Downtown Miami Secrets: Insider Tips & Trends
PeakACity
If you are looking for a secluded island in Miami to spend the day and disconnect, then here is one of my favorite spots! The Picnic Islands are a small group of islands within the city of Miami. They are located just north of Biscayne Island in Biscayne Bay, just east offshore from the Edgewater and Upper Eastside districts of the city. The islands are uninhabited, but several of the group have beaches where boaters and picnickers frequent. They are generally named for the mainland city parks that they are located next to in the bay. The southernmost one is Pace Picnic Island, located off Pace Park. There are also Morningside Picnic Islands Park and Legion Picnic Islands Park located directly off of Morningside Bayfront Park and Legion Park, respectively.
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Melissa Pixies
make a good memories
The Hungry Post
Right next to a railroad crossing, you’ll arrive at an unpretentious and minimalistic house. Immediately when entering OGAWA, you’ll feel as if you’ve landed in Japan. Tucked away in Little River, Alvaro Perez has opened his fourth and newest Japanese restaurant that just earned a well-deserved Michelin Star. As you turn the corner of the dining room, you will be met with the most impeccably set Omakase bar. Feel free to enjoy a pre-dinner drink in their peaceful Japanese garden in the back or take a seat, and get ready for Chef Masayuki and Chef Royce’s thoughtful Omakase journey. At Ogawa intimacy and ‘kikubari’ (the Japanese art of caring for others) are valued at the highest level. This very personal dinner experience for 11 guests at a time focuses on seasonal and unique Japanese ingredients flown in daily. The first part consists of crudos with cooked dishes from the kitchen between each course. Next, you’ll move on to the most incredible sushi flight, followed by a miso soup, and finish off with desserts (that’s not a typo, there’s more than one). Our favorite dishes when we went included the best Hotate Nigiri we’ve seriously ever had, balanced with a touch of Key lime and salt (we literally won’t shut up about it); the Ensui Hokkaido Uni Gunkanmaki which is preserved in salt water so you can taste the Uni right from its natural habitat; the Uni and Ikura Hand Roll; and a special shout out to the Matcha Mochi Cookie Anko with Satsumaimo (Japanese sweet potato) Ice Cream by Chef Jamie, picture your childhood Whoopie Pie but soooooo much better.
Miami Guide
🛼 Jul 04: Miami Beach July 4th Roller Disco Bust out your smoothest skate moves at the Fourth of July edition of Miami Beach Bandshell’s Roller Disco. The July 4th Roller Disco is part of the City of Miami Beach’s annual Fire on the Fourth celebration, offering a full day of family-friendly activities leading up to a fireworks and drone show display over the beach at 9:00 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the Bandshell.
Miami Guide
Jungle Island’s Jungle Splash!: A Splashtastic Water Park Adventure 🤩 Looking for a splashtastic adventure? Jungle Island has unveiled their newest attraction: Jungle Splash, South Florida’s Ultimate Inflatable Water Park Experience! This gigantic inflatable playground offers fun for all ages, with slides, obstacles, and climbing challenges. Cool off and create memories that will last a lifetime at Jungle Island’s Jungle Splash.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Gale South Beach Miami Located just a block away from the sea, this spacious rooftop offers 5,000 square feet of tastefully furnished terrace, ready to welcome you day and night. The Gale South Beach offers hotel guests a lovely pool area, with one of Miami's best rooftop pools, comfy sun loungers, private cabanas, and a well-stocked bar in which you can find all kinds of delicious drinks. You can also enjoy Italian bites from the ground floor restaurant. Framed by black marble and heated, the rooftop pool offers a setting really suiting the terrace, which is filled with a comy and harmonius atmosphere. A true oasis from the busy streets below. From time to time, the Gale South Beach rooftop is also available to the public, when the fantastic ground floor cocktail bar The Regent Cocktail Club host open-air rooftop events.
