Tanned skin, vibrant culture everywhere you go, and plenty of nightlife that even celebrities flock to are just a few reasons why the Southeastern tip of Florida should be your next vacay spot for the weekend {and to escape the frigid cold in the winter}. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy some coronas on the beach, or even take an alligator tour. And if you want to save a few dollars, stay in Ft. Lauderdale, which is just 30 miles north of Miami and a quick Uber ride away. Here’s what you must do when you visit this tropical paradise and enjoy a getaway in Miami for a weekend:
Plane Flights
First things first, catch an Uber to EWR {Newark Airport} for a flight to Ft. Lauderdale {FLL airport code}. United offers direct flights to Ft. Lauderdale, and that’s definitely the best option to save time since you need to be on the beach ASAP.
Hotel Picks
COMO Metropolitan Miami Beach
If you want to feel like a local, rest up and relax at this luxe, art-deco-designed boutique resort with phenomenal beach views. With a rooftop hydrotherapy pool, chic guest rooms that look like they were made for a magazine, and top-notch fitness and spa amenities, you’ll never want to leave. Note, there is a daily resort fee.
Aloft Miami Brickell
Centrally located to downtown Miami and close to many of the hottest attractions, Aloft Miami Brickell is the hot spot to stay and play. Impeccably designed with sleek meeting spaces, a trendy WXYZ bar, and a gorgeous backyard for some outdoor fun, it’s where you’ll want to stay if you want to be seen.
Fontainebleau Miami Beach
Get pampered at the Lapis Spa, dance the night away at the famous LIV nightclub, or shop ’til you drop all inside this all-in-one hotel experience. Located in the heart of Collins Avenue, one of the most popular strips in Miami {also known as Millionaire’s Row}, this iconic building is anything but average. With a rich history and historic value, you can’t go wrong staying here.
The Atlantic Hotel & Spa
If you prefer to stay a little more North, this seaside sanctuary in Ft. Lauderdale is your best bet when it comes to luxury amenities. Not only do they offer bed and breakfast options, studios and suites, but it’s also perfect for weddings thanks to its unreal beachfront view.
Places to Eat and Drink
Padrino’s Cuban Cuisine
Family owned and operated for three generations {40+ years!}, Padrino’s Cuban Cuisine is the food spot to go to for authentic and friendly service. Everything is made with the freshest ingredients — the croquettes and Cuban Sandwich are a must if you want to eat like the locals.
Versailles Restaurant
If you want a quick and delish Cuban food option while you’re exploring Little Havana, Versailles has a little bakery attached to its full restaurant that’s well known for its small pastries and baked goods. While this is a must for tourists, it’s also a regular spot for locals, so just make sure to brush up on your Spanish so you can order in their native language.
Mai Kai Restaurant
When it’s time to fork out a little more cash on a nicer meal, this is the place to do it. At this Polynesian restaurant, you’ll experience a show along with your delicious meal. Popular dishes include teriyaki chicken, walnut shrimp, and plenty of seafood combination plates.
Doggi’s Arepa Bar
There are very few places you can get a real-deal arepa and plantains {you didn’t go to Miami if you didn’t have plantains at least three times}— and one for a super reasonable price. Doggi’s offers both of those in a fun and colorful atmosphere. While it has more of a chain fast-casual vibe, chances are your’e going to sit among locals as the locations are nestled in neighborhoods.
Places to Go Out/Have Cocktails
Miami Mojito Company
In the middle of the arts district in downtown Miami, you’ll find a hidden mojito bar — it’s basically like walking into a makeshift jungle with palms, a shady area, and all. Inside the adorable tiki hut, you’ll discover an extensive flavor menu that will make all your mojito dreams come true. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed vibe minus the craziness of Miami.
South Beach
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If you’re in the mood to party and to get that true “Spring Breakers” experience, hop in an Uber to South Beach in Miami to bring that experience to life. You’ll find bars on bars luring you in to buy food with FREE massive margaritas, which gets old veryyyy quickly, but if you want a free drink, why not? Just beware, it’s super likely that club promoters WILL approach your table if you sit outside on the patio.
Story Nightclub
Paris Hilton, Selena Gomez, and Kourtney Kardashian are just a few names who’ve visited the ultra boujee nightclub that brings Vegas-style extravagance to the beach. It’s Miami’s largest club, so expect a hefty cover fee too, but it’s totally worth it if you want to go big. It’s also a music venue, so you can get down to popular acts like DRAM and naturally, Flo Rida.
Sightseeing MUSTS
Little Havana/Calle Ocho
“Havana, ooh, nah, nah,” You probably know the Camila Cabello song, and if it’s inspired you to visit the place, Little Havana will definitely fix your travel bug. It’s the heart of Cuban culture and boasts Calle Ocho, which is one of the most popular tourist streets. Whether you want to experience a walk-up cafe, overhear locals discussing daily politics, or listen to live Latin music, you’ll feel immediately immersed in the culture here.
Wynwood Walls
For all of you ‘Grammers, you’re about to be in Insta grid heaven. Wynwood walls is the art district in downtown Miami that’s sprawling with outdoor and indoor urban graffiti exhibits that are just as vibrant and meaningful as the area itself. The area features converted warehouses, and about 50 artists have displayed their work since it opened in 2009.
Swamp Tour
What’s a trip to Florida without a good ‘ol swamp tour? The Miami Everglades airboat tour is a popular option to see all the gators, and creepy crawlers lurking in swamps. The tours run anywhere from a few hours to six if you do a combo tour with a jungle walk after. Don’t forget the bug spray!
HG Insider Tips:
Miami/Ft. Lauderdale sun is HOT. One second, you think you’re pale because it’s cloudy, then BAM. You’re a lobster. Stock up on the sunscreen even if you don’t think you need it.
You’re going to do a ton of walking, so make sure you bring ultra comfy sandals and some athleisure/sneakers.
It won’t hurt to brush up on your Spanish, especially if you go to local spots for arepas or empanadas in places like Little Havana.
Never taken an Uber? Click here and use the promo code HGTAKE20 to get your first ride free (up to $20).
So there you have it; a quick trip to Miami, which can be done in a few days, max 7 hours of travel time from Hoboken to Miami [start-to-finish].
This post was sponsored by Uber, but having just visited Miami, know that we’d never steer you {no pun intended} wrong!
Let us know where we should cover next in our #HobokenTravels!
