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With its white beaches, balmy weather, upscale shopping malls, and swanky hotels, Miami is a coastal metropolis tucked in Miami-Dade County in the southeastern part of Florida. No wonder why it has become so popular among beach lovers seeking a budget holiday. Its downtown area has plenty of things to do and affordable places to stay. One can find a bustling scene of vacationers gallivanting from open-air malls to cultural venues such as the Adrienne Arsht Center or the Grand Opera. Its nightlife is electrifying thanks to the numerous options of bars, casinos, and nightclubs. Food lovers will find scrumptious dishes at many of its restaurants that offer a range of cuisines but mostly of Latin American and Caribbean influences. One fun fact about Miami is that it hosts most of the Michelin-starred restaurants in the state of Florida.

There is so much to like about Miami, especially the Bayside Marketplace. This affluent area is a real hubbub for tourists. It’s a one-stop shop for shopping, dining, and indulging in fun and entertaining activities. This two-story open-air shopping center lies in Downtown Miami at the foot of the Miamarina, facing Biscayne Bay. The center was established in 1987 to become a major entertainment complex right at the existing marina during the real estate boom in Miami. The place quickly became popular among filmmakers creating drama TV series such as Miami Vice. The modern complex is equipped with many restaurants, shops, kiosks, bars, and leisure activities including exhibitions and the Sky Views Miami observation wheel.

Where To Eat - Bayside Marketplace Miami

One of the main things that visitors of Bayside Marketplace look forward to is, hands down, the wide range of food. Bayside Marketplace is a real Mecca for food lovers seeking to tease their taste buds with different cuisines - think Latin to French delicious dishes. Take a break from shopping and head to the numerous eateries in the complex. One of the best ways to enjoy a well-deserved meal is by sitting outdoors just outside the food court on the second floor in the south wing.

Here diners will be able to tuck into some delicious steaks at the Nicaraguan steakhouse Los Ranchos or eat seafood at the Bubba Gump Shrimp while viewing the beautiful Biscayne Bay. For a refreshing cocktail drink to beat the summer heat, check out Mojito Bar and Lola Bar. Those with a sweet tooth can consider the Sugar Factory, a famed confectionery shop offering some pleasant delights, including milkshakes and delicious meals such as mac & cheese balls and Alfredo pasta. Guests will be able to dine in a vibrant setting, think of eye-catching flower walls offering an Instagrammable experience.

  • Recommended Places To Eat: Los Ranchos, Bubba Gump, Mojito Bar, Lola Bar, Captain Joe’s Seafood, Lombardi’s Ristorante, and Hard Rock Cafe.

Related: 7-Day Itinerary For Exploring The Best Of Miami

Where To Shop - Bayside Marketplace

Apart from the delicious food, Bayside Marketplace is also an ideal place for doing some shopping therapy with endless options to choose from. This complex is a perfect destination in Miami to combine both food and shopping together right at the same place. There are many renowned brands, from clothing to cosmetics. Expect to find shops such as Victoria’s Secret, Le Bowtique, Blanco by Nature, Perfumania, and GAP. Those yearning for some ‘me time can try the D’Nature Hair & Nail Salon and Alter Native Holistic Wellness. In addition, gamers can take a tour at the Game Stop, which is the only game store in the complex.

What To Do At Bayside Marketplace - Ride Skyviews

Get a 360-degree view of the gorgeous Biscayne Bay and Bayside Marketplace by taking a thrilling ride of the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel. Take a comfortable seat inside the climate-controlled and enclosed gondola and bask in the spectacular view of the surroundings at the height of 200 feet. In total, there are 42 gondolas, including one VIP Gondola decked out with leather bucket seats, a glass bottom floor, and a custom LED light show. Visitors can expect to enjoy the fun ride for between 12 and 15 minutes. This can be an interesting way to treat the whole family and friends with an exciting adventure.

Related: 10 Things Visitors Should Know Before Visiting Miami

  • Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States
  • Opening Hours: 1:00 p.m - 10:00 p.m; 12:00 p.m - 10:00 p.m
  • Ride Duration: 12 - 15 minutes
  • Tickets: $16.82 for adults, $12.85 for ages 4-12, and $14.95 for ages 65+ and those with the active military ID
  • Parking Rate At Bayside Marketplace: $12 - $80
  • Other Adventures: Cruises, fishing, Jet Ski tours, speed boats, bike tours, Walk of Fame at Bayside, and the Dino Safari offering Walk-Thru Adventure - perfect for a family getaway.