Known as The City Beautiful, Coral Gables is one of South Florida’s most charming destinations—blending Mediterranean Revival architecture, leafy boulevards, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant food scene. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic weekend, or just craving a change of pace, Coral Gables offers an easygoing yet elevated escape just minutes from other iconic Miami neighborhoods like South Miami, Coconut Grove, and Little Havana.
Even better? Many of the area’s top attractions are just a short drive from SoFLA Vacations properties like The Avenue Hotel, Little Havana Retreat, Hotel Arya, and La Finca, making Coral Gables a perfect weekend hub.
Kick off your weekend the right way—with happy hour. Coral Gables is packed with great spots for pre-show bites and drinks, whether you’re easing in after work or just arriving in town.
Some local favorites include:
These are great places to grab a bite, loosen up, and get in the mood for a night out.
If you think arriving later in the day means missing out, think again. Coral Gables nightlife shines after dark—and one of its best-kept secrets is Just The Funny, Miami’s home of improv and sketch comedy.
Located just above Ricky Bakery on Coral Way, Just The Funny hosts live improv shows every Friday and Saturday night at 9 PM, plus a stand-up comedy show every Saturday at 10 PM. The shows are fast-paced, interactive, and consistently hilarious, featuring some of Miami’s most talented comedians.
Expect big laughs, audience participation (the fun kind), and that electric “anything can happen” energy that makes improv so addictive. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend—especially if you’re traveling with friends or looking for something different than a typical night out.
Cap off the night with a drink at Mankind, one of Coral Gables’ coolest hidden gems. This speakeasy is tucked inside—yes, really—a barber shop. Inside, you’ll find elevated cocktails, a pool table, and a cozy, low-lit vibe that feels effortlessly cool without being pretentious.
It’s the ideal last stop before heading back to your hotel or vacation rental to recharge for a full weekend ahead. IYKYK.
Start your day at one of Coral Gables’ most famous landmarks. The historic Biltmore Hotel is known for its grand architecture, lush grounds, and one of the largest hotel pools in the country. Even if you’re not staying overnight, walking the property feels like stepping into old-world elegance.
Why it’s great:
✔ Family-friendly grounds
✔ Photo-worthy architecture
✔ Nearby shops and cafes
Perfect for families and nature lovers, Fairchild is a peaceful escape filled with tropical plants, butterflies, and shaded walking paths. Kids love the open spaces, while adults appreciate the calm and beauty.
Pro tip: Visit in the morning before lunch for cooler temperatures.
End your first day along Miracle Mile, Coral Gables’ lively dining and shopping strip. You’ll find something for every taste:
Carved from a coral rock quarry, the Venetian Pool is a must-see attraction for families and couples alike. With waterfalls, grottos, and crystal-clear water, it’s one of the most unique pools in the country. Plus, the water is always nice and cool – even during our infamously hot Miami summers.
Keep it casual with local favorites that are fast, casual and delicious:
This open-air shopping center is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Parents can browse luxury stores while kids enjoy the fountains and open spaces. Every Sunday from 11 am till 5 pm they host a farmer’s and artisan’s market that features local produce, artisanal goods, baked items, plants, jewelry, and gourmet, ready-to-eat foods including some of the best cinnamon rolls in the city. Best of all, it’s just steps away from The Avenue Hotel.
Part bookstore, part café, Books & Books is a Coral Gables staple. Enjoy a glass of wine, light bites, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels distinctly local.
If you’re staying at The Avenue Hotel just next to Merrick Park, you’ll have access to one of the best rooftop pools in Coral Gables. At sunset, grab a beverage, sink into a lounger, and enjoy Miami’s iconic sunset—perfect for a low-key end to your weekend.
Coral Gables is easily accessible from several SoFLA Vacations properties, including:
Staying nearby allows you to experience Coral Gables while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of a vacation rental.
A weekend in Coral Gables offers the perfect blend of history, nature, dining, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re wandering historic landmarks, relaxing poolside, or enjoying a leisurely meal on Miracle Mile, Coral Gables delivers a refined yet welcoming South Florida experience—just minutes from Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Miami isn’t just a destination — it’s a celebration on every plate. During the holiday season, this vibrant city transforms into a melting pot of festive food traditions, each telling a story of community, culture, and centuries-old heritage. From the sweet creaminess of Puerto Rican coquito to the savory spice of Haitian griot in Little Haiti, South Florida’s holiday table is packed with delicious diversity. Here are our top 4 Miami holiday food traditions you’ll want to try:
What it is: Coquito — literally “little coconut” — is Puerto Rico’s beloved holiday drink, rich and creamy like a tropical eggnog. Made with coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, rum, cinnamon, and vanilla, coquito arrives in Miami homes and bars as early as November and stays through the New Year.
Why it’s special in Miami: Local spots like Hialeah bars and upscale cocktail lounges offer creative twists on this classic, blending cultural comfort with contemporary flair. It’s more than a drink — it’s a holiday hug in a glass.
Here’s a recipe so you can try your hand on making this at home.

