Going to Miami

[rbiemer]

Tomorrow, I'm heading to Miami for a long weekend.
Have plans for most of my time there, but any one local (or recently been there) have suggestions for things to do or to see? Good local food, maybe some live music, museums or galleries to recommend?

I'm not a street shooter but will be carrying a camera, thinking I ought to be able to find some good architecture to shoot.

Camera, two lenses, and some Ektar and TriX. Traveling light plus I don't use a bag while shooting 35mm, so if I can't fit it in my jacket pockets, it's not coming with me.

Rob

 

[rbiemer]

Moderators,
I just realized I posted this in the wrong place. Can one of you fine people move this to the "Travel" section, please!

Thanks,
Rob

 

[Dwig]

Expect it to rain at some point each day. In South Florida and in the Florida Keys it rains almost every day this time of year. I'd suggest either a waterproof bag or at least a pocketful of ZipLoc bags.

I've lived in Key West for some 13 years, but haven't done much casual visiting in the Miami area. My visits are usually very targeted (e.g. medical, ...). I generally dislike Miami itself. Miami Beach (out on the barrier island) is quite different and is where you'll find some of the best architecture. I've had Vizcaya (http://vizcaya.org/) penciled in as a place to visit for some time now, but haven't yet had the time during one of my scheduled visits to the area.

 

[zuikologist]

I just returned yesterday from my first visit there. We did the Miami - Key West drive and back in a day, which is crazy, but some of the nearer Keys look interesting with some beautiful views. Also Wynwood in Miami looks like a good arty/busy area.

 

[rbiemer]

Thanks, gentlemen!
Yes, I am bringing my good rain jacket. Light weight and truly waterproof. Fairly breathable. And a ziploc in the pocket is a good idea.

Not planning on driving while there--I truly detest big city driving and, after 10 years up north close to a town of 87 year round residents, don't think I have the mojo for it anymore anyway! 🙂

Rob

 

[rbiemer]

I just returned yesterday from my first visit there. We did the Miami - Key West drive and back in a day, which is crazy, but some of the nearer Keys look interesting with some beautiful views. Also Wynwood in Miami looks like a good arty/busy area.

My parents spent 6 or 7 weeks in Key Largo last winter. They quite enjoyed that once they got there. They did the car/train thing on the way south and then drove back home over a couple weeks, visiting freinds and relatives along the way. I like spending time with my folks--well at least since I turned 40 or so--but am glad I wasn't on that road trip with them. They bicker...🙂

Rob

 

[kxl]

Little Havana, especially Calle Ocho (SW 8th street), is a must-see. Have lunch or dinner at Versailles Restaurant.

http://www.versaillesrestaurant.com/

 

[rbiemer]

Little Havana, especially Calle Ocho (SW 8th street), is a must-see. Have lunch or dinner at Versailles Restaurant.

http://www.versaillesrestaurant.com/

Thanks! The menu looks really good. (except for the liver!) And prices are not what I would have guessed for a big city.

Rob

 

[Dwig]

...
Not planning on driving while there--I truly detest big city driving and, after 10 years up north close to a town of 87 year round residents, don't think I have the mojo for it anymore anyway! 🙂

Rob

The Miami area is decidedly the worst I've ever dealt with. Far, far worse than Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and Philadelphia (I've spent a lot of time in Texas, as you can see).