Planning a Trip to Miami: The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary

Welcome to the city of magic – with its colorful, exotic, and lively history, it is easy to get lost in all the available choices while planning your quick trip! Miami is filled to the brim with incredible nightlife, vibrant restaurants, sparkling beaches, and everything in between but don’t worry! You won’t need a degree to navigate you and your loved one(s) to all the best places. We’ve got that covered for you. Directly from our expert locals in the area, here are the best places to go for a weekend getaway in Miami!

Miami Weekend Day One

Whether you drove into the city for the weekend or just waiting for your cruise adventure the next day, you will want to get a real taste of everything Miami has to offer. There are plenty of things to do and things to see, but certain activities can really turn your quick trip from good to incredible. Since we’re your go-to itinerary planner for the next two days, let’s start you off with the perfect places to stay. 

From Ocean Views to City Nightlights

If there is anything worth the splurge, your hotel should be high on the list. The comfort and luxury are proof enough for a short trip – but the views from your window are to die for. If you’re a couple that enjoys nightlife and the true feeling of being in the city, look no further than W Miami in Brickell. Their luxury rooms feature private balconies overlooking downtown Miami or the bay with floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the views from almost any angle. If that wasn’t enough, you’re in the middle of all the action, making it a quick walk or drive to many activities and dining experiences.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to wake up to the sound of waves outside your window and restaurants designed by Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, The Miami Beach EDITION will be the perfect place for your weekend getaway. Enjoy both the personalized and special care of a boutique hotel mixed with the wide variety of amenities at a big-budget hotel. Take in the beautiful and relaxing neutrals of your room or take a peek at their spa, bowling alley, nightclub, or ice skating rink… No matter what, there will always be something for everyone here.

Starting the Day Off Right – Foodie Style

Of course, you could make this easy and dine at one of the amazing restaurants located in your hotel or nearby, but if you’re truly looking for the best of Miami, start with À la Folie Café on South Beach. This charming little French bistro has over 20 years of history in the city and the interior reflects both the warmth and romance of the street it's located. Sit back, relax, and enjoy yourself in this local hot spot for any kind of meal of the day. 

Conversely, if you require something a little more cultural, we would suggest Terras, a Latin restaurant offering stunning views of Miami and flavors from South American, Caribbean, and Latin American cuisines. Whether you’re a couple simply enjoying a nice drink with the view, a group of friends dancing at the parties listed on their website, or riding solo to check out the menu inspired by urban street foods, you will certainly leave delighted by the experience. 

Take a Look Around Once in a While

No trip is complete without some souvenirs and our recommendation would be the Bayside Marketplace. Not only is it close to W Miami Hotel, but it's also a great place to relax and check out the views of Biscayne Bay while you complete your shopping. If that wasn’t enough, it features a Ferris wheel, boat tours that launch from the attached pier, and live music throughout the day! The greatest thing about the marketplace itself is that it's one of the few free things to do around Miami if shopping is not your thing. It is just as fun to promenade around the pier and soak up all the Miami vibes. 

Time for some history, my friends. Just down from the marketplace in Coconut Grove exists the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, a European-inspired villa complimented with Italian Renaissance gardens and a historic village. In moments, you are transported into the Gilded Age, experiencing life like the rich and famous of the time with the villa’s luxurious interior decor and Mediterranean Revival architecture. There are plenty of exhibitions to check out as well as the grounds itself, so be sure to take the time to explore everything you can and relax along the way! 

Meals Before (Or After) the Show

Little Havana is a haven for some of the best food in Miami. Especially Cuban. We could even say it would be a huge mistake to miss out on this cultural necessity of the weekend. One of our favorites is Cafe La Trova. Chef Michelle Bernstein has created some award-winning culinary dishes that add a modern twist to traditional meals and first-time visitors are welcomed in like family as they write your name on their board. Whether it's before or after your late-night experiences, you will be thankful that you decided to indulge.

If you’re looking for a different cultural experience, look no further than 5 Esquinas, a Peruvian Restaurant in South Beach that may be a little closer to your later destinations. The name is a reference to an area of Barrios Altos in Lima, (the capital of Peru), and became a favored meeting point for notable historical figures in the 19th Century. At this hidden gem, you can not only enjoy amazing dishes prepared by Henry Vera and his team but also immerse yourself in the flavors, colors, and sounds of a culture that is rich with tradition.

Live Like There's No Tomorrow

We know you’re here for the best weekend trip in Miami and what better way to achieve that than with a night-time trip to Faena Theater in Mid-Beach? It's the ultimate blend of entertainment and luxury as you enjoy captivating performances by talented dancers and artists in the glamour of the old Hollywood-esk-inspired space. Currently, there’s a cabaret called Allura showing Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays but you can also enjoy live music like Jazz on the days in between! Bonus, you can even dine there if you need a quick bite or a full meal!

