Miami Dance Trip - 2024
Sunshine and Salsa
Trip Summary
Escape the Chicago cold from February 29th to March 4th, 2024, and salsa your way into the warmth of Miami with Ballroom Dance Chicago. Our annual trip is a chance for our clients to join us in enjoying the sun, dance, and vibrant atmosphere of Miami Beach. We stay away from the South Beach crowds (but you’re more than welcome to enjoy the chaos!), offering a peaceful retreat where you can dance, relax, and soak up the sun at your own pace.
Come with us for a weekend of salsa, sunshine, and the spirit of Miami—without the winter coat. You're invited to follow our itinerary or just go with the flow. Come on an earlier date. Stay later (we highly recommend it!) Let's bring the heat to the dance floor in Miami!
Who Plans the Itinerary?
As part of our dedication to ensuring your experience in Miami is both exhilarating and unforgettable, we have put together a suggested five-day itinerary for your consideration.
Miami's allure lies in its vibrant blend of sun-drenched beaches, lively cultural scenes, and dynamic nightlife. Our itinerary is crafted to escort you through some of the city's most enticing offerings, from the sun-kissed shores of South Beach to the rhythm-filled nights of Little Havana, and the artistic pulse of Wynwood.
We recognize that everyone has their own unique preferences and interests, and we encourage you to view our itinerary as a flexible guide, rather than a fixed schedule. Feel free to follow it as closely as you like, select activities that pique your interest, or even venture off the beaten path entirely. The choice is entirely in your hands.
Our goal in creating this itinerary is to simplify your trip planning, presenting a wide array of what Miami has to offer, without prescribing your daily plans. We advocate for a laid-back approach that enhances your overall experience of the event and the city itself.
We are here to support you in any way possible, and we urge you to immerse yourself in Miami's diverse offerings. Explore its beaches, indulge in its culinary delights, dance to its rhythms, and soak in its vibrant culture at your own rhythm. Should you have any questions, need further details, or require assistance in tailoring your own Miami adventure, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We eagerly anticipate your participation in our Miami salsa experience and are confident you’ll have a remarkable journey in the Magic City.
How do I get Dinner and Entertainment Reservations?
We are always excited to facilitate group reservations, ensuring you enjoy every moment of our Miami salsa experience. To make this process seamless and to secure the best spots, we kindly request that you inform us at least a month in advance about which dinners and events you wish to join. Partaking in group activities, especially in vibrant neighborhoods like Little Havana, can be an incredibly enjoyable and memorable part of your trip.
Additionally, if you prefer a more personalized experience, you are absolutely welcome to make your own reservations. Whether it's securing a table for a quiet, intimate dinner or choosing a spot right next to our larger group for a sense of camaraderie without being directly involved, the choice is yours. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience to your own tastes, while still feeling part of the overall group energy.
We encourage you to carefully look through our carefully crafted itinerary and identify the events, dinners, and activities that excite you the most. Once you've made your choices, please inform us by January 1st. This advance notice is crucial for us to ensure everything is perfectly arranged for your enjoyment. Whether it's a salsa night in Little Havana, a beach day, or a gourmet dining experience, your preferences are important to us.
Remember, this trip is all about combining the joy of salsa with the diverse offerings of Miami. By letting us know your preferences in advance, we can make sure that your experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. So, please take a moment to explore the itinerary, decide how you'd like to immerse yourself in the Miami salsa scene and get back to us with your choices. We’re here to make your Miami adventure unforgettable!
Hotel recommendations
5-Star Hotels:
The Setai, Miami Beach
The Setai exudes serene elegance with its art deco style, offering a tranquil retreat with Asian-inspired decor. It boasts oceanfront views, three temperature-controlled infinity pools, and a renowned spa.
1 Hotel South Beach
Eco-conscious luxury meets comfort at 1 Hotel South Beach. Guests enjoy spacious, nature-inspired rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic ocean views, and farm-to-table dining experiences. This is Matthew’s favorite spot.
