Miami Itineraries

Out and about in Miami

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 12:34:21 -0400

Enjoy outdoor spaces, boat trips, and walking tours before the humid heat of the Florida summer arrives.

With Miami’s summer heat settling on the Magic City in May, along with the rainy season, spring has the feeling of a last gasp that people from cold climes associate with autumn. Before muggy weather and overcast skies come to Biscayne Bay, locals and visitors alike enjoy dry, clear conditions in Miami Beach’s string of Atlantic beaches and parks. It’s also the ideal time of year to explore another side of the oceanfront metropolis on a street art walking tour or a cruise around the bay’s exclusive islands.

Sand between bronzed toes at South Beach

This art deco neighborhood’s golden stretches of sand, flanked by pastel facades on one side and surf on the other, measure up to California’s Muscle Beach as symbols of American beach culture.

Head to South Pointe Beach in the lull between spring break and summer vacation for a swathe of white sand and a pier along the breakwater at the island-set neighborhood’s southern point. Lush public parks adjoin the beaches, with South Pointe Park offering a playground and splash pad, while Lummus Park has outdoor gyms, volleyball courts, and the deco Beach Patrol Headquarters building.

Before tightening your rollerblades or wading into the azure water, enjoy the barrier island’s Atlantic views and the multicolored lifeguard towers reflecting the area’s architectural theme. miamibeachfl.gov

Insider tip: A few streets from South Pointe Beach, the legendary Joe’s Stone Crab has been serving ocean-fresh seafood, such as its signature cracked crab claws, since 1913.

Art on the streets at Wynwood Walls

When you’re done with South Beach’s splendid art deco, head inland for some contemporary creativity at this outdoor museum of international street art. Since the late property developer Tony Goldman established the space in 2009, graffiti greats such as Swoon and Futura have sprayed the walls, resulting in more than 50 murals by both old-school talents and up-and-coming taggers. Sign up for a guided tour (we recommend the retrospective “deep dive” with Wynwood artist Ryan the Wheelbarrow) or wield your own spray can at the hands-on Official Street Art Experience. There are three galleries on site: the Peter Tunney Experience, the GGA Gallery, and a solo exhibition. museum.thewynwoodwalls.com

Insider tip: There’s more creativity on display nearby at the Miami branch of KYU, which serves Asian cuisine infused with the smoky tastes from the wood-fired grill.

Waterfront strolls at Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park covers 32 acres of the Biscayne Bay waterfront and marks the start of the Miami Riverwalk, which leads along the north shore of the city’s eponymous river. To find the trail, which forms part of the ongoing Miami River Greenway project, look for the 228 ft long Seafair, a moored yacht that serves as a glitzy events venue.

The park itself is woven into local history as Greater Miami’s first public gathering space, as its lawns have been used for baseball games since 1896, and remains a pleasant place to stroll or join an evening yoga session. bayfrontparkmiami.com

Insider tip: Another dog walkers’ secret on Biscayne Bay, Margaret Pace Park has views of the mansion-covered Venetian Islands and a waterfront path to the 19^thcentury Trinity Episcopal Cathedral.

Millionnaires’ mansions on a Biscayne boat tour

On the north side of Bayfront Park, Bayside Marketplace is the launchpad for Miami Aqua Tours and Island Queen cruises of Biscayne Bay, taking in the famous skyline and Millionaire’s Row. The typical 1½ hour route heads out of the marina for a look at the artificial Venetian, Star, Palm, and Hibiscus Islands, home to the modern palaces and yacht jetties of the rich, famous, and notorious (former residents include Al Capone). Continuing the piratical theme, you can see the sights from a jolly red pirate ship or copy the cool locals with a cocktail on a tour boat viewing deck. On the eastern side of the bay, you’ll spot the barrier islands of Miami Beach and Fisher Island, the latter boasting the USA’s highest per capita income. baysidemarketplace.com

Concierge tip: Take a boat trip with a difference on an airboat tour of the Everglades swamps – offered by Island Queen. For more on South Florida’s alligator-inhabited Everglades National Park, check out our article on Miami’s finest days out.

