Miami: a city known for its sunny beaches, Cuban culture, and cool Art Deco vibe. But ask any local, and there’s much more to this town’s nightlife than the famous neon-lit spots on South Beach.
“Magic City” didn’t get it’s name for nothing. Miami has always had a vibrant nightlife scene – but as the city grows and evolves, so has the variety of its bar scene. From fun BOTY bar trivia events to dog-friendly hangouts, there is plenty to see, do and drink.
So whether you just moved to Miami or are planning a trip, here are 7 bars any local would suggest you visit at least once.
2727 Indian Creek Dr, Miami Beach
Photo courtesy of Yelp
Located in the uber hip Free Hand Hostel, the Broken Shaker is the spot locals (and visitors in the know) flock to. This ‘backyard oasis’ takes over the entire patio and pool area of the hostel. It’s got multiple bars to grab mixologist approved drinks from, all of which are worth the likely wait in line for. We give this place extra points for their awesome indie music selection that isn’t so loud you can’t have a conversation with the beautiful person next to you.
709 NE 79th St, Miami
Photo courtesy of Eater Miami
Dig anything and everything 80s? Like something a little alternative? Appreciate a nice outdoor space to have a smoke? The Anderson is the bar for you. They’ve got inventive cocktails and a great bar menu if you’re feeling like a snack. And if you feel like getting down, they’ve got an awesome dance floor with your name on it.
3468 Main Hwy, Coconut Grove
Courtesy of Open Table
Miami is a big town that’s made up of many different areas and smaller cities. Coconut Grove is a more laid back area just South of the city’s business center, Brickell. Don’t let the name fool you – Greenstreet Cafe has a bar scene that shows up every night. They’ve got a great happy hour and a whiskey selection that you’ll need an hour to finish reading. So whether it’s a bourbon at happy hour or beer and tequila shots in the wee hours of the AM – this place is worth a sitdown.
2531 NW 2nd Ave, Miami
Courtesy of Wood Tavern
Nestled in the middle of Miami’s new artist haven, Wynwood, Wood Tavern is a staple for people looking for a chill outdoor space that has great music and murals and lets you bring your dog. Interested in that last part? You read right. Wood is 100% pooch friendly: all you need do is register your doggie at the door. Once inside, you can hang at the indoor bar, the huge outdoor bar, or sit on the wooden bleachers and watch people dance. Or you can dance. Bottom line – go to Wood, it’s fun!
1218 14th Ct, Miami Beach
Courtesy of Foxhole
A local speakeasy, you won’t find this bar unless someone tells you about it, and exactly how to find it. It’s open from 5pm to 5am every day – and unlike many other Miami Beach dance spots, there’s never a cover. There’s a dartboard, a pool table, guns (go check it out), but chances are you’ll be too busy dancing to old-school hip hop and funk to notice. Be sure to snap a pic and tag it #IFoundFoxhole – because if you found it, you earned the right.
176 NW 24th St, Miami
Courtesy of Huffington Post
Another Wynwood casual place for a good quality hang – Gramps always has something going on. Any bar can have a decent happy hour, but how many bars feature nights for bingo, karaoke and villain theater? We’re big fans of the beer and bingo and are planning to go back for the karaoke ASAP. Bottom line: it’s a great place to chill with your pals, or break the ice with a fun activity and make some new friends.
2901 Collins Ave, Miami Beach
Courtesy of Urban Daddy
Located in the uber hip Miami Beach Edition Hotel, Basement is just where you’d think: the basement. But don’t start thinking of a dark, damp space just yet – this bar/lounge/club is anything but. With state of the art sound systems, lighting designed by world-renowned lighting designer Patrick Woodroffe, this place has more than just a good dance floor and drinks – it’s also got a fully functional bowling alley and ice skating rink. Yup.
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