Lois Larson
If you have a 6-hour layover in Miami, you might be wondering if it's worth leaving the airport to explore the city. While some sources advise against this due to the potential risk of getting stuck in Miami's notoriously bad traffic and missing your flight, others argue that 6 hours is enough time to venture out and experience some of what the city has to offer. So, what are your options if you decide to leave Miami Airport? Well, you could take the 150 Express bus to South Beach, which only takes 30 minutes each way, or head to Wynwood, Midtown, or the Design District for food, drinks, and shopping. If you want to stay closer to the airport, you can visit Little Havana, the center of Cuban culture, or grab a meal at the nearby Versailles restaurant. If you'd rather stay at the airport, you can dine at various restaurants offering Cuban cuisine, such as Cafe Versailles and Cafe La Carreta, or opt for healthier options like Icebox Cafe and Fig & Fennel. You can also access the airport hotel's health club and outdoor pool for a small fee. So, whether you decide to explore Miami or stay put at the airport, there are plenty of options to make the most of your 6-hour layover.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Staying at the airport | Dine, shop, visit art exhibitions, sleep, swim, work out, read a book |
| Leaving the airport | Visit Wynwood, Little Havana, South Beach, Key Biscayne, Midtown, Design District, Downtown Miami, Brickell Key, Coral Gables, Versailles, Ball and Chain, Flanigan's, Unbranded Brewery, Beat Culture, Bayside Marketplace, Bayside Park, Dolphin Mall, Fort Lauderdale |
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What You'll Learn
Eat Cuban food at Versailles or La Carreta
If you're looking for a taste of Cuba during your layover in Miami, look no further than Versailles or La Carreta. Both restaurants offer an array of delicious Cuban dishes that will satisfy your culinary cravings.
Let's start with Versailles, a renowned Cuban restaurant with multiple locations in Miami, including two convenient spots within Miami Airport. This restaurant is known for its authentic Cuban cuisine, including their must-try empanadas, croquetas, and, of course, their Cuban sandwiches. If you're just passing through, grab a quick coffee and a pastelito—a flaky Cuban pastry filled with sweet guava, cream cheese, or coconut. Or, if you have more time, sit down and enjoy a full meal, savouring dishes like papas rellenas and their daily specials. You can find Versailles at Gate D20, Gate D44, Gate D5, and Terminal F, E.
Now, let's talk about La Carreta, another excellent choice for Cuban cuisine. La Carreta offers a full-service restaurant as well as a walk-up window for coffee and snacks. Their menu features Cuban staples such as pastelitos, croquetas, Cuban sandwiches, and batidos (Cuban milkshakes in tropical flavours like mango, banana, and papaya). La Carreta is the perfect spot to enjoy a taste of Cuba, whether you're looking for a quick bite or a more leisurely meal. You can find La Carreta at D Gate.
With six hours to spare, you have the flexibility to leave the airport and explore the city. Miami's vibrant Cuban culture extends beyond the airport, with Little Havana being a popular destination for those craving an authentic Cuban experience. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, admire the colourful street art, and, of course, indulge in more delicious Cuban cuisine. However, keep in mind that Miami traffic can be unpredictable, so plan your time accordingly to ensure you make it back to the airport in time for your next flight.
Whether you choose to dine at Versailles, La Carreta, or explore the vibrant streets of Little Havana, your taste buds are in for a delightful Cuban treat during your layover in Miami. So, go ahead and indulge in some Cuban coffee, savour the flavours of Cuban sandwiches, and enjoy the vibrant culture that Miami has to offer!
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Explore Wynwood's street art and cafes
If you have a 6-hour layover at Miami International Airport, you may want to leave the airport and explore the city. However, keep in mind that Miami traffic can be heavy, and you will need to go through security again when you return, so leave plenty of time to get back to the airport.
One option is to visit Wynwood, Miami's cultural hub and Art District, which is easily accessible from the airport via taxi, rideshare, or public transportation. Here is a suggested itinerary for exploring Wynwood's street art and cafes:
Explore Wynwood's Street Art
Wynwood is famous for its street art and murals, which can be found throughout the neighborhood. Start by checking out the Wynwood Walls, which are free to visit and feature an ever-changing array of art. Then, head to the Bakehouse Art Complex, a former industrial bakery that has been converted into a space for emerging artists. With around 100 resident and associate artists and 60 studios, you'll find a diverse range of art to explore.
Visit Wynwood's Cafes and Restaurants
Wynwood is also known for its vibrant cafes and restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines and experiences. For breakfast or coffee, try Suite Havana Cafe, Novela Cafe Social, Panther Coffee, or Alex Coffee Roasters. If you're looking for healthy options, check out Love Life Cafe, Cafe Smood, or Sweet Green.
For a unique experience, visit Wynwood Art Cafe, which offers art and painting classes for all skill levels, allowing you to unleash your creativity while enjoying a meal or a drink.
Other notable restaurants in Wynwood include Pastis, Uchi, Hiden, Doya, Hiyakawa, and Momosan Wynwood.
Remember to allow enough time to get back to the airport and go through security, and consider using public transportation or a rideshare service to avoid the hassle of driving in Miami traffic.
