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Where to Stay in Miami, Florida: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Miami and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place.

Miami is definitely a city of contrasts, and that’s exactly what makes it so much fun to visit! One minute you’re on a white-sand beach lined with Art Deco hotels, and the next you’re exploring colorful neighborhoods filled with street art and amazing food.

It’s also quite spread out, so where you stay really does make a big difference to your trip. After spending time exploring the city, we’ve put together this guide to the best areas to stay in Miami, along with our top hotel picks for every budget. Let’s go!

Don’t miss out!

Our Top Choice

This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!

Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Miami is South Beach. It’s iconic, lively, and puts you right in the heart of the action—perfect for a first visit!

We recommend staying at Avalon Hotel for its classic Art Deco style, unbeatable Ocean Drive location, and great value for the area!

Ocean Drive at night in South Beach Miami Florida

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Miami

Downtown Miami at night from Bayfront Park Miami Florida 4
Downtown Miami at night from Bayfront Park
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami Florida (1)
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Coconut Grove

One of the things we love about Miami is how much variety it offers, but that does mean that where you stay matters. We’ve outlined our top five neighborhoods, each of which offers something different. The best one really depends on what you’re looking to get out of your Miami trip!

South Beach is the most iconic area and a must for first-time visitors, with its famous Art Deco buildings and beach access. Mid-Beach offers a more polished, resort-style experience, while still keeping you close to the action, and then Downtown Miami is the most practical choice if you’re catching a cruise, as it’s just a short 5–10 minute Uber to the port. Coconut Grove has a more laid-back feel, with leafy streets and cafés. Then there’s Wynwood and Midtown, which are frequented by a younger, trendier crowd thanks to their vibrant art and food scenes.

One thing to keep in mind is that Miami is pretty spread out. The easiest way to get around is by Uber or Lyft, or by renting a car. If you do drive, it’s worth booking a hotel with parking, as that will make your life much easier! 

  • South BeachBest for first-time visitors – This is Miami’s most iconic (and energetic) area, known for its Art Deco buildings and beach access. Avalon Hotel is a great option right on Ocean Drive with a fun, classic South Beach vibe.
  • Mid-Beach Best for luxury resorts – A more upscale stretch of coastline with beautiful beaches and stylish oceanfront hotels. The Palms Hotel & Spa is a fantastic stay with a relaxed, resort-style feel and direct beach access.
  • Downtown MiamiBest for cruise port access – A fast-paced, central area with high-rise hotels and easy access to PortMiami. The Elser Hotel Miami is a modern option with spacious suites and a super convenient location near the waterfront.
  • Coconut Grove Best for a relaxed & local stay – A leafy, more residential neighborhood with a slower pace of life. Courtyard Miami Coconut Grove is a solid pick with a great location near the marina.
  • Wynwood & Midtown Best for art & food – Miami’s creative hub is packed with street art and some of the city’s best restaurants. Sentral Wynwood is a stylish stay right in the heart of the action with a modern, apartment-style setup.

Important Tip

Multiple Miami trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.

The sweet spot for booking Miami accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.

Where to Stay in Miami

South Beach 

South Pointe Park & Pier seen in Miami Florida on a sunny day
South Pointe Park & Pier
Art Deco buildings seen in Miami Florida South Beach
The Art Deco buildings of South Beach

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

  • Iconic Miami vibe with beautiful beaches and Art Deco architecture 
  • Lots of glamorous nightlife 
  • Walkable area with lots to do 

Cons

  • Can be busy and a bit chaotic, especially at night
  • One of the most expensive areas for tourists to stay in 

South Beach is easily the most iconic place to stay in Miami! If it’s your first visit, this area really is hard to beat.

This is where you’ll find the classic Miami scene. I’m talking about colorful Art Deco buildings and sunny streets lined with palm trees. Staying here means you can mix beach days with late nights exploring the area’s famous party scene. This is where we stayed in Miami, and we loved having everything right on our doorstep.

