Travel

A Guide to Miami’s Wynwood Art District

December 12, 2017

“Imagine a city where graffiti wasn’t illegal, a city where everybody could draw whatever they liked. Where every street was awash with a million colours and little phrases. Where standing at a bus stop was never boring. A city that felt like a party where everyone was invited, not just the estate agents and barons of big business. Imagine a city like that and stop leaning against the wall – it’s wet.” ― Banksy

Are you planning a trip to visit Wynwood? If so, this guide lists all the important information needed for a successful trip to one of Miami’s trending neighborhoods. From some of the top foodie restaurants to the most Insta-worthy mural locations, I’ve got you covered.

What is Wynwood

Wynwood is a neighborhood in Miami, Florida that contains over 70 galleries, museums and art collections. Wynwood is bursting with vibrant street artwork, restaurants, breweries, clothing stores, club venues and shopping. Wynwood hasn’t always been an eclectic district, as it was formerly an industrial district. 30 artists traveled from around the world to create what is now the Wynwood Walls, leading to major increase in other street art in the surrounding area. Since the introduction of Second Saturday Art Walk and the arrival of Art Basel, the influence of the arts community in Wynwood has become undeniable. Today, Wynwood is recognized globally as a destination for art, fashion, innovation and creative enterprise. It is one of the largest and most prominent creative communities in the United States.

Where is Wynwood

Wynwood is located north of Downtown Miami. The Wynwood Art District is one of the most popular sites to visit in the heart of Miami, Florida. This area is highlighted by colorful murals that cover the walls of many of the buildings.

Where to Stay

Depending on your itinerary and overall plans during your trip to Miami, I would recommend staying in any of these three locations:

Brickell

Downtown Miami

Miami Beach/South Beach

I would highly recommend the Brickell area due to it’s location. Brickell is in the heart of the city with gorgeous panoramic views of Miami and conveniently within walking distance from Mary Brickell Village, Bayfront Park, American Airlines Arena and surrounding tourist spots, like Little Havana and Brickell City Centre. To get to South Beach and Wynwood, is just a short 10-20 minute drive away.

How to Get to Wynwood

Whether you’re a local or tourist, you will have to drive to Wynwood. If you don’t have a car, Uber is the way to go! Even though I am a local, I often Uber to Wynwood because it’s easier then driving. If you plan to hop around to the breweries then you should definitely leave your car behind.

If you decide to drive, just know that you will have to pay to park. There is plenty of street parking in the area, however, you should download the Pay by Phone app in order to park. The app is very convenient as it lets you extend your parking on your phone and sends you reminders so you can avoid getting a ticket. Download the app ahead of time and save yourself the headache.

Tips

  • Avoid visiting during the HOT Summer months, unless you want to sweat to death! Best months to visit Miami are November-March as the weather is typically cooler. If you do visit during the Summer, prepare by bringing ice cold water, wear light clothing and a portable hand held fan.
  • I recommend visiting during the week to avoid the crowds, however if you’re unable to then arrive early in the morning on the weekend.
  • Give yourself plenty of time to explore. You can spend several hours just walking up and down the streets exploring the murals. If you are in a rush, you will miss some of the best walls.
  • Bring your camera. In fact, bring all the cameras you have because Wynwood is completely Insta-worthy!
  • Don’t forget to look where you’re walking! Literally, look down at your feet. You will find sayings all over the sidewalk.

 

Exploring Wynwood Walls and Murals

Wynwood is a place where you can literally spend hours wandering around, checking out the gorgeous, vibrant walls/murals painted by artists from all over the world.

Arrive EARLY! If your goals are to take photos without being rushed, sweating or have other people in your shot then I would recommend going around 8 AM (take traffic into consideration if you’re going on a weekday). By arriving this early you can walk the streets and explore many of the murals and then grab breakfast.

The Wynwood Walls open at 10:30 AM, so I would recommend heading there as soon as they open so you are one of the first people to enter. The early lighting in the morning is always the best time to snap pictures and the temperature isn’t unbearable.

One of the best things about visiting the Wynwood Walls and murals is that it’s free! The whole district of Wynwood is the art centre of Miami. Just have your camera ready and wander around the streets and start discovering on your own!

Where to Eat

The Salty Donut

The Salty Donut is an artisanal donut and coffee shop with high quality natural ingredients.

The Salty Donut is all about small batches, big smiles!

Best Seller: Guava and Cheese Donut

Cielito

Cielito is a paleta shop located in one of the most iconic Wynwood buildings.

They create fresh and insanely delicious ice and cream pops with local ingredients.

Best Seller: Guava and Cheese Pop

Coyo Taco

Authentic-style street tacos with a slight local-Miami twist.

Great spot if you’re craving fresh Mexican food after a night of partying.

Zak The Baker

A busy bakery serving open faced sandwiches and homemade soups.

The bakery is strictly kosher, so the menu only includes dairy, vegetable, fish, and egg dishes.

Wynwood Kitchen and Bar

Wynwood Kitchen and Bar is located inside the Wynwood Walls,

providing the perfect atmosphere to take in the art while munching on tapas.

Where to Drink

Wood Tavern

2531 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33127

Beaker and Gray

2637 N. Miami Avenue, Miami FL 33127

El Patio

167 NW 23rd Street, Miami FL. 33127

Wynwood Brewing Company

565 NW 24 Street, Miami FL 33127

Gramps

176 NW 24th St, Miami, FL 33127

Lagniappe

3425 NE 2nd Ave, Miami FL 33137

Looking for more recommendations on places to eat? Check out my post on Where to Eat and Drink in Miami.

There you have it! Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or just an art lover, Wynwood is a place that should definitely be at the top of your list.

Have you seen any of these walls before? Would you visit Wynwood?


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  1. You are absolutely beautiful and these walls are pretty amazing too. Loved visiting this area and we’re actually sailing by Miami right now!

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