• About Us
    • Where Do You Begin? Right Here!
    • News Segment Clips
    • Contact
      • Letโ€™s Work Together!
    • What I’m…
      • Giving Away!
      • In Love With…
  • Pillars
    • Reflect
    • Relate
    • Relax
    • Restore
  • Parenting
    • All Things School
    • Arts and Crafts
    • Disney
    • Family-Friendly Activities
    • Tips and Tricks
  • Lifestyle
    • Beauty
    • Books
    • Cleaning
    • Fashion
    • Food
      • Drinks
      • Recipes
      • Restaurant Reviews
      • Wine
    • Gardening
    • Gift Guides
    • Health
    • Holidays
    • Home Life
    • Organization
    • Pets
    • Reviews
    • Travel
      • Asia
      • Europe
      • Cruises
      • United States
    • Womanpreneurs
  • Shop
  • Calendar
    • LIVE in the Lounge Video Vault
  • Nav Social Menu

The Modern Mom Lounge

Lifestyle, Parenting, Food, & Travel

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

The Perfect Miami Staycation

Even though I only live about an hour or so away from one of the most exciting cities in the United States – Miami – I don’t visit there as much as I wish I could!

It’s time to plan the perfect Miami staycation and I’ve got the perfect itinerary for you…

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI

Check into the JW Marriott Marquis Miami.ย  Unpack your clothes and toiletries, and get ready for a fun day in the city!

When I visited there for the first time, I was in awe of the room size, but it was the bathroom that really wowed me.ย  The large soaker tub with a bathtub caddy tray and separate shower with rainfall shower heads were amazing, but the in-mirror TV was the kicker!

The floor to ceiling windows gave way to a beautiful water view.

JW Marriott Marquis View from the Hotel Room

Visit the 19th floor to enjoy the 3D Media Room.ย  Play basketball on the indoor regulation sized basketball court, JW Arena.

JW Marriott Marquis JW Arena basketball court

Break a sweat in the fitness center overlooking breathtaking water views.ย  Don’t forget to volley some tennis balls on the indoor tennis court!

I especially liked the virtual bowling alley, which was just one of the activities you could enjoy with the family within the sports and entertainment complex.

JW Marriott Marquis Rooftop Pool

WHAT TO DO

I have been dying to go to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science so when I was hosted to go, I jumped at the opportunity.ย  There’s something about science that has intrigued me since I was a little kid.

The first place I toured was the aquarium.ย  Each time I plan a vacation, I try to visit the local aquarium because there is something soothing and super cool at the same time about the underwater world.

Frost Science Museum Aquarium

There are so many exhibits to soak in, some there for a limited time, so be sure to check the calendar of events before visiting.

Frost Science Museum Exhibit

Right next door is the Perez Art Museum Miami.ย  Exhibits change throughout the year so be sure to check the website as well for and updated calendar of events and exhibits.ย  The gift shop had some really cool and different items – something for everyone!

Perez Art Museum Exhibit 2

 

WHERE TO EAT

One of my favorite meals is brunch.ย  Whenever we travel, whether it be a far away vacation or a staycation, we make sure to plan a special brunch.

This brunch adoration started when I met my husband.ย  We’d try out different local places to find the best of the best.ย  Some places had a coveted Bloody Mary bar, others offered their take on the traditional Eggs Benedict.

Boulud Sud, Chef Daniel Boulud’s newest venture within the Marriott Maquis in downtown Miami, has risen to my all-time favorite brunch spot.

Start with one of their signature cocktails (I went for a classic Bloody Mary, but there a few variations to choose from!), and then choose between the prix-fixe menu or a la carte.

Boulud Sud Brunch Octopus

Definitely, definitely, definitely order the Octopus a la Plancha.ย  as a starter.ย  The Burratina was super soft and tasty as well.

Boulud Sud Brunch Burratina

I opted for the Frenchie Burger – a perfectly prepared burger topped with tomato compote, rillon, and raclette; served with fries.

