Miami – This past weekend was Wynwood’s popular monthly gallery walk. Nestled in Midtown Miami is the Design District and Wynwood’s Art District. This area participates by welcoming the public to stroll through the over 50 galleries, studios and project spaces every second Saturday.  Announced by the Miami Art Dealers Association a few months back, this particular art walk now has new extended daytime hours (2-9pm) with many participating galleries. The neighborhood often hosts its own ‘Wynwood Market;’ a mix of art, fashion apparel, handmade crafts, jewelry and books.

Wynwood’s Second Saturday is one of my favorite gallery hopping adventure nights. It seems like there are an endless amount of galleries and outdoor murals clustered along North Miami Avenue and NW 2nd street. Offerings range from white walled contemporary galleries to youthful DIY project spaces. There is something for every visitor; one might think Basel’s satellite fairs have invaded the neighborhood. Many of the galleries take advantage of the high volume of foot traffic and offer their opening receptions during this night. If you are a collector, then it’s a great opportunity to get your bid in early and speak with the artists. If you have never attended this event, then mark your calendars and strap on your walking shoes.

If you’d like to wine and dine before hitting the pavement, there are a few restaurants that I’d highly recommend. Looking for an incredibly delicious, chic yet casual experience? Then you must hit up Joey’s, located at 2506 NW 2nd Ave (left of the Wynwood Walls). Another fabulous favorite and culinary experience is right next door to the Walls; Wynwood Kitchen & Bar. Select from their contemporary American menu as while looking at art by Shepard Fairey and Christian Awe. I would advise making a reservation since these popular eateries fill up fast! Dining on the go? Not to worry, there are plenty of Miami Food Trucks parked bumper to bumper along NW 2nd Ave. For a late night cocktail try the lush, relaxing atmosphere of the Cafeina Wynwood Lounge. It offers tasty tapas, creative cocktails and a bright gallery space connected to its lounge.

Currently, Miami is home to eight monthly art walks (including two in the city of Fort Lauderdale). Coming up next weekend [7/29 – 7/30] is a triple threat of three consecutive art walks: Viernes Culturales, NOMI (near MOCA) & Fort Lauderdale’s Fat Village. Below is our South Florida gallery walk list:

The Skinny:

* Coral Gables:// First Friday’s

* Coconut Grove at the Mayfair Promenade:// First Saturday’s

* North Beach Arts District (NOBE) (in FTL):// First Saturday’s

* Wynwood Art District:// Second Saturday’s

* Bird Road Arts District (BRAD):// Third Saturday’s

* Little Havana’s Viernes Culturales:// Last Friday’s

* NOMI Art District:// Last Friday’s

* FAT Viliage (in FTL):// Last Saturdays