Discover the Unique Charms of Miami and Miami Beach

In much of the world’s eyes, Miami and Miami Beach are one and the same, often used interchangeably in conversation. However, after LeBron James’ infamous declaration in 2010 to take his talents to South Beach, Miami residents rolled their eyes. The NBA superstar had just signed a contract with the Miami Heat – not the Miami Beach Heat.

Miami and Miami Beach are separate municipalities, each with their own mayors and governing bodies. Therefore, locals draw a strong line in the proverbial sand, leading to passionate discussions about venturing ‘across the causeway.’ Even though a mere 10 miles separates these two cities, culturally and ideologically, it can feel like much more. From the culture to the cuisine, any local will tell you the same: Miami and Miami Beach are two distinctly different sides of the same coin.

Two Celebrations of Culture

Miami retains a gritty, raw, and decidedly more urban feel than its counterpart across the causeway. The Wynwood, Little River, and Little Haiti neighborhoods are gentrified hotbeds where industrial spaces have captured the imagination of street artists, enterprising restaurateurs, and hawk-eyed developers. Additionally, Miami is home to a large and vibrant Latin and Hispanic community, with Little Havana shining as a beacon for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and tastes of this rich culture.

For anyone looking to explore the area’s historical roots, Miami is where it’s at. Starting with the Miami Circle – a nationally significant archaeological site with artifacts dating back to prehistoric times – visitors can delve into much of the city’s early history. Key sites include a memorial within Bayfront Park dedicated to Julia Tuttle, the ‘Mother of Miami’, and the enchanting Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, showcasing early 20th-century Italianate architecture. The Freedom Tower in Downtown Miami highlights a more recent chapter in the city’s tale, having served as a reception center for Cuban refugees in the 1960s and now standing as a contemporary art museum and National Historic Landmark.

Furthermore, much of the city’s storied past is captured in Downtown Miami’s HistoryMiami, where visitors can engage with relics from Miami’s yesteryear, including a Seminole dugout canoe. The city also boasts a burgeoning cultural scene, with the Perez Art Museum Miami, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, all within walking distance.

Across the causeway, there is a distinctly different vibe and energy. The breezy glitz of Miami Beach began in 1915 when a group led by John S. Collins and Carl Fisher cleared the naturally occurring mangroves to create a waterfront escape for the wealthy. Art Deco behemoths like The Raleigh, Delano, and National hotels lured celebrities and affluent visitors in the 1930s and 40s, offering a glamorous, sun-drenched getaway by the sea. To experience some of this classic allure, consider a 90-minute Art Deco tour led by the Miami Design Preservation League.

Moreover, in 1949, the Florida Legislature ended discriminatory laws barring individuals of Jewish faith from owning real estate, causing Miami Beach to become the go-to destination for Jewish winter vacations and retirement. At its peak, Miami Beach counted more than 60,000 residents in Jewish households, profoundly impacting the area. Iconic venues such as Eden Roc and Fontainebleau hotels, where Rat Pack members performed and partied, were designed by Jewish architect Morris Lapidus. The rich history of Miami Beach’s Jewish community is captured at the Jewish Museum of South Florida—FIU, housed in two historic synagogues in the SoFi neighborhood. A visit to the Holocaust Memorial tells the poignant story of the six million Jews who perished at the hands of the Nazis.

Moreover, after facing challenges during the 70s and 80s due to the drug war and related violence, the arrival of Gianni Versace and his mansion on Ocean Drive rejuvenated Miami Beach, restoring its glamorous reputation. Today, high-end hotels and condos line the shoreline, including Argentine developer Alan Faena’s stunning arts and entertainment complex known as The Faena District.

Two Creative Cuisines

While both cities offer a diverse range of culinary options, Miami reigns supreme when it comes to Latin cuisine. Visitors can enjoy an array of Latin American and Caribbean dishes, starting with Cuban coffee and croquetas at Vicky Bakery, savoring Salvadoran pupusas at Mi Ranchito Salvadoreño, indulging in Colombia’s bandeja de paisa at San Pocho, and ending with Haitian griot at Chef Creole.

Along the Miami River (and beyond), you’ll find a strong representation of local-catch restaurants such as Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market, Casablanca Seafood Bar & Grill, and La Camaronera Seafood Joint & Fish Market.

Meanwhile, the food scene on Miami Beach tends to lean toward trendier, celebrity-chef driven offerings that pull out all the stops. From molecular gastronomy-inspired dishes at José Andrés’ The Bazaar to Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Spanish plates at the Matador Room, and including ‘Top Chef’-manned eateries like Jeremy Ford’s Stubborn Seed and Jeff McInnis’ Stiltsville Fish Bar, you will definitely find a plethora of see-and-be-seen opportunities to accompany your culinary experience.

But if you crave a taste of Miami Beach’s mid-century glamour, no visit would be complete without dining at the oldest restaurant in the city: Joe’s Stone Crab. Here, waiters in formal attire serve ice-packed plates brimming with fresh stone crab and an addictive mustard sauce for dipping.

Two Notorious Nightlifes

In terms of nightlife, both cities provide a vibrant scene featuring plenty of celebrity sightings. Miami’s nightlife often goes into overdrive, highlighted by venues like Club Space and E11even, which maintain a 24-hour open door policy. The mainland also has a strong focus on Latin music venues, with infectious rhythms dancing from Little Havana’s Hoy Como Ayer and Ball & Chain late into the evening.

Those seeking unique cocktails will have slightly better luck on the beach. Sweet Liberty, recognized as the Best New American Cocktail Bar, serves up delicious drinks, while Esquire’s Best Bar in America, the Broken Shaker, is also a must-visit. The Regent Cocktail Club, with Cuban cantinero Julio Cabrera at the helm, offers an exceptional experience as well.

One thing’s for certain – no matter what side of the causeway you choose to explore for a night out, you’re in for an incredible time.