The Ultimate Guide to Brickell: Miami’s Glitzy Playground (Beyond Just Fancy Drinks)

Let’s be honest—when you think of Brickell, you probably picture skyscrapers, designer suits, and overpriced cocktails (looking at you, $18 mojitos).

But there’s way more to Miami’s financial district than just happy hour and luxury condos.

I’ve lived here long enough to know the hidden gems, the best eats, and the spots where you won’t need a trust fund to have fun.

So, whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor trying to avoid tourist traps, here’s the real scoop on the best things to do in Brickell.

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1. Eat Like a Local (Without Selling a Kidney)

Yes, Brickell has its share of see-and-be-seen spots, but you can actually get amazing food here without a celebrity paycheck.

Must-Try Bites:

✅ La Ventanita (Versailles) – The real Miami breakfast: Cuban coffee & pastelitos. Pro tip: Order a cafecito and a croqueta preparada—you’re welcome.

✅ Bunbury – Argentinian empanadas so good, you’ll forget about pizza.

✅ Motek – Israeli street food with a Miami twist. The hummus with lamb is life-changing.

😀 Best for: Foodies who want flavor over flash.

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2. Drink Without the Pretentious Vibes

Brickell’s bar scene can feel like a Wall Street afterparty, but there are actually cool spots where you won’t need a Rolex to get served.

Best Bars & Hangouts:

✅ Blackbird Ordinary – A real bar with great cocktails, zero bottle service nonsense.

✅ El Tucán – If you do want a fancy night out, this place has live music, burlesque, and killer mojitos.

✅ Brewing Underground – A hidden speakeasy-style brewery. Find the unmarked door—it’s part of the fun.

😀 Best for: People who like good drinks but hate velvet ropes.

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3. Explore Like a Tourist (But Cooler)

Brickell isn’t just high-rises—there’s art, history, and even nature if you know where to look.

Underrated Things to Do:

✅ Brickell City Centre – Yes, it’s a mall, but it’s a nice mall. Free events, rooftop views, and AC (a Miami necessity).

✅ Simpson Park Hammock – A tiny hidden jungle in the middle of the city. Perfect for a quick escape.

✅ Miami Circle – A 2,000-year-old Native American archaeological site right by the river. (Way cooler than it sounds.)

😀 Best for: People who think “exploring” doesn’t just mean “brunch hopping.”

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4. Party (But Not at LIV 2.0)

Brickell’s nightlife is more than just clubs with $500 tables.

Best Nightlife Spots:

✅ Sugar (EAST Miami Rooftop) – Skyline views + Asian-inspired cocktails = best date spot.

✅ El Patio Wynwood (Brickell outpost) – Reggaeton, cheap drinks, and no dress code.

✅ Dirty Rabbit – If you like mezcal and tacos at 2 AM, this is your place.

😀 Best for: People who want to dance without selling a kidney for bottle service.

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5. Work Out (Because You Ate All Those Empanadas)

Brickell is full of fitness fanatics, but you don’t need a $300/month gym membership to join in.

Best Ways to Burn Off the Cafecitos:

✅ Brickell Run Club – Free weekly runs (with beer after, because balance).

✅ Riverside Trail – A scenic waterfront walk away from traffic.

✅ Yoga at The Wharf – Outdoor yoga with skyline views.

😀 Best for: People who want to stay fit but still enjoy life.

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