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Stroll around Downtown Miami
With six hours to spare, you can definitely head to Downtown Miami from the airport. The airport is well-connected to the rest of the town, and you can take the Orange Line Metrorail towards Dadeland South to get to Downtown Miami.
Downtown Miami boasts an impressive skyline, beautiful buildings, and a host of things to do. If you're interested in history, shopping, art, or entertainment, you'll find plenty to do in this scenic part of town!
Start your stroll by heading to the 32-acre urban park on Biscayne Bay, which offers lush greenery, paved paths, swaying trees, a small sand beach, a children's playground, and a collection of monuments and statues, along with gorgeous waterfront views. The Baywalk and Riverwalk are two overlapping waterfront paths that form a nearly five-mile-long corridor for walking and biking along the Miami River and Biscayne Bay.
If you're an art lover, check out the Perez Art Museum Miami, which is dedicated to contemporary art reflecting the diverse cultures of Miami, with a focus on showcasing art from Europe, the Americas, and Africa, representing the three major ethnic populations of the city. The museum covers an area of 20,000 square feet and is a world-class repository of contemporary art and a center for visual arts information and education.
For entertainment, head to the Bayside Marketplace, a festival marketplace with regular shows and live music, shopping, dining, and bars. It's a beautiful, waterfront setting with impeccable international cuisine, fine shops, and exotic music. You can also ride the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel, a nearly 200-foot-high Ferris wheel with 42 climate-controlled gondolas, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Downtown Miami and the surrounding areas.
If you're hungry, you'll find an endless selection of food options in Downtown Miami, including Cuban food, fine dining, delicious ceviche, Italian, French, and even Chipotle.
Remember to plan your time accordingly, as Miami traffic can be heavy, and you'll need to account for security and customs checks when returning to the airport.
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Visit South Beach
If you're spending six hours in Miami Airport, you might want to consider visiting South Beach. Located in the South Beach neighbourhood of Miami Beach, South Beach is known for its nightlife, fine dining, and Art Deco architecture.
To get to South Beach from Miami Airport, you can take an Uber, which is recommended if you're short on time. The journey should take around 15 minutes each way, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the Metro or Metrorail, but be aware that Miami traffic can be heavy and unpredictable, so leave plenty of time to get back to the airport.
Once you're in South Beach, you'll find plenty of things to do. If you're looking for outdoor activities, you can stroll along the white sand beaches, rent a Citi Bike, or try kayaking, boating, or biking. For a more relaxed experience, visit South Pointe Park, a 17-acre green space with panoramic views of the South Beach shoreline, walking trails, and a café. If you're travelling with children, they will enjoy Flamingo Park's water playground, swimming pools, and walking trails.
For shopping, head to the Lincoln Shopping District, an eight-block-long mall featuring Art Deco architecture and over 200 shops and restaurants. You can also find unique boutiques and art galleries in the nearby Miracle Mile district.
When it comes to dining, South Beach offers a variety of options, from upscale oceanfront restaurants to beach fare and international cuisine. And if you're looking for a drink, you'll find everything from dance clubs to dive bars.
Remember to give yourself enough time to get back to the airport and go through security, especially if you're travelling during rush hour or on the weekend.
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Relax at the airport hotel's pool
If you're looking to relax during your six-hour layover in Miami, you can take advantage of the pools at some of the airport hotels.
The Sheraton Miami Airport Hotel features a heated pool surrounded by lush greenery and waterfront views. You can enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary towels, and refreshments from the on-site restaurants. The hotel also offers a unique waterfront beach area with lounge chairs for a tranquil escape.
The Element Miami International Airport is another option, located just five minutes from the airport with a complimentary shuttle service. While reviews mention the frequent landing of planes, the hotel offers a pool, great food, and sitting areas throughout the property.
For a peaceful atmosphere, the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon provides a pool overlooking the water and a hot tub. You can unwind while enjoying poolside food and drinks, taking in the serene views of the lagoon.
These airport hotels offer convenient access to pools, allowing you to relax and unwind during your layover in Miami. Remember to check the hotels' websites or contact them directly for the latest information on amenities, services, and any applicable day pass fees for pool access.
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Frequently asked questions
Miami Airport has plenty of options for dining and drinking, including iconic Cuban restaurants like Cafe Versailles and Cafe La Carreta. You can also visit art exhibitions, rent a day room at the airport hotel, or purchase a lounge pass for unlimited drinks and appetizers.
It is not recommended to leave the airport during a 6-hour layover in Miami due to the risk of missing your flight because of potential traffic congestion and the time required to get through security. However, if you do choose to leave the airport, ensure you allow ample time to return and consider using the MIA Mover for transportation.
There are several attractions near Miami Airport that you can consider visiting during your layover, including Wynwood, South Beach, Little Havana, and Key Biscayne. You can also take a bus or the Metrorail to Downtown Miami to explore its cultural offerings and diverse dining options.
Miami is known for its food and drinking culture, and you can find a variety of options within the airport and nearby. Outside the airport, you can explore the Wynwood Arts District, known for its street art, cafes, and bars. For a taste of Cuban cuisine, head to Versailles or La Carreta, which are easily accessible by taxi.
