<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nA walk through South Beach<\/strong> is the best way to take in this trendy part of Miami Beach\u2014a playground of luxury, vanity, and fun. The area is packed with shops and hip restaurants, especially around the iconic Lincoln Road<\/strong> and Espa\u00f1ola Way<\/strong>, as well as stylish caf\u00e9s and hotels like the legendary Caf\u00e9 Cardozo<\/strong>, which also doubles as a boutique hotel.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMiami is undeniably one of the top cities in the U.S., and it embraces its glamorous and superficial reputation with undeniable style along the nearly four-mile stretch of Ocean Drive. Then again, like many things in life, it may just be a matter of fa\u00e7ade, much like the ones you\u2019ll find throughout the Art Deco District.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Shopping in Miami<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nAnd of course, it\u2019s nearly impossible to think of Miami without wanting to go shopping. Dadeland Mall<\/strong>, Mary Brickell Village<\/strong>, and Dolphin Mall<\/strong> are true temples of retail therapy, where you can also score designer deals. Be sure not to overlook unique vintage shops like Fly Boutique Miami<\/strong>, located at 650 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Open-air shopping centers<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWith Miami\u2019s year-round warm weather and sunshine, not to mention its palm tree\u2013dotted blue skies, it\u2019s no surprise that the city is full of open-air shopping centers and retail districts. One of the most iconic is Bal Harbour Shops<\/strong>, opened in 1965. This luxury indoor-outdoor shopping destination is anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus and features high-end brands like Chanel, Prada, and Tiffany & Co.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn South Beach, Lincoln Road<\/strong> is a classic shopping street, great for people-watching or enjoying a meal at an outdoor caf\u00e9. In downtown Miami, Bayside Marketplace<\/strong> overlooks Biscayne Bay, offering souvenir shops, fun activities like boat tours, and the Skyviews Miami<\/strong> observation wheel.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn upscale Coral Gables<\/strong>, the Miracle Mile<\/strong> shopping district is home to a variety of boutique stores, galleries, and restaurants. Further south in Pinecrest<\/strong>, The Falls<\/strong> is another open-air shopping center, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping and water features that offer a wow factor beyond just the storefronts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to see in Miami: Coconut Grove \u2013 The city\u2019s trendiest neighborhood<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhat makes Coconut Grove<\/strong> so special? The answer is simple: it\u2019s Miami\u2019s trendiest neighborhood, where history, nature, and culture blend into one. This somewhat bohemian area offers the charm of a small town within the big city. It\u2019s more laid-back than Miami\u2019s other more modern and urban neighborhoods and has a stronger sense of community. It\u2019s also perfect for exploring by bike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Nature, history, and culture in the heart of the City<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWith its picturesque ambiance, few people realize that Coconut Grove is one of Miami\u2019s oldest neighborhoods. Located near Coral Gables<\/strong> and Key Biscayne<\/strong>, it’s right in the heart of Miami but far enough removed to remain a green, tranquil escape. It’s no surprise that the neighborhood is well known for its proximity to parks and nature areas like CocoWalk Park<\/strong>, a popular open-air shopping and dining center. Recently renovated, it still holds onto its casual vibe, making it a great spot for walking, shopping, or enjoying an al fresco meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAlso nearby is The Barnacle Historic State Park<\/strong>, home to one of Miami\u2019s oldest surviving houses, built in 1891. The park sits by Biscayne Bay<\/strong>, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to water activities. With so much history, Coconut Grove also serves as a cultural hub, home to art galleries, theaters, and cultural events all year round. Among the most notable is the Coconut Grove Arts Festival<\/strong>, held every February and considered one of Miami\u2019s most important art events. You won\u2019t find Art Deco here\u2014but this is still Miami in its purest form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Bohemian spirit and enchanting architecture<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s that historic village vibe that has helped make Coconut Grove<\/strong> one of Miami\u2019s most desirable neighborhoods. Founded in the 19th century, it retains a historic and artistic aura. Originally a haven for artists and writers, that bohemian spirit lives on along its tree-lined streets and among its beautiful (and very expensive) period homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nArchitecture in Coconut Grove spans everything from historic residences and Mediterranean-style villas to sleek modern mansions. While you\u2019ll still find some high-rise condos in classic American style, everything here carries