Summer vacation took us to Doral, FL which is a City in north Miami-Dade County – about 25 minutes Northwest of Miami. I did not have any expectations for Florida or Miami, but I was looking forward to warm weather and the beach. I spent three weeks with the family exploring Miami, its beaches and surrounding cities. I was amazed at all the fun activities to do with children and how much we did, while still getting a relaxing vacation. My kids had an absolute blast. This turned out to be one of my favorite vacations of all time and I can’t wait to go back. Here are some of the places to visit and fun things to do in Miami.
Brickell City Centre stands out as a modern, upscale urban development that combines innovative design with luxury and functionality, making it a significant landmark in Miami.
It is situated in the heart of Miami’s Brickell financial district, a major mixed-use project that combines residential, commercial, and retail spaces. It includes luxury condominiums, a high-end hotel, office towers, and a large shopping mall. You want to visit the mall. The development features striking contemporary architecture, with a design that includes a distinctive mesh canopy, called the “Climate Ribbon,” which provides shade and helps with natural ventilation. The shopping center is home to a variety of high-end retail stores, designer boutiques, and upscale dining options. We enjoyed a nice lunch at Tacology. It is a unique visit and it is worth spending an afternoon there.
Wynwood, Miami, is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood renowned for its dynamic arts scene. It’s famous for the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor gallery featuring large-scale murals and street art by international artists. The area is also home to numerous galleries, boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and lively bars. We walked around and admired the art and local shops.
We had lunch at Doya, a modern Aegean Michelin Guide restaurant serving “meze” (shared plates) from Greece and Turkey. Great atmosphere and great food.
On a later date, we returned to Wynwood to attend the Balloon Museum exhibition, which I previously wrote about.
Located along Miami’s downtown waterfront, the park offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. This scenic urban park provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, featuring expansive green spaces, walking paths, and shaded picnic areas perfect for relaxation or a leisurely stroll. The park also boasts a picturesque marina, which adds a nautical charm to the setting and provides opportunities for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant waterway activity. Its proximity to downtown attractions and cultural venues makes it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors to unwind, take in the natural beauty, and enjoy a serene atmosphere amidst Miami’s urban landscape. As I previously wrote, the Frost Science Museum is located in the park and is a must visit.
Miami Design is a must-visit for its unparalleled fusion of high-end fashion, cutting-edge art, and exquisite architecture, all set in a vibrant, immersive environment. This dynamic neighborhood boasts an impressive array of luxury boutiques, acclaimed galleries, and world-class dining, making it a cultural playground for style aficionados and art enthusiasts alike. With its sleek, modern buildings adorned with striking public art and its lively events calendar, the Miami Design District offers an inspiring experience where creativity and sophistication converge in a uniquely engaging atmosphere. Just go down there and find street parking and explore the area.
My cousin, who is a local, made reservations at Michael’s Genuine for Sunday Brunch. I suggest the brunch burger and kimchi benedict and the absolutely ridiculous cinnamon french toast.
The Beaches!
We went to a different beach every other day. Here are a few tips. If you want to have an extended day at the beach without shelling out any money, bring snacks, food and your beach towels. Most importantly, get a large beach umbrella from Amazon or Walmart – this will provide you a break from the sun when you need it. You can then spend hours with the kids playing in the water or just soaking up the sun.
Parking was always easy – even on 4th of July when we visited North Beach, we found parking in a public lot right across from the beach. I felt like people came and went to the beach at certain times. There would be the morning wave of visitors around 11 AM. Then people start leaving around 1 or 2, when the next group of visitors come in.
North Beach, Miami Beach
North Beach offers a charming and less crowded alternative to the bustling South Beach, providing a more relaxed and laid-back coastal experience. Known for its beautiful, wide sandy beaches and clear, turquoise waters, North Beach is perfect for those seeking a serene escape with ample space for sunbathing and swimming. The area features scenic beachfront parks, such as North Shore Open Space Park, which offers walking trails, picnic areas, and oceanfront views. North Beach also has a vibrant local dining scene with a variety of eateries serving delicious cuisine, as well as a quaint, low-key atmosphere that contrasts with the high-energy vibe of other Miami neighborhoods.