The information provided herein is sponsored by Diners Club International®. It is intended for informational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Content on this website may contain information from third parties and/or links to third-party websites. Diners Club International bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of this information.

On the Ground in Miami

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 20:05:43 -0400

A city rich with art, Cuban influences, luxury experiences, and pristine beaches. Join us in exploring the city of Miami. Explore more must-see attractions, hidden gems and unique experiences in Mia

A sense of place: Miami

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 11:50:06 -0400

Wake up to sea views and sip cocktails by the pool at hotels that could only exist in Miami.

“If you’ve been to one hotel, you’ve been to them all,” was a phrase heard in the 90s when hotels were built in a rush, with little regard for difference. Today’s hotel scene is way different, with properties striving to stand out in any way possible. With unconventional designs, Michelin-starred restaurants, and incredible spas, hotels can now be anything they want to be. Glitzy, coastal Miami is no exception.

Celeb sightings and glittering nightlife at the Fontainebleau

Occupying 20 acres of the area known as Millionaire’s Row, the Fontainebleau remains one of the hottest properties in town, known for its marble floors, exuberant chandeliers, and beach-chic rooms. The award-winning restaurants and luxury spa experiences alone are worth the price of admission.

Some of Miami’s most popular nightclubs and lounges can be found here, too, including LIV, where Heidi Klum often hangs out. But it’s the outdoor Bleaulive, with its elevated stage overlooking a huge pool surrounded by palm trees, that draws the crowds. Entertaining guests since 1954, Elvis Presley once performed there. Now, stars like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry regularly take the stage.

Insider tip: A hotel this massive requires a bit of forward-planning to experience all it has to offer.

4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; fontainebleau.com

A rooftop pool with a view from Gale South Beach

Set in a white art deco building, Gale South Beach may not be located directly on the beach, but its rooftop infinity pool will never disappoint. It’s a great place to go for a swim between cocktails, order some lunch, or just relax by the edge of the pool.

Framed black and white photos of South Beach’s heyday continue the art deco theme inside. Be sure to check out the award-winning Dolce Italian, with its stone-baked pizzas, homemade meatballs, and delicious pasta dishes. Then cap off the evening with a drink at the Regent Cocktail Club, a nostalgic spot with live jazz, a cigar menu, and a lovely patio.

Insider tip: Guests of Gale South Beach can use the private beach at the nearby Shelborne hotel, where lounge chairs and towels are provided free of charge.

1690 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; galehotel.com

Rejuvenation and old Florida charm at The Palms Hotel & Spa

Located in the quieter Mid-Beach area of Miami, The Palms Hotel & Spa can give you a break from South Beach’s lively pace. If the hotel’s spa and tranquil beach don’t provide some relaxation, the tropical gardens probably will.

A recent renovation freshened up the interiors, with cream walls, white shutters, and burnt orange furnishings complementing the original potted plants, terracotta floor tiles, and old-fashioned ceiling fans. A standout dining option is The Restaurant at The Palms, featuring many locally sourced ingredients. The terrace of The Bar at The Palms is the place to go for a nightcap.

Insider tip: Don’t leave without trying the hotel’s refreshing signature coconut.

3025 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; thepalmshotel.com

Whimsical, rock and roll decor at SLS South Beach

The SLS South Beach commissioned Lenny Kravitz to design the Villa Penthouse, adding an element of rock and roll to the eccentric space, with diverse elements like pink bathrooms and Spanish tiles.

The restaurants are just as memorable. The Bazaar is easily considered one of South Beach’s finest spots, while the Japanese-inspired Katsuya attracts the rich and famous. The long outdoor pool is the place to party during the day. For a perfect way to start the evening, grab a cocktail and watch the sunset at the nearby Hyde Beach.

