Destination Miami: Where Business and Pleasure Go Hand-In-Hand
Trevor Hanks
Captain of 360 Destination Group Ship | Award Winning National DMC | Event Industry Top 100 | Culture Creator | Mentor in Hospitality
Corporate events have evolved beyond the ordinary, mundane meetings of the past. Today, businesses are seeking unique locations that create unforgettable experiences and foster meaningful connections.
Look no further than Miami, a vibrant oasis in South Florida that perfectly blends business with pleasure. In this guide, I’ll highlight the city's finest hotels, experiences, and dining options, so you can discover why Miami could be the ideal destination for your next corporate event.
Where to Stay
Miami boasts a collection of world-class hotels that cater to the needs of corporate events, offering unparalleled luxury, amenities, and breathtaking surroundings. There are plenty of Miami hotel options to choose from, but these two gems epitomize the magic of the city.
Located in the Aventura neighborhood, it’s no secret that JW Turnberry is a paradise for travelers. With a 300-acre property that includes luxurious Mediterranean-inspired architecture, tropical gardens and fountains, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this hotel sets the stage for an unforgettable group experience.
Along with 40 event rooms, 120,112 square feet of total event space, and 12 breakout rooms for meetings and events, the hotel provides plenty of onsite and nearby options for group activities. Enjoy a round of golf, splash around at the Tidal Cove Waterpark, or relax in the comfort of the spa. If you want a destination that effortlessly combines business and leisure, this is the South Florida event space for you.
Situated in the vibrant Art Deco District of Miami Beach, Loews Miami Beach is full of timeless charm at a prime oceanfront location. Whether it’s cabanas and rooftop sundecks you want, or family and pet-friendly accommodations, this is the hotel for you. There’s always something to do in the area since the hotel is near a handful of museums, gardens, and Everglades National Park.
This iconic destination offers versatile event spaces that can accommodate gatherings of any size, from intimate meetings to grand conferences with both indoor and outdoor options. And of course, with access to the beach, you can plan group activities with the beach in mind.
Where to Play
It’d be a shame if your visit to Miami was relegated solely to the boardroom. Adults need to play too! Here are a few unique experiences and fun attractions to experience in the city.
Engage with the creative heart of your group by planning your trip around a special event like Art Basel, the world-renowned international art fair at Miami Beach that showcases works from leading artists and galleries. Each year it takes place in a handful of cities around the world, so it’s ideal if you want a global feel for your corporate event.
Immerse your guests in a sensory experience as they explore thought-provoking exhibits and engage in powerful conversations that lead to connection and inspiration. This year the festival takes place from Dec. 8–10, 2023 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, with options for private group visits.
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The Underline or Miami Freedom Park
During downtime, explore popular outdoor spaces with your group. The Underline, a transformative urban trail in the final stages of completion, offers a rejuvenating escape amidst the bustling cityscape. This 10-mile stretch of land underneath a section of Miami’s metrorail is perfect for team-building activities or solitary moments of reflection.
Another option for an off-site team building location is Miami Freedom Park, which will be a 58-acre public park with green space and a sports and entertainment complex. If you’re planning your event for 2025 or beyond, this park will promise endless excitement and potential for group activities.
Coral Reef Restoration Program
If you want to offer a team-building activity that also has a real impact on the environment, plan to join the University of Miami’s Rescue a Reef program as a citizen scientist. Because of coral reef depletion, scientists raise coral in their lab, then lead group expeditions where your team can have hands-on experiences repopulating a reef as recreational SCUBA divers or snorkelers.
Where to Eat
No corporate event is complete without indulging in the flavors of Miami's vibrant food scene. Here are some of the city's culinary highlights:
If you want a bayside experience with vibrant Latin American cuisine, visit Amara at Paraiso. James Beard Award Winning Chef Michael Schwartz celebrates these regional flavors with creative dishes and an atmosphere that offers the perfect way to experience Miami through your tastebuds.
Amara at Paraiso has a wide range of indoor and outdoor private dining spaces that are perfect for groups of different sizes with the option to rent out the whole restaurant. They even have a dedicated team for events to streamline the process.
Transport your guests back to the glamorous era of the roaring twenties at Ball & Chain. This iconic Little Havana hotspot infuses Cuban flair into its live music, delicious cocktails, and flavorful cuisine. If you want an immersive atmosphere buzzing with energy, laughter, and the spirit of Miami, this is the place for you.
Along with a specialized catering menu for private events, the team at Ball & Chain can help you put together a unique experience while you’re visiting, from salsa dancers to custom-made domino tables, and even live cigar rollers. This is the perfect location for an end-of-day celebration.
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