And of course, the famous Ocean Drive runs right through South Beach. This popular road is lined with many of the area’s top bars and restaurants, and it’s where you’ll spot many of Miami’s most famous pastel buildings. 

We also liked staying so close to Lummus Park. It sits right across from the beach, and we enjoyed being able to take a morning stroll there and finish off with a swim! And if you like a pretty walk, South Pointe Park & Pier is here as well.

The energy here is a big part of the appeal. During the day, it’s all about the beach, then the area really comes to life in the evening as music floats out onto the street and cocktails flow. This is a pretty lively (read: noisy!) place to stay, so it’s not a good fit for those looking for a quiet stay. However, if you’re after the classic Miami experience, South Beach is the clear choice!

1 Hotel South Beach – $$$

1 Hotel South Beach in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: 1 Hotel South Beach
1 Hotel South Beach in Miami Florida
Photo credit: 1 Hotel South Beach

1 Hotel South Beach is one of the most impressive stays in Miami, especially if you want a luxury beachfront experience. It sits right on the sand, so you’ve got direct beach access and some seriously good ocean views.

The whole place has a really fresh, modern feel, with a focus on natural materials and understated luxury. It’s definitely minimalist chic, with clean lines and neutral colors. There are multiple pools (including a stunning rooftop pool) and great on-site dining options. Rooms here typically start at around $1,000 USD per night.

If 1 Hotel is fully booked, Loews Miami Beach Hotel is another excellent beachfront option right in the heart of South Beach. It offers spacious rooms, a large pool area, and a great location close to everything.

The Betsy Hotel, South Beach is another standout right on Ocean Drive. It offers direct beach access, two pools, daily yoga classes, and a generous happy hour for guests – what more could you ask for?

Avalon Hotel – $$

Avalon Hotel, South Beach, FL in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: Avalon Hotel, South Beach, FL
Avalon Hotel, South Beach, FL in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Avalon Hotel, South Beach, FL

Avalon Hotel is a great mid-range option if you want that classic South Beach experience without the higher price tag. It’s located right on Ocean Drive, so you’re just steps from the beach and surrounded by all the action.

The hotel has a fun Art Deco style, with bright interiors and a neon sign that feels very “Miami”! Rooms are comfortable and fairly simple, but the location really makes this place stand out. We think it’s a great pick if you want to be right in the middle of everything.

Rooms here usually start at around $250 USD per night, which is honestly a pretty good deal for this area!

If Avalon Hotel isn’t quite the right fit, Hotel Victor South Beach is another stylish option along Ocean Drive with a more modern feel. It offers sleek rooms and a small pool area, plus a great location for exploring.

The Sagamore Hotel South Beach is another great alternative with a beachfront pool in the Art Deco Historic District. It’s an awesome choice for art lovers, as it actually has a contemporary art gallery on site, and it’s just a 10-minute walk from the Bass Museum of Art.

Kent Hotel – $ 

Kent Hotel in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Kent Hotel

Kent Hotel is one of the most affordable hotels in the South Beach area, but it doesn’t skimp on cleanliness or comfort. It’s a simple hotel with a slick, functional design. It’s not trying to be anything over the top, but it’s a great base if you’re planning to spend most of your time out exploring.

The location is impressive for the price, too. The hotel is just around the corner from Ocean Drive, so you’re right in the middle of the action. Rooms here usually start at around $125 USD per night.

For another affordable option nearby, Tropics Hotel Miami Beach has a laid-back, slightly retro feel and a small pool. There’s a shared kitchen to help you save money with some self-catering, and there’s an electric vehicle charging station on site, which may also come in handy! 

Esme Miami Beach is another great alternative with a more stylish setup. We really like the design of this place, and the fact that there’s a rooftop pool and complimentary breakfast.