Insider tip: With its party atmosphere and rock-star status, SLS South Beach isn’t the best option for families with young children.

1701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; slshotels.com/southbeach

The taste of… Miami

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 17:25:02 -0400

Discover how Latin American immigration, the glitz of the 1920s, and a group of young chefs have shaped Miami’s eclectic dining scene.

Many cities pride themselves on the diversity of their food scenes, but few can rival Miami when it comes to the melting pot of flavors from Latin America and the Caribbean. Add traditional Southern cooking, a touch of European technique, and a passionate group of young chefs to the mix, and you get one of the most exciting places to eat in the U.S.

A taste of tradition

Until the 1960s, the food in Miami differed little from towns and cities across Florida and other Southern states. All that changed with the arrival of thousands of Cuban immigrants looking for work and a slice of the American dream. During the 1960s, the area west of Downtown now known as Little Havana became important to the immigrant community. This district is still the epicenter of Cuban life in Miami, and the family-run Versailles (3555 SW 8th Street) is where locals go to enjoy a cup of Cuban coffee, savor empanadas, and share ropa vieja with family.

Overall, Miami has become a melting pot of Latin and Caribbean cultures, resulting in some of the most varied cuisine in the U.S. You can find dishes as diverse as Peruvian ceviche at local favorites like CVI.CHE 105, authentic Mexican street food, and Uruguayan grilled meats at places like Quinto La Huella (788 Brickell Plaza).

Of course, all-American classics still shine and no visit to Miami is complete without lunch at Joe’s Stone Crab (11 Washington Avenue). This Miami institution discovered the tasty crab more than 100 years ago, and you can still crack into piles of claws at its iconic South Beach location. For more excellent seafood and waterfront views, grab a table at least one week in advance at Amara at Paraiso (3101 NE 7th Avenue), a popular spot run by Michael Schwartz, the James Beard Award-winning chef. For a taste of traditional Southern cooking and delicious fried chicken, head over to Miami Beach’s Yardbird Southern Table & Bar (1600 Lenox Avenue).

Five must-try dishes

Cuban sandwich – These sandwiches are stacked with ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. Some places even add salami for good measure. Once a popular lunch option for immigrant workers in the cigar factories, it’s now found at street stalls and cafes across the city.

Key lime pie – There’s no need to make the trek to the Florida Keys to sample excellent versions of this legendary dessert. From neighborhood bistros to Michelin-starred temples of haute cuisine, you’ll find it on every type of menu. The zingy filling of yellow Key lime juice, condensed milk, and egg yolks is slowly baked on top of a cracker crust, and some cooks add a fluffy meringue topping for extra indulgence.

Empanadas – A popular late-night snack for the party people, these pastries are either fried or baked and come packed with any combination of chicken, beef, ham, spinach, and cheese. For the most authentic, join the line at Versailles in Little Havana, where they’re best combined with a portion of yuca fries served with a flavorful cilantro sauce.

Stone crab claws – Be prepared to spend big money on this prized South Florida seafood, which has a limited season between October and May. While pricey, you'll quickly forget about the cost when you’re cracking through the shell to get to that sweet crab meat and dipping it into a punchy mustard sauce.

Alligator bites – While you may be satisfied with spotting alligators from the safety of a river boat, this is great dish to try out if you’re feeling adventurous. Described as a cross between chicken and fish, it’s a unique flavor best enjoyed at Kush Wynwood (2003 N Miami Avenue), where small chunks of meat are lightly fried and served with spicy mayonnaise.

A taste of the future

Since the golden days of the 1920s, Miami’s shorefront hotels have been popular dining destinations, with guests taking the elevator to some of the most cutting-edge spots of their day. This trend continues today, with every five-star hotel trying to outdo the other with big-name chefs and forward-thinking concepts. Thankfully, you don’t need to be a guest to make the most of these locations. Fail-safe options include contemporary Japanese cooking at Zuma at the Kimpton EPIC (270 Biscayne Boulevard Way), dim sum and noodles at Hakkasan at the Fountainebleu (4441 Collins Avenue), and modern Mexican La Mar by Gaston Acurio at the Mandarin Oriental (500 Brickell Key Drive).

