1. Cafe Versailles

Miami’s crown jewel, center of Cuban cuisine and shining star of Little Havana, this authentic Cuban restaurant serves the best croquetas in all of Miami-Dade County. Despite the long lines and occasional annoying tourists, Cafe Versailles remains a popular spot for the locals who yearn for a little taste of home. One cannot leave Miami without trying their iconic vaca frita or ropa vieja. The trip and Miami’s horrible traffic is entirely worth the pastelito. 

2. Fairchild & Matheson

Fairchild & Matheson showcases the beautiful, lush scenery that characterizes Miami. One walks through exotic vegetation while enveloped by generations-old trees with roots expanding all the way towards the bay. At Fairchild & Matheson, Miami residents can take in this green beauty that cannot be seen anywhere else. It is reminiscent of the unworldly environment we must protect to continue to call it “home.”

3. Whip ’n Dip

Whip ’n Dip is a symbol of childhood happiness for all those raised in South Miami. If you’re craving ice cream after school or in the middle of the night, this is the perfect treat. An establishment founded by locals, Whip n Dip remains a popular spot for people of all ages. One of their most popular flavors, Bulldog Blitz, puts an original spin on cotton candy with the inclusion of marshmallows. Throughout these last few months, Whip ’n Dip should make a definite appearance on any senior’s list of last minute Miami to-do’s.

4. Drive through Old Cutler

Miami traffic is the worst. At any point on U.S. 1 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., the traffic will be bumper-to-bumper. However, one charming road seems to escape the morning and evening rush: Old Cutler Road. This two-way street carves through Miami’s most beautiful homes and year-round luscious backdrop. The tree’s branches enclose the road on all sides with holes for the sun to seep through, creating one long, green corridor. All seniors must take a long drive along Old Cutler with the windows down and music blasting, as it is a one-of-a-kind Miami experience.

5. The Bass Museum of Art

One of Miami’s most underrated contemporary art collections, the Bass Museum exhibits stunning pieces for the perfect afternoon visit. Its outside architecture displays Florida’s native limestone, while the inside features colorful modern masterpieces. It is the perfect museum for an afternoon as it does not require an entire day to see all of its exhibitions. The Bass Museum is entirely worth the trip to the beach. 

To my seniors who plan on leaving Miami in the next couple of months:

Cherish these last moments in this beautiful place we get to call home. Nothing beats being in the sun all day. Love Miami and all of its quirks, including the five-minute downpours. Miami is rich in culture, nature and life and truly embodies the idea that “we live where you vacation.” The change in environment some of us are embarking on is exciting, but Miami should hold a special place in all of our hearts. Every year when college students come back home, they truly appreciate their home and all of its beauty. Good luck to all seniors preparing for change and remember to show a little love for Miami.