What it is: For many Cuban families in Miami, Christmas Eve isn’t complete without a whole hog roasted in a caja china — a roasting box that delivers juicy, crispy-skinned lechón. This tradition anchors countless holiday gatherings across neighborhoods like Little Havana. In fact, many of our holiday guests at our Little Havana Retreat have reported a strong “barbeque” aroma in the air on Christmas Eve.
Local flavor: Some locals even celebrate this tradition with a festive twist: the annual pig pardoning event, where community members symbolically spare pigs bound for roasting — a uniquely Miami holiday ritual rooted in Cuban Christmas food culture. See this article in The Guardian

What it is: Around New Year’s — especially on January 1 — Haitian communities in Miami honor a food deeply tied to independence and identity: Soup Joumou, a hearty squash soup traditionally served to celebrate liberation and new beginnings.
Another staple is griot, marinated and fried pork served with pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables) and fried plantains — a festive centerpiece that resonates throughout Little Haiti and beyond.
Cultural significance: These dishes go well beyond taste — they symbolize resilience, memory, and community gathering, especially poignant among diaspora families in South Florida.
Here’s a list from Infatuation Miami of some of the best Haitian restaurants in Miami so you can try it for yourself.

What it is: Brought here by a thriving Venezuelan community, hallacas are festive bundles of yellow corn masa filled with a richly seasoned blend of meats, olives, and raisins, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled to perfection.
Why Miami loves them: Hallacas are a holiday staple around Christmas and New Year’s, served at community gatherings, home celebrations, and local bakeries. They embody the spirit of hands-on holiday cooking and family sharing.
Try to make them with your family this holiday season, here’s a recipe we 100% sign-off on.