Away from South Beach, Miami’s other districts have been attracting up-and-coming chefs looking for cheaper rent and an open-minded crowd of diners. Famed for its street art and food trucks, Wynwood offers plenty of choices when it comes to dining out. The popular 2nd Saturday Art Walk is essentially one big block party, with DJs in the evening and a fantastic opportunity to sample some of the city’s most exciting cooking.

Further south, Coconut Grove is one of the fastest growing culinary neighborhoods. Until ten years ago, it was overrun with chain restaurants, but the tides have turned with local restaurants opening all over the area. Don’t miss Jaguar (3067 Grand Avenue) for terrace dining and plates of delectable shrimp ceviche, fiery pork tacos, and beautifully chargrilled octopus.

The variety and energy of Miami's food scene is also starting to attract the attention of chefs from other major cities. Many of the hottest newcomers are offshoots of incredibly popular restaurants in New York, LA, Chicago, and beyond.

The art of travel: Miami

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 11:52:03 -0400

From Wynwood to Little River, get your creative fix with Miami’s cutting-edge collection of museums, galleries, and street art.

It’s undeniable: a certain energy exists in Miami. Dynamic and exhilarating, this oceanside city is the meeting point of many influential cultures, providing diverse perspectives in the artistic community.

Get lost in high-level art

If Miami is anything, it’s respectful of the past while celebrating today’s most exciting artists. Sitting against Biscayne Bay, the Perez Art Museum Miami (1103 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami) is at the center of this movement. Visually stunning pieces greet you immediately, starting with Rafael Soto’s Penetrable BBL Blue 2/8 at the entrance. In the up-and-coming neighborhood of Allapattah, the Rubell Museum (1100 NW 23 Street, Miami) features one of the nation’s largest private collections of contemporary art, including two of Yayoi Kusama’s famous Infinity Mirror Rooms. A newer addition to the Miami art scene is the Institute of Contemporary Art, featuring work by many iconic artists, including Cindy Sherman, Catherine Opie, and Miami’s own Purvis Young.

Home of the hip

At the Wynwood Arts District, there are more than 70 galleries and an ever-changing landscape of public art. Once dominated by manufacturing warehouses, this district has been transformed by larger-than-life murals, art galleries, and chef-driven restaurants. Works by emerging and established artists make up the highest concentration of street art in the U.S. Within the district is Wynwood Walls (266 NW 26th St, Miami), a collection of six buildings that feature rotating murals and sculptures, and the Museum of Graffiti (299 NW 25th St., Miami), which celebrates the pioneers of the art form.

The pinnacle of public art

Much like its neighbor to the south, the Miami Design District has recently become one of the city’s most up-and-coming neighborhoods. The 18-block community features prized boutiques and brands, like Harry Winston and Louis Vuitton, along with some of the most prestigious public art in the city. Anchored by the 24-foot-tall Fly’s Eye Dome by Buckminster Fuller (140 NE 39th St., Miami), the Miami Design District is as Instagram-able as they come. Overlooking Fly’s Eye Dome is Le Corbusier, a fiberglass sculpture by Xavier Veilhan. Inside the Moore Building is Zaha Hadid’s Elastika, an architectural wonder that connects the floors inside the building’s atrium.

Arts neighborhoods on the rise

Gritty and informal, Little Haiti and Little River may be unexpected places to find high-quality art. But you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the areas’ concentration of art-focused initiatives and cultural centers. Removed from the flashier parts of the city, Little Haiti features impressive galleries like Nina Johnson (6315 NW 2nd Ave, Miami), named after the woman who’s become a pillar in Miami’s art community. Meanwhile, Little River is home to Manolis Projects (335 NE 59th St., Miami), which is known for unique paintings, sculptures, and limited-edition works by contemporary artists.

