The Miami Design District is where style, art, and culinary innovation come together. This chic neighborhood, just north of Midtown, is known for its luxury boutiques, high-end architecture, and bold public art — but there’s so much more to explore than meets the eye.
From design-forward museums to decadent desserts and elevated eats, the Design District is a must-visit for curious travelers and culture lovers alike. And the good news is that we at Miami Culinary Tours know this neighbourhood like the back of our hand! That’s why we provide our highly popular Miami Design District Walking Food Tour.
Our expert guides will take you beyond the boutiques and share the stories behind the art and food while showing you the best bites, the most striking installations, and the hidden gems only locals know about.
But until then, here are five must-visit spots to get you started on your Design District adventure! If you have any questions for us, please just get in touch for the answers you need.
At the heart of Palm Court, MIA Market is a stylish, chef-driven food hall that brings together some of Miami’s most exciting culinary talents under one roof. Formerly known as Politan Row, this reimagined concept continues to be a go-to for food lovers, locals, and visitors alike — and it’s also the first stop on our Miami Design District Walking Food Tour.
With a curated lineup of independent kitchens, you’ll find something for every palate, from bold Latin flavors to innovative Italian fare, fresh seafood, modern Asian cuisine, and plant-based plates. The offerings are always evolving, making each visit a new discovery.
The layout is sleek, the vibe is lively, and the food speaks for itself. Whether you’re dining solo or with a group of friends, MIA Market is one of the must-visit places in the Miami Design District for a taste of the city’s creative energy.
Just downstairs from Politan Row, Palm Court is the heart of the Miami Design District. This elegant plaza is more than just a shopping destination — it’s a feast for the senses. The area is dotted with over 50 species of palm trees, high-end storefronts like Dior, Piaget, and Swatch, and some of the district’s most Instagrammable public art.
One of the standout pieces is Buckminster Fuller’s Fly’s Eye Dome, a striking geodesic structure that draws architecture buffs and curious onlookers alike. Keep an eye out for pop-up installations, art events, and even free yoga classes and wine tastings, especially during the cooler winter months.
This is the kind of place where you can sip a matcha, shop for fine jewelry, and experience art — all before noon.
What if your favorite cocktail came in the form of a silky scoop of ice cream? At Aubi & Ramsa, they’ve turned that fantasy into a luxury dessert experience. This 21+ ice cream “bar” specializes in alcohol-infused frozen treats that look as good as they taste. Imagine a rich Belgian chocolate truffle ice cream laced with Macallan 12-Year Scotch. Or a tangerine mimosa sorbet spiked with Moët & Chandon Brut. Every creation is crafted for indulgence.
Even the sleek, marble-accented shop feels like you’ve stepped into a luxury speakeasy. It’s equal parts boutique dessert shop and upscale cocktail lounge — just without the glassware.
Note: ID is required, and trust us — you’ll want to savor every adult spoonful.
If you’re looking for a taste of the real thing, don’t miss our blog about where to find the best Martinis in Miami.
Art lovers, this is your haven. The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA) is one of the city's most exciting and accessible cultural institutions. Housed in a striking modern building, this museum offers free admission year-round, making world-class art available to everyone.
Inside, you’ll find works by influential artists like Judy Chicago, Charles Gaines, and Yayoi Kusama, alongside emerging creators pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. The museum is bold, thoughtful, and always evolving.
The sculpture garden outside is equally captivating, with installations that blend seamlessly into the Design District’s architectural landscape. ICA also hosts lectures, youth programs, and rotating exhibitions that ensure no two visits are ever the same.
This is a must-visit whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking to escape the Miami heat in style.
Looking for more art-inspired recommendations? We think you’ll love reading our Art Lover’s Guide to Miami when you have finished here.
Now you know our picks for the five places you must visit in the Miami Design District, let’s take your exploring to the next level. Find out more about our Miami Design District Walking Food Tour and get to know this incredible corner of our city even better. And browse our wider range of Miami food and culture tours for even more inspiration!
Have any questions for the Miami Culinary Tours team? Please just contact us for the information you need.
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