Design District Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Design District with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover museums, galleries, outdoor attractions, dining options, accommodation, and more.


Are you planning a trip to Miami? Make sure not to miss out on the Design District - the ultimate hub of art, fashion, and culinary experiences. The Design District is situated between Little Haiti and Wynwood, just a few miles north of downtown Miami, and is famous for high-end fashion shops, chic galleries, and vibrant street art. Whether you’re a fashionista, art enthusiast, or food lover, Design District promises to provide a unique and unforgettable experience.

Introduction to Design District

Design District, located in Miami-Dade County, in Greater Miami, Florida, is a place where art, design, and fashion come together to create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. The Design District has undergone a massive transformation, and what was once a rundown neighborhood is now a luxurious and modern destination filled with exclusive designer boutiques, chic restaurants, and stunning art galleries.

List of Places to Visit in Design District

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Design District is home to some of the most significant museums and historical places in the city. Here are some of the must-visit places that offer an insight into Miami’s rich history:

  • Institute of Contemporary Art Miami: The Institute of Contemporary Art Miami is a leading museum dedicated to showcasing contemporary art and culture. It features cutting-edge exhibitions and programs that explore the art of our time.

  • Museum of Art and Design at Miami Dade College: The museum is home to an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art from across the globe. With over 8000 works of art, it makes for an enriching educational experience.

Natural Attractions of Design District: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Design District also has a lot to offer those who’re looking for outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. The following places should be on your list of must-visit locations:

  • Pérez Art Museum Miami: This is one of the most stunning modern buildings in Miami and is situated on the banks of Biscayne Bay. It is famous for its lush gardens and a stunning waterfront view.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Design District

With incredible weather throughout the year, biking and hiking is an excellent way to explore the Design District. The following locations are fantastic for outdoor activities:

  • Baywalk Trail: This scenic 4-mile trail follows the coastline of Biscayne Bay and provides an ideal vantage point to admire the Miami skyline and the stunning waterfront properties.

  • Miami Beach Boardwalk: This 40-block long boardwalk is perfect for a relaxing walk or a refreshing bike ride and offers breathtaking views of the ocean.

Best Things to Do in Design District: Activities and Tours

Design District is filled with activities that will keep you entertained throughout your stay:

  • Art Tours: Take a guided art tour of the district and learn more about the street art and murals that cover the walls of many buildings.

  • Design District Shopping: From designer boutiques to high-end fashion stores, Design District offers a unique shopping experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Design District

With so much to do, a week-long itinerary is the perfect way to explore all that the district has to offer:

Day Activity
1 Pérez Art Museum Miami and Museum of Art and Design at Miami Dade College
2 Baywalk Trail and Perez Art Museum
3 Design District Shopping
4 Miami Architecture Tour and Design District Shopping
5 Miami Beach Boardwalk and Food Tour
6 Art Tours and Sightseeing
7 Day Trip to Everglades National Park and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Food and Drink Scene of Design District

Design District has a fantastic food and drink scene catering to multiple tastes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacos al Pastor: This Mexican dish, prepared with marinated pork and pineapple, is a popular dish in Miami and perfectly complements the district’s lively atmosphere.

  • Chicken and Waffles: This fusion American dish has its roots in the southern United States and is a must-try in Design District.

Local Beverages

  • Mojito: This classic Cuban cocktail, made with rum, lime juice, mint, and sugar, is a refreshing option for the summer.

  • Cafecito: A strong and sweet Cuban-style espresso shot that will undoubtedly give you an energy boost.

Where to Stay in Design District: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Design District has a variety of options for accommodation suitable for a diverse range of budgets and preferences:

  • The Gabriel Miami, Curio Collection by Hilton: This luxury hotel offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and is situated close to the district’s most prominent cultural attractions.

  • Soul House: This cozy and chic guest house is a perfect stay option for solo travelers and couples. It offers a comfortable living space and is situated in a prime location.

What to Buy in Design District: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Design District offers some unique souvenirs and local products that make up for great gifts:

  • Local Cigars: Miami has a rich cigar-making history, and you can find some of the best cigars in Design District.

  • Artisanal Chocolates: Experience the melt-in-your-mouth, handcrafted chocolates with fresh and local ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Design District

Design District is a melting pot of different cultures and customs. Miami, in general, has a rich Cuban heritage, but the district’s art and fashion scene attracts people from all over the world. It’s a multicultural and inclusive community that celebrates diversity and creativity.

Best Time to Visit Design District

Miami has great weather throughout the year, with summers being the busiest due to the peak tourism season. The ideal time to visit the district is between December and April when there is less humidity and more breeze.

Do’s and Don’ts of Design District

Do:

  • Do explore the street art: The district’s street art is an integral part of the city’s cultural identity and should be explored.

  • Do visit during the weekends: The weekends are the busiest time in the district, with live performances, food festivals, and art exhibitions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Miami takes their cleanliness laws seriously, and littering can land you a hefty fine.

  • Don’t stick to the big-brand stores: While the big brands are impressive, there are several local shops that offer authentic and creative products.

Safety and Health

Safety in Design District

Design District is a relatively safe neighborhood, and the crime rate is moderate. However, visitors should take care of their personal belongings while walking around the district.

Health in Design District

Florida has a sunny and humid tropical climate, and visitors are advised to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Visitors should also take precautionary measures against mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Design District: Transportation Options and Logistics

Design District is easily accessible and is situated close to several transportation hubs:

Airports Near Design District

  • Miami International Airport: Located about six miles south of Design District, it’s the largest airport in South Florida.

Bus Stations Near Design District

  • Downtown Bus Terminal: Located just a few miles south of the district, the terminal offers various bus services.

Other Options

  • Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available in Miami.

How to Get Around in Design District

Design District can be explored on foot, but visitors can also take advantage of the following options:

Biking:

  • Citi Bike Miami: Visitors can rent bikes from several Citi Bike stations located throughout the district.

Where to Go Next from Design District: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Miami is a city that offers a lot of options, and there are several incredible destinations and excursions around the Design District:

  • Wynwood: Located just a few miles south of Design District, Wynwood is home to stunning street art and several iconic bars and restaurants.

  • Everglades National Park: A unique experience of exploring the Florida Everglades.

Conclusion

Design District is a beautiful and trendy neighborhood in Miami to explore art, fashion, and cuisine. The district is home to several attractions, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities that will keep visitors entertained. Plan your itinerary according to your preferences and budget and explore this incredible urban hub.