Market day in Miami

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 11:57:44 -0400

Grab your tote bag and hit one of Miami’s weekend markets to pick up fresh produce, sample street food, and get a glimpse of local life.

Popping up in parking lots and parks across the city, Miami’s weekend markets support local artisans, farmers, and makers, while providing a wonderful opportunity to sample incredible tropical produce. Here are four local favorites that shouldn’t be missed.

Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Farmers Market

When: 10am-7pm, every Saturday

Where: 3300 Grand Avenue, Coconut Grove

Operated by Glaser Organic Farm, this bustling market opens shortly after sunrise every Saturday. For many residents, visiting this cluster of stalls has become a weekly ritual. Filled with tropical fruits, vegan ice cream, and cold-pressed juices, it’s a great place to pick up groceries, enjoy a fresh lunch, and watch the world go by.

Insider tip: Always come hungry. In addition to the delicious sushi and salads at the raw bar, several food trucks roll up each week, serving everything from tacos to authentic Ethiopian stews.

The Market for Makers

When: Monthly

Where: Moore Building, 191 NE 40th Street

Head to the Miami Design District for one-of-a-kind items from Miami’s independent artists. Housed in the historic Moore Building, the four floors are lined with hand-crafted jewelry, one-off prints, and unique clothing. The market dates change each month, so be sure to check the website to plan your visit.

Insider tip: Until 2014, the Moore Building was home to the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, which has now moved two blocks away. The museum showcases the work of Miami's underrepresented artists, and the gorgeous sculpture garden is a peaceful oasis.

The Surfside Farmers Market

When: 9am-3pm, every Sunday

Where: Corner of 95^th Street and Collins Avenue

Set up entirely by residents, this market is where local families stock up on picnic supplies before spending a day at the beach. Covering just one square mile in uptown Miami, Surfside is a tight-knit community where you can expect a warm welcome.

Insider tip: Once you’ve explored the markets and relaxed on the beach for an hour or two, you can head north to paddle through the mangroves of Oleta River State Park. Kayak and canoe rentals are available per hour.

Adrienne Arsht Center Farmers’ Market

When: 4-8.30pm, every Monday

Where: 1300 Biscayne Boulevard

Once the morning markets close, you can enjoy an evening option at the impressive Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County. One of the most popular stalls is the LNB Grovestand, operated by a husband and wife who specialize in exotic fruit smoothies. There’s also the Keez Beez honey stall, which sells jars of honey flavored by local plants.

Insider tip: Keep your eye on the website for an exciting program of chef workshops, live music, and cooking demonstrations.

Been there, done that: Miami

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 12:00:25 -0400

Whether it’s your first time in the Magic City or you know it well, there’s always something new to discover.

From the colorful Ocean Drive and the cutting-edge galleries of the Wynwood arts district to the salsa dancing of Little Havana, Miami oozes cool. We’ve compiled a selection of highlights that will take your trip to the next level.

Take a stroll around the Art Deco Historic District

South Beach is pure art deco. Combining flashy modernism with the unique visual style of art deco makes perfect sense. With more than 800 buildings across one square mile, walking past them is a great way to spend a morning, and you’ll immediately get acquainted with the essence of Miami.

The Art Deco Welcome Center on Ocean Drive is a good place to begin your day. Take in the Colony, Winter Haven, Essex House, St. Moritz, and the former Tiffany hotels. The Lincoln Theatre and Colony Theatre shouldn’t be missed, either.

Insider tip: The Lincoln Theatre was the original home of the New World Symphony orchestra, which now calls the New World Center home. Indoor performances are cancelled until further notice, but you can still enjoy outdoor WALLCAST® concerts projected onto the side of the building. Keep an eye on the website for upcoming shows.

