Melissa Puppo

October wouldn't be complete without some spooks, scares and epic Halloween events in Miami. Luckily for Miamians, there are plenty of haunted places and hair-raising experiences to check out around South Florida this time of year. From haunted, historic mansions to a heart-pounding carnival and an entire park overtaken by killer clowns, there's no shortage of frights to subject yourself to in the spirit of Halloween. These haunted houses are for the brave, so find your favorite costume, gather a group of friends and explore our curated guide to the top places around Miami to score your spooky season thrills and chills. Of course, if you're planning to bring along the whole family (young ones included), we've pointed out a couple of tamer options too. RECOMMENDED: Halloween Horror Nights 2024 at Universal Orlando: our ultimate guide to tickets, dates and more

Crush your #fitnessgoals and embrace wellness as a lifestyle at these amenity-packed Miami gyms and ultra-motivating classes. You're in Miami, after all, where everyone is health and food-conscious (that is, when they're not partying), and the weather is a natural mood booster to get your mind right. There’s really no excuse not to try out that new pilates class or even become a devoted gym goer, where you may even make a few new friends. Our guide has everything covered—from the tried-and-true O.G. fitness hotspots to a plethora of new reformer and yoga studios waiting for you to discover. Don't forget to refuel at your favorite plant-based eateries afterward—you've earned it! RECOMMENDED: The best coffee shops in Miami

Surprise! Florida is known as the Sunshine State, but more than a third of the time, you can count on a rainy day here in subtropical Miami. Wet weather is typical in the summer, but if your plans call for sunshine, there's a good chance you'll get rained out no matter what season you're in.  Don't let a little water ruin your good time. Whether you’re dealing with a fleeting sprinkle or a full-on tropical storm, there are plenty of fun indoor activities in Miami when it rains. Shopping in Miami is an excellent option, and a rainy day is the perfect excuse to get off the sand and explore the city’s world-class museums. Figuring out what to do in Miami when it rains? Below, we came up with fun beach day alternatives, kid-friendly activities and plenty of boozy options so your day doesn’t have to be a total washout.

Following another successful weekend of world-class racing last year, The Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix returns May 3 to 5, bringing with it a slew of fan experiences, entertainment and culinary offerings from the beach to the mainland. The races go down at the Miami International Autodrome, a 19-turn, 3.36-mile track within the complex of Hard Rock Stadium. Guests can catch a practice round on Friday and a qualifying race on Saturday, all leading up to the Grand Prix on Sunday, with Marc Anthony slated to belt the national anthem. Take in three days of spectacle at the Autodrome—but there’s fun to be had outside the grounds, too. Read on for everything you need to know ahead of this year’s F1 Miami Grand Prix.  Photograph: Courtesy Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix/Carl Bingham When and where is the F1 Miami Grand Prix 2024? The race will take place over three days on May 3, 4 and 5, 2024. Most events, including the race, will be held at the Miami International Autodrome inside Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The official Formula 1® Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix kicks off on Thursday, May 2 with a concert by music icon “The King” Don Omar at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida.  Is the 2024 Miami Grand Prix sold out? Tickets are still available in limited quantities on the official website, along with resale options via third-party sellers. Campus passes excluding seats for the races are also available online now. What food will be available at Hard

Miami comes alive with patriotic spirit this Memorial Day as venues across the metro area pay homage to the nation’s heroes. Plan to take advantage of the warm weather, sun-drenched South Beach and an extra day off over this long weekend (May 25–27). The annual Air & Sea Show and beach festival is the marquee event in town, so if you’re willing to brave the crowds, it’s worth the experience. But there are plenty of family-friendly cultural exhibitions, rooftop barbecues and poolside soirees to explore, too. Below, get primed on the best events around town to make the most of your Miami Memorial Day weekend. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Memorial Day in Miami