Mid-Beach, Miami Beach
Nestled between South Beach and North Beach, Mid-Beach features beautiful, less-congested stretches of sand, making it ideal for a more serene beach experience. The area boasts a range of stylish and luxurious hotels, including some historic Art Deco gems, as well as upscale dining and shopping options. Mid-Beach is also home to the lively Collins Avenue, which offers a variety of entertainment and nightlife options. With its combination of stunning ocean views, chic accommodations, and a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, Mid-Beach is perfect for those looking to enjoy Miami’s beach culture without the intensity of the busier spots.
South Beach, Miami Beach
South Beach, Miami, is an iconic destination renowned for its vibrant energy, stunning Art Deco architecture, and lively atmosphere. This world-famous stretch of coastline offers pristine, white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, making it a prime spot for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. The historic Art Deco Historic District, with its pastel-colored buildings and neon lights, provides a unique and visually captivating backdrop. South Beach is also a hub for nightlife, with a plethora of trendy bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that cater to a wide range of tastes and styles. Additionally, Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road are bustling with shops, cafes, and cultural events, ensuring there’s always something to see and do. Its dynamic blend of sun, style, and entertainment makes South Beach a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable Miami experience.
We parked on the street at 5th and Collins Ave and walked to the beach. I loved Lummus Park. But I was not impressed with Ocean Drive, where we stopped off to have lunch. Ocean Drive was just too busy and hectic. If you are young and want to party, this may be the spot for you.
Crandon Park, located on Key Biscayne, offers a picturesque and diverse recreational experience that makes it a compelling destination. Known for its beautiful, expansive beaches with soft white sand and clear waters, it’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. There was some seaweed on the beach which annoyed my kids a bit, but they still spent most of the day in the water. We parked in the massive public parking lot that was mostly empty.
Coral Gables, often called “The City Beautiful,” is a captivating destination that offers a blend of charm, sophistication, and history. With its picturesque Mediterranean Revival architecture, lush, tree-lined streets, and elegant, upscale shopping and dining options, Coral Gables exudes a timeless allure. My father-in-law wanted to take us to lunch at the The Shops at Merrick Park. After exploring the shops and the mall, we ate lunch at the Villagio Restaurant.
We did not get to the Biltmore Hotel, but we made it to the serene Venetian Pool – you can buy tickets online and take the family. Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is a historic and unique public swimming pool renowned for its picturesque and distinctive design. Built in 1924, it was created from a coral rock quarry and features a blend of Mediterranean Revival and Moorish architectural styles. The pool is surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping, including cascading waterfalls, palm trees, and scenic lagoons. It is fed by spring water from an underground aquifer and is refilled daily, with over 820,000 gallons of water.
My kids had a blast at the Miami Zoo. Spanning over 740 acres, Zoo Miami is the largest zoological park in the United States in terms of land area. As one of the largest and oldest zoos in the United States, it features a diverse collection of over 3,000 animals, representing over 500 species, from around the world, including endangered species and rare wildlife. The zoo’s open-air, naturalistic exhibits allow visitors to see animals in habitats that closely resemble their native environments, enhancing the educational and immersive experience. We were fortunate to see animals that we never see here at zoos in California. Zoo Miami is not just a place to see animals but also a center for education, conservation, and immersive experiences.
Why am I telling you to visit a supermarket? Because you have to get a chicken tender sub sandwich.
Publix is a well-known American supermarket chain based in Lakeland, Florida. Founded in 1930, it has grown to become one of the largest and most successful grocery retailers in the southeastern United States. Publix is renowned for its high-quality customer service, clean and well-organized stores, and a wide selection of products, including fresh produce, bakery items, deli meats, and pharmacy services.
Doral is a vibrant and rapidly growing city offering a blend of modern amenities, diverse dining options, and recreational opportunities. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community, Doral features well-maintained parks, excellent schools, and a variety of cultural events that cater to all ages. The city is home to the renowned Trump National Doral Miami, a premier golf resort known for its championship courses and luxurious accommodations. Doral also boasts a diverse culinary scene and bustling shopping areas, making it a great destination for food lovers and retail enthusiasts. Its strategic location near Miami International Airport and major highways makes it a convenient hub for both business and leisure travelers.
If you find yourself in Doral, visit downtown. We had food at:
Pura Vide Miami – Enjoy delicious pastries, healthy shakes and food.
Doral Backyard – Come for the family atmosphere and numerous choices of food.
Pisco y Nazca – Male sure to order any Ceviche dish. They are all out of this world.
Bombay Darbar – Best Indian food I have eaten in a long time.
I love Miami
I hope you get a chance to enjoy everything Miami has to offer.