Have an art attack

Revitalized by Art Basel in 2002, Miami is a classic playground for the arts, home to some great collections showcasing local and international works. The Bass displays a wide range of modern art, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is as much fun outside as it is inside, while Wynwood Walls features colorful murals by artists from around the world. The Rubell Family Collection is one of only a few private art collections open to the public.

Insider tip: Entry to many of the city’s best museums is often free at some point during the week. Check the websites for full details.

Sample Miami nice: life on the beach

No trip to Miami is complete without spending some time at the glamorous South Beach, or in any of the bars, restaurants, and clubs that make up this city-within-a-city. But there are other beaches to consider: locals like to get away from the nonstop energy of South Beach’s Lummus Park by hitting 21st to 45th Street Beach. Further out are the neighborhood favorites like Surfside and Haulover Beach.

Insider tip: Below South Beach on Key Biscayne are the picture-perfect Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, overlooked by its historic lighthouse.

Get back to nature

Florida was built on a swamp, so Miami is also the place to come for nature and wildlife. If you’re up for it, go scuba diving in subtropical waters, rent a paddleboard at Crandon Park, or kayak through the mangroves at Oleta River State Park.

For a more laid-back experience, head to the magnificent Deering Estate in Palmetto Bay and take in a nature walk. Or you can pay a visit to Jungle Island, an eco-adventure park with 300-plus species of birds, rare twin orangutans, and the only trained cassowary in the world. The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is an 83-acre rainforest complete with a rare plant conservatory.

Insider tip: The Everglades National Park is just a short drive away. Experience alligators, cranes, turtles, and even panthers across 1.5 million acres of subtropical wetlands.

Shop on the Fifth Avenue of the south

From designer stores to thrift stores, Miami has it all. Once you experience the cool boutiques of Lincoln Road, you’ll know why it was once referred to as the “Fifth Avenue of the south.” Today, for exclusive brands like Prada and Gucci, head to Bal Harbour’s open-air shopping center in North Beach.

Miami Design District is full of luxury fashion brands and designer watches, while you should also check out downtown’s Brickell City Centre and Aventura Mall. If you’re looking for something a little different, Hialeah is where you’ll find Flamingo Plaza’s array of thrift stores like Red, White & Blue and the Community Family Thrift Store.

Miami Twice is another local secret. It stocks a dazzling selection of prized vintage accessories by Louis Vuitton, YSL, Gucci, and Chanel.

Insider tip: For an authentic Mediterranean lunch in the Design District, prebook a table in the courtyard at Mandolin Aegean Bistro.

Sample local produce galore

Miami has a ton of farmers’ markets, and it’s here that you’ll find slices of Miami life alongside the freshest produce. The colorful Redland Market Village is a mega market loved by locals, while Saturday’s Coconut Grove Farmers’ Market is one of the area’s best-kept secrets. If you’re anywhere near Homestead, check out Robert Is Here, a fruit stand that also features a petting zoo. The vendor’s milkshakes are legendary, as is his large selection of local produce. We recommend the canistel or sapote fruit.

Insider tip: Coconut Grove is a great place to spend a full day. This leafy neighborhood runs parallel to Biscayne Bay, making it one of the most beautiful districts in town.

Miami’s Many Cultures

Diners Club International — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 00:24:00 -0500

Miami’s many cultural influences are all over this must-see city. From the neighborhoods to the foods to the sights and sounds, there’s a mishmash of homegrown styles to take in. And with most residents not even born in Miami, the representation from all over the world will have you jumping from place to place to experience every bit.

