If you're looking for an international escape but want to keep your passport at home, consider planning a vacation to Miami. The worldly city is located on Florida's southeastern tip.
Its Cuban influence is reflected in the cafes and cigar shops that line Calle Ocho in Little Havana. On barrier islands across the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay is Miami Beach, home to South Beach. This glitzy neighborhood is famed for its colorful art deco buildings, white sand, surfside hotels and trendsetting nightclubs. Glamour aside, the city has plenty of quality restaurants, bars and attractions to appease any budget traveler.
It’s more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from Houston to Miami in the next few months, and the prices aren't too shabby.
So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)
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Cheapest Miami flights
The cheapest flights between Houston and Miami are if you leave on Aug. 24 and return from Florida on Aug. 27. American Airlines currently has tickets for $138, roundtrip.
There are also deals to be had in June. If you fly out of Houston on June 16 and return from Miami on June 18, United can get you there and back for $203 roundtrip.
Top Miami hotels
To plan your accommodations, here are some of Miami’s top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.
The Fontainebleau (4441 Collins Ave.)
If you're looking to treat yourself, consider The Fontainebleau Miami Beach. The hotel has a 4.5-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $399.
The Fontainebleau overlooks the beach and stands three miles from South Beach and Lincoln Road shops.
The W South Beach (2201 Collins Ave.)
There's also the 4.6-star rated The W South Beach. Rooms are currently set at $359/night.
The W is located on 300 feet of oceanfront property and features 408 rooms. The hotel also has a spa and gym.
The Mandarin Oriental (500 Brickell Key Drive)
A third option is The Mandarin Oriental. With a 4.9-star rating on Skyscanner, the hotel is one of the most luxurious in the city. Rooms are currently listed for $299/night.
"The rooms are great and its super convenient for business," wrote visitor Raz. "All in all, the place was clean, nicely decorated and offered good service."
Featured Miami food and drink
If you're looking for a popular spot to grab a bite, Miami has plenty of excellent eateries to choose from. Here are a few from Skyscanner's listings to help you get started.
Joe's Stone Crab (11 Washington Ave.)
One of Miami's most popular restaurants is Joe's Stone Crab, which has an average of 4.6 stars out of 87 reviews on Skyscanner.
"Joe’s is a Miami Beach institution! What started as a classic seafood house has taken the top spot in Miami eateries," wrote Max.
Versailles Cuban Restaurant (3501 S.W. Eighth St.)
Another popular dining destination is Versailles Cuban Restaurant, with 4.4 stars from 93 reviews.
"An amazing selection of Cuban cuisine with great service," wrote reviewer James.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro (4312 N.E. Second Ave.)
Finally, there's Mandolin Aegean Bistro.
"This was very authentic and truly delicious. I’d highly recommend the grilled octopus, the meze, the meatballs and the Greek salad. The wine list is also very reasonable," wrote Shane.
Top Miami attractions
To round out your trip, Miami offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are two top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens (3251 S. Miami Ave.)
First up is Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
Spend hours exploring the 10 acres that the villa sits on. Take walks through the gardens, spend some time at the waterfalls and fountains and take pictures at the reflecting pools.
"Well worth a half-day visit," wrote visitor Shane. "The gardens are lovely and good fun for kids to run around and get lost. There is a cafe in the main house. Great views across to Key Biscayne too."
Wynwood Walls (2520 N.W. Second Ave.)
Finally, consider checking out Wynwood Walls, a permanent outdoor mural exhibit featuring some of the world's most renowned street artists. Wynwood is also home to The Armory Studios, a recording studio and event space.
"This a great place to spend the afternoon. It’s free to visit, and there is loads of incredible art to be seen," wrote visitor Alexandra.
This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
