45-minute hiking trail along with a brilliant man-made atoll
tempting restaurants before reaching the island’s last stop: Bill
pool that refreshes itself with the rhythmic tidal flows from
Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Here, a historic 1825 lighthouse
Biscayne Bay.
keeps watch over beaches so spectacular, they consistently
Nature’s gifts meet human creativity at Venetian Pool, a
earn their place among America’s finest.
beloved Coral Gables landmark and former limestone quarry used to build the city in the 1920s. Since then, it has been
W Y N WO O D
transformed into a refreshing oasis with vine-entwined loggias,
Wynwood’s transformation into an artistic mecca began with
mysterious coral caves, and pristine waters continuously
murals painted on abandoned warehouses in this 16-block area
refreshed by an underground spring.
north of Downtown Miami. When developer Tony Goldman first invited street artists from around the globe to transfer their
K E Y B I S C AY N E
artistic visions onto derelict buildings, he wasn’t just beautifying
Cross the Rickenbacker Causeway from Downtown Miami
— he was creating history.
to the isles of Key Biscayne, a paradise where brilliant blue
What began with legendary names like Kenny Scharf, Futura,
waters meet golden sands and lush landscapes. Explore at
OSGEMEOS, and Shepard Fairey has since transformed into
your leisure at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park as you wander
a global street art phenomenon: the Wynwood Walls. Now the
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GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
stores (such as Hermès, Dior, and Louis Vuitton) while exploring cutting-edge exhibits at ICA Miami, browsing world-class design showrooms, or simply soaking in the seasonal public art along inviting pathways? However, fashion isn’t the only draw. The District has also blossomed into a dining destination, boasting worldrenowned chefs and MICHELIN-Starred gems alongside casual eateries and artisanal ice cream.
Insider Tip We’ve only scratched the surface of Greater Miami
and Miami Beach’s colorful tapestry of neighborhoods and towns! Ready to discover more hidden gems and
local favorites? Dive deeper into all the incredible areas that make this region unique by exploring the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s website at www.miamiandmiamibeach.com.
ultimate pilgrimage site for street art enthusiasts, this outdoor museum showcases more than 40 breathtaking murals, 12 impressive sculptures, and three curated galleries. Small wonder that more than 10 million art lovers from around the world have walked through its paint-splashed
LIT TLE H AVA N A
corridors since it opened in 2009, with many staying on to
Experience authentic Cuban culture without ever
enjoy some of the best and hippest eateries in Miami.
leaving Miami in this new-fashioned slice of Old Havana, crafted lovingly by Cuban exiles in the 1960s just west of
M I A M I D E S I G N D I S TR I C T
downtown’s Brickell area. You haven’t truly visited Miami until
Just a stone’s throw north of Wynwood, the Miami Design
you’ve immersed yourself in the invigorating atmosphere of
District is a remarkable reinvention by the visionaries behind
SW Eighth Street — or Calle Ocho, to those in the know.
they’ve breathed new life into this once-forgotten corner of the
array of Latin-inspired culinary gems, traditional bakeries,
city, creating a buzzing playground where art and design thrive.
fresh fruit markets, classic cigar craftsmen, spirited rum bars,
Roam the Design District’s 18 blocks today, and you’ll discover why it’s considered one of South Florida’s premier cultural destinations. This isn’t merely shopping; it’s a fully
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Here, the soul of Cuba comes alive through an irresistible
captivating art galleries, and venues where music moves your very spirit — and your feet! As you browse the cigar factories and one-of-a-kind
immersive experience where fashion, design, and art
shops, pause to soak in the friendly competition at the
converge. Where else can you shop over 200 luxury flagship
domino tables, then delve into the area’s rich heritage at VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
South Beach’s renaissance. Like magicians of urban renewal,
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
Everglades National Park
Cuban Memorial Plaza. Need a pickme-up? Corner cafés offer potent shots of café cubano to fuel your exploration of tantalizing eateries, serving everything from authentic Cuban classics to Central American specialties and European delights. Weekends sizzle on Calle Ocho during Viernes Culturales, where the streets pulse with rhythmic music, spirited dancing, and colorful art. But nothing compares to the world’s largest block party — the spectacular Carnaval Miami or Calle Ocho, where 15 blocks of Little Havana explode into a sensory feast of live music, mouthwatering international food, generous sampling sites,
Journey a bit farther south to Kendall, home to the
mesmerizing folkloric dance, and nonstop entertainment. It’s a
shopaholic’s paradise of Dadeland Mall. This mecca of fabulous
one-of-a-kind party you won’t want to miss!
fashion and dining destinations spans 1.5 million square feet, boasting more than 150 retail stores and restaurants.
DORAL
All that shopping is sure to leave you hungry! Thankfully, the
Discover Doral, an energetic community that grew up around
Kendall food scene is absolutely exploding, from Downtown
its iconic golf resort (now Trump National Doral Miami) but now
Dadeland’s bustling hub to West Kendall’s rising culinary stars
offers so much more than just world-class fairways.
serving everything from farm-to-table feasts to plant-based
Soak up the sun in impressive parks, immerse yourself in cultural happenings, or sample global flavors in the many
delights. And of course, don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful golf courses and family parks that round out Kendall’s appeal.
stellar restaurants around town. Looking for the perfect afternoon itinerary? Head to CityPlace Doral, where you can
S O UTH DA D E A N D H O M E S TE A D
find shopping, dining, entertainment, and pamper yourself all
Venture south of bustling Miami to discover a totally different
in one stunning location.
world where farmland and wilderness stretch towards the shimmering waters of Florida Bay. Homestead isn’t just another stop along the way; it’s your
complimentary door-to-door service that makes exploring this
doorway to two incredible natural treasures! Step into the
cosmopolitan corner of Miami absolutely hassle-free.
Everglades — Florida’s legendary “River of Grass,” where North America’s only subtropical wilderness awaits your
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S O UTH M I A M I
exploration — or dive into Biscayne National Park, one of
Set next to the University of Miami and Coral Gables, South
the planet’s few aquatic parks, where kaleidoscopic fish dart
Miami welcomes you with its tree-lined streets, verdant parks,
through stunning coral reefs.
and memorable downtown, where history lives alongside
Want a taste of history? Wander through Homestead’s
mouthwatering restaurants and one-of-a-kind boutiques.
Downtown Historic District, where frontier heritage meets
Experience the magic of the SoMi Town Center, where
modern charm in its boutiques, antique havens, art spaces,
big-city amenities meet small-town charm across 48 acres
and local eateries. When retail therapy calls, have no fear.
of lush parkland. Whether you’re craving a quiet coffee, the
South Miami-Dade County answers with The Falls, Southland
latest fashion finds, or an unforgettable meal, SoMi has you
Mall, and the Florida Keys Outlet Marketplace just down the
covered.
road in Florida City. VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
No matter what your day holds, don’t worry about tiring out! Hop around town effortlessly with Freebee, Doral’s
Welcome to
GATOR PARK Airboat tours in the heart of Everglades National Park
Open daily, 365 days a year, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Group and Private Tours available.
Buy your airboat tour tickets online and save time and money at the park. No reservations required! Your tickets will be available at Gator Park on the day of your airboat safari. 24050 SW 8th street Miami FL
33194 305-559-2255
www.gatorpark.com
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
Everglades National Park
WYNWOOD WALLS: An Outdoor Museum like No Other A visionary project by Tony Goldman, Wynwood Walls remains Miami’s most vibrant expression of contemporary art and innovation.
S
ince opening in 2009, Wynwood Walls has transformed Miami’s
creative landscape — and, in many ways, the global perception of street art itself. Originally envisioned by legendary developer Tony Goldman, the project debuted with a powerhouse roster of artists including Kenny Scharf, Futura, OSGEMEOS, and Shepard Fairey. What began as an experiment in turning warehouse exteriors into colossal canvases has since evolved into an internationally celebrated outdoor museum. Today, Wynwood Walls features more than 40 cutting-edge murals, 12 large-scale sculptures, and three
Did You Know? Wynwood Walls isn’t just
an art lover’s dream — it’s
been named the No. 1 Most
fine-art galleries, forming a vibrant
according to Travel + Leisure.
Miami’s contemporary art scene. It
most photographed destinations!
visitors, earned international acclaim,
Insta-Worthy Spot in America,
cultural destination at the center of
No wonder it’s one of Miami’s
has welcomed more than 10 million and remains one of the world’s premier places to experience work by leading street artists. Interactive experiences — like hands-on spraypainting sessions — allow guests to explore the craft behind the murals and create their own piece of Wynwood story. As The New York Times once noted, Wynwood Walls is “changing Miami, imagine the city without it. Travelers seeking a compelling blend of creativity, culture, and color will find it right here, in Miami’s most iconic openair gallery. For more information or to learn more about the artists,
visit www.thewynwoodwalls.com.
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Courtesy of Wynwood Walls (2)
mural by mural”; and it’s impossible to
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
Grove
GRANDEUR
EXPLORE THIS LUSH, WALKABLE ENCLAVE FILLED WITH TROPICAL GARDENS, WATERFRONT BEAUTY, CHARMING CAFÉS, CHIC BOUTIQUES, AND TIMELESS SOUTH FLORIDA CHARACTER.
By Shayne Benowitz
oconut Grove — affectionately called “The Grove” by locals — is Miami’s oldest neighborhood. Nestled against Biscayne Bay, it’s an eclectic, bohemian enclave in the midst of a renaissance. Whether dining at a tree-lined sidewalk café or a casual restaurant on a marina, you’ll get a taste for what makes this neighborhood so special. Peacock Park and Dinner Key Marina offer a breezy taste of The Grove’s coastal charm. This waterfront stretch hums with easygoing energy — sailboats bob gently in the marina, paddleboarders glide across the bay, and locals stroll by with lattes in hand. With sweeping sunset views over Biscayne Bay and plenty of open green space, it’s a favorite spot for morning walks, relaxed picnics, and family-friendly afternoons. Home to the annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival in February, local galleries, and studios, Coconut Grove’s artistic spirit can be experienced year-round in fascinating historic mansions, gardens, nature preserves, restaurants, and design-forward hotels.
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J. Kevin Foltz
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
home designed to catch the bay breezes. Today, visiting the grounds is like stepping into a nature preserve where you’ll spy wading birds in the shallow bay and a full-sized replica of a historic sailboat. Once a hidden sanctuary that was home to famed botanist David Fairchild, The Kampong is one of Miami’s most tranquil escapes. Wander through tropical and exotic plants from around the world, including rare flowering trees, lush canopies, and waterfront lawns with sweeping Bay views.
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (3)
H I S TO RY M E E T S N ATU R E Step back in time to the Italian Renaissance with a visit to Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Coconut Grove. Built in the 1920s by wealthy industrialist James Deering, it’s an architectural marvel in magnificent Italianate limestone, featuring a main house with 34 rooms decorated in European antiquities along with 10 acres of formal gardens and a grotto overlooking Biscayne Bay. For another Coconut Grove gem in a similar vein, the Barnacle Historic State Park is set on a narrow plot of land on Biscayne Bay within easy walking distance from CocoWalk and the shops and restaurants along Main Highway. Built in the late 19th century, the Barnacle is a simple, wood-frame
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CoconutG
DISCOVER COCONUT GROVE
Miami’s Original Gem
Pinecrest Gardens
history bayfront fashion food art )
COCONUTGROVE.COM CoconutGrove_Ad_VisitMiami_9.25x11.13_PRINT.indd 1
8/28/24 11:56 AM
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
S H O PPI N G , S I PPI N G & S TR O LLI N G Coconut Grove’s charm shines brightest along its picturesque streets, where boutique shopping and sidewalk cafés create an irresistible village feel. Visitors can browse independent fashion houses, discover locally crafted jewelry, and explore artisanal home décor shops before settling into a European-style café for an alfresco latte under the banyan trees. Just a short stroll away, the newly reimagined CocoWalk anchors the neighborhood with its upscale boutiques, chic restaurants, outdoor lounges, and shaded terraces — an open-air hub that buzzes with energy from morning to night. Together, these vibrant pockets of style and flavor make The Grove a must-visit destination for travelers who love curated finds and sophisticated, laid-back living.
GREENSTREET STRIKES A DELICIOUS BALANCE BETWEEN CASUAL COMFORT AND POLISHED CULINARY CHARM. LINGER OVER COFFEE, WATCH THE NEIGHBORHOOD QUIETLY UNFOLD, AND PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE. C U LI N A RY H OT S P OT Tucked beneath a canopy of swaying palm trees in the heart of Coconut Grove, the renowned brunch experience. Since opening its doors in 1999, this beloved café has been a favorite among locals, offering a picture-perfect outdoor patio dotted with fresh flowers, rattan chairs, and market umbrellas. From warm coconut-crusted French toast and freshly
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J. Kevin Foltz (3)
GreenStreet Cafe delivers the ultimate Floridian
pressed juices to smashed avocado tartine and creatively
every year since the guide debuted in Miami in 2022, Ariete
crafted cocktails, GreenStreet strikes a delicious balance
merges old Latin traditions with South Florida ingredients
between casual comfort and polished culinary charm. Linger
and high-level French technique for a wholly original
over coffee, watch the neighborhood quietly unfold, and plan
concept. It’s an ode to Miami’s Cuban diaspora and culinary
your next adventure. If you’re visiting later in the day, lunch and
traditions. A truly upscale dining experience, the menu
dinner options are also available.
changes seasonally in a welcoming, bistro-style setting.