Mid-Beach 

The Miami Beach Boardwalk in Miami Florida
The Miami Beach Boardwalk

BEST FOR LUXURY RESORTS

Pros

  • Beautiful, wide beaches 
  • Stylish oceanfront resorts and upscale atmosphere
  • Quieter than South Beach 

Cons

  • More expensive than other areas
  • Less nightlife 
  • Fewer attractions within walking distance 

Mid-Beach is a great option if you like the idea of South Beach, but don’t want to deal with the crowds and chaos 24/7. It has that same gorgeous coastline and beach access, but fewer people. 

We really liked the feel of this area because it’s noticeably calmer, but still very glamorous. In fact, this is where you’ll find some of Miami’s most stylish resorts, so it’s perfect if you’re planning a more relaxing hotel that involves a lot of time by the pool and fancy dinners, and fewer parties and late nights out.

The Miami Beach Boardwalk runs right through Mid-Beach, which makes it easy to walk or cycle along the coastline. You’ve also got the Faena District nearby, which is known for its striking design and abundance of high-end restaurants.

We think this area is a great choice for couples looking for a romantic stay, or anyone looking for a more laid-back beach holiday. It’s not as lively or walkable as South Beach, but it’s very luxurious, with a nicer beach and more opportunities to kick back and relax.

Faena Hotel Miami Beach – $$$ 

Faena Hotel Miami Beach in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Faena Hotel Miami Beach in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Faena Hotel Miami Beach is one of the most iconic stays in the city. It’s well known in the luxury travel world, and for good reason – this place is beyond opulent.

The Faena’s design is bold and unmistakable, with rich red and gold interiors that give the whole place a dramatic, almost theatrical feel. The pool area is a highlight, especially with the famous red-and-white peppermint-striped umbrellas.

The hotel sits right on the beach, so you’ve got direct access to the sand, along with a beautiful pool, multiple restaurants, and a strong focus on art and entertainment throughout the property. There’s no denying that this place is a splurge, but staying here is definitely on our Miami bucket list! Rooms here usually start at around $1,000 USD per night.

The Miami Beach EDITION is also a standout luxury hotel that’s absolutely perfect for families. It mixes understated chic design with fun for all ages, with a gorgeous pool area, a state-of-the-art bowling alley, and even an ice skating rink for guests to enjoy.

The Palms Hotel & Spa – $$

The Palms Hotel & Spa in Miami Florida
Photo credit: The Palms Hotel & Spa
The Palms Hotel & Spa in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: The Palms Hotel & Spa

The Palms Hotel & Spa is a 4-star beachfront stay, so it’s still pretty glamorous, but it’s not as over-the-top luxurious as the Faena. It’s set right on the sand, with lush tropical gardens that make it feel a bit more secluded than some of the bigger resorts.

We really like the vibe here because it feels relaxed and welcoming, but still polished. There’s a great pool area, direct beach access, and an on-site spa if you want to treat yourself. We think it offers a great balance between comfort, location, and value! Rooms here usually start at around $350 USD per night.

If The Palms is sold out for your travel dates, Dorchester Hotel & Suites is another solid option nearby with apartment-style suites. It’s just a 4-minute walk from the beach, and a 12-minute ride from Ocean Drive.

Lorraine Hotel is another affordable alternative just across from the beach. Its bright, airy rooms are simple but comfortable, and while the hotel doesn’t have a private stretch of beach, it provides complimentary towels and chairs for guests to use.

Hotel Croydon – $ 

Hotel Croydon in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Hotel Croydon
Hotel Croydon in Miami Florida 2
Photo credit: Hotel Croydon

We think that Hotel Croydon is a great budget-friendly option in Mid-Beach, especially if you still want something with a bit of style. It’s set a few blocks back from the beach, so you’ll need a short walk to reach the sand, but it’s still in a really convenient spot.

The hotel has a boutique, contemporary feel, with clean lines and a more design-focused look than your typical budget stay. There’s also a pool and a small rooftop terrace, and a restaurant downstairs that’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is actually included with your stay here, which is not all that common in Miami.

Best of all, the hotel offers a daily happy hour with free drinks – what better way to get into the Miami party spirit? Rooms here usually start at around $150 USD per night.

