Blake Walsh

18 Best Things to Do in the Miami Design District

  • Published 2022/05/30

The Design District in Miami was a prominent hub of art and design in the early 1900s.

It had fallen into disrepair by the 1980s and early 1990s, and it wasn’t until the late 1990s and early 2000s that art and design stores began to reopen.

The Design District is now a posh fashion district and a one-stop shop for art, culture, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

There are many free community activities, including the Miami Design District Performance Series, a twice a month public concert.

Over 80 boutiques and 70 home design showrooms are located in the Design District.

Thanks to significant governmental and private investment, the neighborhood’s infrastructure and parks are improved.

Check out the best things to do in the Miami Design District, FL!

Get Amazed by the Fly’s Eye Dome

Daytime view of the Fly's Eye Dome

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The Fly’s Eye Dome was designed in 1965 by R. Buckminster Fuller.

He created the dome to envision a cheap, movable home with solar panels and water collection devices, allowing the structure to be self-sufficient.

He died before his idea for the structure could be realized.

Closer details of Fly's Eye Dome

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The Monohex version of the geodesic dome may be the predecessor to today’s green building movement almost 50 years later.

Craig Robins, a collector, purchased the 24-foot prototype in 2011 to exhibit it and use it as inspiration for a vital part of the Miami Design District.

Thousands of people visit this prototype each year, making it one of the most popular attractions in the neighborhood.

The Fly's Eye Dome surrounded with a pond

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View World-Class Art at De La Cruz Collection

If you’re in Miami Design District and searching for something artistic, the De La Cruz Collection is the place you don’t want to miss!

The public can view the artworks of a changing lineup of foreign artists in the private De La Cruz Collection.

It houses the museum’s art collection and is accessible to the public.

The De La Cruz Collection, housed in a 30,000-square-foot facility designed by John Marquette, first opened in 2009.

Isa Genzken, Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Mark Bradford, and Nate Lowman are among the artists in the collection.

Explore Haiti at the Haitian Heritage Museum

The Miami Design District is home to world-class cultural property.

The Haitian Legacy Museum is a non-profit dedicated to conserving and promoting Haiti’s rich culture and heritage.

They hope to leave a legacy for future generations through digitization, education, media, and culturally appropriate partnerships.

The museum is a hotspot for Little Haiti, with Haitian art, historical objects, music, and literary works available locally and abroad.

Eveline Pierre and Serge Rodriguez founded the Haitian Heritage Museum in 2004.

Appreciate Modern Architecture at the City View Garage

Modern art, architecture, and design flourish in the Miami Design District.

Giant real estate companies commissioned the City View Garage, designed by Iwamoto Scott in cooperation with Leong Leong and John Baldessari.

The City View Garage is an attractive combination of powerful geometric forms that recalls the surrounding neighborhood and statement.

This could be a perfect neighborhood for inspiration if you are into building establishments!

The building’s exterior commands attention from the freeway, serving as a billboard promoting the Design District.

Visit the Fantastic Playscape of Dozie Kanu

Dozie Kanu was given the 2018 holiday commission for the Miami Design District, a permanent component of the district.

Kanu illuminates the significance of curiosity, focusing on children, to embellish the neighborhood with a fantastical playscape.

The installation incorporates the building of large-scale climbing structures throughout the area.

The installation is an outgrowth of his “A Curious Mind” exhibition at the Bass Museum of Art, examining how curiosity moves individuals and societies forward.

Kanu believes that curiosity is a quality that children must get and foster.

Additionally, he believes that if people can instill a sense of curiosity in children at a young age, they will be better off as adults.

Play with Colors with Gaetano Pesce’s Architectural Design

Gaetano Pesce is a renowned architect, designer, and artist from Italy.

Since he opened his own studio in Milan in the 1960s, he has been a trailblazer in design.

He co-founded Studio Pesce with his wife, Anna Castelli Ferrieri, in 1975.

MadLab, the newest pop-up ice cream and chocolate shop in the Miami Design District will incorporate Gaetano’s distinctive façade and interior floor design across their retail area.

Besides his architectural achievements, he developed furniture and industrial design pieces displayed in museums worldwide.

His creations are distinguished by their use of vivid hues, unconventional shapes and forms, and emphasis on wood, plastic, and glass.

Dine at Michael’s Genuine

Michael’s Genuine is a restaurant in the center of the Miami Design District that is perfect for a quick layover dinner or a quick trip over the causeway from Miami Beach.

Michael’s main restaurant has been serving the neighborhood since 2007.

They serve a wide range of foods, including fish, chicken, veggies, and pizzas.

Small plates shine on a weekly-changing savory and sweet dishes menu for Sunday Brunch.

It’s the ideal, unforgettable way to spend the weekend’s final day!

Michael’s Genuine creates a fantastic experience with its delicious meals and attentive service.

Party with Friends at Mandolin Aegean Bistro

Mandolin Aegean Bistro is an excellent location for a tasty lunch while feeling like you’re in Greece.

While enjoying the taste and traditions of the Aegean, the place provides a dose of warm, authentic Mediterranean friendliness.

Ahmet Erkaya and Anastasia Koutsioukis started the company.

In 2009, Mandolin Aegean Bistro debuted in Miami Design District.

They renovated a 1940s property with one of Miami’s most famous gardens and outdoor patio space, where every detail counts.

The pair brought their mixed culture and enthusiastic hospitality to Miami’s dining scene.

The culinary crew interpreted traditional Greek, and Turkish seaside dishes and seasonality as the restaurant evolved.

Enjoy Authentic Pizza at Harry’s Pizzeria

Who doesn’t love authentic Italian pizza at the Miami Design District?