For a taste of old Coconut Grove, Monty’s Raw Bar is a
Ariete has blossomed into a full-fledged restaurant group
laid-back, alfresco tiki bar and restaurant set on Dinner Key
helmed by Beltran, which includes Chug’s Diner, a casual
Marina since 1969. It’s especially popular among boaters
daytime café dedicated to Cuban cooking inside a sun-
returning to shore in search of a casual bite and a strong
filled dining room in Coconut Grove. The exquisite Cuban
drink. Expect live music, a crowded bar, and groups of
American sandwich is made with sweet ham, salami, roasted
friends at picnic tables beneath palapas or soaking up the
pork lechón, Swiss, mustard aioli, and pickles with the option
sun. Order a grouper sandwich, fish tacos, or nachos and
to add crispy ham croquetas to the press — a must-try on
pair it with a tiki-inspired cocktail or cold beer to enjoy while
your quest for the best Cuban sandwich in town.
watching the sailboats come in and out of the marina. When chef Michael Beltran opened Ariete in an intimate
From coastal Mediterranean cuisine to contemporary Latin and refined American fare, The Grove has blossomed into
space on a leafy stretch of Main Highway, it became an
a culinary hot spot with many restaurants offering garden
instant hit — with staying power. Awarded a MICHELIN Star
courtyards, waterfront terraces, or elevated rooftop views.
(305) 444-0244 WWW.GREENSTREETCAFE.NET
3468 MAIN HWY MIAMI, FL 33133 61
GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
A LLU R I N G ACCO M M O DATI O N S Coconut Grove is a haven for smart, design-forward hotels, from the historic Mayfair House to the newfangled Mr. C Coconut Grove. The Mayfair, with its striking Gaudí-inspired facade and sculptural mahogany doors, has recently undergone a design refresh, as well as an overhaul to its food and beverage concepts with celebrated local chef Giorgio Rapicavoli at the helm of Mayfair Grill and the iconic rooftop pool transformed into Sipsip, a Caribbean-inspired rum bar. Meanwhile, Mr. C Coconut Grove by the legendary
Did You Know? The Coconut Grove Arts Festival is one
of the most prestigious outdoor art festivals
in the United States, drawing more than 100,000 visitors each year. Held every February along
The Grove’s beautiful waterfront, the three-day event
showcases over 280 international artists, live music, culinary demonstrations, and interactive
art experiences — transforming the neighborhood into an open-air gallery bursting with creativity.
Cipriani hospitality family takes chic nautical-inspired design
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
ESPECIALLY POPULAR AMONG BOATERS, MONTY’S RAW BAR IS A LAID-BACK, ALFRESCO TIKI BAR AND RESTAURANT SET ON DINNER KEY MARINA SINCE 1969.
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to a whole new level, perched on stilts with porthole-style windows and interiors that feel like you’re aboard a luxury yacht. It’s crowned by Bellini, a chic Italian rooftop restaurant named for the Champagne cocktail the Cipriani family is credited for creating. It offers panoramic views above the treetop canopy and out to sailboat-dotted Biscayne Bay for a scene that’s purely Coconut Grove.
WHY WE LOVE COCONUT GROVE • WALKABILITY: It’s one of Miami’s true pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.
• NATURE EVERYWHERE: You’ll find shaded streets, blooming flowers, and waterfront parks.
• HISTORY PLUS MODERN LUXURY: It offers a mix of timeless charm with fresh, upscale energy.
• RELAXED YET REFINED: It has a slower pace
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (3)
compared to Brickell or South Beach, but it’s just as stylish.
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GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
MONTY TRAINER’S Enduring Legacy From waterfront hospitality to arts leadership, the legendary founder of Monty’s has helped shape Coconut Grove’s cultural and civic soul for more than five decades. By Shayne Benowitz
W
hen Monty Trainer arrived in Miami in 1968 after
graduating from the University of Florida, having grown up in Key West, he felt an immediate affinity for Coconut Grove. “Coming from Key West — shaped by Bahamian culture and a laid-back island way of life — Miami felt familiar,” he recalls. “Coconut Grove, in particular, stood out as a place where creativity, nature, and community naturally came together and where the arts felt woven into everyday life.” A year later, Trainer zeroed in on Coconut Grove’s waterfront to open his now-legendary Monty’s just north of Dinner Key Marina. He drew inspiration from the relaxed, welcoming hospitality he’d come to know in Key West and through Bahamian culture. “Monty’s reflects the Grove’s spirit — creative, relaxed,
“To have that sign right where my
years in February 2026 — Trainer
and deeply connected to its natural
hospitality journey began is deeply
serves as president emeritus today. Set
environment,” says Trainer. A
meaningful.”
at Regatta Park overlooking Biscayne
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And what does the man himself
Bay, the festival presents a juried
breeze, hear music, and connect with
order when he visits Monty’s?
selection of more than 275 artists in
others over fresh seafood and tropical
“Stone crabs when they’re in season,
an inspiring environment. “The Grove
drinks, Monty’s has been a Miami
kept simple and enjoyed with good
has always been a village and the
institution for more than 50 years.
conversation by the water.”
epicenter of Miami’s arts and culture,”
In 2025, the City of Miami honored
Beyond hospitality, Trainer has
says Trainer. “It’s where the arts in
Trainer by designating a stretch of
been a catalyst in Miami’s arts and
Miami truly began — bridged to the
Aviation Avenue as Monty Trainer
civic culture for decades. A driving
environment, shaped by the bay and
Way, leading straight to the front door
force behind the Coconut Grove Arts
the trees — and where creativity has
of his famed namesake restaurant.
Festival — which will celebrate 62
always had room to grow.”
VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Courtesy of Monty Trainer (4)
destination to sit by the water, feel the
Monty’s reflects the Grove’s spirit — creative, relaxed, and deeply connected to its natural environment.” Monty Trainer
Trainer’s leadership roles in Miami extend to serving as a founding member of the Coconut Grove BID, the founder of the Greater Miami Host Committee, and chairman of the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce. He has also served on the Virginia Key Advisory Board and the Miami-Dade Cultural Affairs Council, and he works tirelessly to preserve the Historic Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove and support the next generation of artists through the New
hands-on training rooted in service ex-
Trainer thinks about what it means
World School of the Arts.
cellence. “Early experiences at the Casa
to cultivate a place where people
With a passion for education and
Marina hotel in Key West taught me
feel welcome and valued — a nexus
workforce development, Trainer has
that leadership begins on the front line
where hospitality supports creativity,
acted as a consultant to FIU’s Chaplin
— listening, teaching, and serving. That
education, and community building.
School of Hospitality Management,
belief shaped my lifelong commitment
“Island culture teaches you to look
the National Restaurant Association,
to mentoring and hospitality education.”
out for one another,” he says. “Miami
and major hotel brands such as
When reflecting on his legacy of
gave me opportunity — and leadership
Marriott and Hilton, supporting
leadership and cultural stewardship,
means opening doors for others.”
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GO. SEE. DO. FAMILY FUN
Fun
FOR ALL
FROM STUNNING BEACHES TO FASCINATING CULTURAL DISCOVERIES, GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH ARE THE PERFECT PLAYGROUNDS FOR FAMILIES SEEKING TREASURED MOMENTS AND MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS.
By Lisa Simundson
iami is renowned for its art, cuisine, and fashion scene; but not many realize that the Magic City was also designed with children in mind, offering kid-sized adventures at every turn. These 10 kidapproved attractions are sure to keep everyone in your family engaged and amazed.
ZO O M I A M I If you’ve never crawled through a giant python, you’re in luck, because you can at Zoo Miami — one of America’s top 10 zoos. Meander through expansive open-air exhibits where more than 2,000 animals roam in spaces designed to mimic their homes in the wild. Watch in awe as animal ambassadors steal the show at the amphitheater, then head to the Conservation Action Center for that unforgettable python experience. Make your visit extra special with a VIP tour, cruise the grounds on a guided tram, or create family memories while pedaling safari cycles along four miles of pathways. When the little ones need a break, fantastic playgrounds and splash zones offer the perfect cooldown activity.
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Zoo Miami
roam free, and the humans walk through carefully designed screened pathways, allowing guests to observe their natural behaviors up close without disturbing their environment. The 30-acre subtropical park is home to more than 300 primates — capuchins, spider monkeys, and squirrel monkeys among them — many living in large, social groups within a lush rainforest habitat. Kids especially love the interactive feeding sessions and educational presentations, which introduce them to primate conservation, habits, and personalities in a Coral Castle
fun, approachable way. It’s an engaging blend of adventure and learning, making Monkey Jungle a must-visit for families exploring Miami.
J U N G LE I S L A N D A legendary attraction that began as Parrot Jungle decades ago, Jungle Island is an exciting place where colorful parrots chatter overhead while graceful flamingos strut their stuff amid wildlife exhibits galore. Kids will love encounters with curious lemurs, slow-moving sloths, and ancient tortoises. Little explorers can burn off some energy at the playground,
Monkey Jungle
Top to bottom: Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2), J. Kevin Foltz
CO R A L C A S TLE Known as “Florida’s Stonehenge,” Coral Castle stands as a mind-boggling mystery. Somehow, in 1923, one lone man — the enigmatic Edward Leedskalnin — managed to move massive coral stones totaling more than a thousand tons with no visible machinery. Under the cover of darkness, away from curious eyes, he meticulously quarried and sculpted an entire open-air castle over the course of several decades. Was it his fascination with physics and the ancient pyramids that inspired him? The secret remains unknown to this day. Maybe you or your kids will be the ones to finally solve this architectural puzzle.
M O N K E Y J U N G LE One of Miami’s most beloved family attractions, Monkey Jungle turns the traditional zoo experience upside down. Here, the monkeys
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GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
make furry friends at the petting zoo, or challenge the Treewalk Village, where tree houses connect through a network of giant hammocks, nets, and wooden bridges suspended eight feet above the ground.
A DAY AT TH E B E AC H Discover Miami’s world-renowned beaches just steps east of wherever you are. From the lively southern edge of Miami Beach to the upscale stretches of Mid Beach, Surfside, Bal Harbour, Haulover Park, and Sunny Isles Beach, each offers its own unique charms. You might choose to play beach volleyball as the waves crash onto the nearby shore, cycle along scenic coastal trails, or ride the surf with watersports
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
rentals. If you have little splashers, the gentle, sandbarprotected waters of Crandon Park in Key Biscayne create the perfect natural kiddie pool.
TH E F R O S T M U S E U M Known as Downtown Miami’s essential educational destination, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science doesn’t just house four remarkable buildings — the immersive planetarium, breathtaking aquarium, and
innovative North and West Wings — it revolutionizes how children experience learning. By seamlessly blending entertainment with education, the museum transforms complicated STEM concepts into irresistible adventures. Your children won’t just enjoy themselves; they’ll develop critical thinking skills that last a lifetime, all while believing they’re just having fun.
M I A M I C H I LD R E N ’ S M U S E U M Transform your Miami vacation by trading beach time for brain time at the extraordinary Miami Children’s Museum. Your children will thank you for the unforgettable hands-on adventures waiting inside, from thrilling dinosaur explorations and artistic discoveries to real-world construction experiences and fantastical castle journeys. In addition, little ones
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Top to bottom: J. Kevin Foltz (2), Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
Miami Beach
will love the remarkably detailed and interactive cruise ship
your knowledgeable guide reveals the intriguing secrets of
exhibit that brings exciting maritime adventure to life.
this unique ecosystem. Make it an even more memorable afternoon with a private or semiprivate experience complete
G U LFS TR E A M PA R K
with refreshments.
The Village at Gulfstream Park, located just north of Aventura, levels up your family outing with diverse shopping options,
A WA LK I N TH E PA R K
delicious casual dining, a playground for kids, and activities
Green spaces abound in the Magic City. Discover a wealth
that include bowling and arcade games — not to mention
of state, national, and local parks crisscrossed with scenic
horse racing! Don’t miss its exceptional family events, ranging
bikeways and nature trails as you explore. Adventure seekers
from fun festivals to live entertainment, that make Gulfstream
can rent watersports equipment at water- or beachfront parks
Park an unmatched experience for visitors of all ages.
and even treat the little ones to charming pony rides at North Miami’s Enchanted Forest Elaine Gordon Park. Heading south
A I R B OATI N G I N TH E E V E R G L A D E S
to Pinecrest Gardens, you’ll find a variety of natural habitats
Your family is in for a wild ride as you glide across Everglades
along with a playground, zoo, and splash pad for little ones.
wetlands on an exhilarating airboat tour that safely zooms
For a tasty twist, South Dade’s Fruit & Spice Park will tantalize
past alligators lurking inches below the surface! Marvel at
your taste buds with endless samples, including a mind-
gentle manatees and colorful birds soaring overhead while
boggling 150 varieties of mango alone.
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GO. SEE. DO. NEIGHBORHOODS
EAT & DRINK D I N I NG CH EF PROFI LES
J. Kevin Foltz
N I GH TLI FE
EAT & DRINK DINING
Alive with
FLAVOR
IN MIAMI, MICHELIN-NOTED NEWCOMERS, JAMES BEARD AWARD–WINNING TALENT, AND BELOVED NEIGHBORHOOD INSTITUTIONS ALL COEXIST IN CULINARY HARMONY, TURNING EVERY MEAL INTO A DISCOVERY AND EVERY NIGHT INTO AN EXPERIENCE.
By Sole Sastre
amed the No. 1 Food Destination in the United States by Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards, Greater Miami and Miami Beach is a place where global cultures share a communal table. Enjoy the plethora of possibilities that await as you pull up at an omakase counter, order expertly made cocktails and decadent pours (some zero-proof), and find your rhythm on the dance floor — all on the same night, and sometimes in the same spot! In Miami, Latin and Caribbean influences with deep roots in the region share the spotlight with chefs who have made a name for themselves with their unique approaches and culinary prowess. Add the beachside terraces, food halls, and speakeasystyle lounges, and the city delivers a feast that stretches from cafecito at a cozy window to after-hours tacos under neon lights.