Another great stay nearby is Hotel Trouvail Miami Beach, with a fun, retro-inspired design. It has a pool and a relaxed, slightly quirky vibe that feels very Miami somehow!

Westover Arms Hotel is also a well-rated budget option just a short walk from the beach. It offers studios that can sleep up to five people, with a kitchen and laundry facilities, so it’s ideal for groups and travelers who like to save money by self-catering.

Downtown Miami

Early morning light in Bayfront Park Miami Florida 1
Early morning at Bayfront Park
Downtown Miami skyscrapers at sunset from Bayfront Park Florida 2
Iconic Miami!

BEST FOR CRUISE PORT ACCESS

Pros

  • Super convenient for cruise departures
  • Central location with easy access to transport and nearby neighborhoods

Cons

  • Lacks the beachy Miami vibe
  • Can feel busy and a bit corporate

Downtown Miami is one of the most practical places to stay in the city, especially if you’re here to catch a cruise. PortMiami is just a short 5-10-minute Uber ride away, which makes travel days a lot easier and less stressful.

This area has a very different feel compared to places like South Beach or Mid-Beach. It’s more built-up, with lots of high-rise hotels and office buildings. There’s definitely a faster pace overall, but that said, you can’t beat the location in terms of convenience. You’re close to the waterfront, and you can easily get around to other parts of the city from here, so it’s ideal if you’re short on time. 

Plus, there are still a few things to do nearby. Bayside Marketplace is a popular spot for shopping and casual dining, while Bayfront Park is a nice place for a walk by the water. You’ve also got the Pérez Art Museum close by, and it’s just a short ride over to Brickell if you want more restaurant options.

We think Downtown works best for short stays or pre-cruise nights. It’s not the most exciting area, but if your priority is convenience and location, it does the job really well! 

Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area – $$$ 

Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area
Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area

Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area is a great option if you want something comfortable and well-located for a short stay. It sits right between Downtown and Brickell, so you’ve got easy access to both areas, plus you’re only a short drive from the cruise port.

The hotel has a modern, business-style feel, with spacious rooms and a reliable setup that works well for a quick stop in the city. There’s also a pool and on-site dining, which is handy if you don’t feel like heading out after a long travel day.

It’s not the most exciting stay, but it’s very practical and easy. Rooms here usually start at around $300 USD per night.

If Courtyard is fully booked, JW Marriott Miami is another great option in nearby Brickell with a more upscale feel and excellent service. It’s close to plenty of restaurants and offers spacious rooms with a polished, city-hotel vibe.

InterContinental Miami by IHG is another solid choice right by the waterfront in Downtown. It offers beautiful bay views and a large pool, and it is definitely one of the most convenient locations for cruise departures! 

The Elser Hotel Miami – $$

The Elser Hotel Miami in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: The Elser Hotel Miami
The Elser Hotel Miami in Miami Florida
Photo credit: The Elser Hotel Miami

The Elser Hotel Miami is one of the best mid-range options in the Downtown area, especially if you want a bit more space. It’s located right by the waterfront, with easy access to Bayside Marketplace and just a short drive to the cruise port.

The rooms here are more like apartments, with full kitchens and living areas, plus floor-to-ceiling windows in some units. We think this is a great option if you’re staying for a few nights or just want somewhere a bit more comfortable to spread out.

There’s also an awesome infinity pool with great views over the bay! Rooms here usually start at around $280 USD per night.

If The Elser is booked up, Atwell Suites Miami Brickell by IHG is another great alternative with a modern feel and spacious suites. It’s located in Brickell, so you’ll also have easy access to the area’s trendy bars and restaurants.

Hyatt Regency Miami is another reliable option right in Downtown with a more traditional hotel setup. It’s well-located, and we think it’s a practical choice for short stays or pre-cruise nights.

citizenM Miami World Center – $

citizenM Miami World Center in Miami Florida
Photo credit: citizenM Miami World Center
citizenM Miami World Center in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: citizenM Miami World Center

CitizenM Miami World Center is a great budget-friendly option if you want something modern and central. It’s located near the Worldcenter complex, so you’re close to shops, restaurants, and transport links.