Miami’s holiday food traditions reflect the city itself: rich, diverse, deliciously layered, and deeply cultural. Whether you’re sipping coquito by Biscayne Bay or sharing table space with neighbors celebrating Haitian Soup Joumou, the holidays in South Florida are as much about food as they are about community.
If you’re looking for the best outdoor holiday shopping in Miami this season, you’re in the right place. Because holiday shopping shouldn’t feel like a chore—especially in perfect Miami winter weather. Miami’s winter weather makes it ideal for outdoor holiday shopping in Miami, with markets and open-air malls offering seasonal events and unique gifts.
If you’re lucky enough to spend winter in South Florida, you know the drill: sunshine, breezy afternoons, and zero chance of shoveling snow. But the holidays still come with a long to-do list, and shopping can feel… less than magical. So we made a list (and yes, checked it twice!) of the best outdoor holiday shopping experiences in Miami—places where you can find unique gifts and enjoy the gorgeous winter weather South Florida is famous for. Shop, stroll, sip, repea
If you’re staying at Hotel Arya or near Coconut Grove, this stop is a must. Vizcaya Village transforms its historic space into a glowing, open-air night market with more than 20 local vendors. Expect handcrafted jewelry, artisan gifts, gourmet treats, and that magical Vizcaya ambiance the Grove is known for.
When: December 19th, 2025
Where: 3250 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
Hours: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Just steps from The Avenue Hotel, this Coral Gables gem is one of Miami’s most beautiful open-air luxury shopping destinations. Think lush landscaping, strolling paths, and a massive 50-foot Christmas tree towering over the courtyard. Browse brands like Nordstrom, Gucci, J.Crew, and Sephora, then swing by their Sunday farmers market for locally baked goods, jewelry, candles, and more. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon of shopping, snacking, and holiday wandering.
This brand-new Holiday Village on Flagler Street brings major festive energy to Downtown Miami. With 60+ vendors, a unique outdoor ice rink, holiday bars, live performances, Santa photos, and a huge seasonal market featuring handmade soaps, vintage finds, toys, décor, and more—it’s basically the North Pole, Miami-style.
When: Nov. 15 – Jan. 1, 2025
Where: 200 E Flagler St Miami, FL 33131
Hours: Saturday 1 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Just a quick ride from The New Yorker Hotel, the Miami Design District is where luxury shopping meets art-world cool. Here you’ll find Hermès, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and other high-end boutiques, all tucked between bold architecture and some of Miami’s best public art. During the holidays, the district lights up—literally—with installations and festive décor that make the entire area sparkle. Whether you’re shopping for designer gifts or just soaking up the atmosphere, it’s the most stylish holiday stop in Miami.
Wherever you stay, you’ll find plenty of outdoor holiday shopping in Miami to make your trip festive and fun. Whether you’re staying in Coral Gables, Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove, or the MiMo District, South Florida is full of festive outdoor experiences to make your holiday shopping actually enjoyable. Sunshine included.
Miami’s MiMo District (short for Miami Modern) is one of the city’s most vibrant and design-forward neighborhoods — full of mid-century architecture, local eateries, and that nostalgic Miami charm. Here are our favorite things to do when exploring the MiMo Biscayne Boulevard Historic District:
Kick off your Saturday with a stroll through the Legion Park Farmers Market, one of the most beloved outdoor markets in Miami. It’s a perfect day date where you can enjoy a photo-worthy açaí bowl, shop local vendors, and stretch out by the bay for unbeatable views. Best part? It’s right across the street from The New Yorker Hotel!
If you love the thrill of a good find, Fly Boutique is a Miami vintage staple. This local gem has been curating high-end consignment fashion and home décor for decades. Every visit feels like a treasure hunt through the best of Miami style.
Since 1968, Jimmy’s East-Side Diner has been serving up stacks of pancakes and diner classics that taste like home. Known for its retro charm and classic neon sign, this local landmark keeps the old-school Miami diner experience alive.
When the sun sets, Biscayne Boulevard lights up with vintage neon signs from the 1950s and ‘60s. Take a walk, grab your Polaroid, and snap photos of MiMo’s iconic hotels and architecture — a postcard-perfect slice of Miami history.
End your day the Miami way — poolside at The New Yorker Hotel. Designed by famed architect Norman Giller, this mid-century modern gem offers the perfect mix of nostalgia and relaxation. Grab a drink, lounge under the palms, and soak in the Miami sun — right in the center of MiMo’s best attractions.
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a longer Miami escape, staying at The New Yorker puts you right in the heart of all the action — just steps from the best restaurants, shops, and photo ops in town.
Book your stay with SoFLA Vacations and experience Miami like a local.
Miami’s postcard views and nightlife often take center stage, but to truly experience the city like a local on your next vacation to the Greater Miami area, you’ll want to dive into its neighborhoods rich in culture, history, and unique charm. Here are four must-explore areas where you can tap into the true soul of the Magic City.

