Miami doesn’t really need any introduction as it is already well known across the globe for its glitz and glamor, beaches, and sunny weather. As a travel nurse, there is so little time to stop at all the places you’ve researched during your 13-week travel assignment. It can even be hard to pick the top places to visit on your days off.
Believe us when we say we understand. That’s why we’ve preselected a few locations to help you make the most of your time during your travel nurse assignment. Check out this list of things to do and places to see while in the Magic City.
The Noms
It doesn’t make sense to travel without trying the food, right? Here are a few gems that will have you coming back for more.
World Famous House of Mac
Located in Wynwood, House of Mac is a casual spot with friendly staff, great ambiance, and of course, mouthwatering eats. The owner and chef Derrick Turton, also known as “Chef Teach,” worked with music artists such as Pitbull before turning to his thriving business. As the name implies, mac and cheese is the most popular dish, with options including jerk chicken mac and the pizza mac and cheese. However, you can’t go wrong with the other menu options.
Boia De
Boia De is tucked away in an unassuming strip mall and is only identifiable by a giant purple neon exclamation point. This cozy Italian spot has a limited menu, but you can’t go wrong with any selection as they serve some of the most creative dishes in the city. Many offerings vary daily depending on what’s fresh, but mainstay items like Crispy Polenta with marinated eggplant are consistently fantastic.
Do yourself a favor and ask for a recommendation from the wine list—it’s packed with stuff you’ve never heard of that you’ll spend years trying to track down again.
Fireman Derek’s
When it comes to pie and satisfying your sweet tooth, Fireman Derek is your guy. The real-life City of Miami firefighter began selling key lime pies in Wynwood and also owns his own place in Coconut Grove. The colorful storefront and robust flavors have earned Derek the attention of Paula Deen and dessert lovers all over the city. While he currently serves various pies, cakes, and other homemade bakery items, the key lime pie still remains the star of the show.
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Must-See Locations
Stop at these destinations when you get time off. Be sure to take plenty of pictures and send them to your travel nurse agency or travel advocate.
Wynwood Walls
This open-air street art installation is one of the largest in the world—covering more than 80,000 square feet. Brought about by Tony Goldman in 2009, the district has attracted big names in the world of street art, and more than 50 artists from 16 countries have brought the walls to life. Wander around on your own or sign up for a guided tour. See famous name artists and purchase prints in the Wynwood Walls Museum along with 35 walls, retail shops, and galleries. This area used to be free, but now a small admission fee is charged.
Bayside Marketplace
Situated between Bayfront Park, Miamarina, and the PortMiami cruise ship terminal, Bayside Marketplace is a hub for tourists who want to shop, dine, and people-watch. Hosting over 150 specialty and tourist shops, cafes, and restaurants, this place has it all. The outdoor mall is located along Miami’s waterfront, looking out over docks and boats, and many people come here simply to soak up the atmosphere. The marketplace also features live music from local bands every afternoon and evening, tour boat services, and the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel—a brand new attraction towering 200 feet in the air.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Recognized as one of Miami’s greatest treasures, The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, with its stunning architecture, grounds, and artwork is undoubtedly worth visiting. This National Historic Landmark was originally built as a winter villa for businessman James Deering in the early 1900s. Over 1,100 craftsmen were brought over from Europe for genuine authenticity in design to complete this 28-acre estate.
Now a museum near the Key Biscayne Causeway, the Italian Renaissance-style villa is filled with an impressive collection of European furniture and decorative arts from the 15th to 19th centuries. The grounds and gardens contain beautiful Italian and French fountains, pools, and sculptures.
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Enjoy Like A Local
Take time to decompress from a stressful shift with these locally-acclaimed places.
Venetian Pool
If you’re not in the mood for the beach but still want to get your feet wet, here is your destination. The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is a relaxing alternative with an Italian village theme for those looking for water and sun away from the fast pace of South Beach. Bridges, towers, and small plazas surround the pool, giving it a very European look and feel, while caves, grottoes, and two waterfalls provide hours of enjoyment for children and adults alike. It is a historic aquatic facility and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Little Havana
Soak in the cultural flavor of Little Havana, with restaurants and specialty food shops lining the streets, Latin music drifting through the air, and locals socializing in the open spaces. Murals grace the walls of buildings, showing important Cuban figures and scenes of daily life. The authentic vibes will completely immerse you in the distinctive cultural atmosphere. The neighborhood brings in droves of visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and excellent Cuban food. Be sure to try the Cuban coffee for an extra jolt.
Crandon Park
Crandon Park comprises the northern portion of Key Biscayne and is probably the most visited park, complete with palm trees and white sand. The park has an offshore reef that protects the shoreline from big waves and is perfect for swimming. With its abundance of activities, it’s not hard to spend multiple days exploring the park’s offerings. There is a Family Amusement Center and a Nature Center, making it particularly popular with families.
To really make the most of your time in a new city and get the best travel nursing experience, you have to come prepared. There’s only so much you can fit into your schedule. Fortunately, anything you don’t do this time will give you an excuse to go back.
If you’re ready to sightsee, visit our job board to see available travel nurse jobs!
