DATE NIGHT IN MIAMI INVOLVES MOONLIT STROLLS AND SALSA DANCING
Miami is one of those rare destinations that's equally appealing to both couples and singles. Though it is famous for its all-hours nightclub scene, the sultry Southern city offers more than late-night hangouts for twentysomethings. And while club culture is certainly worth exploring, other romantic moments take the lead in this Florida city. When the time is right to travel again, put Miami at the top of your list. These are a few activities that will make the city your next date-night destination.
DINE ON THE WATERFRONT
Miami has excelled at combining culinary quality with thoughtfully executed design. Stylish restaurants are a destination in themselves, and the ones that boast ocean or bay views are perfect for setting the date-night mood. Request a table on the patio overlooking Biscayne Bay at Il Gabbiano, an Italian mainstay in Downtown Miami. Enjoy Italian wine, fresh fish, signature pastas and complimentary bruschetta at this unpretentious, family-owned restaurant. For a more see-and-be-seen vibe, impress your sweetheart by hobnobbing with celebrities at South Beach hotspot Seaspice, where a 500-foot dock allows for guests to arrive by boat! Start with grilled octopus and follow with the tableside Dover sole, then stay for the live musicians and DJs. Vegans and vegetarians aren't left in the dark in Miami, as there are plenty of options. Be kind to animals as well as your significant other by opting to dine at Full Bloom, where you'll find delectable vegan cuisine with a waterfront terrace overlooking South Beach.
VIEW ARTWORK AFTER HOURS
Unlike some cities, whose museums are open only during business hours, in Miami you can find artwork to peruse at any time, making it ideal for cultural date nights. And the (mostly contemporary) artwork in Miami is a far cry from the walls of a stuffy museum. After dinner, be an urban explorer and head to the Wynwood Walls: the expansive open-air street market is one of the largest in the world and is open from 10:30 AM until midnight most nights. The illuminated murals are only more spectacular when the sun goes down and walking hand-in-hand with your sweetheart to spot edgy graffiti art that can only be found in Miami is an unforgettable experience. Architecture buffs will also be in heaven. Make sure to walk on Ocean Drive in the Art Deco District for a self-guided tour of these magnificent buildings - the unique architectural sites are lit up in neon. Dance with your sweetie down the sidewalks to the Latin tunes streaming from nearby bars and restaurants.
GO SALSA DANCING
A trip to Miami would be incomplete without a visit to Little Havana, the city's colorful Cuban district. Between the 1950s and 1970s, the Cuban population in Miami boomed and brought with it some of the city's best food and music venues. At Hoy Como Ayer, hip couples flock to the Thursday night parties at the dimly lit, romantic club where classic Cuban music blends with the tunes of a modern DJ. At the historic Ball and Chain, first opened in 1935 as a venue to showcase Black singers, you can still find live jazz and salsa every night. The lively club offers free classes for both beginning and experienced Latin dancers. Beyond Little Havana, loosen your inhibitions with mojitos before tearing up the dance floor at Mango's Tropical Cafe South Beach, where beginner's Latin dance lessons are held nightly to the tunes of a live band.
HAVE A HIGH-END ADVENTURE
Add some variety to your date night with a thrilling, upscale adventure you and your significant other will never forget. Get your adrenaline pumping with a luxury auto racing experience - take your pick of a Lamborghini Gallardo, Ferrari F430 or Audi R8 and learn how to race up to 135 MPH with the aid of a professional driver at Miami Exotic Auto Racing. Or rent a luxury convertible and cruise Ocean Drive with the top down; rental service SIXT offers an array of enticing options. Get a glimpse into the A-list lives of Miami's most famous (such as Shaquille O'Neill) on a Miami Millionaire's Row Tour - the sunset cruise through Biscayne Bay and its private islands offers cocktails and entertaining commentary.
Choose one of the following romantic hotels for your blissful Miami getaway. Plus, you'll enjoy the bonus amenities available through Global Travel Collection SELECT.
