Making a Vacation out of the Destination?

Miami is home to good eats, eclectic things to see, and a vessel to quick and easy weekend trips. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach day or interested in exploring a cultural hot spot — Lauren & Nick have created the ultimate guide for you to get the most out of your destination wedding experience.

Lauren & Nick’s Favorite Finds:

DAY TRIP TO BIMINI, BAHAMAS

Board the Baleària Caribbean ferry in Ft. Lauderdale, FL for a day trip to one of the most beautiful beaches you will ever experience. Once you dock on the island, rent a golf cart and head straight to Radio Head beach for rum punch and fried conch fritters. From there, make your way up and down the small island - stop at the casino, pop around the many conch shacks, local bakeries, etc. If you’re looking for an afternoon of non-stop partying, on the opposite end of the island you will find Resorts World! You can also stay overnight, but note the ferry runs every other day. More information is HERE.

PRO TIP: Splurge on first class so you can get off the boat first and avoid long lines at customs. Don’t forget to make a stop at Stuart’s for some fresh conch.

OVERNIGHT STAY AT DISNEY SPRINGS

Who said Disney is just for kids? The 3 1/2 hour drive to Orlando is well worth the experience. Leave early and spend the day exploring the shops at Disney Springs, or eat your way through the area and indulge in a variety of shamefully delicious restaurants, bars, and bakeries. If you’re into theme parks - you’re a short drive from most of the parks in the area.

PRO TIP: You absolutely MUST make a reservation at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Kitchen for the ultimate southern feast fueled by next-level flavors.
PRO TIP #2: Get yourself a Pub Sub for the road — Boar’s Head ONLY.

DINNER AT SHOMA BAZAAR

Doral may be off the beaten path, but well worth the trip to Shoma Bazaar. The foodie hot spot houses a variety of vendors with cuisines from all over the world including a bar and craft biergarten. Lauren & Nick recommend ramen from Sriracha House, Mediterranean from Shahs of Kabob, and dessert from Sweet Manifesto.

PRO TIP: Come hungry and make your way around the space. Definitely share all plates (with the entire table) and according to Nick - the Butter Roll from Sushi Saki will change your life.

LUNCH AT VERSAILLES

Pay homage to Nick’s Cuban heritage with lunch at one of the most famous (and delicious) restaurants - Versailles. If you want to go big — dine in. If you’re interested in coffee and pastries, head to the booth outside for a grab and go treat that will satisfy all of your Miami desires.

PRO TIP: Dine in and go for the Roast Pork or Churrasco. If you’re looking for something lighter - Lauren’s favorite Cuban snack is a ham croquette, which can be purchased at the take out booth or in the dining room.

LOCAL FARMER’S MARKET

You may have missed mango season, but don’t let that deter you from the sweet and savory flavors of South Florida. Head to a local farmer (just a short trip from Longan’s Place) and celebrate the seasonal bounty of Miami with fresh pressed juices, baked goods, teas, and more. Lauren & Nick’s favorite farm stands are Maria Corona Produce and Glaser Organic Farms.

PRO TIP: If traveling from out of state, Nick & Lauren recommend packing a carry-on bag filled with delicious delicacies from the South. January is peak season for passion fruit, guava, and berries!

WEEKEND IN KEY WEST

Head to the Keys (preferably Key West) for a weekend getaway accessorized by food, cocktails, fishing, and boat trips. Key West is known to be a party destination, so, if you’re looking for something a bit more elevated — make your way to Mallory Square for a Sunset Celebration equipped with live music, dancing, arts + crafts, and the most majestic sunset you’ll ever see.

PRO TIP: Leave as early as possible from Miami to beat weekend traffic. The Keys is one way in and one way out, so traffic can sometimes impact on travel time. You can make this a day trip, but note it’s about 3 hours one-way from Miami, FL. Key West Cakes is a MUST try!