The Hungry Post
🌇 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐘 𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐒𝐔𝐍𝐒𝐄𝐓 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐘 𝐀𝐓 𝐒𝐖𝐀𝐍 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐘 𝐅𝐋𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐄 𝐂𝐀Ñ𝐀 🌇 Make sure you arrive early for some happy hour cocktails, bites, & the best musiquita🙌🏼 See you soon in The Design District🤩 📆 Saturday, July 27th, 4PM
See also
Gladeview Dining Guide: Local Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near Miami
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Boulan South Beach Located in the exclusive Collins Park neighborhood, just a block off the ocean, Boulan South Beach promises a relaxing atmosphere, wonderful installations, beautiful views and delicious drinks. Up on the 6th floor of the hotel you can enjoy one of Miami's best rooftop pools, complete with sun loungers, poolside cabanas, palm trees, and a grass-covered sun-deck that adds to the oasis-like atmosphere of this beautiful venue.
Time Out Miami
Peep modern works at Pérez Art Museum Miami With a collection of works from such artists as Robert Rauschenberg, James Rosenquist, Frank Stella and Ana Mendieta, not to mention some high-caliber traveling exhibitions, this relatively young museum (formerly Miami Art Museum) is worth a visit. Why go? Family-friendly interactive programs bring art home: during free Second Saturday (of the month) programs, museum teachers lead families in hands-on activities inspired by the works on display.Peep modern works at Pérez Art Museum Miami
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Elevate your swims, at one of the sky-high Miami swimming pools. Boasting what's probably the best rooftop terrace in South Beach and Miami, 1 Hotel South Beach is the kind of destination you visit when you want to pamper yourself in style. Offering stunning ocean views, a grand Miami rooftop pool and luxurious cabanas, the 18th floor rooftop is open from sunrise to sunset for hotel guest to enjoy the most exclusive type of oceanfront swimming. With several pools found around the hotel, 1 Hotel South Beach really has a swimming-destination for anyone, but the rooftop pool area is 21+, so it is very much a grown-up oasis.
Dish Miami
Ironside Pizza Miami is perfect spot for a sun-soaked lunch with family, friends or solo. Wood fired Neapolitan Restaurant in the Upper Eastside of Miami 🍕🍝 Besides pizza, this gem offers panini, salads, and a few other delights. From timeless classics to inventive specialties, we've got something to satisfy every craving.
Miami Guide
The Miami’s Most Breathtaking View! South Pointe Park Pier: Jutting out into the Atlantic, this pier offers panoramic views of the ocean and the city skyline, making it a photographer’s paradise. For shutterbugs, Miami’s sunsets are a feast for the lens.
A day in Miami
⚽ Fanzone Albiceleste AFA: Experience the excitement of Argentine fútbol at Bayside Marketplace until July 19!
Dish Miami
Miami Spice Dinner at Kissaki Yes, yes, y’all, the holy month for Miami foodies is finally here. August is when Miami Spice is in full swing, and this year many of our favorite restaurants are participating. Luckily, Kissaki is no exception. The South of Fifth Kaiseki restaurant is bringing the heat with its $45 3-course dinner menu. Starters include options like hamachi tiradito with serrano chilis and sudashi-soy or Chef’s signature 4-piece nigiri flight. For entrees, there’s miso black cod or wagyu fried rice topped with a poached egg. Then, for dessert, choose between bruleed torija, bourbon-spiked peach cobbler, or ice cream. We can’t wait. August 15.
See alsoExplore the Vibrant Local Community in Gladeview near Miami: Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts
The OH
Itálica Midtown is an absolute gem in the heart of Midtown! 💎 The cozy ambiance transports you straight to a trattoria in Italy. The warm lighting, brick walls and aroma of garlic instantly make you feel at home. The menu is a love letter to classic Italian cuisine, with homemade pastas that are simply divine. The tagliatelle alla bolognese is rich and decadent, while the gnocchi is pillowy soft perfection. Even the simplest dishes, like the caprese salad, burst with fresh flavors. The wine list offers a great selection of Italian varietals to perfectly complement your meal. And the service is impeccable - the staff truly makes you feel like family. Whether you’re craving an authentic Italian experience or just an incredible meal, Italica delivers on all fronts. It’s a must-visit for any Miami foodie! 🍝😋
Dish Miami
Celebrate this 4th of July at @red_southbeach 🥩 Join them on the patio as chef Peter fires up the grill with a special BBQ menu and RED classic dishes. Pair your dinner with one of their hand-crafted cocktails. Doors open at 4PM - come celebrate!