O C E A N B R E E Z E S A N D B E AC H F R O NT C L A S S I C S Out in Miami Beach, each meal often comes with a natural soundtrack: the swell
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EAT & DRINK DINING
oceanfront dining into an art form, drawing in diners with a Mediterranean-leaning menu served on one of the most scenic terraces on the beach. Just down the coast in the tiny neighborhood of South of Fifth, the terrace at Smith & Wollensky in South Pointe Park remains a perennial favorite for locals and visitors alike. It’s the ideal spot for prime dry-aged steak, premium seafood, and stunning views of cruise ships gliding past the city skyline. The sunsets aren’t half bad, either. A few blocks away is the venerable Joe’s Stone Crab, known for slinging the eponymous claws ever since it opened as a lunch counter in 1913. Celebrate something special by indulging in a platter of sweet, succulent stone crab paired with the signature mustard dip, or grab some to go at the onthe street, estiatorio Milos will transport you from the shores
rustling through the palm trees. Many of the city’s most iconic
of the Atlantic straight to the Mediterranean. Go classic with
restaurants live in this golden stretch of sand and sunshine,
the toothsome lamb chops or keep your sense of place with a
often within the grand hotels that dot the shoreline.
grilled fish of your choice, and be sure to try the Greek wine.
Prime 54 at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach pairs luxury
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with legacy, serving prime cuts and polished steakhouse
A R E C I PE FO R LE I S U R E A N D I N D U LG E N C E
classics in a dramatic two-story dining room. The DiLido
Few meals inspire more devotion than brunch. It simply can’t
Beach Club at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, turns
be beat — the variety, the largesse, the cheeky audacity of VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
site market. Oh, and don’t sleep on the fried chicken! Across of waves rolling in, beachgoers passing by, and the breeze
YOU N G
•
U R B AN
•
CU B AN
•
AM E R I CA N
Where it all started…
Widely recognized as South Florida’s original upscale Cuban restaurant, YUCA helped define what locals now call Nuevo Latino. Now reimagined as Yuca 105, the iconic restaurant enters a new era—where its celebrated Cuban roots meet the bold, vibrant influence of Peruvian cuisine. Elevated Latin classics are layered with bright acidity, coastal flavors, and modern technique, creating a refined fusion that’s unmistakably Miami. This is Nuevo Latino evolved—confident, colorful, and unforgettable.
1555 WASHINGTON AVENUE, MIAMI BEACH 786.577.3500 yuca105.COM Reservations at OpenTable.com FOLLOW US ON
EAT & DRINK DINING
CHEF MICHAEL CALVO: Recipes that Resonate Unassuming and measured, Cuban Chef Michael Calvo gives the Miami Beach food scene a new voice. This is memory rendered with intention. By Sole Sastre
I
t starts with Cuban maki — pieces of slow-roasted lechón, wrapped
in sushi rice and finished with thinly sliced plantain, black bean mousse, and a citrusy drizzle of mojo-based cream.
kitchens, including the revered Léon de
Playful in form and serious in flavor, it
Lyon. There, he absorbed the rigor of
reads as introduction and thesis. This is
classic French technique and crossed
Cuban food, reframed by Chef Michael
paths with figures whose influence still
Calvo at YUCA, one of the city’s
looms large. He learned structure and
original houses of innovation, under the
precision, and when he returned to
direction of someone eager to surprise
Cuba, he carried knowledge that few
your sense of what you know.
around him had access to. He arrived
primarily by his grandmother; but
island and the expansion of what are
also heads the kitchen at the hotel’s
unlike many culinary professionals
known as paladares — small, privately
signature restaurant, Call Me Cuban by
who trace their passion back to
owned restaurants. As the chef at
YUCA. More casual and giddy than its
childhood, his path was less nostalgic
El Atelier, he served dignitaries and
predecessor, it still bears his sense of
and aspirational. “In Cuba, food was
celebrities — and his star rose.
precision and delight.
a necessity,” he explains. “It wasn’t for
Repeated trips to Peru and
Here, a basket of freshly made
encounters with renowned chefs led
malanga and plantain chips arrives
Scarcity shaped direction. He recalls
to a realization. “You are a product of
with a maracuyá ceviche, and dessert
foods he disliked in his childhood, like
everything you ingest, everything you
is served in a steaming pink cafetera.
the tough flank steak rationed during
learn, everything you live.”
savoring. It was about survival.”
Cuba’s so-called “Special Period.”
Over the years, Calvo has cooked
“I understood that being a chef is not
for Michelle Obama, Quincy Jones,
Today, that same cut informs his take
just about calling yourself one,” Calvo
Jeff Bezos, and the U.S. Secretary of
on vaca frita, among the most popular
says. “First, you repeat. Then, before
the Navy during Fleet Week. Artists,
dishes on the menu.
you know it, you begin to create.”
designers, and executives arrive quietly
W
hile the kitchen feels like home
That idea of creation as something
and leave convinced. He says he looks
earned defines his cooking. The Cuban
for “the response” — the pause after a
began almost on a whim. Marcel
flavors remain intact, but they move
bite, the look that signals something hit
Andrés Clément, who was responsible
through French technique and reflect
just right.
for supporting various initiatives in
Caribbean and Peruvian influences.
On Miami Beach, Michael Calvo
Havana, recognized Calvo’s talent
Heading east towards Ocean Drive
has built a body of work that earns
today, his culinary career
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just in time to see an opening of the
before Calvo did. That led to training
at the restored Cardozo Hotel, pink
recognition plate by plate. It’s cooking
at L’Institut Paul Bocuse in France and
terrazzo, palm motifs, live music, and
shaped by lived experience and served
testing his learning at various local
a glowing bar signal a vibe shift. Calvo
with undeniable soul.
VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Top to bottom: J. Kevin Foltz, Courtesy of YUCA 105 / Call Me Cuban
Born in Havana, Calvo was raised
From the creators of the James Beard award-winning Yuca Miami, Call Me Cuban is not a nostalgia act-it's a new chapter. Classic Cuban flavors are elevated, refreshed, and paired with inventive cocktails for today's Miami 1300 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139 786-577-7600 Reservations at OpenTable.com
EAT & DRINK DINING
OLIVER URBINA: Sharing a Slice of Miami In a city defined by motion, reinvention, and the steady churn of what’s next, The Big Cheese has remained quietly, confidently itself. By Sole Sastre
S
ince opening in 1984, the South Miami institution has served red-
sauce comfort food in unapologetically generous portions, drawing generations of families, local sports teams, and friends on casual nights out back to the same tables. For Oliver Urbina, now the restaurant’s general manager, that continuity is personal. Urbina’s connection to The Big Cheese began long before he ever stepped into the kitchen. He grew up
there. I met my best friend as well.” His
— besides the pizza, of course — are
visiting with his family since he was
wife, he notes, had been coming to The
the seafood pasta and the Philly
in a baby carriage, and when school
Big Cheese long before they met.
cheesesteak sub. Despite overseeing a bustling
whenever he could. His uncle, Eddie
his own story. “We try to do that,”
restaurant, Urbina describes himself
Chamorro, worked at the restaurant,
Urbina says. “To bring people in and
as shy. He doesn’t often step out to the
becoming its general manager. By the
eventually be part of the family.” It’s a
dining room. Sometimes, guests ask if
time Urbina officially started bussing
philosophy reflected in how the food is
he’s cooking that night. “Because they
tables there at 16, the place already felt
made. “We bring that family love into
want to eat my food,” he says. “And
like an extension of home.
every dish. We bring the home flavor.
that’s nice to know.”
“I didn’t know how to cook,” Urbina says simply. “I learned here.”
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That sense of family extends beyond
You cook like it’s for your family.”
Looking ahead, Urbina isn’t
The menu hasn’t changed much
chasing transformation. The goal is
Afterward, he moved into prep,
over the decades, and that’s exactly
steadiness, keeping the restaurant
cooked at the Homestead location,
the point. Classics like lasagna, baked
feeling like “grandma’s house,” as he
returned to South Miami when the
ziti, and chicken parm anchor the
puts it, while remaining connected
business changed hands, and eventually
kitchen, alongside New York–style
to the South Miami community,
became the saute chef in 2014. Along
pizza and subs sized for multiple meals.
the University of Miami, and the
the way, managers like Oscar Marquez
One sauce in particular has become
neighbors who’ve supported The Big
mentored him, first towards kitchen
emblematic: the restaurant’s pink sauce,
Cheese through economic shifts and
leadership, then towards overseeing
which Urbina calls “one of the best
changing times.
the entire operation. Today, Urbina is
sauces on the menu.” It’s flavorful and
In a city that feels laser-focused
responsible for both the kitchen and the
surprisingly versatile, often ordered
on what’s next, The Big Cheese and
dining room.
on its own to pair with whatever
the people who keep it running
What has kept his steady presence is
else customers are taking with them.
offer something special: a place that
that sense of connection. “I met my wife
Urbina points out other standouts
remembers, welcomes, and stays.
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J. Kevin Foltz (2)
vacations rolled around, he came in
late mornings and bottomless drinks. Slow rises leisurely
a sunlit coastal energy to its brunch lineup by pairing an
stretch into gauzy afternoons, and lingering at your table
abundant spread with dazzling water views. And for pure,
after dessert is not just accepted but expected. In a word, it’s
unfiltered delight, Palace on Ocean Drive delivers with
irresistibly Miami.
vivacious singing, dancing, and a brazen wink that keeps
Across the city, standout brunches define the weekend respite. Settle into the rooftop at Serena for live music and a
the bottomless mimosas flowing. Here, the show is the main course; the food plays a delicious supporting act.
Tres Leches French Toast you won’t soon forget or slip into omelets and caviar-topped Benedicts dress up the classics.
H E A D W E S T TOWA R D S M I A M I ’ S M U LTI C U LTU R A L H E A R TB E AT
Bon Bouquet Café brings a taste of New Orleans to the beach
Beyond the shoreline lie the parts of the city intimately
with made-to-order beignets, while B Bistro + Bakery elevates
known and deeply treasured by the locals. As you head
a standard savory craving with its Crab Benedict. Meanwhile,
west, you’ll find a broad swath of vibrant immigrant
the Hampton Social keeps things bright with its signature
neighborhoods with distinct culinary traditions in each one
lobster rolls — a favorite for leisurely downtown afternoons.
carried across oceans and through generations. Here, some
the flower-filled charm of Little Hen, where truffle-stuffed
In Coral Gables, Amal delivers a Levantine-inspired brunch complete with warm spices, shareable mezze, and just enough transportive flair to make you forget you’re still on the mainland. Overlooking Biscayne Bay, Amara at Paraiso brings
of the city’s most memorable meals emerge from modest strip malls, beloved family eateries, and bold new concepts. In West Kendall, Chef Eileen Andrade has crafted a menu of Cuban dishes with Korean and Peruvian influences,
Miami's Best Kept Secret! THE FINEST ITALIAN FOOD AND PIZZA
An Unforgettable Experience!
COME IN OR CALL FOR TAKE OUT OR DELIVERY..AND SEE WHY!! 8080 SW 67 Avenue, South Miami, FL / 305-662-6855 / www.bigcheesemiami.com
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EAT & DRINK DINING
melding these cuisines into an elegant, golden-lit experience
Starting bright and early, Zak the Baker anchors the district
that feels both revelatory and nostalgic. Nearby, Ghee Indian
with its unmistakable pink-and-black striped facade and a
Kitchen honors South Indian flavors that shine thanks to
line that reliably snakes around the block. Inside, braided
hyper-local produce often sourced from Rancho Patel, Chef
challah, laminated pastries, and other meticulously crafted
Niven Patel’s farm in Homestead. In Little Haiti, Clive’s Café
breads have become a city staple. Just down the street,
continues its decades-long devotion to Jamaican comfort
Doya channels Aegean hospitality with its vibrant mezze
food, serving curry goat, jerk chicken, sweet plantains, and
and wood-fired dishes, while Bakan turns up the heat with
plated joy. Miami Gardens offers the city’s only Ethiopian
its open-fire Mexican cooking beneath a sculptural thicket of
restaurant, Awash, where injera, doro wat, and a traditional
desert-inspired cacti to set the scene.
coffee ceremony hint at Miami’s ever-expanding appetite. And of course, there are Miami icons that everyone knows,
Just a few miles away, the Design District blends luxury retail with some of Miami’s most esteemed eateries.
loves, and revisits time and again. Cuban food is a city staple,
Mandolin Aegean Bistro opens a timeless escape beneath
and the snapper-packed pan con minuta at La Camaronera,
its bougainvillea canopy, a serene haven where lingering
legendary fritas at El Mago de las Fritas, and the next-level
over mezzes feels as natural as pausing to admire an
Cuban sandwiches at Tinta y Café are a testament to that
outdoor sculpture. Nearby, Michael’s Genuine continues to
proud legacy. The smoky Latin-barbecue mashups at Harry’s
transform the New American dining scene it helped define,
Smoke & Dough are another classic that keep things exciting
balancing micro-seasonality with an easy, sunlit elegance.
and unmistakably Miami. Try the 15-hour smoked cafecito-
Joining these neighborhood and city pillars are newer
rubbed prime brisket or order a few creative tapas, like
spots like El Turco, a MICHELIN-awarded Turkish restaurant
arepitas con lechón and smoked croquetas.
whose shareable spreads, freshly baked breads, and herbforward dishes offer a warm, relaxed counterpoint to the
W Y N WO O D A N D TH E D E S I G N D I S TR I C T: W H E R E A R T M E E T S A PPE TITE
neighborhood’s sleek edges.
open-air patios, this is a neighborhood where creativity
M I C H E LI N S TA R S , TA S TI N G M E N U S & N E X T- G E N TA LE NT
permeates every corner, and the dining scene delightfully
Miami’s rise as a world-class dining city is perhaps
mirrors that restless energy.
most evident in its growing constellation of chef-driven
Between Wynwood’s Technicolor murals, breweries, and
restaurants. In Riverside, Palma crafts a delicate, everchanging tasting menu built on the fleeting selection of seasonal ingredients from local farms, ensuring each visit is one of a kind. Recoveco in South Miami pairs technique with imagination, from ikejime-butchered fish to beautifully composed desserts. Back in South Beach, Chef Michael Pirolo’s Macchialina has made a name for itself with a
A CULINARY CELEBRATION Miami Spice Restaurant Months run August through September, featuring specially priced three-course menus at participating
www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/ spice-restaurant-months.