If you love scoping out the best shopping destinations when you travel, you’ll have plenty to explore during a trip to Miami Beach. From renowned brand names lining the streets of bustling districts like Lincoln Road—a famed pedestrian-friendly promenade—to the charming local boutiques scattered throughout Sunset Harbour, the city's fashion-forward reputation is deeply ingrained in its diverse shopping scene. No matter your style or budget, a treasure trove of style awaits discovery. Dive into our ultimate guide to Miami Beach's best shopping destinations below and discover all the fashion experiences that await.  RECOMMENDED: Miami Beach, Miami, neighborhood guide

Get ready to unleash your roar in the Magic City as we celebrate the much-anticipated Chinese New Year with flair and festivity. It's the Year of the Dragon, which represents strength and power, growth and good fortune. This is the most important holiday in China, revered for its cultural significance, and extends to South Korea, Vietnam and other nations boasting overseas Chinese populations. Join the revelry as we guide you through the best spots and events to ring in the Year of the Dragon in Miami. RECOMMENDED: The best Chinese restaurants in Miami When is the Lunar New Year 2024? The Lunar New Year begins on Saturday, February 10 and concludes with the Lantern Festival on Saturday, February 24. There is currently no city or county-sponsored Chinese New Year parade in Miami; however, make the most of this festive holiday by viewing a captivating display of Chinese lantern installations at Luminosa: A Festival of Lights at Jungle Island through February 28.

2023 has been huge for Miami! Famous people and players moving in, Michelin stars being dished out like frisbees, condos stacking up like jenga blocks all around town – and with that, the rent. The state of Florida has been on everyone’s mind this year (for better or for bizarre), and if people aren’t thinking of moving here, they’re definitely thinking of spending some time. Lucky are we who are already here experiencing the best Miami has right now.  Picking “the best of” a city is no short order, so we narrowed down on a bit of a theme. For this year’s Best of the City Awards, we chose to highlight some of the unsung heroes of the scene while of course not glazing over some of the biggest moments and events in 2023 lore. From Miami getting Messi to an expansion of our nightlife scene, here are some of the best eats, events, experiences and moments of 2023.   

Wynwood is far more than its graffiti-clad warehouse walls that were basically made for taking selfies. This lively arts neighborhood has transformed into a culinary and nightlife wonderland, drawing locals and visitors to revel in its chaos and embrace Miami’s vibrant essence. Whether you're hanging out in a Japanese-style listening room, turning up at a trendy lounge or chilling at a sophisticated cocktail bar, Wynwood boasts an abundance of playful and edgy watering holes that make bar-hopping an absolute blast. Though Wynwood has evolved from its gritty past, these breezy rooftop bars, kooky cocktail nooks and friendly dives play a vital role in preserving the neighborhood's fierce, unpredictable character. To rank Wynwood’s best bars, we considered factors like price, creativity, comfort (A.C. is a non-negotiable in this scorching ’hood) and overall vibe. Get ready, because there’s a little something for everyone on our list of the best bars in Wynwood. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Wynwood

All things sizzling swimwear and even hotter parties will return to the sands of Miami Beach this July for the annual Miami Swim Week. What first began in 2002 as a group of producers hosting runway shows to coincide with Miami’s swimwear trade show has grown into its own spectacle, offering locals and the fashion industry crowd a chance to see what’ll be trending in the upcoming season.  In between scoping out the catwalk and hitting up the after-parties, be sure to make reservations at one of the best restaurants in South Beach, where you might just run into a model or three. Ready to dive into the vibrant world of Miami Swim Week? Here is our definitive guide to the hottest runway shows and exclusive events open to the public that make this annual extravaganza a must-attend.  When is Miami Swim Week?  This year’s shows will take place July 4–10, except for Paraiso, which hosted its shows in June. A few additional events are scheduled following July 10 as part of a post-show lineup—see more below!  Where is Miami Swim Week?  Runway shows and events vary by producer but typically center around hotels, nightclubs and event spaces in South Beach. Check out some of the venues below in our Miami Swim Week guide.  Do you need tickets for Miami Swim Week? While many shows are invitation-only for the press and the fashion industry, some are ticketed and open to the public. Miami Swim Week’s website has a breakdown of what’s available for locals. Some events require you to join Fas

Take advantage of GMCVB’s Miami Attraction & Museum Months program until May 31 to enjoy special discounts, savings on admissions and BOGO deals from more than 50 of Miami’s top museums, galleries and outdoor adventures. Choose between neighborhood favorites like Island Queen Cruises and Tours, Pérez Art Museum Miami and Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.

