Miami Shopping
People take a Miami vacation partly because of its glorious weather; it’s just so fun to be outside, day or night, when visiting Miami. Miami does have its share of indoor malls, but to make the most of your trip, why not combine the best of both worlds and shop at open air complexes? There is plenty to do for those who want to spend a little, and those who want to spend a lot – of time and money, of course!
Bayside Marketplace
More a tourist destination than strictly shopping, there is plenty both to do and buy on your Miami vacation visit to Bayside Marketplace. Located on Biscayne Boulevard, you’ll find henna tattoo stands, parrot-petting stands, and places to hold a snake. What a photo op! There are plenty of chain stores, so if you forgot shorts or a t-shirt or need new flip flops Bayside is a place to restock. Haven’t purchased any souvenirs yet? There are many tourist shops to buy keepsakes for yourself or others. After a hard day shopping, stop in the Latin café for some Cuban food. You are in Miami, after all!
Miracle Mile
Miracle Mile should perhaps be renamed Millionaire Mile, seeing as it’s located in tony Coral Gables. This is the place to shop when you want to buy something that no one else will be wearing. Dozens of unique boutiques, often operated by the clothing designers themselves, are within walking distance of one another. Need a couture gown? It’s here. Mother of the Bride dress? It’s here. What you won’t find is low-priced deals, so bring your designer handbag and high limit credit card. Plenty of delightful cafés for when you need to give your alligator skin clad feet a rest.
Lincoln Road
Miami Beach is known for its bright art deco approach to architecture and life. Nowhere is that more prominent than on Lincoln Road. A ten block stretch of boutiques, museums, shops, cafés and galleries you can browse without worrying about traffic. In fact, seven of the ten blocks are closed to car traffic making navigating the stores a literal breeze. A few minutes from the ocean, Lincoln Road is a great place to spend the late afternoon after a day on the beach.
Bal Harbor Shops
Want something completely chi chi and upscale? Spend a day in Bal Harbor, one of Miami’s glam neighborhoods, anchored by the Bal Harbor Shops. Buy a bauble – or a bracelet – at Tiffany and Company, or some peep toe pumps at Prada. With lush foliage everywhere you turn, you’ll not forget that you’re a bird in paradise. It’s a scene to be seen at. Your Miami vacation would not be complete without some bling.
Coco Walk
Coco Walk, in tropical Coconut Grove, is a shopping destination built around the whole family. Mom and Daughter can spend the day browsing among the dozens of boutiques and shops while nonshoppers can take in a move at the AMC theaters. Afterward? Meet for dinner at one of the dozen or so restaurants offering everything from fast food to slow roasted meats. Dad might want to stop by Coco Cigars after coffee. No kids along? A wine spa is opening here soon.
Espanola Way Market
For something completely unique on your Miami vacation, stop by the outdoor Espanola Way Market. The South Beach favorite showcases craftsmen offering their own hammered silver jewelry, orchid bouquets, antiques, and hand tooled leather work and jackets. Delicious scents waft through the air as food vendors compete with one another to sell homemade Latin-themed refreshments. Friendly street musicians provide the tempo for it all.