NIU Kitchen

In a quiet corner of downtown Miami, this unassuming Spanish tapas restaurant is causing a stir. Taking cues from the creative Catalonian region, it favors oven and grilled dishes over typical fried Spanish fare. And it only gets more interesting from there. Cold tomato soup is topped with spicy mustard “ice cream.” Truffled potato foam surrounds two eggs. Pork cheek is braised for 14 hours. It’s a curious menu inspired by Spain’s most eccentric region.
134 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33132

Sweat Records

Many of Miami’s favorite sounds can be found at Sweat, a record store that’s had many homes in the Little Haiti neighborhood. Soon to announce another relocation, this staple shop is not just a place to buy your records – it also plays host to in-store events, live performances, a block party music festival and appearances from a slew of musicians. No matter what sound of Miami you want to hear, Sweat’s got it in store.
5505 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137

Ball & Chain

Ball & Chain has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1935 as a speakeasy, but these days it’s the live music and dancing that’ll get you into the Miami rhythm. This 1950s era lounge features 70 hours of weekly live music, two stages, an original pine ceiling that numerous jazz legends have played under and an outdoor patio perfect for concerts under the stars. But it’s the salsa stage that is not to be missed, with frequent appearances by visiting celebs looking to dance a Miami night away.
1513 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

Calle Ocho

The sounds of Miami aren’t just in the music, they’re all over the streets and certainly down Calle Ocho. There you’ll hear locals talking politics over a game at Domino Park. Kids piling out of the year-round costume store, ready to get dressed up for the latest celebration. Plus frequent festivals that quickly turn into all-out fiestas with locals and tourists alike. Whenever you stop by, it’s always a street party, complete with a dose of Cuban culture.
Little Havana Neighborhood

MDC’s Tower Theater Miami

As one of Miami’s oldest landmarks and an institution in the Miami film community, this art deco charmer has gone through several owners and has been given new life for cinephiles. Alternative films and cultural screenings are done regularly, with showcases of student works happening too. And often you’ll find that it caters to the neighborhood with Spanish-language films and English-language films subtitled in Spanish. But no matter what language it’s in, you have to catch a film in one of the last few old-fashioned movie palaces in America.
1508 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

Miami by Water

Diners Club International — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 00:19:00 -0500

Everyone knows that the water is where it’s at in Miami. There are all kinds of beaches, each with a different character of its own, ready for any way you want to spend your day. Not to mention waterfalls and swamps and everything in between. There’s a reason it’s called the Magic City — must be something in the water.

Miami Jet Ski Rentals

If you want to take the handles and experience Miami by water on your terms, a jet ski rental is the way to go. You can set off on a high-speed chase through Miami’s famous waterways and Biscayne Bay, or enjoying the wildlife and scenery that’ll have you understanding why this city is magic. Either way, you’re guaranteed a good time atop a jet ski in Miami.
Miami, FL 33132

Millionaire’s Row Cruise

There’s a stretch along the waterfront where only the most glamourous once lived, known as Millionaire’s Row. It was the height of Miami glam for a time and mansion after mansion still commands the shoreline, it’s full glory only witnessed by boat. On this cruise, you’ll see homes that belong to the rich and famous, and others that have even been featured in movies. Not to mention the stunning views of the skyline that you can share with your new millionaire friends.
01 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

For a bit of a respite from the hustle and bustle of Miami beaches, head over to Cape Florida State Park’s natural beauties. There’s over a mile of shoreline to pick from, complete with Miami’s quintessential palm trees and a picturesque lighthouse that dates back to the early 19th century. Just don’t forget to pack a picnic for your relaxing day away.
1200 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

Everglades National Park

It can be easy to forget that below the water is a whole other kind of Miami lifestyle for marine animals. Take a ride through the saltwater Everglades for a reminder of just who it is that we share the water with. From manatees to ‘gators to spoonbills and even dolphins playing in the wake of the boat, a trip to the Everglades will give you a new appreciation for all that Miami back waters have to offer.
Everglades City, FL 34139

Miami Beach Boardwalk

A beachside stroll is a given when coming to Miami, and the Boardwalk has plenty of seaside delights coming in waves. Starting at the southern tip and going up for 40 blocks, this beachwalk takes you through all the South Beach hotspots. You’ll flow along with bikers and rollerbladers as you pass beachcombers and bodybuilders, volleyball courts and yogis, tiki bars and perfect little dining terraces. Whatever you imagine yourself doing oceanfront, you’ll find a place for it at the Boardwalk.
Miami Beach, FL 33140

The Glam Side of Miami

Diners Club International — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 00:12:00 -0500

Decadent art deco buildings. Sleek, lavish cars driving down Ocean Avenue. Beautiful people in bathing suits along South Beach. Miami has long been a city that loves to go over the top and put its best, most glamorous foot forward. And you too will find yourself drawn to its many shiny, alluring qualities.