Executive Chef Michael Schwartz, a James Beard Award winner, created Harry’s Pizzeria to provide a venue where great people could enjoy a terrific dinner.

It’s about savoring the little things in life, like excellent cuisine that tastes amazing, and appreciating those moments when you have time to calm down and enjoy life.

Harry’s Pizzeria in Miami Design District has no frills, just good cuisine in a friendly atmosphere.

Fresh, chef-curated toppings and a delicate, quick-fired crust are also among the restaurant’s best-seller.

Experience Luxurious Design at Museum Garage

Colorful exterior of Museum Garage

Julien Jean Zayatz / Shutterstock.com

The Museum Garage in Miami Design District is a work of art standing seven stories tall and accommodating 800 vehicles.

It showcases the work of five world-renowned architects and designers.

Architect Terence Riley managed the project inspired by the parlor game Exquisite Corpse.

Building design of Museum Garage

Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock.com

Artists create drawings with no care or knowledge of what the other artists have drawn, resulting in a single artwork whose components don’t match but flow together as one amusing creation.

Museum Garage’s five varied facades integrate into the neighborhood.

Each has special lighting to highlight its uniqueness under the night sky, making it the most beautiful form of many personalities.

Book Your Event at MIA Market!

Have you been looking for a venue for your upcoming company holiday party?

What about a wine tasting?

MIA Market will take care of you.

MIA Market is a chef-driven food hall with a carefully chosen selection of local culinary and beverage talent.

Their goal is to provide consumers with new flavors and experiences while allowing chefs to show their ingenuity.

You can find MIA Market on the second floor of the Palm Court in the Miami Design District.

They create event meals based on the needs and preferences of your guests.

Get Something Luxurious at Berluti

In Miami’s Design District, Berluti is a high-end men’s clothing store specializing in luxury goods.

From leather jackets to retro-chic bags, you’ll find it all here.

Simple materials and excellent craftsmanship maintain the store’s sophisticated appearance.

Berluti’s ready-to-wear collection in the United States is new, but it has already proven to be a hit with customers here in the United States.

Visit the store to appreciate the store’s layout, design, and creative aspects.

Buy Your Man Some Time at Jaeger-Lecoultre

Look no further than Jaeger-Lecoultre if you want a watch that will make your friends and colleagues jealous.

These timepieces are the best in their class and can cost upwards of $40,000!

There aren’t many watches on the market that can compare to a Jaeger-Lecoultre eye in design, beauty, and detail.

Jaeger is one of the oldest and most respected watch brands globally.

They’re adding a touch of refinement and timelessness to this already fantastic collection of luxury brands and upmarket boutiques by opening a store in the Miami Design District.

Experience Fine Dining at Cote Miami

If you’re looking for a Michelin-starred restaurant, James Beard Award-nominated Korean steakhouse is the right destination.

In Miami’s Design District, COTE is a 5,892-square-foot restaurant known for combining Korean barbecue’s joy and fire with a classic, royal American steakhouse.

The menu features prime dry-aged beef, nutrient- and probiotic-rich side dishes, and an upgraded Steak Omakase experience.

The beautiful 100+ seat dining area offers an intimate, participatory experience with state-of-the-art tabletop grills.

The design highlights include a sophisticated dry-aging area and two private dining rooms.

James Beard nominated COTE’s 1200+ label wine list for the “Outstanding Wine Program” award for the second chance in a row.

Have a Breakfast at the Famous OTL

When you’re looking for a cozy spot in Miami Design District to get some work done, OTL is the place to be.

OTL is a popular local hangout for coffee, breakfast, drinks, sandwiches, and pastries in a more open, photogenic setting.

You will surely get addicted to the nut butter toast, including the Matcha lattes and rotating kombuchas.

Additionally, there are several vegan and gluten-free options on the menu.

Come by for your morning coffee run or after work to unwind with friends!

Attend Big Events at Jungle Plaza

If you’re looking for a big enough event space to hold an entire festival, look further than Jungle Plaza in Miami Design District.

The Plaza highlights over 20,000 square-foot events and a 6,500 square-foot tent with adjustable walls.

The Plaza gets its name from a giant “Jungle” painting painted by collaborative art company 2×4, which gives a visual reprieve while referencing the South Florida nature.

Flotsam & Jetsam, one of the world’s most unique 3D printed items, is present at Jungle Plaza.

What else? They hold frequent yoga activities that you may want to attend if you are a yoga enthusiast.

Relax at Ahana Yoga Studio

Ahana Yoga Studio in Miami Design District dedicates its expertise to making the world better.

They offer classes for all levels of yogis, from beginners to experienced pupils.

Five classes are available, including ones created only for athletes, runners, and surfers.

Workshops in advanced positions such as Vrksasana are also available.

They know how to help folks who have never tried yoga before and those who have been doing it for years!

Experience Celebrity-Owned Dining at Swan & Bar Bevy

Swan, located in Miami Design District, is an indoor and outdoor eating experience by David Grutman and Pharrell Williams.

The menu at Swan comprises seasonal and market-driven ingredients that place bold flavors at the forefront of the dining experience.

They offer a variety of choices, with outstanding rustic cuisine and convivial communal dining.

Swan’s colorful and contemporary décor emanates a laid-back yet elegant atmosphere.

Guests can have their lunch at one of the tables along the windows overlooking 15th Street or on the terrace of Washington Avenue.

Those who wish to sip a drink while waiting for a table can do so at the expansive bar.

Final Thoughts

There’s a lot more to it than what’s on the list.

If you’re searching for the typical Miami shopping experience, this is the place to go!

There are high-end fashion boutiques such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and more luxury brands.

This region has become one of the most famous shopping places for tourists in Miami.

Plan your visit and start saving for your next luxurious shopping and vacation in the Miami Design District neighborhood.

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