About Miami's Historic Ocean Drive
Limo Service Miami FL . A 1.3 mile stretch of road and beach is all Ocean Drive is. Seriously, one mile. It must be crazy to think how such a small piece of land is inhabited by some of the greatest entertainment, hotels, restaurants, and culture imaginable, but let me tell you, it’s real and it’s here. Inaugurated in 1915, this thoroughfare has been one of if not the most iconic area in all of Miami. In fact, Ocean Drive is the pinnacle of the Miami image. When you think of Miami’s sandy beaches, sunny skies, and palm trees, you are thinking of Ocean Drive. The beauty of this area and its famous Art Deco are not only seen by locals and tourists alike, but has been timelessly captured for the world to see in famous TV shows and movies like the hit film Scarface and popular 80s TV show Miami Vice. At night, the miami skyline becomes the backdrop and the pastel lighting of the many Ocean Drive buildings illuminate the sky to create an emblematic view.
With so many incredible places throughout Ocean Drive, it may be difficult to just waltz through and find the perfect restaurant for your birthday dinner, or the most relaxing hotel for your family vacation. From the knowledge of the locals and regulars who frequent the area, a guide of the best of the best has been put together to make life easier, and more enjoyable while visiting the beauty that is Ocean Drive.
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Lodging & Hotels on Ocean Drive
Vacationing at Ocean Drive is an excellent decision. The splendor of the culture, atmosphere, and local business is unmatched, and the hotels are no different. From 5 star beachfront hotels, to adult only nightlife hotels, the all encompassing lodging of Ocean Drive is magnificent. These Art Deco hotels have been captured countlessly in popular media because of how appealing they look, and are no less appealing inside them. For those who like to party, the Clevelander Hotel is an adult only hotel with modern rooms and a lively bar scene. Its evergoing pool parties and drink specials make it a hotspot for party enthusiasts. The family friendly hotels in the area are just as incredible and fun filled. The Marriott Stanton South Beach is an oceanfront 4 star hotel with colorful rooms, expansive balconies, unbelievable views, and a mexican restaurant, Lolo’s Surf Cantina. A bit away, Sense Beach House has a design unlike any other Miami hotel, reminiscence of the Hamptons. Bright rooms, ocean views, a rooftop pool and restaurants make this hotel a paradise. For luxury indulgents, the Iconic mansion turned opulent boutique hotel, The Villa Casa Casuarina is the spot. What was once the Gianni Versace Mansion is now an extravagant hotel with gold lined pools, Egyptian linens, Italian marble, and Mediterranean cuisine.
Dining & Restaurants
Almost every type of restaurant can be found here in Ocean Drive. From beachfront pizza parlors, to authentic hibachi, there is food to satisfy every taste pallet. At the start of the day, many of the best restaurants open their doors and begin serving breakfast. The Front Porch Cafe is a trendy destination that features all day breakfast, jumbo portions, and daily happy hour making it a great place to start the day at. For brunch, The Local House is the place to go. A seafood-focused menu and cocktails make this ocean-themed eatery in the Sense Beach House Hotel seafood heaven. At lunchtime, there are many options available for dining. The many street side cafes and stalls are amazing places for classic and authentic food. Other dine in options include Sushi Siam, Larios on the Beach, Mango’s Tropical Cafe, and The Clevelander’s poolside restaurant. When dinner time rolls around, there is an array of various choices. A Fish Called Avalon is an upscale, five star seafood restaurant perfect for date night or a fancy night out. Gianni’s at The Villa Casuarina is another high end restaurant, which serves upscale Mediterranean food. Perhaps the most famous restaurant in all of Miami, Joe’s Stone Crab is a cavernous, bustling space specializing in crab, Key lime pie, and seafood classics. The first modern steakhouse in the United States, Prime 112 offers traditional steakhouse fare modernized to create a contemporary menu for today’s society.
Entertainment
The reason why Ocean Drive has earned such a distinct reputation is because of its many attractions and iconic scenery. In fact, its own Art Deco architecture has earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The history of the architecture dates back to the 1920s, and was the prime inspiration for the buildings of Ocean Drive. If you are interested in the history of the area, you can learn more at Art Deco District Welcome Center, which offers self-guided audio tours. The culture of Miami is extremely welcoming of everyone, and is long standing. The vast community of LGBT members here throughout history have prompted the inception of the LGBT Visitor Center, which sponsor events year round promoting cultural awareness and acceptance.
The most popular place at Ocean Drive is the beach. This should be obvious. The sunny skies and warm sand are a staple of Florida, and this beach stands out among them. Along the beach are various restaurants, stores, and hotels all packed with excitement and entertainment. Bar hopping and clubbing are prevalent in Ocean Drive, and The Clevelander is the place to party at. Its pool and bar make for outrageous events and a great time. The Nikki Beach Club is unlike most clubs because it combines the beach with a traditional nightclub to make a tropical party house. There are many other bars and clubs throughout the area, and are just as great. For shopping, there are designers stores everywhere. Armani, Kenneth Cole, Tommy Hilfiger, Club Monaco and DASH are some of the top places for to get trendy clothes. There are also an abundance of street vendors and stores that sell all types of goods.