Coconut Grove
Known as Miami’s oldest neighborhood, Coconut Grove offers a bohemian vibe with lush, shaded streets and a slower pace that feels worlds away from South Beach. Start your day at Greenstreet Café, Chugg’s Diner or Panther Coffee, then explore The Kampong—an exotic botanical garden tucked away in the Grove’s residential heart. Don’t miss the Coconut Grove Art Festival if you’re visiting in February, or catch the Sunday farmers market at Peacock Park for fresh local goods and people-watching.


Coral Gables
Nicknamed “The City Beautiful,” Coral Gables blends Mediterranean architecture with tropical elegance. Visit the iconic Biltmore Hotel or cool off in the historic Venetian Pool, a spring-fed public pool carved from coral rock. The Village of Merrick Park offers a bevy of boutiques, galleries, eateries and movie theaters where locals gather, while Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden offers an escape into nature with rare plants and art installations.

MiMo District
Short for “Miami Modern,” this stretch along Biscayne Boulevard is a mid-century design lover’s dream. The restored motels and retro signage feel like a step back in time. Grab a bite at the famous Blue Collar or check out the New Yorker Hotel for its chic, vintage flair. Street art, eclectic shops, and Saturday’s Farmers Market in Legion Park pop-up make MiMo one of Miami’s most exciting up-and-coming areas.

South Miami
Often overlooked, South Miami is a gem for those wanting a quieter, authentic experience. Sunset Place is great for shopping and cinema, but the local charm lies in the small family-owned restaurants and cafés. Explore the tree-lined streets, check out live music at Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern or Sunset Tavern, and enjoy a local’s perspective just minutes from the city’s hustle.

For a real Miami experience during your next vacation, step away from the guidebooks and into these neighborhoods that locals truly love while working with locals at SoFLA Vacations. https://soflavacations.com/
Looking to ditch the tan lines while soaking up the South Florida sun? You’re not alone! Miami-Dade County might not be overflowing with nudist beaches, but there are a few sunny spots where going topless—or even totally nude—is perfectly legal and widely accepted.
Let’s strip it down and explore where you can sunbathe au naturel during your next vacation to Greater Miami and the Beaches!


Located in North Miami Beach, Haulover is one of the most famous clothing-optional beaches in the U.S. It’s the only legal nude beach in Miami-Dade County, with a long history of welcoming bare-bodied beachgoers.
There are lifeguards, restrooms, chair rentals, and even a designated nude section clearly marked between lifeguard towers #12 and #16. It’s clean, safe, and incredibly popular—so don’t be shy while visiting Miami!
In Florida, topless sunbathing is legal—but discretion is key. While it’s not uncommon to see topless sunbathers in more liberal beach areas, there are only a few places where it’s culturally accepted:


From about 5th to 15th Street, topless sunbathing is relatively common. You’ll fit right in near Ocean Drive, especially on the sand just east of the Art Deco hotels. Enjoy tanning, then grab a bite or hit the clubs on lively Ocean Drive to wind down.


Less crowded and more relaxed, this area sometimes sees topless sunbathers catching rays in peace. We especially like North Shore Park Beach or Sandy Beach at Oleta River State Park for tanning your complete “upper parts.”
Here’s a handy map of your tan-friendly Miami hot spots!
Click to view the full map here.
Book your South Florida escape with SoFLA Vacations and save 20–40% this summer on stylish, centrally located rentals.

Spring is just around the corner, and Miami is ready to dazzle with unforgettable events that will make your vacation in South Florida even more special. From world-class sports to cultural celebrations, Miami’s springtime calendar is packed with something for everyone. Here are some of the top events you won’t want to miss during your visit!


The Miami Open
March 19 – 30, 2025 | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
Regarded as the “fifth major,” the Miami Open attracts the world’s top tennis players. Held at the prestigious Tennis Grounds at Hard Rock Stadium, this thrilling event is a must-see for tennis fans. With tickets starting as low as $20 for early rounds, there’s no excuse to miss out on the action.


