There is no better way to escape the biting cold of a New England winter than by catching a plane to sunny Miami. Only 3 hours from NYC, and 3.5 from Boston, Miami offers everything we need to remind our pale skin that the sun still exists. While some cities can start to feel tired after a few visits, Miami is a destination we gladly travel to year after year. Its versatile neighborhoods offer fresh takes on activities, dining, and accommodations. Whether we're perusing the Bal Harbour Shops, catching waves on Miami Beach, or snapping pictures at the Wynwood Walls, here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy Florida's most vibrant city, by neighborhood.
Bal Harbour
From relaxing walks along the beach to quiet afternoons by the pool, the luxurious Bal Harbour neighborhood is the ultimate coastal town for a dreamy beach getaway. For serious indulgence, you can book a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour or the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort. We enjoy staying at the Carillon Wellness Resort because of its incredible group fitness program and spa, both complimentary to guests. After getting in a great workout, we walk the 2.7-mile-long beachside path to the Bal Harbour Shops for lunch and shopping. Despite being so close to downtown Miami, this area feels truly secluded and quiet.
Wynwood
If you're after more nightlife but want to stay away from the club scene, Wynwood is an ideal neighborhood. Filled with trendy restaurants, eclectic art galleries, and awesome bars, a weekend in Miami wouldn't be complete without a taste of Wynwood. Start with a cold brew and handmade pastry from Zak the Baker, then make your way to the Wynwood Walls and pose in the garden full of colorful and creative murals. If you prefer to take in art at night, get inspired and walk over to Coyo, a taco shop with a hidden bar in the back. Once you start dancing to the ultimate throwbacks the DJ spins, and have a sip of the smoky mezcal cocktail, Coyo will move to the top of your Miami nightlife list. Plus, if you get hungry, there are delicious tacos on the other side of the door.
Little Havana
Despite the flocks of tourists who crowd into the cigar lounges lining the main drag, Calle Ocho, Little Havana is an authentic homage to old-world Cuba. We were told Miami's best cubano sandwich resides in this area at Sanguich de Miami, but we skipped it in favor of an even more renowned eatery, Lung Yai Thai Tapas. You can only order once at this no-reservations hole-in-the-wall, so if you're hungry, don't hold back. The crab fried rice was amazing- so flavorful yet light at the same time. The pad thai also stood out as a must-order. Oh, and don't forget to order the Thai chicken wings. You won't regret it.
While all of these neighborhoods are very different from one another, they share a conviviality unique to Miami. The people are nice, the atmosphere is laid-back, and the weather is beautiful. Whether we're visiting for a detox weekend or to eat well, Miami always exceeds expectations and keeps us coming back for more.