Say goodbye to any preconceived notions you may have of Miami. We’ll take you through an itinerary that strays far from South Beach, fake boobs and gauche tourist destinations. This insider’s guide is how to do Miami that will please Mom as much as the kids, without having to stoop to Chuck E. Cheese levels.
The Guide:
Early AM: Play amongst the Banyan Trees at Merrie Christmas Park.
Nestled in a hidden pocket of lush, tropically manicured Coral Gables, Merrie Christmas Park is the perfect place to take kids early in the morning to burn off energy. There are two separate playgrounds, one appropriate for 18 month and younger babies, and another ‘big kid’ playground. Swings, slides, and a huge field shaded by enormous banyan trees are the perfect setting for your children to play in. Bring a picnic breakfast and enjoy a peaceful morning before the blazing sun is up.
Late AM: Grab lunch (and a stroller nap) at Merrick Park
Only a few minutes drive away is an upscale outdoor shopping complex with luxury retailers. Yard House is a family friendly gastro pub with plenty of outdoor and indoor seating. After lunch, try to coax the babes to a nap in the stroller and shop at kid favorites like Liapela, Hannah Anderson, Peek and Baby Cottons. Pro Tip: Nordstrom validates all parking tickets, so stop by on the way out.
Early PM: Posh Dinner and a Movie at Brickell City Center
After you’ve reset a little at home or your hotel, pack the kids up and head to Brickell City Center, Miami’s newest shopping and dining destination. The architecture and retailers are unique, and it’s the perfect place to discover new labels and tasteful hostess gifts. Grab a bite at Pubbelly Sushi and get First Class treatment while watching a movie at the US’ first CMX, a luxury movie experience concept. If you’re in a raw food kind of mood, don’t forget to grab a fresh pressed juice at Dr. Smood.
About the author:
Alice Thomas is an internationally-awarded freelance Creative Director who is a proud mom of two. She spends her time exploring Miami (her new home) and building brands with creative agencies in NYC, LA and Miami.