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restaurants across Greater Miami and Miami Beach. For a list of restaurants, visit
Your gateway to the world starts in Miami From the heart of Miami, American Airlines connects you to destinations around the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe with over 400 daily flights. Whether you’re here for sun-soaked beaches or planning your next getaway, we're ready to take you wherever you want to go. Book your next adventure at aa.com. American Airlines and the Flight Symbol logo are marks of American Airlines, Inc. oneworld is a mark of the oneworld Alliance. © 2025 American Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved.
EAT & DRINK DINING
IN MIAMI, LATIN AND CARIBBEAN INFLUENCES WITH DEEP ROOTS IN THE REGION SHARE THE SPOTLIGHT WITH CHEFS WHO HAVE MADE A NAME FOR THEMSELVES WITH THEIR UNIQUE APPROACHES AND CULINARY PROWESS.
In the MiMo District, Double Luck reinvents Chinese American comfort food with playful theatrics — think flaming orange chicken and neon-lit nostalgia. Downtown’s Tâm Tâm channels the spirit of a Vietnamese supper club with funky beats, bold flavors, and a bathroom karaoke setup that inspires more than a few late-night serenades. As the sun dips below the horizon, Wynwood seamlessly shifts gears. Mayami refuses to go quietly into the night, offering an electric vibe, fire dancers, and theatrical cocktails,
deceptively simple menu of handmade pastas and clean,
while at 1-800-Lucky, guests who weave between ramen
fresh, rustic Italian recipes. Whether you’re dining with
counters, dim sum stalls, and sushi bars can get their fill
clients or planning a dimly lit date night with a four-course
just before the DJ turns the food hall into a dance floor.
tasting menu, this Miami gem is a winner.
Cervecería La Tropical, the revived Cuban brewery with cuisine by celebrated Chef Cindy Hutson, fully embodies the
return, blending her Jewish Argentine heritage with
district’s eclectic personality. Start the afternoon with a crisp
Mediterranean inspiration in an intensely personal menu.
lager and linger awhile, or return after a tour of the streets for
What began as a modest pop-up has grown into a
a night of live music in the garden.
sprawling Little River landmark, where Sunny’s — singled
Then there’s Happy Wine on Calle Ocho, a bar where
out by The New York Times — serves beautifully cooked
1,000 bottles line the walls, tapas flow beneath quaint string
charcoal-grilled meats alongside polished seafood and
lights, and live music fuels a nightly celebration. A Little
pasta, enjoyed in a lively setting that feels like an ongoing
Havana icon, Ball & Chain has a long, colorful history in the
Miami celebration.
game of dinner, drinks, and a raucous night of dancing that dates all the way back to 1935. ViceVersa in Downtown
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D I N N E R TH AT F E E L S LI K E A PA R T Y
Miami offers something a little more casual and more current:
Some Miami eateries blur the line between “dining room”
a dimly lit hotel lobby transformed into a lively, shoulder-
and “dance floor,” creating captivating nights where the
to-shoulder party of pizza lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and
meal is the main event.
hospitality insiders unwinding on their night off.
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J. Kevin Foltz (2)
Sra. Martínez marks Michelle Bernstein’s triumphant
.
H A PPY H OU R FRO M 5 - 8 PM DA I LY O PE N E V E RY DAY LI V E E NTE RTA I N M E NT N I G HTLY TA PA S M E N U AVA I L A B LE
EAT & DRINK NIGHTLIFE
305 Nighttime
VIBE
STEP INTO A WORLD OF LEGENDARY CLUBS, LIVE PERFORMANCES, AND COCKTAIL CULTURE — WHERE EVERY CORNER OF GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH OFFERS SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY AFTER DARK.
By Sole Sastre
iami’s exciting nightlife scene reveals a world of rhythm, artistry, and electric energy — a city where every neighborhood offers its own soundtrack and every venue invites you to stay just a little longer.
F I N D YO U R R H Y TH M For those who chase a lively rhythm, Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s legendary clubs need little introduction. E11EVEN’s acrobatic theatrics and superstar DJs have earned it global recognition, while Club Space is a sanctuary for marathon sets that seem to transcend time and, well, space! The options here are endless: LIV delivers high-glamour nightlife, Mango’s Tropical Café has regaled visitors with live salsa dancers for decades, and intimate venues like Do Not Sit On The Furniture draw music lovers who prefer deep cuts over big
LI V E M U S I C , M I A M I - S T Y LE Miami’s live-music scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself, offering everything from open-air concerts under the stars to intimate performances in
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crowds. Whatever your tempo, Miami has a dance floor tuned to your frequency.
historic theaters. A cornerstone of this scene is the Miami Beach Bandshell, an iconic oceanfront amphitheater that has welcomed global and local talent across genres since the early 1960s. Its breezy outdoor setting and eclectic programming — spanning Latin rhythms, jazz, classical, indie, and world music — make it a favorite for unforgettable nights on Miami Beach. Equally beloved is The Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater, where vintage glamour meets contemporary entertainment. This storied venue continues to host touring bands, standout solo artists, comedy acts, and special events in a setting that blends nostalgia with a polished, rock-and-roll edge. For classical music enthusiasts, the New World Center remains a cultural gem. Home to the renowned New World Symphony, the center offers immersive performances, cutting-edge acoustics, and outdoor Wallcast® concerts that invite audiences to enjoy symphonic music in a uniquely Miami way. Beyond the major venues, Miami’s neighborhoods pulse with live sound. In South Beach, Little Havana, Coconut Grove, Wynwood, and Downtown, you’ll find bars, lounges, restaurants, and clubs showcasing everything from salsa to indie bands and DJ-driven sets. No matter where you wander, there’s always a stage — and a soundtrack — waiting to be discovered in the Magic City.
CO C K TA I L L A B S , S P E A K E A S I E S & LO U N G E V I B E S It’s plain to see that the city is most alive at night, and as golden hour fades into darker shades of blue, the energy
For those looking to blend cocktails with high-energy
in the kitchen shifts from a perfectly measured serving to a
nightlife, Blue Martini — a longtime staple in Miami’s social
generous pour. Cocktail bars and hidden lounges throughout
scene — offers an upscale yet lively atmosphere with an
Miami have elevated mixology into performance, and the
extensive martini list, premium spirits, and music-driven
region’s abundant tropical fruits and small-batch spirits are
evenings that stretch late into the night. It’s a classic Miami
given the star treatment.
experience for guests seeking a sophisticated lounge vibe
At Café La Trova in Little Havana, the award-winning bar program channels Cuba’s golden era through perfectly
with the energy of a modern party. Whether you prefer a quiet, chef-forward bar or a pulsing
balanced cocktails. Here, cantinero bartenders toss cocktails
lounge with live music, Miami’s cocktail culture offers
with cinematic flair as a live band takes the room from simmer
unforgettable sips and scenes that capture the city’s vibrant,
to sizzle. Before long, guests are dancing between tables to
ever-evolving spirit.
exhilarating Cuban classics. Meanwhile, Macchialina’s martiniand-crudo bar, Fluke, offers a sleek, intimate space ideal for
WO R LD - C L A S S P E R F O R M A N C E S
easing into the evening or post-dinner lingering as traffic and
Miami’s performing arts scene continues to shine, offering
time seem to slip by.
cultural experiences as vibrant and diverse as the city itself.
85
legacy as a cultural touchstone, presenting innovative plays,
Performing Arts remains the region’s premier destination for
modern musicals, and boundary-pushing performances
world-class productions, from touring Broadway shows and
from local and visiting artists alike. Farther south, the Dennis
acclaimed ballets to bold contemporary works and orchestral
C. Moss Cltural Arts Center anchors the performing arts
performances.
community in Miami-Dade’s southern neighborhoods. Its
Across the causeway on Miami Beach, the Colony Theatre
expansive programming spans opera, dance, comedy,
— a beautifully restored 1930s Art Deco gem — continues its
concerts, film screenings, and family-friendly events.
HIGH-ENERGY GAMING
racing, this sprawling complex also
Miami buzzes with more than 1,000
boasts a modern casino filled with slot
slots, electronic table games, and a
Whether you’re a seasoned
machines and electronic table games.
poker room where tournaments and
player or a curious first-timer,
Beyond the gaming floor, Gulfstream’s
cash games keep the action moving.
Miami’s gaming destinations
open-air shopping and dining district
Once a hub for jai alai, it now blends
offer excitement at every turn.
— The Village at Gulfstream Park —
gaming with DJ sets, live music, and an
adds upscale restaurants, boutiques,
upbeat nightclub atmosphere.
M
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iami’s gaming landscape offers
and nightlife to round out a full day or
travelers a lively mix of casinos,
evening.
For a distinctive experience, head west to Miccosukee Resort & Gaming,
racetracks, and entertainment venues
Closer to Miami International
where a Native American–influenced
that keep the energy high well into the
Airport, Magic City Casino draws
setting hosts slot machines, high-stakes
night. Whether you’re hoping to hit the
a devoted crowd with more than
poker, bingo, and special events. It’s a
jackpot, enjoy a pulse-pounding horse
900 Las Vegas–style slots, poker
long-standing part of Miami’s gaming
race, or pair your gaming with dinner
tables, seasonal jai alai, and a
heritage and remains a favorite for
and live music, the Magic City has a
packed schedule of concerts and live
both locals and visitors.
destination for every style of play.
performances. Its dining options,
From the thrill of the racetrack to
A longtime favorite is Gulfstream
including a popular Sunday Brunch
the glow of the casino floor, Miami’s
Park in nearby Hallandale. Famous
Buffet, make it a lively local go-to.
gaming destinations offer a dynamic
for its year-round thoroughbred
Just minutes from Downtown, Casino
blend of entertainment options.
VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
EAT & DRINK NIGHTLIFE
In Downtown Miami, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the
THRILLS WITH EVERY BET
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT GULFSTREAMPARKCASINO.COM
901 S. FEDERAL HIGHWAY // HALLANDALE BEACH // 954.454.7000
SPLU RGE SHOPPI N G & FASH I ON
J. Kevin Fotz
TREND SET TER
SPLURGE SHOPPING & FASHION
A Stylish
ESCAPE
EXPLORE A VIBRANT WORLD OF FASHION, FLAIR, AND ONEOF-A-KIND FINDS IN GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH, WHERE LUXURY LABELS, INDIE BOUTIQUES, AND ECLECTIC DISTRICTS CREATE A SHOPPING SCENE AS DYNAMIC AS THE DESTINATION ITSELF.
By Vanessa Molina Santamaria
reater Miami and Miami Beach deliver a retail landscape as colorful and varied as the communities that make up the region. Whether you wander the high-fashion avenues of the Miami Design District, stroll Miami Beach’s iconic and architecturally rich Lincoln Road, browse bohemian storefronts in Coconut Grove, or roam the extensive malls of Aventura and Brickell City Centre, you’ll discover options that cater to every budget and sense of style. From fashion-forward finds and artisan treasures to coveted luxury brands, Miami remains a premier destination for style enthusiasts and discerning shoppers alike. Globally renowned designers and luxury houses — Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Hermès, Dior, Cartier, Rolex, and more — are beautifully showcased throughout the region. And for those seeking stylish finds at exceptional value, the area’s outlets feature favorites such as Banana Republic, Gap, Guess, J.Crew, Nike, and Old Navy. Galleries, street installations, and artist-driven boutiques add
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Bal Harbour Shops (2)
an artsy edge to many districts, giving shoppers the chance to browse everything from original works by up-and-coming creatives to collector-level pieces by established masters. No matter what you’re searching for in the 305, you’re almost guaranteed to find it. While the sunshine might tempt you to save shopping for
JUST NORTH OF MIAMI BEACH, THE LEGENDARY BAL HARBOUR SHOPS HAS BEEN DRAWING LUXURY SHOPPERS FOR MORE THAN 50 YEARS.
later, Miami’s outdoor malls, lively walkable corridors, and creatively designed arts districts make retail therapy a must-do activity — rain or shine.