Dozens of airplanes and watercraft swarm Miami Beach’s shoreline for the entertaining military showcase at the Hyundai Air & Sea Show. Organized to honor first responders, the two-day event features civilian aerobatic acts, powerboat racing and extreme water sports. If you don’t mind the crowds, you’re in for a genuine spectacle right on the sand. Afterward, don’t miss the Music Explosion, featuring the U.S. Army’s “As You Were” band, U.S. Air Force Drill Team and The Miami Beach Classical Music Festival Orchestra. 

On January 21 and 22, this 10,000-square-foot Asian marketplace in Wynwood will host a special dine-around dinner party for the New Year. For $65, each guest will receive a traditional red envelope with the night's bespoke menu, which includes seven “lucky” dishes to eat during the new year.

Gastón Acurio’s talented protégé Diego Oka mans the kitchen at La Mar, whose menu Oka continually tweaks as travel and seasonality inspire him. For this Lunar New Year, Oka has curated festive Chinese-Peruvian fusion dishes offered during the week of February fifth at Mandarin Oriental. To close out the celebrations, a traditional Lion Dance will take place at at 6:45 p.m. each evening. Its sophisticated counterpart MO Bar + Lounge will celebrate with food and cocktail specials, including a Dragon Sling cocktail, yang rou jiao zi-lamb dumplings and Singapore-style rice noodles with curry. Guests are invited to join the celebration with an inspired live violin and piano duo performance starting at 8:30 p.m. on February 9. 

The ultimate destination for Chinese New Year, Hutong is the place to be to indulge in contemporary Northern Chinese cuisine and exotic signature cocktails while enjoying live-fire artists and lion dancers all weekend long. Be sure to fill out a wishing card and hang it on the restaurant’s wishing tree branches, which pay homage to the famous Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees in Hong Kong. 

Its name means victory in Sanskrit, so it’s expected that every meal at Jaya is a triumph. For its sixth-annual Asian Night Bazaar, Jaya hosts three nights of celebration to toast the Chinese New Year. From February 9 to 11, enjoy live entertainment nightly including traditional lion and dragon shows, martial arts demonstrations, and drummers along with a contortionist and DJ. Enjoy noshing on Jaya’s signature Peking Duck and Dim Sum along with hand-crafted cocktails and more tasty tipples.

Cut the limes and pour the tequila! Cinco de Mayo lands on a Friday this year (May 5, 2023), so you have an even better reason to celebrate Mexico's unexpected victory over France in the Battle of Puebla. We can’t say for sure why this holiday blew up in the U.S., but we’re down for any party that involves guzzling margs. Whether your plans are solid or still up in the air this May 5, there are plenty of fiestas, tacos and drink specials to take part in—and did we mention the mariachis? Sneak out of work and get to happy hour early this year as Miami pops off with endless tequila shots around town. Here are the best Cinco de Mayo 2023 events in Miami. Photograph: Time Out 1. BOGO tacos at Time Out Market Miami Time Out Market Miami’s fiesta starts promptly at 5pm with drink specials and BOGO tacos from La Santa. (Buy two tacos and enjoy a third one for free.) The celebrations continue with a live mariachi band. RSVP early to secure yourself an oh-so-festive sombrero. 5pm 2. $5 margaritas at Coyo Taco That’s right: This Cinco de Mayo, Coyo Taco launches its $5 margarita, available (blessedly) indefinitely. Each Coyo location will also host its own fiesta ranging from live mariachis in Wynwood to DJ Damaged Goods performing at the South Miami locale. No matter where you celebrate, rest assured the frozen drinks will be flowing. Locations and times vary 3. World record challenge at Cinco De Dade Help break the world record for the most tequila shots taken simultaneously with O