Miami Guide
🇺🇸 July 4: It’s America’s Birthday! Bayfront Park’s 4th of July Celebration returns this year with fun-for-all-ages entertainment. The festivities feature live music performances by local musical artists. Spectacular fireworks over the ocean are worth a visit to Miami on Independence Day! Lineup to be announced.
Dish Miami
Looking for a lunch spot with unbeatable ocean views in Miami Beach? Look no further than Cj’s Crab Shack! This seafood joint has everything you need for a perfect meal in paradise. Just keep it shrimple 🍤
Miami Guide
Celebrate National Tequila Day in Miami Style! Escape the ordinary with a splash of Italy at Petralunga! This hidden gem overlooking the North Bay Village marina boasts a vibrant atmosphere, delectable contemporary pizzas, gourmet Mediterranean cuisine, and expertly crafted cocktails – including a collection of over 150 tequilas! Don’t miss their “Pizza & Tequila” Tuesdays (and every Tuesday!) with 50% off pizzas and tequilas from 5-6 PM. Weekly specials like “Pasta Lovers’ Mondays,” “Wine Lovers’ Thursdays,” and “Lychee Ladies Night” ensure there’s something for everyone. Experience a taste of Italy with a Miami twist!
MIAMI EATS GUIDE
Rusty Pelican Miami if you are sea food lover and enjoys the Miami views, Rusty Pelicans is the right place for you ! 🦞 Offering eclectic and impressive contemporary American cuisine & the freshest local seafood, with dazzling waterfront views.
Miami Guide
Baia Beach Club, the tropical waterfront oasis located at the iconic Mondrian South Beach. Guests can choose from a divine selection of Summery, tequila-based cocktails such as the Among the Stars, a subtle yet fruity mixture of Don Julio Blanco, passion fruit puree, yellow peppers & hints of lime or the Day Off, a harmonious blend of Dobel Tequila, Chopin, Brugal 1888, #3 Gin, Luxardo, Apricot, Mango Puree, Lime & fresh berries.
See alsoDiscover Local Networking Events & Trending Community Gatherings in Gladeview Near Miami
Miami Guide
You’ve probably heard of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens before. But what do you think I meant when I said that its gardens were designed much like a home? Well, Colombian-born architect, Diego Suarez, separated the garden into different sections and created a unique atmosphere to each location. That gave the feel of being like an outdoor home! Some of these “rooms” included the Rose Garden, the Maze Garden, the Garden Mound, and more. Make sure to visit Vizcaya, it is amazing Italian-inspired villa!
Anonym
single.😒
The Restaurant Guide
BeyBey: Supper club energy with Mediterranean and Lebanese dishes meant to be shared, good music, and cocktails. Tucked in Miami Beach’s Sunset Harbour neighborhood, BeyBey is a restaurant and lounge designed to feel like a home. Serving contemporary cuisine from award winning Chef Geoff Lee and regional takes on classic cocktails inspired by their roots in Beirut, as well as an extensive collection of unique and rare wines, BeyBey has quickly become the talk of the town in Miami. The venue offers multiple spaces that compliment a dynamic evening’s needs, including an eclectic, art-strewn dining room, outdoor garden for meals al fresco, and chic social lounge to enjoy cocktails while vibing to an expertly curated soundtrack. With a nightly transition from Sunset Happy Hour to proper dinner service to intimate social lounge, BeyBey was created with the lifestyle of this special part of South Beach and its residents in mind.
The OH
Discovered a hidden gem EL Patio in Miami! This charming spot serves up authentic Spanish, Mediterranean, and Colombian cuisine that will leave you wanting more! From savory empanadas to flavorful arroz con pollo, every bite is a delight. Don’t miss out on their generous portions and warm hospitality! 5/5 stars for El Patio Restaurant - a must-visit for food lovers in Miami!
Akeem Davis
where are all the single beautiful women?