The rooms are compact, but they’re very well designed, with a smart layout that makes the most of the space. The hotel also has a fun, tech-forward feel, with self-check-in and a stylish rooftop pool area. It’s a great pick if you’re happy with a smaller room in exchange for a great location and lower price. Rooms here usually start at around $120 USD per night.

Another one of our top choices here, AC Hotel By Marriott Miami Brickell is a solid backup with a sleek, modern design and a rooftop pool. Breakfast is included, and it’s just a 10-minute drive from the Miami Art Museum.

CitizenM Miami Brickell is another great alternative in a livelier area, with the same smart design and modern feel. It’s surrounded by restaurants and bars, which makes it a fun place to stay.

Coconut Grove

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami Florida (2)
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

BEST FOR A RELAXED & LOCAL STAY

Pros

  • Leafy, residential feel with a slower pace
  • Great cafés, parks, and waterfront spots

Cons

  • Further from beaches and main tourist areas
  • Less nightlife compared to South Beach

Coconut Grove feels totally different from the rest of Miami, and that’s exactly why we like it so much! It’s greener, calmer, and has more of a local, lived-in feel compared to the busier parts of the city.

This is a great place to stay if you like to start your day at a café and then spend time by the water without feeling rushed. There are plenty of boutique shops and restaurants to check out, and the whole area has a calm, Boho-chic feel to it.

One of the highlights here is Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, which we really recommend visiting.  It’s a beautiful historic estate with waterfront views and really impressive gardens. There are also several parks along the bay, which are perfect for a walk or just sitting and taking it all in. Miami is known for being busy and bustling, but Coconut Grove doesn’t feel that way at all. 

We think Coconut Grove is a great choice for couples or anyone planning a longer stay. The main downside is that it’s not the most central area, but if you’re looking to relax and enjoy a quieter, more local side of Miami, we think that this is a lovely place to base yourself. We’re definitely thinking about staying here next time! 

Mr. C Miami – $$$ 

Mr. C Miami in Miami Florida (2)
Photo credit: Mr. C Miami
Mr. C Miami in Miami Florida (3)
Photo credit: Mr. C Miami

Mr. C Miami is one of the most stylish places to stay in Coconut Grove, and it fits the neighborhood perfectly. It’s set right by the marina, so you’ve got lovely views of the water and easy access to some great restaurants and cafés nearby.

The hotel certainly feels polished, but it’s not as over-the-top as many of Miami’s other 5-star stays. We love the pretty blue color scheme and the understated approach to luxury. Sometimes, less really is more! 

We also like the rooftop pool, which offers lovely views over Biscayne Bay, and the on-site Italian restaurant is definitely worth checking out. Guests also enjoy free use of the hotel’s bicycles, so getting around Coconut Grove and beyond is a breeze! Rooms here usually start at around $500 USD per night.

If Mr. C is fully booked, Private Oasis at Arya is another great option nearby with apartment-style units and views over the bay. It’s a good choice if you want more space and a home-like setup.

Mayfair House Hotel & Garden is another standout with a bold design and lush greenery throughout. It has a really unique look and a rooftop pool that fits the relaxed Coconut Grove vibe perfectly.

Courtyard Miami Coconut Grove – $$

Courtyard Miami Coconut Grove in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Courtyard Miami Coconut Grove
Courtyard Miami Coconut Grove in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: Courtyard Miami Coconut Grove

Courtyard Miami Coconut Grove is a really solid mid-range option in a great location. It’s close to the marina and within walking distance of plenty of cafés and shops, which makes it a convenient base for exploring the area.

The hotel has a simple, modern feel, with comfortable rooms and everything you need for a short stay. There’s also a pool and a small fitness area, which adds to the overall value. It’s not the most exciting option, but it’s reliable and well-located, which goes a long way here. Rooms here usually start at around $250 USD per night.