The Florida Derby
March 30, 2025 | Gulfstream Park, Hallandale Beach
Race over to Gulfstream Park and catch the action at the Florida Derby, where the world’s top thoroughbred horses compete on the road to the Triple Crown. Set in a vibrant entertainment complex featuring a casino, restaurants, and more, this is an event that combines the thrill of racing with fun-filled amenities. Tickets are available for as low as $60.


Miami Film Festival
March 1 – 10, 2025 | Various venues throughout Miami-Dade County
The Miami Film Festival is a celebration of the best in cinema, with over 120 films showcasing global talent. It’s the festival that launched the Academy Award-winning film Moonlight in 2016. Now in its 45th year, it continues to offer film lovers an exciting selection of movies to enjoy.
Check out the full schedule here.


Deering Seafood Festival
April 13, 2025 | Deering Estate, Miami
If you’re a seafood lover, the Deering Seafood Festival is a can’t-miss event. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Deering Estate on Old Cutler Road, this 18th annual celebration of fresh seafood features tastings, live music, and family-friendly fun. The event runs from 10 AM to 6 PM, and advanced tickets are available now.


Fort Lauderdale Air Show
May 3 – 4, 2025 | Fort Lauderdale Beach
Head over to Fort Lauderdale Beach for the spectacular Fort Lauderdale Air Show, featuring high-flying performances from the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the A-10 Thunderbolt II, and more. It’s a thrilling event for aviation enthusiasts and families alike. Tickets range from $35 to over $1,000, with options to enjoy the show from different vantage points.

If you’re looking for an exclusive, glamorous experience, the Sweets & Bubbles Rooftop Event at the InterContinental Miami is the place to be. From 11 PM to 1 AM, you can sip champagne and indulge in delicious homemade sweets while taking in an incredible view of Miami’s fireworks over Biscayne Bay. Tickets are available for $75 per person, including one bottle of champagne for every two guests. This intimate event offers private access to the rooftop, ensuring a memorable celebration. You can also start your evening with a luxurious five-course dinner at Toro Toro, featuring caviar, lobster, and Wagyu beef, available exclusively on New Year’s Eve. Book your table through OpenTable.

For those craving a retro celebration, head to The National Hotel’s Studio 2025 Disco Party. Start your evening at Mareva 1939, the hotel’s renowned Spanish tapas restaurant, and enjoy a flavorful five-course meal for $120 per person. The menu includes crowd-pleasers like jamón ibérico, Spanish octopus, and lobster paella. Finish the meal with a champagne toast and homemade desserts. Then, get ready to dance the night away at the Studio 2025 Disco Party, where you can groove to ‘70s and ‘80s hits, enjoy sparkling décor, and sip drinks from an open bar. For dinner, make a reservation via OpenTable, and party tickets can be purchased on EventBrite.

For an electrifying New Year’s Eve experience, don’t miss Calvin Harris performing live at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. This iconic venue promises an unforgettable night with live entertainment, premium dining, and an open bar. As the clock counts down to 2025, enjoy a virtual ball drop and a dazzling show under the stars. Before the party, treat yourself to an exquisite prix-fixe dinner at Mirabella, the coastal Italian restaurant led by Chef Michael White. With seating options at 6 PM for $199 and 8:30 PM for $299, it’s the perfect way to enjoy fine dining before the festivities. For tickets, cabanas, or tables, visit Fontainebleau’s website.



If you prefer a lively, family-friendly event, Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami is the place to be. This popular celebration features a fantastic fireworks show at midnight, along with live music, food trucks, and plenty of fun activities for all ages. For families with younger children, both the Miami Children’s Museum and Jungle Island offer early New Year’s Eve celebrations. With arts and crafts, live performances, and early countdowns, these events are the perfect way to introduce little ones to the magic of ringing in the New Year.

For a more laid-back celebration with great food and drinks, check out The Wharf Miami. Situated along the Miami River, this open-air venue offers live music, food trucks, and plenty of space to mingle with friends while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for those who want to celebrate the new year in a relaxed but festive setting.