Boulud Sud Brunch Burger

Others at the table ordered the Tunisian Brik (a very cool presentation and tasty to boot), grilled steak and egg, and brioche french toast.

Boulud Sud Brunch Grilled Steak and Egg

Boulud Sud Brunch Tibetan Brik

If you’re looking for some Mexican food with a super cool atmosphere, check out Bakan.ย  Located in the Wynwood district, this indoor/outdoor dining spot also offers its patrons a behind the scenes look at how to make homemade tortillas via its open view kitchen.

Bakan

I recommend the guacamole to start, followed by Vuelve a la Vida – shrimp, calamari, octopus, scallops, guajillo and ancho chile tossed with lemon, orange and avocado.

Bakan guacamole

If you like fish, you have to try the Huachinango Entero.ย  It is a whole red snapper, prepared two different ways.ย  One half has an achiote rub, while the other half is prepared with a lemon, garlic, and parsley rub.ย  YUM.

Bakan Whole Fish

Don’t forget the short rib.ย  I can’t.ย  It was super, super soft and so tasty.

Bakan Short Rib

Walk around Wynwood and you’ll find basically any type of cuisine you can think of!

Have you ever visited Miami?ย  If so, please comment below with your favorite places to go and eat!

26 Comments Filed Under: United States Tagged With: Miami, staycation, travel

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. kumamonjeng says

    at

    This is a perfect staycation, the food, the view, the pool, the bowling lanes, so many things and activities to do here. Great for families or any type of gathering.

    Reply
  2. eli says

    at

    Miami sounds like a perfect city for a staycation! I wish I’ve actually had a chance to explore the city so I’ll consider this after I’ve properly done a vacation there

    Reply
  3. Michael says

    at

    What’s with Miami? Been seeing so many post about the city right now.. Did people migrate here all of the sudden?

    Reply
  4. Kuntala Banerjee says

    at

    The foods look interesting in Miami. Good post

    Reply
  5. krystal says

    at

    We are heading to Miami next month – I need to come to you with questions about where to stay and what to do!

    Reply
  6. Czjai says

    at

    This is my kind of staycation! Like you, I make it a point to visit the nearest museum whenever we travel. ๐Ÿ™‚

    Reply
  7. Emily Fata says

    at

    It looks like you had such an incredible time in Miami (just the Tampa Bay area)! I haven’t yet been myself, but I’d love to visit one day to see this all.

    Reply
  8. Mona says

    at

    I was just thinking about how I need a trip to Miami! I think this was a sign ๐Ÿ™‚ thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  9. kevin Akidi says

    at

    Great pictures. Miami is such a beautiful place, looks like you had fun. This is a good idea for things to do.

    Reply
    • Dana says

      at

      Thank you, Kevin!

      Reply
  10. Yeah Lifestyle says

    at

    My friend just told me that she has booked her holiday to Miami so this is the perfect blog post for her, I am gonna send this through as you have done your research well.

    Reply
  11. Laura says

    at

    There is lot of great things to do and the food looks so delicious x

    Laura
    https://pinkfrenzymissl.blogspot.com/

    Reply
  12. Alexandra Cook says

    at

    Oh my goodness I just want to climb into your pictures and never leave! Thank you so much for sharing such a gorgeous experience with all of us!

    Reply
  13. Mudpiefridays says

    at

    I want to visit Miami so badly. It would be such a beautiful place and these pictures really showcase that

    Reply
  14. Amy says

    at

    Never been to this place but that place looks very vibrant to relax and unwind. Looks like you had a great time there!

    Reply
  15. Diana says

    at

    How I wish I could come visit here soon! The perfect staycation

    Reply
  16. Catherine says

    at

    I’ve been dreaming of visiting Miami again for ages now! Looks like such a wonderful city to visit..so much fun and so much to do!

    Reply
  17. Samar says

    at

    Next time I am going to visit staycation for sure.

    loved your picture.

    Reply
  18. Suzanne says

    at

    Miami looks so fun! And the food looks delicious. I’ve always wanted to go.

