Weekender's Guide To Miami

It's approaching the time of year when we look for any excuse to migrate to Miami. (Art Basel Miami Beach, Dec 1-4, seems like the perfect reason, too!) We've rounded up our picks for where to sleep, eat, drink, and play in the sunny city. And if you're feeling lucky, enter to win a tailor-made Miami getaway with sumptuous lodgings and a custom itinerary from Area Daily. (Hurry! This giveaway ends November 30.)

Sleep: Go retro Art Deco at Soho Beach House. The rooms are oversized and offer plenty of views from the bay windows and terraces. Chill by the pool in the garden, unwind at the Cowshed Spa, or mingle with stylish locals over a cocktail at the members-only club.

If you follow the less-is-more approach to life, check into the laid-back Standard Miami where you can take in all of what Miami offers. Known for its spa, equipped with a Hammam, mud lounge, and Roman waterfall hot tub, you'll also find stylish rooms with a minimalist touch.

You won't compromise style for price at The Angler's Boutique Resort. The property has a residential vibe that can be felt in the ample sized rooms with all the conveniences of a modern home. Night owls will appreciate the VIP access for guests at some of the local night clubs.

Eat & Drink: Ask anyone about the best place to eat in Miami and Michael's Genuine Food & Drink

(Photo courtesy of Flickr/a.a.sabnis)

Although considered a prime place for meat lovers, the menu at Prime One Twelve in South Beach offers a variety of decadent options that satisfy many palates.

For a taste of the local catch, head west on Lincoln Road to Altamare. In addition to the well-prepared seafood, the pasta and wine list are noteworthy as well.

Another Design District hot spot, Sra. Martinez whips up seasonal cocktails from fresh, local ingredients. The tapas is good, too.

Play: With dozens of galleries, museums, a performance space, and graffiti murals to boast about, the Wynwood Arts District is a destination in itself. Located between 20th and 36th streets on the east side of Miami, the once industrial neighborhood is the go-to place for art and culture.

commissioned art of the district. More than 250 local and international artists to date have made their mark on the façade of the galleries, restaurants, and shops that line the neighborhood streets. Wynwood Walls is a project dedicated to bringing more attention and respect to graffiti art and curates work for the walls and doors in Wynwood and beyond. (Photo courtesy of Flickr/N10Z)

A fun and enlightening way to see the murals is on the back of a Vespa. Let a local artist spin you around on a two-hour tour while you stop to take in the art and learn about graffiti culture.