W South Beach
Chic and contemporary, the W South Beach delivers an iconic, lively stay. Every room provides ocean views, complemented by modern amenities, a vibrant pool scene, and dining options with flair.
Mid-Range Hotels:
The Plymouth South Beach
A fusion of vintage charm and modern luxury, The Plymouth offers a boutique experience. It features a private beach area, art deco architecture, and a cozy, yet upscale atmosphere.
Gale South Beach
Restored and rejuvenated, Gale South Beach retains its historic facade while providing contemporary comforts. It’s known for its Italian cuisine, rooftop pool, and prime location near the nightlife.
Hotel Croydon
Balancing comfort and style, Hotel Croydon stands out with its alluring rooftop deck, inviting rooms, and a complimentary airport shuttle, making it a convenient and pleasant stay.
Inexpensive Options:
Lorraine Hotel
The Lorraine Hotel is a budget-friendly option, offering a straightforward, comfortable stay with easy beach access and essential amenities, perfect for travelers looking to explore South Beach.
The Clay Hotel
Nestled in the historic Española Way, The Clay Hotel’s Spanish Mediterranean architecture is a gateway to cozy rooms and a vibrant neighborhood, offering an affordable and authentic experience.
South Beach Plaza Hotel
This hotel offers a touch of art deco and a central location, giving guests a cost-effective way to enjoy South Beach with essential amenities and a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Miami Beach Itinerary
Thursday, February 29th, 2024
Upon arrival, take the day to settle in and soak up the remaining sunshine. Our only fixed event is dinner at Byblos, one of our top dining choices in Miami.
Evening:
- 7:00 p.m.: Dinner at Byblos, 1545 Collins Ave
Friday, March 1, 2024
Today, we’ll embrace Miami’s stunning beaches in the morning. Come lunchtime, we’ll venture to Wynwood, the vibrant arts district, for culinary delights and cultural exploration. Afterward, there’s time for a brief return to the beach before we cap off the evening with drinks and salsa dancing in Little Havana.
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: pastries from Rosetta Bakery, 1666 Collins Ave
- 9:30 AM: Leisurely walk along the beach to start the day
Afternoon:
Visit to Wynwood
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at Zak the Baker, 295 NW 26th St
- 1:00 PM: Free time for shopping and exploring
- 3:00 PM: Beach before getting ready for the evening
Evening:
- 7:00 PM: Pre-dinner drinks and music at Ball and Chain,1513 SW 8th St
- 8:30 PM: Dinner, music and dancing at Cafe La Trova, 971 SW 8th St
- Late night: Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center, and other venues along Calle Ocho…
Saturday, March 1, 2024
Today is dedicated to the beach, with a pause only to savor lunch at a renowned Cuban eatery in South Beach. Post-lunch and more beach, we’ll return to the vibrant Calle Ocho for an evening filled with entertainment and dancing, likely stretching into the late hours.
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Pastries from Rosetta Bakery at the beach
- Chill beach morning
Afternoon:
- 12:00 pm: lunch at Puerto Sagua, 700 Collins Ave
- 2:00 PM: Rest and Beach Time
Evening:
- 8:00 PM: Dinner, Music and Entertainment at Calle Dragones, 1036 SW 8th
- Late Night: Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center, and other venues along Calle Ocho…
Sunday, March 2, 2024
Sunday is for rejuvenation, basking in the sunshine, and indulging in a Michelin-starred brunch accompanied by exquisite wine pairings for those interested. After a leisurely two-hour brunch, we’ll spend the remainder of the day on the beach. For those interested in really indulging, we’ll be headed to an amazing pizzeria for dinner.
Morning:
- 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM: Brunch at Mila, 1636 Meridian Avenue Rooftop
- Post Brunch: Beach and relaxation all day
Evening:
- 7 pm: Dinner at Mr 01 Extraordinary Pizza, 1690 Michigan Ave
Monday
Our final day is about the sunshine. Soak it up, every last ray.
- Beach morning, late check out. Leave for the airport