The best things to do in Brickell for every budget
Looking for things to do in Brickell? You’re not alone, friend. Tons of people are now flocking to Miami’s financial district to see what all these new skyscrapers are gathering around. Quite a bit, it turns out. Brickell is living up to its mighty hype with a roster of great restaurants (some of the best restaurants in Miami, as a matter of fact), hip drinking establishments (including two of the best rooftop bars in Miami) and a big city vibe that sets it apart from everywhere else in Miami—and most of Florida, for that matter. In Brickell, everything is shiny, new and exciting. It is the Miami neighborhood looking toward the future while reaching for the clouds. So what’s in it for you? These are a good place to start. This list is curated, as always, but isn’t ranked—we just couldn’t choose favorites.
Best things to do in Brickell
Brickell City Centre
What is it? A shiny new outdoor retail center where you can easily spend a day shopping and eating your way into bankruptcy. The complex is impressive to say the least, deserving of a stroll whether or not you want to buy anything.
Why go? The City Centre is the crown jewel of Brickell, home to not only top-notch shopping but some great food as well. There’s a giant Italian food hall called La Centrale and the fancier, deliciously carb-y Casa Tua Cucina inside Saks Fifth Avenue.
Sugar
What is it? A lush rooftop bar where (fair warning) nothing is cheap. But the view (it’s on the 40th floor) is very worth it.
Why go? Because Brickell is home to Miami’s tallest skyscrapers, it’s also home to the city’s best rooftop bars with the best views. If, perhaps, Sugar has a big line outside (not a rare occurrence), try Whisper Lounge at the W. Its floor to ceiling windows will give you a great shot of the city.
La Mar
What is it? One of Miami’s best restaurants, in our humble opinion. Chef Diego Oka serves up creative Peruvian that combines imagination with local and seasonal ingredients.
Why go? In addition to the delicious food and waterfront view, La Mar gives you a chance to check out Brickell Key, a tiny island just a short bridge away from the edge of Brickell. And we’ll take any excuse to go to an island, no matter how small.
Mary Brickell Village
What is it? A collection of shops, restaurants and—most importantly—bars. Mary Brickell Village certainly ain’t no Brickell City Centre, but it’s home to some popular spots.
Why go? During the day, Mary Brickell is good for a quick lunch (a new Shake Shack will open before the end of 2018). But night sees the areas biggest crowds thanks to mainstay bars like Fado Irish Pub, home to Miami soccer hooligans and rowdy whiskey drinkers of all shapes.
Simpson Park Hammock
What is it? Is that…could it be…a park? In Brickell? Yes! It is, admittedly, a very small park (7.8 acres) but a park nonetheless.
Why go? Because Brickell ain’t exactly crawling with green space. Plus, this park is basically the only remaining proof of what Brickell used to look like before all these buildings and people arrived and many native plant species have been preserved here.
CMX Cinemas
What is it? A luxury movie theater with seats so comfy you just might not make it to the third act. Better order a craft cocktail and a cappuccino (both available for purchase throughout the movie) to ensure you see the final scene.
Why go? Is a $25 movie ticket worth it? When you throw in reclining seats, blankets, a hefty menu full of food and drinks (liquor included) and full service throughout your movie…it kind of is.
Marion
What is it? A French fusion restaurant adjacent to El Tucán where the food (although tasty) is not necessarily the main event.
Why go? We can safely bet you have never had a dinner like Marion’s Thursday Soirée, where, after the plates have been cleared, the lights dim and suddenly the dignified diners morph into table-dancing maniacs feasting on sparkling dessert platters. Or, maybe you have. If so, congrats on living your best damn life.
Soccer Rooftop
What is it? A pair of turf soccer fields on the roof of a Brickell building. Gather some friends and play six-on-six or stop by for weekly pick-up games. You can also rent them out for private parties.
Why go? Haven’t you heard? Miami has soccer fever. So you should probably brush up on your skills since Beckham and company are bringing the sport to the city. There’s also room to just sit and watch in case you’re more of a spectator.
American Social
What is it? A popular bar and restaurant that sits on some really prime real estate along the Miami River. Young and feeling slightly reckless? This is your weekend spot.
Why go? The Miami River cuts through Brickell, which makes it a great place to grab a drink or bite along the waterfront. At American Social, you can do both with satisfying quality. Friday happy hour (50 percent off select beer, wine and liquor) sees ferocious packs of thirsty professionals.
El Tucán Nightclub
What is it? Brickell’s only nightclub. Bottle service, DJs, high heels, the occasional Rick Ross cameo—you know the deal. It used to be home to a pretty neat Latin Cabaret but has since ended its shows and pivoted to the untz-untz.
Why go? Because you want a nightclub, and this is really the only place in Brickell to find that.
