Miami is one of those infamous places in the U.S. known for its parties, beaches and sunshine!

I only spent a few days passing through Miami on my way to the US Virgin Islands and I’m glad that’s the way I saw it. Miami is a fun party city with some beautiful beaches, so if that’s what you are going for then it’s perfect! However, for me, a couple of days was all I needed. Here’s a guide to the most iconic spots of Miami!

First, Miami Beach and South Beach are a couple of the obvious hot spots; you can’t go to Miami and not take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean! Just be aware, all chairs and umbrellas on the beach are for rent and can run on average $10-15 per day. If you take a trip to South Beach you might as well hit Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road while you’re there. Ocean Drive is a 10-block strip of bars, restaurants and stores just adjacent to the beach. It is very much a young, hip party scene great for people watching and delicious, fresh seafood. Lincoln Road is just a few blocks from the north end of Ocean Drive and is a more upscale shopping and restaurant area.

Miami is also known for its Cuban influence, so a trip to Little Havana is certainly a fitting excursion! Depending on where you are staying in Miami it’s a pretty quick Uber or Lyft ride to this part of the city, which is on the mainland of Florida. 

You ought to try Cuban food while in Miami, especially Little Havana. Versailles restaurant is known for its Cuban food, but personally, I didn’t think it was anything to brag about. Maybe I just went to the wrong Cuban restaurants, but I wasn’t all that impressed by Cuban food 

throughout my time in Miami. You can make your own judgement call though! If you’re near downtown Miami or in Little Havana, make time for a stop in Brickell. It’s a fun art district with an 

upscale shopping center and a relaxing river walk. If you’re there stop in for a pastry or lunch at Bachour, you won’t regret it!

Finally, Miami’s Fontainebleu is one of the most historic and architecturally significant buildings in the city. It’s situated on Collins Ave in the heart of Millionaire Row and houses 12 restaurants and bars. One of my favorites is Chez Bon Bon, a delightful gelato shop that’s worth visiting after a day at the beach or a trip to one of the many bars on the property. Just know, you have to throw some clothes over your swimming suit to walk around the inside of the resort.

If I missed any of the best spots to see in Miami, let us know in the comments.

XOXO,

Lauren