Miami Helicopter

Do Miami in the most over-the-top way possible and head for the sky. As the elite know, the bird’s eye view is the best way to take in all the glam and Miami Helicopter delivers. With themed tours ranging from Grand Miami to Golden Beaches, you’ll get a good look at everything Miami has to offer. But make sure to stop here first before you go exploring — it’s the perfect way to plan your glam.
14970 NW 42nd Ave Suite 45-08, Opa-locka, FL 33054

LIV

If opulence is what you’re after and you’ve got your dancing shoes on, then LIV won’t let you down. Get up close and personal with celebrities, VIPs and Miami’s most beautiful people at one of Miami’s most striking clubs. Complete with table service and private skyboxes that overlook the packed dance floor, it’s the rhythm of glam if there ever was one. But make sure to come dressed to impress — they set a high standard for all who enter.
4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140

Makoto

Located in South Florida’s exclusive Bal Harbour Shops, Makoto is a celebrated culinary destination created by famed restaurateur Stephen Starr and Chef Makoto Okuwa, an Iron Chef competitor and disciple of the famed Chef Morimoto. The chic and modern restaurant, which opened in 2011 to critical acclaim, features a contemporary design and showcases the elegant and masterful flavors of Japanese cuisine. Makoto also boasts a carefully curated beverage program featuring sakes, food-driven wines, Japanese craft beers and cocktails influenced by Japanese flavors and classic techniques.
9700 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour, FL

Miami Design District

There’s a new-ish kid on the high-end shopping block and Miami Design District is it. Over the past decade, Miami’s once fledgling furniture district has been redeveloped to become the home of all things design – from art galleries to architecture firms to luxury fashion boutiques and fashionable restaurants. It has quickly become the shopping district of choice for the international elite, and no matter if it’s new or old money that they’re coming with, there’s no shortage of places to spend it.
3841 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33137

Bal Harbour Shops

Long regarded as the place to shop for any luxury fashion brand, this swanky open-air mall commands the glam market. There’s always a waitlist for retailers looking to open a shop in this tropical oasis, which is no surprise given it’s draw of the affluent crowd. An inner courtyard is surrounded by countless stores selling high-end brands, the courtyard sometimes even playing host to fashion shows and other VIP events. Which explains why some say it’s the most luxurious mall in America.
9700 Collins Ave, Bal Harbour, FL 33154

Deering Estate

An oasis from one of America’s most glamorous decades still remains at Deering Estate. Now a nature preserve and historic house museum, there are two original houses on the 444-acre property — one a former hotel and the other a personal residence of Charles Deering, designed in 1922, and inspired by Charles two Spanish castles. Inside the museum all kinds of surprises, including a false wall concealing a Prohibition era wine cellar that once housed over 7,000. Pack a picnic lunch and head out beyond the walls and explore the lush grounds including a butterfly trail and picnic area overlooking the historic boat basin where manatees like to gather nearby.
16701 SW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33157

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

A glamorous walk awaits you at Vizcaya, a grand Italian villa surrounded by European-style gardens and a lush tropical forest. The villa itself is awe-inspiring — the interiors still preserved with lavish furnishings and ornate art reflecting the palaces the owner had it modeled after. You’ll stroll the same halls as film stars from the ‘20s and world leaders who have met here for many summits over the years. It’s full of character, and only a mere glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the rich and famous man who once lived there.
3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129