In addition to cafés and people-watching, visitors can May, an outdoor antique and collectibles market. Continue
Just north of Miami Beach, the legendary Bal Harbour Shops
on to Española Way, where pastel Mediterranean-style
has been drawing luxury shoppers for more than 50 years.
facades, boutique shops, and cozy eateries create a charming
Anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, the
European village ambience — especially enchanting at night
open-air, garden-like center is home to elite design houses
under twinkling string lights. Nearby Washington Avenue adds
such as Prada, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana. Koi ponds,
even more browsing opportunities with independently owned
lush greenery, and breezy architecture set the tone for a
shops selling surf gear, apparel, swimwear, and souvenirs.
refined tropical experience between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Head south towards South Beach to reach Lincoln Road
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Across the causeway in Downtown Miami, Bayside Marketplace pairs waterfront views with all-day entertainment. Retail favorites abound — Bath & Body Works, Victoria’s
Mall, an eight-block stretch lined with brands like Armani
Secret, Build-A-Bear, Foot Locker, and Sunglass Hut —
Exchange, H&M, Zara, Anthropologie, and Lululemon.
alongside Bayside’s own specialty shops, including the VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
browse a weekly farmers market and, from October through
O P E N -A I R A LLU R E
Bayside Cigar Lounge. Adventurous visitors can hop on a
A few miles south, Coral Gables offers a European-
bay cruise, book a land or sea tour, or ride Skyviews Miami,
inspired blend of elegance and greenery. Miracle Mile, the
a 200-foot observation wheel with air-conditioned gondolas
city’s signature corridor, features an impressive mix of art
showcasing panoramic views.
galleries, children’s boutiques, and specialty home stores
For the car racing aficionado in your group, the Auto Craze
offering everything from chandeliers to Baccarat glassware.
store is close by, which specializes in accessories for kart, auto,
As the city’s famed “Bridal Row,” it also houses over 40
and motorbike. Known as “the speed lovers sporting goods
bridal-focused shops. Nearby, The Shops at Merrick Park
store,” it ships an extensive array of products worldwide.
offers an elevated, open-air shopping experience where lush
In Miami’s Design District, shopping becomes an
landscaping and Mediterranean-inspired architecture set
immersive luxury experience. This striking neighborhood
the stage for an afternoon of refined browsing. Anchored by
pairs world-class fashion houses — think Hermès, Dior,
luxury names such as Carolina Herrera, Jimmy Choo, Tiffany &
Prada, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Gucci — with cutting-
Co., and anchor tenants Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, this
edge architecture, contemporary art installations, and
tranquil retail oasis invites you to linger between beautifully
beautifully landscaped plazas. Flagship boutiques feel
designed storefronts, inviting cafés, and shaded walkways.
more like galleries than retail stores, with curated interiors,
Set along one of Miami’s most storied waterfront
private salons, and limited-edition collections you won’t find
neighborhoods, Coconut Grove offers a relaxed yet refined
everywhere. Between designer browsing, visitors can pause
shopping experience. CocoWalk anchors the neighborhood
for a cappuccino, admire public sculptures, or step into one
with an elevated mix of contemporary boutiques, curated
of the district’s celebrated galleries.
lifestyle brands, and chic cafés — perfect for an afternoon
EST.
1972
Guayaberas Panama Hats Women’s Apparel Children’s Apparel
Havana Collection 1421 SW 8th Street (Calle Ocho), Little Havana, USA 33135 (786) 717-7474
Yli Liriano for Havana Collection
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Miracle Mile
of browsing. Steps from the bay, this leafy enclave blends bohemian charm with modern sophistication, inviting shoppers to enjoy a chic, laid-back escape that feels uniquely Grove. Farther south near Pinecrest lies The Falls, an inviting openair shopping experience surrounded by lush landscaping and relaxing water features. This expansive retail destination blends well-known fashion houses, elevated lifestyle brands, and specialty boutiques — all connected by breezy walkways beneath tropical foliage. With more than 100 stores, including Macy’s, Coach, Lululemon, Express, Pandora, Sephora, Tous, Talbots, and Brooks Brothers, it’s an ideal escape for leisurely browsing, delightful dining, and an elegant afternoon of retail therapy away from the bustle of the city. Venture west of Miami International Airport to CityPlace Doral, a vibrant retail and entertainment hub brimming with trendy clothing, jewelry, watches, and lively fountains that light up in choreographed shows. With restaurants, a comedy club, and a themed children’s play area, it’s a fun-filled outing for the whole family. filled with food vendors and artisan goods. Guests will also
D E S TI N ATI O N M A LL S
enjoy the experiential Arts Aventura Mall program, highlighting
At the heart of Downtown, Brickell City Centre brings
more than 25 museum-quality pieces.
sophisticated shopping to Miami’s modern financial district.
To the west, Dolphin Mall — Miami-Dade’s largest outlet
Spanning three city blocks and four sleek levels, the stunning
destination — presents more than 240 boutiques and
complex is anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue and showcases an
designer outlet stores, from well-known fashion houses to
elevated mix of contemporary designers and global brands —
favorite contemporary brands. Visitors can browse elevated
from Marc Jacobs and Nini and Loli to Beach Bunny Swimwear,
labels such as Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, and Brooks
Levi’s, and Tommy Bahama. Its stylish atmosphere and central
Brothers, all within a lively, entertainment-focused setting that
location — just steps from the historic site of Miami’s original
turns a day of shopping into a complete Miami experience.
trading post — make it an effortlessly chic stop for fashion-
Farther south, the iconic Dadeland Mall continues to
forward visitors exploring the city’s urban core. A short drive north brings you to Aventura Mall, Florida’s
elevate its offerings since first opening in 1962. Today, it’s home to Florida’s largest Macy’s as well as Saks
largest retail destination, and named the nation’s favorite
Fifth Avenue and an impressive lineup of more than 180
mall by USA Today Readers’ Choice 2025. Fashion fans can
retailers. A sleek fashion wing showcases brands like
explore major department stores like Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s,
BOSS, Free People, Urban Outfitters, Stuart Weitzman,
and Nordstrom, as well as chic global labels such as Aritzia,
and 7 for All Mankind, complemented by specialty beauty
Alo Yoga, SKIMS, Anthropologie, Charlotte Tilbury, Lacoste,
boutiques and an impressive selection of dining options.
Nike, Ralph Lauren, Sephora, and a two-level Zara and Apple
With its mix of luxury labels, contemporary favorites, and
store. European luxury icons include Prada, Dior, Louis Vuitton,
premium services, Dadeland remains a defining destination
Cartier, Fendi, Ferragamo, Givenchy, Burberry, BVLGARI, Saint
for South Miami shopping.
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features Florida's first Eataly and more than 50 eateries and
C L A S S I C F I N D S A N D LU X U RY I CO N S
restaurants, including Treats Food Hall. With natural light from
Just across from Bal Harbour Shops, Gray & Sons is a haven
a 350-foot skylight, weekends at Aventura Mall welcome The
for collectors and enthusiasts. The celebrated showroom
Aventura Market, South Florida’s largest indoor farmers market,
showcases an array of pre-owned luxury timepieces — VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
J. Kevin Foltz
Laurent, Tiffany & Co., Valentino, and more. Aventura Mall also
Aventura Mall
Top to bottom: Courtesy of Aventura Mall, J. Kevin Foltz
CARTIER’S MIAMI MASTERPIECE If you want to enjoy the epitome of elegant style while shopping in Miami, be sure to pay a visit to Cartier’s newly reimagined and recently reopened regional flagship store in the Miami Design District. Cartier collaborated with designer Laura Gonzalez and architect Elizabeth Diller to create an unparalleled elegance in the new store, making a space that features the tropical beauty and artistic passion of its home city. The facade of semiopaque fluted glass is the real eye-catcher as you approach the new store, with an etched-glass pattern modeled after a 1909 brooch from Maison Cartier. Meanwhile, the shopping experience inside has an inviting elegance to match, complete with all the incredible wares from Cartier that you’ve come to expect. If you’re seeing the best that Miami retail has to offer, then the new Cartier store is an essential stop on your shopping trip.
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Brickell City Centre
think Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Richard Mille — alongside distinguished estate jewelry. Nearby, Mike’s Cigars brings old-school Miami to life with handcrafted Cuban-style cigars and a nostalgic Sixties-era atmosphere. Both stops capture the timeless glamour and craftsmanship that define parts of Miami’s luxury landscape. With so many unforgettable options, it’s easy to see why shopping becomes a highlight of any visit.
C R E ATI V E CO R N E R S Wynwood, northwest of Downtown and just inland from Miami Beach, draws artists, tastemakers, and curious 25th Streets, bold murals stretch across building exteriors in a constantly evolving open-air gallery. The district’s centerpiece, Wynwood Walls, presents monumental works across six buildings, along with a shop selling artistdesigned merchandise. A few blocks away, Wynwood Marketplace buzzes with vendors offering handmade accessories, minimalist swimwear, boho apparel, and ethically crafted resort wear. Those seeking refined pieces can explore the high-end galleries and design showrooms sprinkled throughout both
SPANNING THREE CITY BLOCKS AND FOUR SLEEK LEVELS, THE STUNNING BRICKELL CITY CENTRE IS ANCHORED BY SAKS FIFTH AVENUE AND SHOWCASES AN ELEVATED MIX OF CONTEMPORARY DESIGNERS AND GLOBAL BRANDS.
Wynwood and the nearby Miami Design District, where distinctive home décor and inventive gifts await.
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Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
wanderers alike. Along NW 2nd Avenue between 22nd and
ONLY IN MIAMI Bring home a piece of Miami with handcrafted goods and artistic keepsakes that reflect the city’s vibrant identity.
M
iami is a city of unforgettable flavors, rhythms, and colors
— and its shopping scene is no exception. Here, the souvenirs aren’t just mementos; they’re expressions of culture, craftsmanship, and the Heading north, Miami’s cigar legacy
stories that shaped the neighborhoods
lined with guayaberas in every cut, color,
you explored. From Little Havana to
and fabric — from heirloom designs
continues at one of the region’s most
Wynwood, some items simply belong
to modern interpretations crafted for
storied retailers. Mike’s Cigars, founded
to Miami and carry its spirit long after
Miami’s breezy, tropical lifestyle. Paired
in 1950, reflects the city’s deep ties to
your trip ends.
with crisp linen pants, stylish hats,
Latin American cigar craftsmanship.
Start in Little Havana, where the
or footwear, these pieces transcend
The aroma of cedar and tobacco fills
classic guayabera remains a symbol of
souvenirs; they become wearable
the space as you browse top brands like
Cuban elegance and Miami style. At the
reminders of the neighborhood’s
Cohiba, Arturo Fuente, Montecristo,
Havana Collection Experience, master
enduring heritage. And as you wander
and Romeo y Julieta — whether as
clothier Fidel D’Asis Lopez has spent
along Calle Ocho, you can also pick up
handpicked singles, curated samplers,
more than four decades perfecting the
hand-rolled cigars, domino sets, and
or elegant cigar stacks ideal for gifting.
art of traditional Cuban fashion. Step
other classic Little Havana finds to
For aficionados and newcomers alike,
inside and you’ll find linen-draped racks
round out your stroll.
the experience is quintessentially Miami: warm, refined, and steeped in tradition. But not all Miami-made treasures are rooted in the past. In Wynwood, contemporary creativity takes center stage. Wynwood Walls — one of the world’s most influential outdoor art experiences — has turned the neighborhood into a living canvas, filled with more than 40 murals and an everevolving roster of international artists. Inside the galleries and retail spaces, visitors can purchase limited-edition prints, original works, and one-of-a-kind design-forward pieces.
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
Together, these distinctive finds capture Miami’s unique blend of tradition and innovation. They’re the kinds of treasures that don’t just commemorate a visit; they continue the story long after you’ve returned home.
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Just Keep
SWIMMING FROM VIVID COLOR PALETTES TO STRIKING TROPICAL MOTIFS, MIAMI’S UNMISTAKABLE AESTHETIC COMES ALIVE IN THESE STANDOUT SWIMWEAR LOOKS.
Inspired by the fearless energy of Blue Crush, Salt Gypsy’s pink Low Rider Rashguard means your friends can easily spot you in the surf lineup. www.saltgypsy.com
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A timeless essential, this Malai Raspberry Color Blend Halo Top and Array Bottom was designed for effortless days under the sun. www.malaiswimwear.us
A classic look, the Quince Italian V-Neck Bikini Top and Italian Low-Rise Bikini Bottom will never go out of style. www.quince.com
Available in various colors, Left on Friday’s Tubular Top and Hi Tide Bottoms are perfect for mixing and matching. www.leftonfriday.com
The Kenny Flowers Welcome to Margaritaville Underwire Bikini Top and High Waist Bikini Bottom is super-soft with SPF 30+ fabric. Pair it with Resort Shorts for all day in the sun. www.kennyflowers.com
PQ Swim’s Platinum Water Lily Crochet Trim Triangle Top and Scoop Bottom, created in collaboration with Brazilian designer Solange Ferrarini, has vintage charm and effortless style. www.pqswim.com Take a dip in Change of Scenery’s Nellie Top and Side Tie High Waist Bottom in Gardenia. www.shopchangeof scenery.com
Jade Swim’s Coast Top and Lure Bottom are made from luxe fabric that smooths and sculpts in all the right places. www.jadeswim.com
AUTOS . MOTOS . KARTS . UT V
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8880 NW 20th Street Suite J, Doral, Florida 33172
THE SPORTING
LIFE IPA
ALL-STAR SPORTS
THE SPORTING LIFE ALL-STAR SPORTS
The Competitive
EDGE
FROM PACKED STADIUMS AND SOLD-OUT COURTS TO ROARING RACETRACKS ALONG THE BAY, MIAMI — HOME TO LEGENDARY FRANCHISES AND INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS — HAS EARNED ITS PLACE AMONG THE WORLD’S PREMIER SPORTING DESTINATIONS.