The Hungry Post
Pasta e Basta is a cozy Italian restaurant in Midtown that you already know we love. This time we stopped by to try their new brunch menu and we’re what you need to know 👇🍝 Their menu currently offers a variety of paninis and pasta trios, perfect for sharing and for those who always want a little bit of everything 👀 We kicked off our meal with the Panino Polpette e Mozzarella, but the Trio Romano stole the show. For $69 you get this pasta tower that includes Rigatoni Carbonara, Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe and Rigatoni Amatriciana. And the best part? You can now customize your own trio for $79. For dessert we had the Nutella crepes and the tiramisu which is always🔥 PS: If you’re brave enough to dine with a toddler they’ve got a kids menu too and a whole lot of patience ❤️
Dish Miami
El Turco Restaurant Miami This tucked-away spot serves up authentic Turkish cuisine in a charming outdoor setting. Escape the bustle of the city at El Turco and enjoy vibrant meze platters and satisfying main dishes like manti, lamb casserole, and Doner sandwhiches. 🇹🇷 The Most Famous Turkish Eatery in the World 🌍 Recognized by Michelin guide Bib Gourmand in 2022-2023 and 2024
See alsoTop Cocktails and Local Insights: Discover Gladeview's Best Bars Near Miami
MIAMI EATS GUIDE
Coffee Break Enjoy! ☕️ in Bal Harbour is the perfect place to stop by after a beach day for some good desserts and coffee 🧁 ☕️ Come for delicious bites and good vibes!
Secret Miami
Located in the Art Deco District, The Wolfsonian-FIU explores the inventive and provocative character of the modern world through objects and design. Admission is free every Friday from 6-9 p.m., and free for Florida residents. The Wolfsonian–FIU uses objects to illustrate the persuasive power of art and design, to explore what it means to be modern, and to tell the story of social, political, and technological changes that have transformed our world. It encourages people to see the world in new ways and to learn from the past as they shape the present and influence the future.
Discover Downtown Miami Like a Local
Downtown Miami offers a vibrant mix of cultural experiences, dining, and events that cater to both tourists and residents alike. Yet, navigating through the urban tapestry can be overwhelming. That's why Kikihub is here to bring you local information and anonymous insights, helping you uncover the lesser-known facets of this bustling city center.
Local Insider Tips
For the freshest local information, our anonymous insights on Kikihub highlight hidden gems that even some Miami natives might not know. Have you heard of the elusive pop-up markets set up around Bayfront Park during the weekends? These markets offer unique, handmade crafts and locally sourced foods that are a must-see.
Another spot that often flies under the tourist radar is the Miami-Dade Public Library System's main branch. While it might sound mundane, the library hosts various free events, from poetry readings to art exhibitions, creating a haven for book lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Trending Discussions on Kikihub
Our community thrives on trending discussions that bring out honest reviews and personal recommendations. Want to know where locals actually dine instead of the overrated tourist traps? Join the conversation to get pro tips for hidden culinary spots such as "El Pub," a family-owned Cuban restaurant that offers mouth-watering, authentic dishes at reasonable prices.
And if you're a fan of street art, check out the discussions about the latest murals gracing the walls of the Wynwood Arts District, just a hop away from Downtown Miami. The ever-changing canvas paints a vivid image of the evolving local culture.
Upcoming Events You Shouldn't Miss
Keeping up to date with local events is easy when you have access to community-generated information. This month, keep an eye out for the Miami Book Fair, one of the largest and most anticipated literary events in the nation. It features a week-long celebration of books, authors, and a wealth of literary activities for all ages.
If you're into music, the III Points Festival is another not-to-miss event. Known for its eclectic mix of forward-thinking music, art, and technology, it attracts a dynamic crowd and features both international and home-grown artists.
Travel Made Easy with Local Recommendations
Navigating Downtown Miami can be a hassle without proper local insights. According to Kikihub users, the best time to explore the streets is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the sweltering heat and overwhelming crowds. For transport, the Metromover, a free rail service, is highly recommended for easy access to key spots such as the American Airlines Arena and Bayside Marketplace.
For those interested in a more scenic route, consider renting a bike or an electric scooter. The recent expansion of bike lanes and the picturesque views along the Miami Riverwalk make it a pleasant alternative for getting around.
Join the Kikihub Community for More
Whether you are looking for the latest events, travel recommendations, or simply seeking anonymous insights, Kikihub's community platform is your go-to resource. The honest and unfiltered discussions by real people provide a unique perspective that you won't find in any guidebook. Become part of this interactive community to stay updated with the most authentic and current local information and secrets about Downtown Miami.
Sign in to Kikihub and start exploring what Downtown Miami has to offer through the eyes of its residents. From hidden eateries to trending cultural discussions, our platform brings you closer to the heart of the city. Whether you're new to Miami or a lifelong resident, there's always something new to discover.
