There’s something magnetic about a city that seems to float at the edge of a peninsula, flirting with the Caribbean breeze and pulsing with the promise of adventure. Welcome to Miami — where the city’s glittering skyline meets soft white sands, and international flair blends effortlessly with tropical glam.
It’s time to design your perfect Miami escape. (Photo Credit: @anastasijaa_n)
Home to 150-plus ethnicities that speak more than 60 languages, this sun-drenched city has many compelling reasons to visit. In fact, there’s so much going on that we decided to divvy up the action into three categories, depending on the vibe that you’re going for.
Of course, feel free to mix and match — the Magic City won’t mind.
Miami: Downtown Luxe
For those who favor the crème de la crème, your Downtown Luxe escape starts in the Miami Design District — a heady blend of high fashion, contemporary art, fine dining, and eye-popping design. Think Tiffany, Harry Winston, and other ooh-la-la boutiques that are perfect for a little (or a lot) retail indulgence.
The Miami skyline shimmers just beyond the rooftop infinity pool at Kimpton EPIC Hotel. (Photo Credit: @maria_ponomaryova)
You don’t even have to leave the hotel to experience the luxe vibes of Miami. (Photo Credit: @maria_ponomaryova)
Feeling the need for speed? Slip behind the wheel of a Tesla Model S and glide through the city with zero emissions and maximum flair — 0 to 60 in 2.8 seconds, if you’re keeping track. Prefer to make waves? Charter a luxury yacht and take in Miami’s sparkling skyline from the crystal clear waters of Biscayne Bay.
In the evening, let the Adrienne Arsht Center — one of the world’s premier performing arts venues — be your next stop. Depending on the calendar, you could find yourself swept away by the rhythms of flamenco or vibing to jazz greats like Kenny G and Patti LaBelle.
Miami comes to life at night. (Photo Credit: @helenarolf)
Where to stay: Kimpton EPIC Hotel delivers a front-row seat to downtown Miami’s waterfront energy. Dine above it all at Area 31, the 16th-floor restaurant serving up fresh lobster bucatini with equally delicious views. Alternatively, opt for modern Japanese izakaya dining at the always-buzzing Zuma Miami, then drift between two sky-high infinity pools as the city sparkles around you.
Miami: Stylish and Breezy
If sun, sand, and open-air fun are calling your name, let your first stop be Bodega Taqueria y Tequila in South Beach — a funky, industrial hideaway where a taco truck lives inside the building and al fresco tables invite you to linger. Hawaiian Mahi Tacos? Yes, please. A Mexican French Kiss cocktail? Perfection.
Surfcomber is Kimpton’s beachfront playground in the heart of South Beach. (Photo Credit: @surfcomberhotel)
Miami is blue sky perfection. (Photo Credit: @lexandthe_city)
With your cravings satisfied, stroll through SoBe’s iconic Art Deco District, where pastel-hued buildings and vintage charm set the stage for a dreamy walk through design history. Still feeling inspired? Head to the Wynwood Arts District, home to one of the world’s largest open-air street-art installations — a true feast for the eyes.
Even Mother Nature shows off her artistic flair at the Miami Seaquarium. Here, you can break the “look but don’t touch” rule and dive right in — shake hands with a dolphin, swim with playful seals, or live out your marine dreams as a trainer for a day. Want to be a mermaid? No problem.
Sip margaritas poolside at High Tide Bar & Grill. (Photo Credit: @surfcomberhotel)
Where to stay: Surfcomber is Kimpton’s beachfront playground in the heart of South Beach — equal parts laid-back and lively. Stretch out on the sand or sip a pitcher of margaritas by the palm-lined pool, courtesy of the hotel’s breezy outdoor spot, High Tide Beach Bar & Grill. When the sun sets, head indoors to The Social Club, where comfort food meets a cool, come-as-you-are vibe that keeps the energy going well into the night.
Miami: Relaxed and Refined
Miami has its fair share of glitz and energy, but the city’s best moments are found outdoors, where life moves at a gentler pace. Just a short stroll from Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach, you’ll find the Miami Beach Golf Club, a lush, palm-lined escape in the heart of the city. Whether you’re playing a full 18 or simply soaking up the tropical scenery, it’s the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Kimpton Angler’s South Beach is home to the city’s slower rhythms. (Photo Credit: @palomarsobe)
For a quieter retreat, wander through the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, a three-acre sanctuary brimming with tropical beauty. Meander shaded paths lined with palms and flowering trees, pause by the koi pond, and admire collections of orchids and native Florida plants. The Japanese Garden, complete with a red bridge and trickling water features, adds a peaceful touch, while the edible garden showcases herbs and fruit trees that thrive in Miami’s subtropical climate.
With butterflies fluttering overhead, the garden feels like a hidden pocket of paradise right in the middle of Miami Beach.
Cheers to Miami. (Photo Credit: @laurenwestroberts)
Where to stay: At Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy both sides of Miami — the vibrant energy of Sunset Harbour and the laid-back beauty of the outdoors. After a day on the greens or among the gardens, head up to the rooftop pool for sweeping views of Biscayne Bay, a cool cocktail in hand.