By Donald Rodrigue
iami’s shimmering skyline and glossy mega yachts may suggest a glamorous playground for the rich and famous, a city of indulgence without much beneath the surface; but the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. The visionaries who first began Miami’s transformation in the 1980s weren’t simply beautifying buildings or restoring historic districts — they were innovating, shaping a world-class destination designed to captivate every kind of traveler. Blessed with year-round sunshine, a subtropical climate, and few geographical barriers, South Florida quickly grew beyond its reputation as a winter escape or gateway to Latin America. Today, it stands as one of the world’s most dynamic sports hubs where nearly every sport under the sun is not only accessible but celebrated. It’s safe to say the international sports industry has taken notice. In Burson’s 2025 Ranking of Sport Cities, Miami landed at No. 8, leaping up eight spots from just two years prior — an impressive rise fueled by the city’s booming sports ecosystem and passionate fan culture. Such a noticeable shift comes as no surprise when you consider the legions of fans flying into Miami and Fort Lauderdale to cheer on home
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Inter Miami CF players with the MLS Cup Winners Cup
THE SPORTING LIFE ALL-STAR SPORTS
teams like the Miami Dolphins, Florida Panthers, Miami Marlins, Miami Heat, and Inter Miami CF, an athlete magnet that has only grown since the arrival of global icons. But the local lineup doesn’t stop at team sports! Greater Miami’s annual calendar reads like a highlight reel, including notable events like the adrenaline-charged Miami Grand Prix, the NASCAR Cup Series Championship, singlehorsepower duels at Gulfstream Park, and world-stage competitions like the Miami Open and the Pickleball World Cup. Together, these heavy hitters barely scratch the surface of a region where athletic energy pulses from stadiums, racetracks, waterfront arenas, and sunlit training fields all year long.
AUTO R AC I N G : PR E C I S I O N M E E T S PU R E P OW E R The first Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix roared onto the South Florida scene at the Miami International Autodrome in Miami Gardens in May 2022. For 2026, the Miami Grand Prix is the second U.S. race on the Formula 1 calendar. The three days of rip-roaring action this May 1–3 will keep spectators on their feet as the 1,000-horsepower open-wheel cars zip along the 5.4-kilometer track at speeds up to 200 miles an hour. Race pairs have already been confirmed for most teams, including Mexican Sergio Perez and Finlander Valtteri Bottas
RANKED TOP 10 IN THE WORLD 2025 Burson Ranking of Sport Cities placed Miami at No. 8, rising eight spots in just two years.
for Cadillac; Brit George Russell and Italian Andrea Kimi After receiving some training and from a pro instructor, you’ll
Canadian Lance Stroll for Aston Martin; Brit Lando Norris and slip into the driver’s seat of an authentic racing vehicle for a Australian Oscar Piastri for McLaren; and Brit Lewis Hamilton
48-minute, once-in-a-lifetime experience on the same banked
and Charles Leclerc of Monaco for Ferrari, among several
curves as the pros. www.homesteadmiamispeedway.com
other teams. www.f1miamigp.com Homestead-Miami Speedway keeps race car enthusiasts
BA S E BA LL: D I A M O N D DAYS BY TH E BAY
occupied at the opposite end of Miami-Dade County.
The Miami Marlins finished the 2025 season with a 79–83
One of the top spectator draws for this year’s season is
record, improving on their previous season as well as
the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Championship that runs
finishing third in the National League East. While they
November 6–8. When professional drivers aren’t occupying
missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year, the
the track, you can even enjoy your own intimate view of
team was in contention for a wild card spot until late in the
the Speedway as part of the NASCAR Racing Experience!
season, and they have seen significant progress under new
Throughout the rest of the year, the 1.5-mile track of the
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Top to bottom: Alessio De Marco, ZUMA Press
Antonelli for Mercedes; Spaniard Fernando Alonso and
Sandy Alcantara and Eury Perez, have recovered from
FO OTBA LL O R F ÚTB O L : T WO S TA D I U M S . T WO S P O R T S . O N E C IT Y O N F I R E .
past injuries and are now playing once again. The Marlins’
Whether you’re a fan of fútbol (soccer) or football, Miami-Dade
2026 season begins Thursday, March 26, when they host
and Broward counties have got you covered. Thanks to Inter
the Colorado Rockies at loanDepot Park — the earliest
Miami CF (Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami) making its
scheduled opening day in Major League Baseball history.
home at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale and the Miami
www.mlb.com/marlins
Dolphins holding court in the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami
manager Clayton McCullough thanks to his focus on player development and team culture. At least two top players,
Gardens, it’s easy for fans of both sports to get their fill.
BA S K E TBA LL: CO U R T S I D E I N TH E C IT Y O F C H A M PI O N S
2025 season with the first MLS Cup championship in club
The Miami Heat have started the 2025/2026 season on
history. The team delivered a record-breaking regular
healthy footing despite projections that they would struggle
season, earning 74 points — the most in club history — and
to meet performance expectations. On the contrary, the
setting a new Major League Soccer benchmark, along
team is playing at a more rapid pace than in prior seasons,
with capturing the Supporters’ Shield. Club captain Lionel
currently leading the Eastern Conference’s Southeast Division
Messi played a pivotal role throughout the season and
in possessions per 48 minutes. With an early 7–6 record, the
postseason, leading Inter Miami to MLS Cup glory and
Heat has already made progress over the 2024/2025 season,
earning MLS Cup MVP honors for the second consecutive
Inter Miami CF, founded in 2018, capped off a historic
which ended 37–45. At press time, the team holds the 10th spot on the National Basketball Association’s Eastern Conference. Established in 1988 as an expansion team of the NBA, then-Miami Heat players such as Alonzo Mourning and Shaquille O’Neal were coaxed to fame by Coach Pat Riley, who led the team to their first NBA championship in 2006. That success was repeated twice more with back-to-back NBA trophies in 2012 and 2013. The Heat’s 2025/2026 season ends April 12 with its final regular season game against the Atlanta Hawks. The NBA playoffs will begin afterward, with the championship series
Top to bottom: Marty Jean-Louis, YES Market Media
expected to take place in June. www.nba.com/heat
year. Messi also claimed the MLS Golden Boot with 29 goals, underscoring his continued dominance. In a landmark year for the club, Inter Miami also competed in the FIFA Club World Cup, signed Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul on loan, and secured a contract extension with Messi through 2028, solidifying its place among MLS’s elite. www.intermiamicf.com
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CLIMATE ADVANTAGE Year-round training conditions — no snow, no deep freezes — draw athletes and teams from around the globe. season hot off their Stanley Cup victory against the Edmonton
have evoked pride among South Florida residents since
Oilers, and to date, they have a 9–7–1 record and hold eighth
1966. The Miami Dolphins were ranked No. 1 overall in the
place in the NHL’s Atlantic Division with 19 points as of late
NFL Players Association Report Card in both 2024 and 2025.
2025. The team’s 2025/2026 season runs until April 15, when
To date, the team holds a 3–7 record in the 2025 season
they skate against the Detroit Red Wings in Michigan.
and is currently third in the East Division of the American
Floridians will have several chances to see them play at home
Football Conference. In 1972, the Dolphins became the only
before the end of the season at the Amerant Bank Stadium
team in National Football League history to be undefeated,
in the Broward County community of Sunrise. They’ll start the
securing 17 wins and zero losses. Today, the Dolphins boast
new year off on home ice on January 2 against the New York
13 American FCE division championships, 5 AFC titles, 25
Rangers, followed by games with the Colorado Avalanche on
playoff appearances, and 2 Super Bowl Championships.
Jan. 4; the San Jose Sharks on Jan. 19; the Utah Mammoth on
www.miamidolphins.com
Jan. 27; and the Winnipeg Jets on Jan. 31. The www.gotickets. com website has an easy-to-scroll list to search for other home
H O C K E Y: I C E , H E AT & H E A R T National Hockey League teams scattered across Canada
R AC K E T AC TI O N : WO R LD - C L A S S M ATC H E S
and the United States. The Panthers entered the 2025/2026
Once a year, the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens attracts
The Florida Panthers are the southernmost players of the 32
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games prior to April 15. www.nhl.com/panthers
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Top to bottom: Sipa USA, Chris Arjoon
A few miles to the south, their American football relatives
find the Sip & Pickle Pickleball Social Club in Wynwood just north of Downtown Miami, as well as DETA Pickleball Club in Kendall Lakes to the southwest. Padel, like pickleball, is rapidly gaining ground in South Florida. For the uninitiated, padel is a fusion of tennis and squash typically played in doubles on enclosed courts. In Greater Miami, you can choose from the Wynwood Padel Club, Padel X Miami, and Ultra Padel Club. In Fort Lauderdale, head to 10By20.
a different class of sports fans who flock to South Florida to view the world’s top tennis athletes battle it out at the Miami Open, presented by Itaú. The riveting competition takes place early every spring, with this year’s event scheduled for March 15–29. The Miami Open features a 96-player singles draw for both the Women’s First Round beginning on Tuesday, March 17, and the Men’s First Round beginning the following day, with each round played across two days. One half of the draw competes each day until players will watch unseeded players, while the Second Round
H O R S E R AC I N G : E Q U E S TR I A N AC TI O N A N D E LE GA N C E
debuts the top 32 seeds, who will face the winners from the
Unlike the man-and-machine races to the south, Gulfstream
opening round. www.miamiopen.com
Park in Broward County’s Hallandale community lets
Top to bottom: ZUMA Press, Inc, Nicole Thomas
reach the semifinals. Spectators attending the First Round
Visitors to South Florida may be surprised to find Miami
spectators make an uproar as they cheer on highly trained
is a lively swinging spot even if your visit doesn’t coincide
one-horsepower/jockey teams. In operation since 1939,
with the Miami Open. If you’re into pickleball, like most of
Gulfstream offers South Florida residents and visitors several
the world is these days, be sure and visit The Fort in Fort
chances a year to witness fast-paced action, including
Lauderdale, where you can easily snag some playtime on
the Florida Derby and the Championship, Royal Palm, and
one of the 43 regulation-sized pickleball courts.
Sunshine races. One of the top draws here is the Pegasus
While the 2026 Pickleball World Cup location has not
World Cup held every January. There’s also an on-site casino,
been set in stone, you can schedule your South Florida
home to exciting games of chance, and dining venues where
trip to coincide with the Miami Pickle Crown with certainty
you can savor a snack, enjoy an exquisite meal, or simply
in Winter 2026, with competitions running from January
share a cocktail or glass of wine with friends and family.
10 to March 10 in various locations. Farther south, you’ll
www.gulfstreampark.com
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TRANSPORTATION GETTING AROUND
Getting
AROUND
FROM SLEEK RENTALS AND CHAUFFEUR-DRIVEN LUXURY TO CONVENIENT AND AFFORDABLE ACCESS, NAVIGATING GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH IS AS EFFORTLESS AS IT IS STYLISH — WITH OPTIONS TO MATCH EVERY ITINERARY, MOOD, AND BUDGET. By Vanessa Molina Santamaria
eady to explore Greater Miami and Miami Beach? From South Dade to North Dade, from the Everglades to the shoreline, navigating this dynamic destination is seamless thanks to a wide range of transportation options designed to suit every travel style. Visitors can choose from traditional car rentals, private chauffeured services, taxis, rideshare options like Uber and Lyft, public transportation, and even scenic water taxis that showcase the city from the water. Whether you’re planning a beach day, a night out, or a full itinerary across multiple neighborhoods, Miami makes it easy to get where you’re going. For those who prefer the flexibility of driving themselves, Headquarter Toyota/Champion Auto Rental offers a reliable fleet of vehicles — from compact cars to spacious SUVs — ideal for exploring the region at your own pace. It’s a convenient option for travelers who want comfort, familiarity, and freedom behind the wheel.
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Worldwide Service A Chauffeur Driven Company
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- SPORTING EVENTS & CONCERTS - SPECIAL EVENTS - WORLDWIDE SERVICES - ROAD SHOWS - ENTERTAINMENT SERVICES
305transportation.com
1.866.266-5254 BOOK A LIMO
THE SPORTING LIFE ALL-STAR SPORTS
Public transit provides convenient access
NAVIGATING THIS DYNAMIC DESTINATION IS SEAMLESS THANKS TO A WIDE RANGE OF TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS DESIGNED TO SUIT EVERY TRAVEL STYLE. If luxury and convenience are a priority, Three Zero Five Transportation provides professional, chauffeur-driven services for airport transfers, corporate travel, special events, and group transportation. With a polished fleet and global service capabilities, it’s a seamless choice for visitors seeking
Insider Tip
elevated, stress-free travel throughout Miami and beyond.
Traffic can peak during weekday rush hours
Transit’s Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus systems
and major events, so visitors planning dinners,
concerts, or sporting events should consider booking a
chauffeur service or rideshare in advance — especially in areas like South Beach, Brickell, and Wynwood, where parking can be limited.
Public transit is also readily available, with Miami-Dade offering affordable access to key areas across the city, including Downtown, Brickell, and the airport. Whether you drive yourself or sit back and enjoy the ride, Miami makes it easy. For personalized recommendations, consult your hotel concierge or one of our preferred transportation partners featured in this section — they’ll help ensure every journey is as smooth as your stay.
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Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
Ocean Drive
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
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LUXE
LIFE REAL ESTATE
HOM E D ÉCOR ART & CULTURE EVENTS & FESTIVALS
LUXE LIFE REAL ESTATE
A City of
POSSIBILITIES WHETHER IT’S A WATERFRONT ESCAPE, A HIGH-RISE IN THE CULTURAL CORE, OR A FAMILY-FRIENDLY ENCLAVE SHADED BY MATURE OAKS, MIAMI OFFERS A HOME FOR EVERY LIFESTYLE — AND THE REAL ESTATE MOMENTUM ISN’T SLOWING DOWN.
