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The Ultimate Miami R&R Weekend: A Travel Guide

By Hilary Sheinbaum 

The Sunshine State is known for its oranges, its beaches, its warm climate, and Disney World. But, if you’re looking for a break from the kids (and everyone else’s!), chances are that the latter destination isn’t going to be your first priority.

Instead of waiting in lines for rides in Orlando, take a trip to South Florida for some rest and relaxation in Miami. 

Grab your girlfriends (or your partner) and head to this super hot destination — literally and figuratively. 

Where to Stay

On Brickell Key, the Mandarin Oriental Miami is a stunning five-star hotel with a five-star spa for the R&R you need. If retail therapy is the escape you’re looking for, the property is steps away from shops that will fit all of your clothing and accessory needs.

To top it off, each and every room has its own balcony so you can get fresh air anytime.

With a far east aesthetic, The Setai, Miami Beach is located oceanside with intricate decor and design. That said, your artistic experiences aren’t limited to staying at the hotel, the beach, or on Collins Ave. All guests can get a private tour of Miami’s Versace Mansion.

Back at the hotel, make sure you get a reservation for Sunday Jazz Brunch at Jaya, which you’ll want your ears and taste buds to experience before flying out.

Where to Eat

Speaking of food, you can go healthy or indulgent at Yardbird Miami Beach.

For brunch, sip a hand pressed juice and nosh on a protein bowl or salad, or treat yourself with crispy chicken biscuit, grits and/or mini beignets.

Our top menu recs: the Chicken & Waffles at any meal (brunch, lunch and dinner — available gluten-free!) or The Whole Bird for (brunch or dinner), which comes with spiced watermelon — yum! 

For plates filled with Latin flavor, eat at Chica for brunch, lunch or dinner. Empanadas, ceviche, guac and arepas are to start, while Cubano sandwiches, quesadillas, burritos, and roasted street corn round out a satisfying, delicious meal.

Sip a Chica-Rita or Old Cuban cocktail solo or share an Old Cuban Bowl or Mezcal Punch Bowl (for 8). Not a drinker? Spiritless options are on the menu, too! 

Where to Workout

Runners beware: logging miles in Miami is sweatier than most. Save yourself from the outdoor heat and book a 50-minute class at Barry’s, where you can jog, run and sprint on the indoor treadmills and switch to floor exercises to lift weights, utilize bands and your body weight for a firmer physique. 

If you love to dance but don’t want to hit the clubs or stay out too late, VXN (formerly known as Vixen Workout) will have you moving your body to trending choreography and remixed music.

If it’s your first time, we recommend the 101 class (which, by the way, is free for new attendees).

Where to Drink

Suppose live music is a priority while sipping Bananita Daiquiris or Cañitas, head over to Ball & Chain in Little Havana. The menu offers classics like Mojitos and Miami Mules, too. Pop in on a whim or check their website in advance for upcoming events featuring DJs, jazz performances, ladies’ nights, salsa classes, themed events, karaoke and more. 

If bubbly is on your mind, The Champagne Bar at The Surf Club is a venue you can’t miss. The Four Seasons is undoubtedly known for exceptional service. Those ideals, paired with The Surf Club’s early years of glamor and charm, and its offering of the largest selection of Champagnes in all of Miami (plus cocktail options), there’s something special for everyone to enjoy between 3 p.m. and midnight. 

Where to Relax

Stop over at Wynwood Walls for a walkable outdoor art experience. Visitors can opt for an official tour or wander on their own — but whatever you choose, get ready to snap some pics. The Walls have become a must-see destination featuring graffiti and street art (and, needless to say: shared all over social media).

Trust us: you will want to wear something cute for the ‘gram. 

This might sound obvious, but be sure to hit the beach while you’re in town! Not only is the water warm (if you choose to take a dip), but with the sun shining, you’ll surely decompress with the waves calmly crashing. Sounds pleasant and relaxing, right?

 

Pack your bathing suit, sunscreen and sunglasses — we’re going to Miami!