Miami is known for its nightlife and tonight, so we’re making it the day one star of your itinerary. Located at Fontainebleau, LIV nightclub features top performers every weekend and consistently ranks as one of the top nightlife venues in the world. Once known as the Tropigala Lounge, LIV underwent an incredible $10 million renovation that brought it above and beyond other nightclubs of its time. The vibrant lighting, iconic dome, and unique architecture bring back the feeling of style, fame, and glamour that the original establishment had. Not only will you be partying it up with the latest artists of today, but experience a historic spot where stars like Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Ann Miller, Elvis Presley, and Tony Bennet once performed. Trust us, this is the perfect way to end your first night in Miami. 

Miami Weekend Day Two

Good morning, friends! Welcome to day two of your adventures in Miami. On day one, we took advantage of the scenic route and helped you take notice of some of the historic gems that the city has hidden away. You had glitz, you had glamour, and now it’s time for relaxation and a touch of new elegant experiences… Don’t worry, we’ll even take it easy and slow in the morning in case you may have indulged a little too much in the late-night life! 

Good Ol' American Eats & Healthy Bites

We’re headed back to South Beach for one of the most popular breakfast spots in Miami! May I introduce you to Bacon Bitch, a classic American Breakfast and Brunch spot situated within the historic Essex Hotel. Here, they greet you with their iconic (and very loving) “Hey, Bitch!” as you enter, already setting the scene for a new, never-boring experience. Their menu features unique but perfect twists on classic breakfast items – and you will leave full but wanting more regardless. And hey, if you’re not feeling up to walking there yet, they do offer delivery to enjoy the most important meal of the day in the comfort of your luxurious hotel room. 

Not the vibes you’re going for this morning? No problem! Let’s try out a vibrant and ocean-inspired spot with a flavorful and health-focused menu– Pura Vida on South Beach! This hotspot for locals is known for its amazing smoothies, delicious acai bowls, and hearty salad wraps. If you’re looking to get your body back on track for the day ahead, this is the place to check out. You can even skip the lines with mobile ordering, grab your grab, and chill out by the beach as you recuperate!

Treat Yourself and Relax in Luxury

Time to relax, recuperate, and revitalize at Bamford Wellness Spa in South Beach. We’re taking it slow and easy this morning, so after breakfast, let’s take the proper time to enjoy your weekend getaway in peace too. This spa in particular is the very first Bamford Wellness Spa created and was named Florida's Best Hotel Spa 2023 at the 9th annual World Spa Awards. Here you can enjoy holistic treatments, services, and classes to nurture and care for your body. With so many different treatment options and therapies, there is something for every body and every budget to be sure you’re participating in some self-care. 

It would not be a true weekend trip to Miami without time to relax at the beach, so if you’re skipping out on the spa, take the time to sit out and enjoy the waves as they roll in! We suggest the guest services of Boucher Brothers! They offer beach rentals like chairs, daybeds, umbrellas, cabanas, and various water sports like jetskis, boat rides, paddleboarding, and so much more to soak in the sunshine of Miami and have a little harmless fun too. Corporate event options are also available, so whether you’re single, with friends, a couple, or a business, there is plenty of fun for everyone! Boucher Brothers is all about beach conservation efforts too, so you can enjoy your time on the sand and know they’re simultaneously helping the planet. 

Splurge On One Last Dinner

Whether you’re here with friends, exploring solo, or simply a couple looking for one last great place to eat, these two locations in South Beach will be your best bets. Orilla Bar & Grill is an Argentinian steakhouse developed by Chef Fernando Trocca that is cozy, comfy, and creative. They pride themselves on their showcase of simple and affordable but well-executed cuisine and have won both awards and plenty of press for their efforts. You can choose to sit indoors in the funky and low lighting, the luscious and plant-filled patio, or their absolutely stunning bar. No matter what, you will receive amazing service and impossibly, an even better meal.

This Italian restaurant has become a favorite among critics, locals, and in-the-know tourists. Macchialina opened its doors in 2012 and received incredible awards and recognition just in its first year alone. There is such a rustic yet charming sophistication that Chef Michael Pirolo has embedded in the atmosphere and meals that it leaves the restaurant feeling both like a luxury and a home. Additionally, to add to the charm factor, Jacqueline Pirolo (the younger sister to the chef), manages the wine and spirits of the restaurant and is an award-winning sommelier herself, ensuring sophistication in every aspect of your visit. 

Not With a Fizzle but With a Bang

We’re on the last stretch of your trip, but don’t you worry one bit! We have one more recommendation that will leave you feeling fulfilled and ready to return to regular life (Maybe. We know how that goes too!) It’s time to take a trip to one of the best stadiums in the country, the Kaseya Center, and check out one of the many concerts or games that are consistently rotating around! No matter the time of year, there is always either a performer or the Miami Heat basketball team that calls the stadium home and you will not want to miss the incredible views and atmosphere that it provides. Artists this year alone include Troye Sivan, Charli XCX, Nicki Minaj, Usher, Shakira, Marc Anthony, Christian Nodal, Jay Wheeler, and many more! With its state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge renovations over its 15-year history, you will leave with memories that will last a lifetime.