Balcony Ocean View Aparthotel is another good option nearby with spacious apartments and views over the water. It’s a great pick if you’re staying a bit longer and want more flexibility.

Hampton Inn Miami-Coconut Grove – $

Hampton Inn Miami-Coconut Grove in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Hampton Inn Miami-Coconut Grove

Hampton Inn Miami-Coconut Grove is a great budget-friendly option if you want something simple and convenient. It’s located just outside the main part of Coconut Grove, but still within a short drive or Uber to the marina and nearby attractions.

The hotel is clean and comfortable. It doesn’t really have any design flourishes or fancy finishes, but if you’re looking for a straightforward stay, we think it’s a great choice. Breakfast is included, which is always a plus, and there’s a pool on site.

If you want to keep costs down, this is a dependable choice that does what it says on the tin! Rooms here usually start at around $150 USD per night.

Wynwood & Midtown 

Wynwood Walls in Miami Florida seen on a sunny day
Wynwood Walls

BEST FOR ART & FOOD

Pros

  • Amazing street art, galleries, and a creative vibe
  • Some of the best restaurants and breweries in Miami

Cons

  • No beach access nearby
  • Can feel busy, especially in the evenings

Wynwood and Midtown are easily two of the coolest areas to stay in Miami, especially if you’re more into food and art than beach days. The vibe here is completely different from places like South Beach, although Wynwood has its own thriving nightlife scene – but it has a more artistic, indie feel than the glitz and glam of Ocean Drive.

Wynwood is best known for the famous Wynwood Walls, which are covered in colorful murals by artists from around the world. We loved just wandering around here and popping into galleries and bars along the way. It’s also one of the best places in the city for food, with everything from casual street eats to trendy restaurants.

Midtown sits right next door and has a slightly more polished feel, with lots of great shopping and rooftop bars. There are a lot of newer developments here, so it’s a great base if you want to be close to Wynwood but still have a bit more comfort.

We think that Midtown and Wynwood are best for younger travelers or anyone looking for a fun, social stay. It’s not the place to come for a beach holiday, but if you want food, art, and atmosphere, this part of Miami is unbeatable.

Hyde Suites Midtown Miami – $$$ 

Hyde Suites Midtown Miami in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: Hyde Suites Midtown Miami
Hyde Suites Midtown Miami in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Hyde Suites Midtown Miami

Hyde Suites Midtown Miami is one of the most stylish places to stay in this area, and it really matches the whole Wynwood/Midtown vibe. It’s located in Midtown, so you’re right by shops and eateries, but still just a short walk from all the street art and galleries in Wynwood.

The hotel has an apartment-style setup, with spacious suites that feel more like a high-end condo than a typical hotel room. There’s also a rooftop pool with great city views, which is a fun spot to hang out after a day of exploring.

It’s a great choice if you want something a bit more upscale with extra space. Rooms here usually start at around $350 USD per night.

AC Hotel Miami Wynwood is another great option nearby with a sleek, modern design. It has a rooftop pool and bar, plus a really convenient location close to all the main attractions in Wynwood.

Sentral Wynwood – $$

Sentral Wynwood in Miami Florida 1
Photo credit: Sentral Wynwood
Sentral Wynwood in Miami Florida
Photo credit: Sentral Wynwood

We think that Sentral Wynwood is a great place to stay if you want to get a taste of what it might be like to actually live in Miami. The location is spot on, as you’re within walking distance of Wynwood Walls, galleries, restaurants, and plenty of bars.

The setup here is more apartment-style, which we love for a longer stay. You get more space, plus extras like a kitchen and living area. There’s also a rooftop pool and shared spaces, as well as a fitness center that offers daily classes. You’ll have everything you need, and more! 

Rooms here usually start at around $200 USD per night, which we think is an awesome value, considering how much this 4-star property has to offer.