As the leaves change and the air cools, Miami turns up the heat with an array of exciting activities and events. From mouthwatering cuisine to
captivating art and lively nightlife, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to all the hot happenings from October to mid-November!
Calling all food lovers! Don’t miss your last chance to experience Miami Spice, ending in October. Indulge in prix-fixe menus at top restaurants like
Ariete and Glass & Vine, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary landscape—from fresh seafood to delectable Latin-inspired dishes. This is your
opportunity to taste the best of Miami without breaking the bank!

Wynwood is bursting with creativity, making it the perfect time to immerse yourself in Miami’s art scene. With Art Basel just around the corner, the neighborhood is alive with vibrant murals and innovative galleries. Explore the artistic side of the city with a street art tour, visit the Wynwood Walls Museum, or check out the latest exhibits at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). The museum’s stunning architecture and breathtaking views of
the Port of Miami will leave you inspired.


Miami knows how to celebrate Halloween in style! The Wynwood Fear Factory is the ultimate destination for thrilling Halloween parties, complete with
live music and costume contests. If you’re in the mood for a more upscale spooky experience, don’t miss the Halloween festivities at the Faena Hotel or The Wharf Miami, where glam meets ghoulish for an unforgettable night.


Looking for unique souvenirs or artisanal treasures? Head to the Wynwood and Coconut Grove Farmers Markets for a delightful selection of local handmade goods. If you’re in the mood to splurge, explore the high-end boutiques at Brickell City Centre or the Design District—a shopper’s
paradise filled with designer labels and exclusive finds.


Mark your calendars for November! The Miami Book Fair is a must-visit, celebrating both Latin and English-speaking authors with readings and
signings. For film enthusiasts, the Miami Short Film Festival showcases a captivating array of independent films from around the globe, making it a highlight for cinephiles.

No matter your interests, Miami’s vibrant culture, tantalizing food, and exhilarating nightlife promise to keep you entertained all season long. So pack
your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Miami this fall!
It’s no secret that there’s an abundance of sights and activities awaiting travelers in Miami. From vibrant Little Havana and the decorated Wynwood Walls to the amazing Art Deco architecture prevalent in Miami Beach, the city offers a myriad of distinctive experiences. So today, we decided to curate a list of some of our personal favorite must-see spots for your next Miami adventure!



Opened in 1924 as “Venetian Casino,” Venetian Pool was created from a 4-acre old coral rock quarry, abandoned in 1921, and is the only swimming pool listed on the National Register of Historic Places! The pool was founded by George Merrick as part of the development of Coral Gables and is the largest freshwater pool in the U.S with its’ 820,000 gallons of spring fed water refilled every day. The pool features two waterfalls, cave-like grottos and a café offering a fun experience for the entire family.
https://www.coralgables.com/attractions/venetian-pool
Initially built in 1916 as the winter home of the affluent businessman James Deering, Villa Viscaya encompasses 34 exquisitely decorated rooms, formal gardens, a mangrove shoreline, a hardwood hammock, and a historic village that once supported the estate. Today serving as a public museum, Viscaya remains a cultural treasure enchanting visitors from throughout the world. Visitors such as Pope John Paul II (1987), President Ronald Reagan (1987) and Queen Elizabeth II (1991) have enjoyed the splendor and majesty of Villa Viscaya as one of Miami’s must-see attractions
https://vizcaya.org/: Unique Miami Must-See Spots!Located at Bill Baggs State Park on the south end of Key Biscayne, The Cape Florida Lighthouse is a time capsule containing an immense amount of history. Built in 1825, the lighthouse was used to guide sailors around the Florida reef, helping avoid an unfortunate accident. Today, it is a cultural landmark with its’ place on the National Register of Historic Places. Spend a day at Cape Florida Beach and enjoy a tour of the lighthouse Thursday-Sunday at 10am and 1pm.
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/bill-baggs-cape-florida-state-park: Unique Miami Must-See Spots!Copyright © 2025. All Rights Reserved SoFLA Vacations, LLC.| PRIVACY