Miami Beach, Florida
I adore Miami, but my visits there have been of a decidedly non-family travel nature.
The first time was (ahem) years ago, in my former life as a music TV producer. We interviewed the Bee Gees in their South Beach studio, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have met these musical heroes of mine. Now both Robin and Maurice are gone… only Barry is left. What struck me about that trip was how bustling Miami is, and also how unlike it is from the other parts of Florida I’ve visited.
And then I traipsed down to Miami for a quick stop at one of the great Miami boutique hotels that South Beach is famous for. Soho Beach House (sigh!) Again, not exactly a family getaway. However, Soho Beach House is totally welcoming of children. I just happened to be doing that trip (sadly) solo.
And like most trips I take where my kids are not with me, I spend a great deal of my time missing them. Then I take notes on what they’d like to see and do *when* I take them there. Miami is no exception. I love it!
Where to stay: Miami with Kids…
Miami Beach would be my pick for a home base in Miami. While South Beach proper runs only a few blocks at the southernmost tip, Miami Beach extends for many many blocks. Too many for me to walk entirely in both directions… however there’s convenient bus service that runs straight up and down Collins Avenue.
It also could not be easier to get to Miami Beach from Miami International Airport. I considered a cab (around $40 with tip) but ended up taking the Miami Beach Airport Express Flyer (Route 150) that runs every 30 minutes from MIA to Miami Beach/South Beach. The transfers to and from the airport were by far the easiest and least expensive airport commutes I’ve done. One-way fare is $2.25 (exact change, please!) Even if you choose to stay further North, it’s so easy to access South Beach and use those hotel savings for the Mall of the Americas
