Planning a Fall Weekend Getaway in Miami, Florida

Even though South Beach and Downtown Miami are havens for party-goers during beach season, there’s still plenty to do and enjoy around Miami as the weather gets cooler. Fall in Miami is still summery enough for many out-of-state travelers, so you can enjoy a beach vacation well into late October. Many of Miami’s top hotels offer attractive packages and discounted rates on certain rooms during the months of September and October.

Here are some tips on planning a fall weekend getaway in Miami, Florida:

Where to Stay

Loews Miami Beach Hotel is perfect for long weekend getaways and caters to families, couples, and singles alike. This contemporary hotel boasts 790 luxury guestrooms, and some have beautiful ocean views. Sushi SoBe at the hotel is one of my favorite restaurants in Miami, and you’ll find more than just sushi on the menu. Don’t miss the SOAK experience at this resort, a luxury poolside cabana experience that gives you a chance to enjoy a few hours of sunbathing and relaxation in a peaceful and tranquil environment.

The Standard Spa is a chic and upscale boutique spa in Miami Beach. The rooms are decorated in a minimalist design with oversized beds and fluffy down pillows. The marble spa shower in each guestroom is one of the highlights of this hotel. Request a bay view suite or a room overlooking the lush gardens for a tropical escape this fall.

Loews Miami Beach Hotel
1601 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
305-604-1601

The Standard Spa Hotel
40 Island Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
305-673-1717

What to Do

Spend an afternoon strolling through Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables. Fall weather is perfect for a day in the gardens, and you can see a diverse collection of rare tropical palms, flowering trees, and cycads, among other types of plants. Check the events calendar to find out when the gardens are hosting events like the Bird Festival this fall.

Enjoy a wine tasting at Cibo Wine Bar located on Miami’s Miracle Mile. This historic venue features more than 3,000 bottles of international wine, and you can ask a floating “wine angel” to find the perfect bottles for your event. Stay for dinner so you can enjoy your favorites with some Italian specialties.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road
Coral Gables, FL 33156
305-667-1651

Cibo Wine Bar
45 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, FL 33134
305-442-4925

Where to Eat

There’s no shortage of great places to eat when you’re in Miami. If you’re looking for a place to indulge in a gourmet brunch, head to The Restaurant at The Setai for the jazz brunch that features international specialties and a lineup of decadent desserts. You’ll need to bring your appetite to sample all of the gourmet foods at this exotic locale. Brunch is only served on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you’re looking for a place with good seafood, head to Scotty’s Landing. The restaurant offers waterfront views overlooking Biscayne Bay and has a very casual and laid-back atmosphere. Head here for fried fish and conch platters, Cajun dolphin strips, and the spicy seafood chowder. The restaurant hosts live entertainment on weekends and is accessible by boat via the Grove Key Marina.

The Restaurant at The Setai
2001 Collins Ave.
Miami, FL 33139
305-520-6000

Scotty’s Landing
3381 Pan American Drive
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
305-854-2626