    Reply
  19. Shannon Gurnee says

    at

    I love the idea of taking our kids on a staycation. Sounds like you had an amazing time

    Reply
  20. Quin Cl says

    at

    Miami is really a must-visit! I would definitely visit this place soon. ๐Ÿ™‚

    Reply
  21. Ainsley says

    at

    loved your picture.

    Reply
  22. Danielle Wahlstrom says

    at

    My husband and I have been talking about a Miami trip next time we visit my in-laws in Florida. Thank you for the tips!

    Reply
  23. Bindu Thomas says

    at

    You sure seemed to have a great time. The food looked quite interesting too.

    Reply
  24. Eloise says

    at

    I have yet to venture to Miami… I’ve been to Florida several times, just not Miami. I would like to someday soon. When I do, I’ll have to follow your staycation spot ideas… thanks!

    Reply
  25. Kalyan Panja says

    at

    The hotel looks perfect for a staycation in Miami. The gastronomic offer is splendid and is inducing me to plan a visit soon to this paradise.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Footer

Looking for something? Maybe we can help!

Copyright © 2021 · The Modern Mom Lounge · Design by Studio Mommy

Happy #nationalsiblingsday ๐Ÿ’“ this is the first Happy #nationalsiblingsday ๐Ÿ’“ this is the first in a long time that we're together to celebrate!
SATURDAYS ARE FOR STELLA! G snapped this epic pic SATURDAYS ARE FOR STELLA!

G snapped this epic pic of our little lady admiring the sunset. 

Are you more of a sunrise or sunset person? #themodernmomlounge #modernmomlounge #TMML #lifestyleblogger #WFHM #workingmom #workingmother  #lifestyleblog #lblogger #lifestylebloggers #doglover  #momboss #lifestyles #mombloggers #southfloridablogger #doodlesofinstagram #goldendoodlesofinstagram #goldendoodle
#TBT our staycation at @_cranesbeachhouse in Delra #TBT our staycation at @_cranesbeachhouse in Delray Beach. 

Have you been to Delray? 

We woke up early the first day to explore what Atlantic Avenue has to offer. 

Delray Beach, known as the Village by the Sea, is the perfect place for a little getaway - it's filled with boutiques ๐Ÿ›, restaurants๐Ÿฒ, and don't forget the beautiful beach! โ›ฑ
To be back in the mountains... To be back in the mountains...
It has been a really long time since I've introduc It has been a really long time since I've introduced myself! (Actually I don't remember if I ever have ๐Ÿคฃ). Here it goes!

๐Ÿ‘ฌ I am married for 18 years & am a super proud mom of two boys and one furry daughter, Stella ๐Ÿ•

โœ I love to write and never really thought I did until I started blogging 13 years ago. It started out as Pellerini, morphed for a very short time to Modern Xennial, and has been The Modern Mom Lounge for 8 months. No, I'm not rebranding again LOL

๐Ÿ’“ I love pilates. Like LOVE pilates. 

๐Ÿน When I was little I was shot in the face with a bow and arrow.
OK, so I wasnโ€™t really shot in the face with a bow and arrow, but I wanted to see 1 โ€“ if you were really paying attention and 2 โ€“ to make my close friends and family laugh. ย I did tell my parents that I was shot in the face in summer camp when I was little. ย I started with drama at a very young age

๐Ÿ“š I love to read basically any genre

I'd love to get to know you a bit better. Tell me a fun fact about yourself in the comments below!
SATURDAYS ARE FOR STELLA ๐Ÿ• Quality time betwee SATURDAYS ARE FOR STELLA ๐Ÿ•

Quality time between Stella and her favorite human ever. She looks quite comfy, right?
#FridayFeels I am so glad it's Friday! This week #FridayFeels I am so glad it's Friday!  This week was a busy one - super productive with a 24ish hour trip to Arizona for work. 

I got to wake up to this gorgeous view of the mountains โ›ฐ๐Ÿ˜

This weekend I'm definitely taking  advantage of no scheduled games - sleeping late, massage, relaxing, going through the 9,000 magazines piling up on my coffee table...

What are your weekend plans?