The Perfect Day in Wynwood, Miami’s Most Artistic Neighborhood

Once upon a time, Wynwood was a neighborhood filled with warehouses, an array of art galleries, and a few cool bars (if you really knew where to look), in just a handful of years, it’s quickly transformed into a vibrant and energetic arts district, chock-full of innovative food, drinks, entertainment, and culture. This neighborhood is now a mecca for creatives, who have made it their home as well as workspace—as seen by the dozen or so brand new high rises in the area. The best restaurants in Wynwood are some of the top in all of Miami, as are the cocktail bars, clubs, and art galleries. If you’re willing to sit in a little traffic and hunt for parking (we recommend using rideshare to get here), and the occasional cover charge to get into some of the more trendy, clubbier spots, this is one of the hottest hangouts in all of Miami. Here are the best restaurants, bars, galleries, and other things to do in Wynwood.

This permanent outdoor event space is built out of shipping containers, but Wynwood Marketplace is more than just events, it’s also home to a ton of local pop-up vendors selling all sorts of chachkies—from candles and crystals to homemade soaps and cool artwork. If you’re looking for a shopping spree of sorts, there’s plenty of interesting stores in the area selling gifts and goodies. Pop into Wynwood Shop for locally made art, sunglasses, jewelry, and more or over to Peachtree Revival for fun consignment clothing finds. BASE is a great place to buy souvenirs if you’re looking for something unique and special. So is Aviator Nation, where everything is brightly colored and harkens back to the ’70s.

Wynwood, as it stands today, was essentially built by locals looking to party. In spite of all the changes over the past decade, there’s no shortage of places to dance in this late-night neighborhood. So, grab a tequila shot and head to the dance floor. Enjoy chill vinyl vibes at Dante’s HiFi or for a bit more hype club vibes head to Shots, Dirty Rabbit, Racket, La Orta, Centro, or The Sylvester. Wanna dance under the stars? Brick, The Freehold, and Gramps might be your best bet.

As Miami’s most artistic neighborhoods, there’s tons of ways to feed your creative soul. From wandering the streets checking out the ever-changing artwork and murals that line nearly every wall—if you’re hoping to look at the coveted Wynwood Walls, you’ll have to pay a $10 entrance fee, but if you want to skip that and save some coin, don’t worry there’s plenty to enjoy all over the neighborhood for free. For the ultimate photo op, check out the newly opened Balloon Museum that’s filled with rooms and rooms of inflatable art. If you’re hoping to get your own hands a little dirty, try a pottery class at OCISLY Ceramics or make candles at Candle Land Miami. There’s also a fun Pizza School at Mister 01 and plenty of art class offerings.

For late-night bites: Smashburgers are really having a moment, so naturally, Wynwood’s Skinny Louie is serving them late into the night. Open until 2 am on weekdays and 4 am on weekends, this menu is simple and to the point offering three burgers (a house favorite smash with grilled onions, a classic with lettuce and tomato, and one with bacon) with no edits or substitutions, one size of fries, and a couple milkshakes. The easy-to-order, greasy goodness is perfect for soaking up your sins before heading home—or perhaps out for a nightcap or some dancing.

For some of the best eats in Miami: Wynwood is home to some of Miami’s top restaurants, from homegrown KYU’s woodfired menu (get the duck burnt ends and roasted cauliflower) and Austin’s Uchi with fun takes on traditional sushi dishes to incredible Aegean food at Doya and one of the city’s best burgers at Le Chick. For more casual bites check out: Dukunoo Jamaican Kitchen, The Taco Stand, COYO Taco, and Miss Crispy Rice. With a group that can’t decide on what to eat? Pop into one of the area’s food hall-style dining spots: 1-800-Lucky, an Asian food hall with dishes from all over the continent, or Smorgasburg Miami open every Saturday from 2 pm to 10 pm.

For treats to satisfy your sweet tooth: Wynwood’s dessert scene is just as creative as the area’s art. Find massive pie and cake slices at Fireman Derek’s and donuts worthy of waiting in line for at The Salty and Louk & Bee. Cool down with ice cream from Salt & Straw, Quore Gelato, Dasher & Crank, or fresh fruit paletas from Morelia Gourmet Paletas. Fresh breads and pastries can be found at Zak the Baker and dozens of types of cookies (many inspired by the 305) at Night Owl Cookies.

While Wynwood is growing rapidly, there aren’t a ton of places to stay, but those that do exist are full of art and color—just like the rest of the neighborhood. Arlo Wynwood, was the first hotel to open in the Wynwood Arts District. Filled with Insta-worthy murals and a lush rooftop bar, aptly named Higher Ground, there’s tons of work spaces and communal areas to hang out.

Just on the outskirts of Wynwood, you’ll find Hyde Midtown Miami which is home to Manolis Projects, a contemporary art exhibit that includes pop art and street art, in the hotel lobby. Hang out in a private cabana by the pool, or get active on the tennis courts and mini putting green.

For those looking to stay a little longer, Sentral Wynwood offers short- and long-term apartment rentals. Another vibrantly colored building, it’s home to studios and suites that each offer spaces to work, a washer and dryer, and a full kitchen. Have a drink by the rooftop pool and take in the views of Wynwood before popping out to explore everything the magical neighborhood has to offer.

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