If Sentral Wynwood is sold out for your dates, Arlo Wynwood Miami is another great option nearby with a more boutique hotel feel. It has a bold exterior covered in bright murals, and then inside it’s modern and minimalist, with a rooftop pool and bar, and free bikes for guests to use.

Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood Design District – $

Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood Design District in Miami Florida 1-2
Photo credit: Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood Design District
Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood Design District in Miami Florida-2
Photo credit: Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood Design District

Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood Design District is a solid budget-friendly option if you want to stay near Wynwood without spending too much. It’s located just outside the main area, but still within a short walk or quick Uber to all the top spots.

The hotel is simple and comfortable, with clean rooms and everything you need for a short stay, including a gym and a small outdoor pool. Sure, it’s not the most stylish option in this area, but it’s a practical choice that offers good value for money in a very desirable part of Miami. Rooms here usually start at around $150 USD per night.

Related Read: Short on time? Check out our 3-day Miami itinerary for the perfect mix of beaches, food, nightlife, and must-see sights—all planned out so you don’t miss a thing.

Top Activities to do in Miami

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-boat in miami florida United States 2
Trust us, you don’t want to miss this!
An alligator in the Everglades National Park on a tour from Miami Florida United States
Alligators came right up next to the boat!

With your Miami base sorted, it’s time to get out and experience everything this vibrant city has to offer. From Cuban flavors and Art Deco gems to cruising past celebrity mansions and chasing sunsets on the water, Miami is way more than just beaches and nightlife. These tours added so much to our trip—and gave us experiences we definitely wouldn’t have found on our own.

  • Eat your way through Little HavanaThis Little Havana food tour was easily our favorite experience in Miami! We showed up hungry and left completely stuffed after trying empanadas, croquetas, guava pastries, and even flan ice cream. It was such a great way to experience the neighborhood.
  • Cruise Miami like a VIP on a private boat This private boat tour is such a fun way to beat the heat and see the city from the water. We brought our own drinks, cruised past celebrity homes, and took in amazing skyline views. Our captain customized the route for us, which made it feel super personal.
  • Step back in time in the Art Deco DistrictThis walking tour gave us a whole new appreciation for South Beach. We strolled past colorful buildings, learned the stories behind the architecture, and even saw the former Versace mansion. This Art Deco walking tour was engaging, informative, and a great way to understand the area.
  • Watch a Miami sunset from the water – Seeing Miami at sunset on this private sunset boat tour felt romantic and relaxed, with champagne, music, and incredible views as the sky turned shades of pink and orange. It’s one of those experiences that just feels special from start to finish.
  • Explore the Everglades on an airboat – Swapping the city for the wilderness was such a fun change of pace, as we sped across the wetlands spotting alligators, birds, and more with the help of our guide. This Everglades airboat tour includes a longer ride than most and a visit to a wildlife center, making it an easy and exciting escape from Miami.

Related Read: Want even more ideas for your trip? Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Miami for more unforgettable experiences around the city.

Renting a Car in the USA

Car rental photo for the United States

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

  • Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
  • Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
  • Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
  • Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
  • A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
  • Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms?

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Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie on-a-boat-in-Miami Florida United States
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After long beach days, sunset cruises, and more great meals than we could count, having the right place to stay in Miami really shapes your trip—whether that’s waking up steps from the sand in South Beach, unwinding in Mid-Beach, or enjoying the laid-back feel of Coconut Grove. We hope this guide helps you find a spot that matches your travel style, whether you’re here for the nightlife, the food scene, the beaches, or a bit of everything.

Before you pack up those bags, be sure to check out our other Florida guides here for more local tips and travel ideas. Or dive into some of our favorite reads below to start building your next trip!

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Naples, Florida: 3-Day Itinerary

How to Spend 3 DAYS in Fort Lauderdale, Florida: 3-Day Itinerary

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Key West, Florida: 3-Day Itinerary

The Services We Recommend

From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore Costa Rica with confidence.

The post Where to Stay in Miami, Florida: 5 Best Areas & Hotels appeared first on Destinationless Travel.