A box of chocolates and a dozen roses—it’s been done. Get creative when looking for romantic inspiration on how to spend an anniversary, birthday or even Valentine's Day with your sweetie. After all, Miami has enough romantic spots that just choosing one is tough.
The Biltmore Hotel
Nestled within the "City Beautiful" of Coral Gables, The Biltmore Hotel’s grandeur, with its manicured lawns and towering architecture, is unmistakable. Their legendary brunch, soothing spa and enviable golf course make for an unforgettable experience.
Spend the day together swinging away on the greens then settle in for a delectable Sunday champagne brunch ($85). Toast with unlimited bubbly or Bellinis and savor caviar, a variety of shellfish, carved meats and a wall of desserts to finish the meal. Then, relax at their elegant spa with a Swedish or Thai massage, signature Chardonnay massage or full-body treatment in their Lotus Rose Sanctuary.
Perez Art Museum Miami
The Port of Miami’s massive cruise ships are a sight to behold, now picture seeing them depart from a spectacular outdoor patio at the Perez Art Museum Miami. Better known as PAMM, Downtown Miami’s world-class museum is a glorious architectural structure set along Biscayne Bay. Walk through the lush hanging garden, Museum Park or sit on the steps that descend onto the waterfront.
End the day with a romantic meal at Verde, the museum’s restaurant with an equally stunning waterfront view and carefully crafted menu filled with a selection of pizzas, small plates, fresh salads and creative cocktails.
Island Queen Cruises
Board the Island Queen yacht docked at Bayside Marketplace in downtown Miami for a romantic night on Miami’s waterways. Choose from daytime, sunset or the two-hour Valentine’s Day cruise on their Miami Lady multi-level vessel. Stay indoors or enjoy the ocean breeze on the air-conditioned top deck. Either way, the view is breathtaking and the unlimited beer, wine and champagne keep the mood going. What’s date night without a little chocolate and dancing? They’ve got you covered with a chocolate fountain and music by DJ Chris.
Juvia
What’s so romantic about a restaurant in a parking garage? When it’s on South Beach and it’s Juvia in an ultramodern chic space atop a designer garage, overlooking Lincoln Road it sure is. A wall of greenery and glowing lights shining from within the reflecting pools set the tone. Striking skyline views complete with a menu of eclectic Asian, French and Peruvian dishes prepared in an open kitchen, complete the experience. Whether you dine indoors or al fresco, the scenery is undeniably South Beach.
SoundScape Park
One of Miami Beach’s newest outdoor spaces, SoundScape Park at the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center campus, is where the New World Symphony performs. Pack a picnic then spread a blanket on the park’s many grassy areas. You can also spend the afternoon or evening under the luscious palm trees either watching a live symphony performance or a classic movie on the state-of-the-art, 7,000-square-foot projection wall.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Lush, manicured colorful gardens surrounding a bayfront Mediterranean-style mansion are the ultimate in romance. It’s what James Deering created when he built Villa Vizcaya now known as Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Meander through the expansive gardens where a hidden path leads to the open view of the bay. On your way grab a bite at the café and search for one-of-a-kind gifts in the shop. Stand together and marvel at the beauty from the wide terrace that descends toward the water. Inside, tour the first and second floors, climbing winding staircases and overlooking an open-air patio from covered open-air walkways. Located in Coconut Grove, east of Downtown Miami and near South Beach, the $18 admission is a bargain.
The Barnacle Historic State Park
Spend an afternoon walking through this historic home’s lovely grounds and charming interior. Built in 1891, The Barnacle Historic State Park is a hidden jewel of Miami’s Coconut Grove, one of the city’s oldest, most quaint neighborhoods. The home is surrounded by a hardwood hammock, which features a canopy tree-lined walking trail. Most romantic of all is standing on the home’s expansive backyard with its spectacular view of sailboats bobbing in the water.
Painting with a Twist
Artists leading classes at Painting with a Twist help even first-timers feel comfortable putting brush to canvas. Paint an original masterpiece for each other sitting side-by-side while enjoying a glass of wine. With classes like Whitewashed Flowers, Too Many Martinis and Star-Crossed Lovers this will be a Valentine’s Day memory in the making. Check the website for a schedule of public classes or for info on private theme night events.
The Beaches
There's always the beach—where the options are endless along the stretch of coastline—Miami Beach. Take a stroll along the sands then explore Collins Avenue for shopping and a bite to eat. If you prefer a bike ride, head to the boardwalk that runs parallel to the ocean in North Beach. Mid-beach is also great for a day of soaking up the rays on the sand then drinking cocktails poolside at the world-famous Fontainebleau or Eden Roc hotels.