By Vanessa Molina Santamaria
elebrated for its diversity and architectural mix, the region welcomes buyers with everything from modern waterfront estates and glass-wrapped condos to charming single-family homes nestled into historic, tree-lined neighborhoods. Year-round sunshine, an ever-evolving cultural landscape, and a lifestyle defined by outdoor living continue to attract residents from around the globe — whether they’re putting down roots or securing a seasonal escape.
NEIGHBORHOODS W ITH P E R S O N A LIT Y In Brickell and Midtown, sleek new developments rise across the skyline, pairing hotel-style amenities with walkability to top dining, arts, and entertainment. Rooftop
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J> Kevin Foltz
LUXE LIFE REAL ESTATE
pools, private gyms, resident lounges, and panoramic views highlight the area’s rapid growth and appeal to those who thrive in a cosmopolitan, urban setting. Across the bay, Miami Beach continues its evolution with innovative luxury condos and waterfront homes that embrace indoor-outdoor living. North Beach has emerged as a favorite for buyers seeking quieter streets and a more residential vibe — all while remaining within minutes of iconic South Beach energy. For those who prefer a slower pace, Coconut Grove and Coral Gables remain two of Miami’s most beloved enclaves. The Grove’s leafy streets and waterfront parks deliver a relaxed, bohemian charm, while Coral Gables offers Mediterranean architecture, esteemed schools, and a strong sense of tradition. Both neighborhoods appeal to Key Biscayne remains one of the region’s most exclusive island communities, where residents enjoy golf-cart living, pristine beaches, and some of the best views in the city. South Miami blends suburban convenience with modern design, while Pinecrest offers sprawling estates, lush landscaping, top-tier schools, and unparalleled privacy — ideal for those seeking space and tranquility.
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FUN FACT Brickell’s nickname “The Manhattan of the South” isn’t just a compliment. It’s home to one of the fastest-growing urban cores in the country. VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
families drawn to community-focused living.
Did You Know? Coconut Grove is Miami’s oldest neighborhood
and still feels like a village — complete with weekly farmers markets and waterfront parks.
While these highlights introduce some of Miami’s hottest and most desirable neighborhoods, they’re far from an exhaustive list. The region’s real estate landscape is vast and varied, with dozens of unique communities that cater to every lifestyle and priority. Working with an experienced real estate professional is the best way to navigate these options — ensuring you find the neighborhood and home that align with your goals, daily needs, and long-term vision.
LOCAL ADVANTAGE Working with a seasoned agent can help you uncover off-market opportunities and neighborhood nuances that aren’t obvious at first glance. Q UA LIT Y O F LI F E What ultimately sets Greater Miami and Miami Beach apart is its outstanding quality of life. Warm weather fuels a yearround outdoor lifestyle, from boating across Biscayne Bay to golfing, tennis, and endless days spent enjoying the beaches. The city’s multicultural identity — shaped by Latin American and Caribbean influences — infuses its dining, art, and music scenes with unmatched vibrancy. Families benefit from a robust mix of public, private, and
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
bilingual schools, while professionals and entrepreneurs gravitate towards Miami’s booming business climate, global connectivity, and no state income tax. As demand for luxury living continues to rise, so does Miami’s ability to meet it — offering a home for every dream and every lifestyle.
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LUXE LIFE HOME DÉCOR
Bring the Resort
HOME
Designed with wooden planks, the Cadence outdoor series by contemporary Parisian designer Aurélien Barbry is elegant yet expressive. www.fritzhansen.com
The Riviera Sunbed is characterized by its remarkable versatility. Its ingenious form makes it a sunbed, a bench, and a coffee table all in one beautifully crafted piece. www.fritzhansen.com
The Vertigo Pendant Lamp is a dramatic, large-scale yet lightweight lamp that gently moves and spins with the breeze. www.store.moma.org
With Berg’s signature stamp marking each pot, the Modena Collection is designed to house even the largest plants. www.bergspotter.com
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The Tradition Collection is a modular lounge series in teak that brings refined sophistication to outdoor spaces. www.fritzhansen.com
LUXE LIFE ART & CULTURE
Art City,
WORLD STAGE A GLOBAL DESTINATION FOR CUTTING-EDGE CULTURE AND CREATIVITY, GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST INFLUENTIAL CONTEMPORARY ART HUBS.
By Vanessa Molina Santamaria
iami isn’t just a sunny backdrop for art — it’s part of the work itself. From cutting-edge creativity to thought-provoking exhibitions, the city has become a global hub where ideas, design, and culture collide in real time. This is a place where a week in December can shift the international conversation — and the rest of the year keeps the momentum going.
A WO R LD - C L A S S A R T C I R C U IT Start with Miami Art Week and Art Basel. One of the most important art fairs in the world, Art Basel Miami Beach is considered a top global fair alongside Art Basel (Switzerland) and Frieze London. For one electrifying stretch each winter, the city turns into a campus of contemporary art. You can enjoy bluechip galleries at the Convention Center, satellite fairs across Miami Beach and the mainland, pop-ups in hotel lobbies, collector dinners, and late-night talks that spill into the morning. The energy is contagious, and it sets the tone for the year. The scene doesn’t hibernate after Basel. In Wynwood, murals rotate like an outdoor museum. Considered one of the top street art destinations in the world and one of the most photographed neighborhoods in the country, the Wynwood Walls feature large-scale murals, sculptures, and art galleries.
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C U R ATE D C U LTU R E A short hop away, the Miami Design District blends fashion houses with serious art. Here you’ll find public installations by world-renowned artists, the Miami Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), and architecture that’s as photogenic as the work inside. Along the water, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) delivers global contemporary exhibitions framed by tropical landscaping and bay breezes. Just up the beach, The Bass links Miami Beach’s cultural roots to today’s international dialogue. Add the Wolfsonian–FIU in the Art Deco District and private collections such as Rubell Museum and you have a circuit that rivals any major city.
A R T I N M OTI O N Performance thrives here, too. One of the largest performing arts centers in the United States, the Adrienne Arsht Center Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (2)
anchors opera, ballet, and Broadway tours. New World Symphony innovates with outdoor concerts at SoundScape Park, and the Miami City Ballet brings Balanchine to the beach with unmistakable Miami flair. Latin music, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and electronic subcultures cross-pollinate at venues from Little Havana to Downtown, ensuring the city’s soundtrack is as layered as its galleries.
studios, and across galleries, constantly reshaping the city’s creative identity.
U N LI K E A N Y W H E R E E L S E
In the pages ahead, you’ll find Signature Annual Events
What makes Miami truly singular is the mix: Caribbean and
— anchor dates that define Miami’s cultural calendar. Use
Latin American influences, diasporic perspectives, boundary-
them as a framework, then fill the spaces with museum
pushing design, and a bold willingness to experiment in
afternoons, gallery walks, neighborhood festivals, and those
public. It’s a cultural conversation that unfolds on streets, in
only-in-Miami moments that transform a visit into a tradition.
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DATEBOOK EVENTS & FESTIVALS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS FROM ART BASEL AND THE MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW TO THE SOUTH BEACH WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL, MIAMI BEACH PRIDE, AND THE FORMULA 1 MIAMI GRAND PRIX, YOU’LL FIND NONSTOP FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT ALL YEAR LONG. JANUARY 2026 Capital One Orange Bowl Football Game Jan 1 www.orangebowl.org
FEBRUARY 2026 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show Feb 11–15 www.miamiboatshow.com
King Mango Strut Parade Jan 4 www.kingmangostrut.org
Coconut Grove Arts Festival Feb 14–16 www.cgaf.com
South Beach Jazz Festival Jan 8–11 www.sobejazzfestival.com
Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival Feb 19–22 www.sobewff.org
Miami Design Preservation League’s Art Deco Weekend Jan 9–11 www.artdecoweekend.com Miami Jewish Film Festival Jan 14–29 www.miamijewishfilmfestival.org Tamiami International Orchid Festival Jan 16–18 www.tamiamiorchidfestival.com Beaux Arts Festival Jan 17–18 www.beauxartsmiami.org Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade Jan 19 www.mlkparadeandfestivities.org Miami Modern + Contemporary Jan 22–26 www.miamimcfair.com Life Time Miami Marathon and Half Jan 25 www.themiamimarathon.com Homestead Championship Rodeo Jan 30–Feb 1 www.homesteadrodeo.com Miami Arts, Culture & Heritage Months www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/ arts-heritage-months
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Winter Party Festival Feb 26–Mar 2 www.winterparty.com MARCH 2026 Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta Mar 1–7 www.bacardiinvitational.com Carnaval on the Mile Mar 7–8 www.carnavalmiami.com Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival Mar 7–8 www.jazzinthegardens.com Calle Ocho Music Festival Mar 15 www.carnavalmiami.com
The Original Miami Beach Antique Show Mar 26–30 www.originalmiamibeachantiqueshow.com Ultra Music Festival Mar 27–29 www.ultramusicfestival.com APRIL 2026 O, Miami Poetry Festival Apr 1–30 www.omiami.org Miami Film Festival Apr 9–19 www.miamifilmfestival.com Miami Beach Pride Apr 11–12 www.miamibeachpride.com Miami Dade Country Fest www.mdcountryfest.com OUTshine Film Festival www.outshinefilm.com Miami Attraction & Museum Months www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/ attraction-museum-months MAY 2026 Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix May 1–3 www.f1miamigp.com
GroundUp Music Festival Mar 13–15 www.groundupmusicfestival.com
Hyundai Air & Sea Show and National Salute to America’s Heroes May 23–24 www.usasalute.com
The Youth Fair Mar 12–Apr 5 www.thefair.me/thefair
American Black Film Festival (ABFF) May 27–31 www.abff.com/miami
Miami Open Tennis Tournament Mar 15–29 www.miamiopen.com
Miami Swim Week May 27–Jun 1 www.dcswimweek.com
Winter Music Conference Mar 24–26 www.wintermusicconference.com
Miami Attraction & Museum Months www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/ attraction-museum-months VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
DECEMBER 2026 North Beach Music Festival www.northbeachmusicfestival.com Art Miami Dec 1–6 www.artmiami.com Design Miami Dec 1–6 www.designmiami.com Art Basel Miami Beach Dec 4–6 www.artbasel.com/miami-beach JUNE 2026 Wynwood Pride www.wynwoodpride.com JULY 2026 Florida Supercon Jul 10–12 www.floridasupercon.com International Ballet Festival of Miami www.internationalballetfestival.org Mango Festival www.fairchildgarden.org Miami Spa Months www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/ spa-months
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (3)
AUGUST 2026 Miami Spa Months www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/ attraction-museum-months Miami Spice Restaurant Months www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/ spice-restaurant-months SEPTEMBER 2026 International Hispanic Theatre Festival of Miami www.teatroavante.org Orange Blossom Classic www.orangeblossomclassic.com Miami International Auto Show www.miamiautoshows.com Miami Spice Restaurant Months www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/ spice-restaurant-months
Rolling Loud www.rollingloud.com/miami2024 OCTOBER 2026 Celebrate ORGULLO www.celebrateorgullo.com Miami Carnival Parade of Bands and Concert Oct 11 www.miamicarnival.org III Points Festival Oct 16–17 www.iiipoints.com South Beach Seafood Festival Oct 21–24 www.sobeseafoodfest.com
Miccosukee Indian Arts & Crafts Festival www.miccosukee.com Fall for the Arts Miami www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/artsheritage-months ONGOING EVENTS AND TOURS You can also take part in one of these ongoing events and tours during your stay. Airboat in Everglades www.airboatineverglades.com Art Deco Walking Tour www.mdpl.org/tours/art-deco-walking-tour
OUTshine Film Festival www.outshinefilm.com
HistoryMiami City Tours www.historymiami.org
Redland International Orchid Festival www.redlandorchidfestival.com
Miami Beach Culture Crawl www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/tourismculture/culture-art-in-public-places/ culture-crawl/
Miami Fashion Week www.miamifashionweek.com NOVEMBER 2026 NASCAR Championship Weekend Nov 6–7 www.homesteadmiamispeedway.com Miami-Dade Farmers Month www.miamidadefarmersmonth.com Miami Book Fair www.miamibookfair.com URGE Miami Thanksgiving Festival www.urgemiami.com
Miami Culinary Tours www.miamiculinarytours.com SoundScape Cinema Series www.miamiandbeaches.com/event/ soundscape-cinema-series/21814 Viernes Culturales Arts and Culture Festival www.viernesculturales.org NOTE: This calendar has been created based on the information available at press time. Please contact events or venues directly in case of postponement or cancellation.
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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
Activities & Attractions
GULFSTREAM CASINO......................87
MONKEY JUNGLE............................. 69
AUTO CRAZE............................100–101
Gulfstream Casino is where the gold standard
Monkey Jungle is a unique wildlife park and
Auto Craze has been servicing the motorsport
meets the thrill of the game. Located in the heart
discovery center established in 1935 in a natural
industry for 38 years. If racing is your passion,
of South Florida, Gulfstream is your escape into
subtropical forest in southern Miami-Dade County.
