Shopping - Art Galleries

Beaches and parks seem like no-brainers, but Miami also nurtures a dense art scene that yields dozens of museums, art galleries, and related events throughout the year. Art galleries are a great place to start when scoping out homegrown talent, so be sure to take advantage of the numerous art events that utilize galleries as the centerpiece. Not surprisingly, many museums and art galleries focus on Latin American artists and art, but the city’s art scene certainly isn’t limited to that. Gallery walks take place frequently in different neighborhoods and are a great way to familiarize yourself with local and international talent that has a Miami base.

Shopping - The Arts

Miami has a vibrant arts community within various genres. There’s no shortage of opportunites to experience the arts, be it museums, dance, or film, to name a few. One of the best local resources is Miami Art Guide (www.miamiartguide.com), which has a comprehensive art directory and lists a variety of visual and performing arts exhibits, events, and happenings throughout the city. While there is art throughout Miami, particularly art-hearty centers of the city include the Design District, Wynwood Arts District, and throughout Miami Beach. See the Art Galleries and Museums chapters for more on the visual arts scene in Miami, and the Annual Events chapter for film festival and art show listings. There are also various gallery walks in different neighborhoods throughout the year, which allow art enthusiasts to learn more about the local scene.

Shopping

Shopping in Miami is as diverse as the city itself—there is always a store that will have what you’re looking for . . . and if not, there is another store that will make it. Strip malls are common in South Florida, as are massive malls that should have their own zip codes. Fortunately, there are many larger malls that are scenic, outdoor spaces equipped with restaurants and ample seating, which essentially make shopping a day trip.

Designer labels are densely scattered throughout the city and concentrated at high-end malls and in ritzy neighborhoods along tree-lined streets. Staples such as Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and the like typically flank these malls and are difficult to miss. Other go-to spots for brand loyalty are gargantuan complexes such as Dadeland Station (8328 South Dixie Hwy., Kendall; 305-665-8720) which are purely parking garages and stores; Sports Authority, Target, Best Buy, and Bed, Bath and Beyond, to name a few.

For those who prefer unique finds, funky art, clothing, furniture, and knickknacks are easily found in the creative Design District neighborhood and neighboring areas Wynwood and Midtown, which are known for a lively arts scene. Walk along these streets and you’re bound to find a pop-up boutique with locally handmade garb next to a top-notch vintage stop that only carries Chanel, Dior, Prada—you name it. Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road brings much of the city’s style together with staples like Banana Republic and BCBG neighboring vintage favorite such as Fly Boutique as well as sunglass retailers, adult stores, bookstores, and salons.