a unique charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to see in Miami: The underline, the newest urban hotspot<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhat if I told you that Miami\u2019s coolest new gathering spot is under a train track? Welcome to The Underline<\/strong>, a newly opened 10-mile linear park beneath the Metrorail<\/strong> in the Brickell<\/strong> neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\nJust like New York\u2019s High Line<\/strong>, Miami now has its own elevated-rail-to-urban-park transformation. This outdoor park space reimagines the area under the train tracks as a place for exercise, art appreciation, cultural events, or just relaxing among lush landscaping that stretches from downtown Miami all the way to Kendall<\/strong>. The Underline is definitely something to see in Miami.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>From forgotten tracks to urban oasis<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nMost of the land that now makes up The Underline was previously unused, neglected space. Now, in Brickell Backyard<\/strong>, just north of the Brickell Metrorail Station<\/strong>, you\u2019ll find everything from domino tables and a 50-person communal dining table to outdoor ping-pong, a basketball court, and a community stage for yoga, movie nights, and live music. The entire park even offers free Wi-Fi.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPublic art abounds, from colorful murals on concrete pillars to quirky sculptures dotting the park. It\u2019s a place that\u2019s not only drawing in visitors but also attracting businesses likely to set up shop along the Miami River<\/strong> in the near future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>A project in progress<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAlongside this first phase, known as Brickell Backyard<\/strong>, eight additional phases of construction are scheduled to roll out over the coming months. The full project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025<\/strong>. Once finished, The Underline<\/strong> will stretch southwest along Miami\u2019s Metrorail line<\/strong>, from the Miami River<\/strong> in Brickell to the Dadeland South Station<\/strong>. It will connect neighborhoods and landmarks such as Vizcaya<\/strong>, Coconut Grove<\/strong>, and the University of Miami<\/strong>, offering both locals and visitors an innovative way to experience and engage with the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Miami and the sea<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWater is part of Miami\u2019s DNA. It\u2019s the playground for locals and home to a diverse array of marine life, including everything from colorful fish to manatees, dolphins, and seahorses. While Miami\u2019s waters may not always mirror the vivid turquoise of the Caribbean, they\u2019re an essential part of the city\u2019s ecosystem\u2014and a major source of recreation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s why water sports and aquatic activities are so popular here. You can go sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, or simply take a relaxing boat ride or swim in the bay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Top water activities<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nPerhaps the easiest way to connect with Miami\u2019s marine life is with a half-day cruise<\/strong>. Departures are available from Downtown Miami<\/strong>, Bayside Marketplace<\/strong>, and Miami Beach Marina<\/strong>. Travelers can opt for sightseeing tours around Star Island<\/strong> to see celebrity mansions, or for the more adventurous, buckle up for a high-speed boat tour<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What to see in Miami: Local markets<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMiami\u2019s food scene is world-class, but there are also ways to support ethical tourism and connect with local culture\u2014like visiting its farmer\u2019s markets<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Mr. Fresh farmers Market<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nLocated in North Miami Beach<\/strong>, open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.<\/strong>, and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.<\/strong>. This is the perfect spot to find a wide variety of locally grown, organic products\u2014often at discounted prices\u2014as well as an impressive range of superfoods.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLike many international markets (and something Spaniards know very well), this one also serves freshly squeezed juices<\/strong> and healthy meal options for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Expect everything from acai bowls loaded with fresh fruit<\/strong> to generous salads and hot meals made with local ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Redland Market village<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nLocated in South Dade<\/strong>, open Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.<\/strong>, and weekends from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.<\/strong> Since opening in 1987<\/strong>, this market has sold local produce and transforms into a fun flea market<\/strong> on weekends, perfect for vintage treasure hunting.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis family-run market offers