While Chicago has been experiencing record cold in the week leading up to New Years, I have been hiding out in Miami for winter break! Since this is just about the time to start planning your spring break, here is my weekend guide to Miami on a budget!
The Constraints
My weekend guide provides comprehensive, step by step plans, for both Saturday and Sunday. Ever activity and meal will be less than $30 per person. However, this guide does not include hotels or AirBnBs since room affordability varies based on the number of friends you’re traveling with.
Parking in Miami is pretty expensive, so your best bet is to take a ridesharing service between the location rather than renting a car.
Saturday
Start the morning off right with brunch at Greenstreet Cafe! In Coconut Grove, it has plenty of sidewalk seating and is just a couple blocks away from the beach and some wonderful shopping. You’re definitely going to need a reservation because they’re always full.
Once you’re fueled with coffee and ready to take on the day, head downtown to see the Perez Art Museum Miami. With a gorgeous sculpture garden and some iconic picture taking spots, it is one of my favorite places in the city. It is also right next to the Frost Museum of Science, with both a planetarium and aquarium is a must see. Verde, the restaurant in PAMM, is delicious, and is least crowded in the midafternoon.
After you’re done learning, head to Key Biscayne to catch the sunset on one of the mangrove covered beaches. Key Biscayne is an island off the coast of Miami, and the beaches aren’t usually super crowded.
Head home to grab your dancing shoes before going to Ball and Chain. With great Cuban food and a live band playing latin music, it’s a Miami staple. Bring friends because it can get a little crowded and you’ll have more fun with a group.
Sunday
The next morning you might not be up super early, but the best thing after a night out is some Southern comfort food. Head to Yardbird in Miami Beach for farm-to-table brunch!
Your feet might be sore from dancing all night and the museum walking, so this is the perfect time to head to a spa! Miami is really big on their spas, but sometimes services can be crazy expensive. Portfolio Salon in Coral Gables has spa services that are reasonably priced and super quick.
Take your new pedicure to see the murals in Wynwood. Like the Pilsen murals on steroids every wall in this neighborhood is covered with stunning artwork! With cute coffee shops and boutique clothing stores on every corner, it is one of the most beautiful places in Miami.
After visiting Wynwood, head to the Museum of Contemporary Art up in North Miami to see some art off the beaten path. They try to feature exhibits by local artists. Across the street is The Rabbit Hole, the best curated thrift store in Miami. Although most of the products are well over budget, they have a stunning collection of handmade bows for your hair.
A trip to Miami would not be complete without getting dinner at Versailles! The iconic cuban restaurant in Little Havana has been a Miami staple for decades.
Have you ever been to Miami? What are your must sees?
Let me know on Twitter @xoxorosana_blog!
Xoxo, Rosana