Neighborhoods to explore in Miami

I have been to Miami at least half a dozen times in my life, and contrary to public opinion, this energetic metropolis has a lot more to offer than clubbing in South Beach. There are unique cultural experiences, great museums, and amazing gastronomy. Now this is not to say that the nightlife in Miami is not worthwhile checking out (regardless of age), but this post will focus more on daytime experiences that are family-friendly and will make for a very memorable trip to south Florida. I'll also cover some cool neighborhoods that show the diversity of Miami.

Brickell - serving as the financial center of Miami, modern high-rises buildings create a dramatic city skyline and provide the fast-paced ambiance that allures both residents and visitors . Brickell is also well known for its upscale dining, shopping, and nightlife. Crazy About You & River Oyster Bar offer fresh seafood in stylish settings while LPM Restaurant is a mainstay for gourmet French fare. Vice City Bean is a go-to for perfectly brewed coffee drinks. Brickell City Center is an open air mall with office buildings, residential towers, and the swanky EAST Miami hotel featuring a popular rooftop bar.

Coconut Grove - this leafy neighborhood is a good reprieve from the high energy of Brickell or South Beach. With a more relaxed atmosphere and a coastal orientation, Coconut Grove is a great place to do some shopping or go out for a good meal. Regatta Harbor & Park now features a seaside promenade which is great for an evening stroll or stopping into one of the high energy bars. Loretta & the Butcher and Jaguar are local Latin eateries.

Key Biscayne - located just a short ride from downtown Miami, this barrier island features gorgeous white sand beaches and a federally protected coastal reef. Bills Baggs Cape Florida State Park was named by Conde Nast as one of the most beautiful beaches in the US. The state park's lighthouse is the oldest standing structure in Miami. Crandon Park features a marina, tennis courts, and walking trails including the Bear Cut Preserve Nature Trail.

Little Havana - celebrating its vibrant Cuban heritage, the Little Havana neighborhood in Miami is centered around Calle Ocho (8th Street). Here you can find cigar lounges and Cuban coffee shops while the local eateries serve traditional fare. Old's Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina is a great restaurant with live music on most nights. Across the street you can find the iconic Ball & Chain- a 1930s nightclub which has reemerged as a popular salsa dancing club which also features live music and performances. Little Havana is also home to Tower Theatre- one of Miami's oldest cultural landmarks (opened 1926).

Key Biscayne - located just a short ride from downtown Miami, this barrier island features gorgeous white sand beaches and a federally protected coastal reef. Bills Baggs Cape Florida State Park was named by Conde Nast as one of the most beautiful beaches in the US. The state park's lighthouse is the oldest standing structure in Miami. Crandon Park features a marina, tennis courts, and walking trails including the Bear Cut Preserve Nature Trail.

Miami Beach - of course we have to mention world famous Miami Beach. This 7 mile stretch is known for world class dining and nightlife while the Art Deco buildings and neon lights of South Beach have become a cultural phenomenon. Miami Beach is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches and lavish oceanfront accommodations, although budget options can also be found. Miami Beach also plays host to one of the largest fine art exhibitions in the world each December- Art Basel. South Point Pier Park is a scenic 450 foot long pier and is a good starting or end point for the boardwalk that spans the length of Miami Beach (great for bike riding or walking).

Vizcaya Museum - this historic estate, formerly known as Villa Vizcaya, was built in 1916 for business mogul James Deering. With a waterfront orientation overlooking Biscayne Bay, 32 elegantly appointed rooms, and 10 well-manicured gardens, this oceanfront villa is truly an architectural masterpiece. Named on the National Register of Historic Places, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens has been an integral piece of local culture while promoting conservation and preservation as its founder once imagined. The impressive grounds has also hosted events and weddings over the decades.

Wynwood - this eclectic urban neighborhood has become recognized as the arts district of the city. With boutiques, galleries, and a lively nightlife, Wynwood attracts both creatives and partygoers during all hours of the day and night. Wynwood Walls, an outdoor street art installation, has evolved into one of the most globally recognized street art exhibitions with over 3 million visitors per year. Local bakery, Zak the Baker, is something of local legend for gourmet pastries. The Salty is a bustling donut shop with unique flavors. Panther Coffee is a mainstay as well with a location here.

There is no doubt that Miami has tons to offer in terms of culture, entertainment, and outdoor enjoyment. With Cuban influence and tropical weather, one can easily feel like they are somewhere in the Caribbean. My recommendation would be visiting from November - April when the weather is the most moderate as the summer months can be extremely hot and humid with frequent rainstorms. The ocean temperature in the fall and spring months is perfect contrast (high 70s on average) to the pleasant air temperature (low 80s on average). In the winter, the ocean is still warm enough to swim although might feel a bit cooler for some that are more used to vacationing in the tropics.