Auto Craze invites you to visit its shop located
electrifying entertainment, exclusive rewards,
Wildlife live here much as they would in their native
in exciting Downtown Miami. Not planning on
and experiences that go beyond expectations.
habitats. Visitors, students, and scientists experience
a trip to Miami? No problem! Auto Craze ships
From exhilarating promotions to its elite
up-close animal encounters with these amazing
worldwide and can have your order delivered
Champions Club, every visit raises the stakes
creatures in Miami’s natural 30-acre jungle park.
to your doorstep! It has an extensive array
on fun and fortune. Let Gulfstream’s exceptional
305.235.1611
of products from OMP, Alpinestars, Sparco,
hosts lead the way, let its dining elevate your
www.monkeyjungle.com
Simpson, Bell, and Arai.
senses, and let the pulse of the racetrack move
305.358.9021
you. This is not just a casino; it’s a destination.
www.autocraze.com
A bold, beautiful blend of sophistication and
FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE........ 43
adrenaline. This is your moment. Step into the
The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
CORAL CASTLE.................................. 51
excitement you deserve.
is a leading science museum in Downtown Miami
Coral Castle Museum & Sculpture Garden is one
954.457.6000
dedicated to sharing the power of science,
of Miami’s top eight must-see attractions. Built
www.gulfstreamparkcasino.com
sparking wonder and investigation, and fueling
from 1,100 tons of coral rock by one man, Edward
innovation for the future. The museum features
Leedskalnin, this modern megalith has been
HISTORY MIAMI MUSEUM............... 35
a planetarium, aquarium, and interactive science
baffling scientists, engineers, and scholars since
A Smithsonian Affiliate in the heart of Downtown
exhibitions where guests can learn about the
1923. Working alone in secret, Ed quarried, cut, and
Miami, HistoryMiami Museum shares Miami
core science behind living systems, the solar
carved these gigantic stones using only primitive
stories through exhibitions, city tours, and
system and known universe, the physics of flight,
tools he made from recycled materials. There are
programs. Inside the museum, you will find
the biology of the human body, and much more.
over 260 stones, with the heaviest weighing 21
boats and rafts refugees used to travel to Miami.
305.434.9600
tons. Come explore this architectural masterpiece.
You can hop on a 1920s trolley and see artifacts
www.frostscience.org
305.248.6345
from 10,000 years ago. You can also sign up
www.coralcastle.com
for a city tour of one of Miami’s neighborhoods
TRUMP NATIONAL DORAL.................5
with internationally acclaimed historian Dr. Paul
Trump National Doral Miami is a luxury
GATOR PARK..................................... 53
George.
resort offering world-class amenities for
Looking for some serious gator action? Gator
305.673.4422
an unforgettable experience. Home to four
Park is the premier airboat tour in the Florida
www.historymiami.org
championship golf courses, including the iconic
Everglades to spy these fierce reptiles. Airboat
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PHILLIP AND PATRICIA
Blue Monster, it’s a golfer’s paradise. Indulge
rides depart every few minutes, so your
JEWISH MUSEUM
in lavish accommodations, a state-of-the-art
Everglades experience begins the moment you
OF FLORIDA........................................47
fitness center, and a stunning pool complex with
arrive. The park also offers private airboat tours
The Jewish Museum of Florida–FIU (JMOF-FIU)
private cabanas. Relax at The Trump Spa or
for a more up-close-and-personal look at the
is the only museum dedicated to telling the story
savor gourmet dining at its signature restaurants.
alligators. The Everglades National Park is known
of more than 250 years of Florida Jewish history,
Perfect for golf lovers and those seeking a
for its vast wildlife, many of whom you’ll meet
arts, and culture, with a growing collection
luxurious escape in the heart of Miami.
on your airboat tour. From endangered birds
of more than 100,000 items. It is located in
305.592.2000
you won’t find anywhere else to small creatures
the trendy SoFi area of South Beach at 301
www.trumphotels.com/miami
that live among these wild alligators, you’ll see
Washington Avenue. The museum is housed in
Florida as few people do. Open every day, 365
two restored historic buildings that were once
WYNWOOD WALLS MUSEUM......... 55
days a year, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
synagogues for Miami Beach’s first Jewish
Wynwood Walls is a world-renowned outdoor
305-559-2255
congregation.
museum of international street art, featuring
www.gatorpark.com
https://jmof.fiu.edu
38+ murals, large-scale sculptures, and three VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
galleries. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and
around the world. If you’re looking for THE Miami
Services
hands-on spray-painting experiences, making it
hot spot, Blue Martini is the place to be!
MIAMI INTERNATIONAL
the ultimate destination to explore and engage
305.981.2583
AIRPORT............................................. 19
with contemporary urban art.
www.bluemartini.com
Miami International Airport (MIA) is operated by the Miami-Dade Aviation Department and is the
305.576.3334 www.thewynwoodwalls.com
CALL ME CUBAN...............................77
property of Miami-Dade County government.
From the creators of the James Beard award–
Founded in 1928, MIA is America’s second-busiest
ZOO MIAMI........................................... 7
winning Yuca Miami, Call Me Cuban offers a
airport for international passengers, offering more
Travel the world in one day by foot, on a safari
contemporary take on Cuban cuisine with fresh,
flights to Latin America and the Caribbean than
cycle, or on a tram tour! With almost 750 acres
vibrant flavors and inventive cocktails. From trios
any other U.S. airport and serving over 90 airline
and four miles of walkways, Zoo Miami is home
of Aguachiles ceviche, croqueta, and tostonilla
partners.
to more than 2,000 animals representing 375
recipes to Yuca’s signature truffled yuca fries,
800.825.5642
different species. From jaguars in the Amazon
Cuban tacos, and traditional favorites, including
www.iflymia.com
and tigers in Asia to tree kangaroos in Australia
Lechón Asado and Ropa Vieja, Call Me Cuban
and crocodiles in the Florida Everglades, a trip to
entertains from start to finish.
RENT A TOYOTA DBA
Zoo Miami will transport you around the globe.
Reservations at OpenTable.com
CHAMPION RENT-A-CAR.................113
Plus, enjoy water play areas, up-close animal
786.577.7600
Champion Rent-a-Car is a Miami car rental company and an authorized Rent a Toyota
encounters and feedings, and botanical gardens. 305.251.0400
GREENSTREET CAFE......................... 61
agency. It has a rental fleet of all new-modell
www.zoomiami.org
GreenStreet Cafe is Coconut Grove’s most iconic
Toyota cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans. It has
outdoor restaurant, founded 35 years ago. Winner
been in business for over 25 years. As one of
Dining & Nightlife
of the Miami New Times Best Restaurant in Coconut
the best Rent a Toyota operations in the United
THE BIG CHEESE MIAMI...................79
Grove, GreenStreet Cafe is Coconut Grove’s
States, Champion has consistently been awarded
Delicious, sinful pastas, pizzas, and seafood dishes
premiere “see and be seen” restaurant. A regular
Toyota’s prestigious National Leadership Award
make up the menu at The Big Cheese, a local
hangout for locals and a must-see Miami destination
for over 10 years in a row.
favorite. Pasta choices include lasagna, manicotti,
for visitors, GreenStreet’s menus feature brunch
305.825.9900
and ravioli. Choose from more than 20 pizza
salads, homemade pastas, steaks, tapas, and a wide
www.championautorental.com
toppings or, for a lower-calorie alternative, try a salad
selection of local and imported as well as delicious
or gourmet sandwich. The serving portions are large
and fulfilling entrees. Sit for a glass of wine, have a
THREE ZERO FIVE
and very filling. Service is quick and attentive.
business meeting or a celebration, or simply relax for
TRANSPORTATION........................... 111
305.662.6855
a late night among friends. Every day, GreenStreet
Three Zero Five is a chauffeur-driven company
www.bigcheesemiami.com
Cafe is featuring innovative food and drink specials.
headed by professionals committed to your
305.444.0244
success by delivering a highly personalized
www.greenstreetcafe.net
level of service that exceeds your expectations.
BLUE MARTINI....................................... 83 Located in Mary Brickell Village in the heart of
Its experienced group of transportation
Miami, Blue Martini offers a mix of atmospheres
YUCA 105............................................75
specialists will provide you with a custom
ranging from a casual patio vibe to a high-energy
When a Cuban meets a Peruvian. A gastronomic
transportation plan designed to meet your
stage with live entertainment to a VIP bar area.
matrix that features the best of both cuisines
special transportation needs. Service, safety,
Offering Happy Hour seven days a week from
and unique fusion creations. Visit YUCA 105 and
security, and dependability are its top priorities.
5 to 8 p.m., it’s the perfect destination to lounge
discover Miami Beach’s first Cuban-Peruvian
The phone operators are available 24/7/365 to
around and people-watch while enjoying a myriad
fusion restaurant by Chef Juan Chipoco of
assist you with reservations and inquiries at a
of martinis and cocktails along with a variety
CVI.CHE 105 and Janet Suarez of YUCA.
moment’s notice.
of tasty appetizers on the menu. Blue Martini
Reservations at OpenTable.com
305.570.2222
has something for everyone — you can dance
786.577.3500
866.BOOK A LIMO (866.266.5254)
the night away to live bands and DJ mixes from
www.yuca105.com
www.305transportation.com
127
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
WATER FANTASEAS.......................... 29
stores such as IT’S
Established in 1994, Water Fantaseas has
SUGAR and LIDS. With
become the market leader in half- and full-day
over 50 restaurants,
charters in South Florida. Last year, Water
bars, and casual eateries,
Fantaseas completed over 350 charters,
including Pier 5, Coyo
of which 150 were corporate events which
Taco, Benihana Express,
included private regattas, executive outings,
La Industria Bakery &
and lavish dinner cruises. Extensive fleet
Café, Black Market,
of sport yachts, motor yachts, sailing, and
and Starbucks, there is
catamaran for groups from 2 to 400 guests.
something to suit every
Ideal for weddings, corporate events, and
taste and budget. Beyond shopping and dining,
vibrant marketing initiatives, hosting exciting
safe fun on the water. As Water Fantaseas
Bayside Marketplace is an entertainment hot
events, beautifying streetscapes, making key
continues to grow, it continually strives to offer
spot. Visitors can enjoy live music, boat tours, and
improvements, sharing economic insights,
its clients not only superior service but also
the 200-foot Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel,
improving parking access, and collaborating with
new and exciting chartering options unavailable
all set against stunning views of the bay and the
leading organizations to ensure a welcoming
elsewhere in the market.
Downtown skyline. Conveniently located near
experience for visitors.
305.531.1480
top attractions like the Kaseya Center, Pérez Art
305.461.5506
www.waterfantaseas.com
Museum Miami (PAMM), Frost Science Museum,
www.coconutgrove.com
and Bayfront Park, Bayside is a perfect stop for a
Shopping
quick visit or a full day-to-night experience. With
HAVANA COLLECTION.................... 93
AVENTURA MALL.................................3
Miami Beach and Wynwood only minutes away,
Havana Collection is a family-owned, classic
Recently voted Best Mall in the United States
it’s an ideal starting point or centerpiece for any
Cuban guayabera shirts, Panama hats, and
by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice 2025,
Miami adventure.
women’s apparel boutique shop in the heart of
Aventura Mall stands as South Florida’s premier
305.577.3344
Miami’s Little Havana. In just under a decade, it
shopping destination. Defined by unique
www.baysidemarketplace.com
has become a landmark destination for countless
experiences, renowned luxury boutiques, and
travelers and locals alike. Aside from the main
beloved shopper favorites, the mall offers
THE BILTMORE HOTEL........................9
store, the premises hold a private collection of
cutting-edge architecture, a world-class art
The Biltmore Hotel is a National Historic
classic cars, artwork, antiques, memorabilia, and
collection, international chef-restaurateurs
Landmark located in Coral Gables with proximity
some exhibits in an upstairs space. To view the
offering indoor and outdoor dining, and the
to Miami Beach and Downtown Miami. The 271-
family’s collection, there is a small fee.
ultimate stroll through a popular weekend
room resort features spectacular Mediterranean
786.717.7474
farmers market. An iconic cultural hub, Aventura
architecture spread over 150 acres of tropical
Mall is constantly evolving — delighting
landscape. A favorite of world leaders and
MIKE’S CIGARS ………………….Inside Back Cover
trendsetters, culture seekers, and culinary
celebrities since its opening in 1926, the hotel
Since 1950, Mike’s Cigars has been the ultimate
connoisseurs with something new at every visit.
offers a restored Donald Ross championship golf
destination for cigar aficionados, now bringing
305.935.1110
course, a full-service European spa and salon,
the finest cigars and top-notch service directly
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one of the largest hotel pools in the United
to your doorstep. Explore the largest online
States, and award-winning dining.
selections of premium cigars, featuring over 600
BAYSIDE MARKETPLACE.................. 41
305.445.1926
renowned brands and counting. Enjoy extremely
Bayside Marketplace is Miami’s iconic, original
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fast shipping, including one-day service and
open-air waterfront destination, located along the scenic Biscayne Bay in the heart of Downtown.
128
express international delivery. Mike’s Cigars COCONUT GROVE BUSINESS
stands for unrivaled quality and expertise. Don’t
As a vibrant hub for all ages, it features more than
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT................ 59
wait — shop online now.
90 shops, including a combination of national
The Business Improvement District enhances
800.962.4427
retailers, independent boutiques, and specialty
the district by keeping it clean and safe, funding
www.mikescigars.com
VI S I T G R E AT E R M I A M I A N D M I A M I B E AC H 2 0 2 6
scan here to shop
Serving Cigar Lovers All Over the World • • •
• •
The Finest Selection Of Premium Cigars Online The Lowest Prices Online Same Day Shipping With Express Delivery Right To Your Door Over 10 Million Cigars In Stock Fast Worldwide Shipping
Shop Online 24/7 @
mikescigars.com 10% Off Your First Online Order Use coupon code: MIAMI
800.962.4427
Monday - Friday 9am to 7pm Saturday - Sunday 10am to 5pm Shop 24/7 Online
1030 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor FL 33154 (parking in the back)
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