Grit, Graffiti, and Growth: The Changing Face of Wynwood Miami

The Wynwood Miami Neighborhood is a large outdoor art canvas of buildings that have been painted and repainted many times.  Wynwood is full of constantly updated street art, big murals, and small street treasures.  Glossy and prosperous growth has replaced the former raw, gritty, rebellious artscape. The former industrial wasteland of underground studios and unlicensed graffiti has turned into one of the most popular places to visit. This neighborhood occupies about 1.7 square miles north of downtown Miami,  adjacent to Edgewater and south of the design district. Wynwood is full of constantly updated street art, big murals, and small street treasures. 

Many of the now famous original artists have been ousted by increased rent due to the emergence of rooftop lounges, curated walls, and boutique shopping. There remains, however, a core creative pulse hidden underneath the polished surface. 

Whether you are checking out go-tos on a Miami Wynwood things to do list,  looking for a rural-hunting adventure day, or simply in dire need of some of the best tacos and coffee in town, this neighborhood cannot disappoint. Here is an insider guide on what to do, what to eat, and what to check out in Wynwood Miami, beyond photo ops.

Getting to Wynwood

Wynwood Miami is an artistic hub in the metropolis. Most visitors come by using Uber or Lyft, particularly on weekends, when street parking is unpredictable and lots are expensive.  Several garages are nearby in case you prefer to drive. If you have less time (or if it’s too hot), I recommend the Wynwood Graffiti Golf Cart Tour to get a relaxing, informative and breezy ride through the murals. With many stops along the way, this 1 ½ hour ride is a comprehensive way to see it all. 

The Street Art That Started It All

Raw, industrial, off the beaten path, Wynwood Miami became a center for muralists, taggers, and other craftspersons who were attracted to its lengthy, grey walls and cheap studios. Originally the huge, colorful paintings were known as Wynwood murals. 

The focal point  of this transformation in the area is Wynwood Walls, a six building curated outdoor museum where the walls are constantly repainted with new murals by some of the greatest street artists (Shepard Fairey and Lady Pink, among them). It is a good place to start your exploration.  General admission is $12 on average. 

What to Do in Wynwood, Miami 

From crafted donuts and local fashion to the best street art, Wynwood Miami has something to offer for every kind of adventurer. 

1. Explore the Hidden Murals

Some of the best Wynwood murals can be found hidden on loading docks, alleys, and the sides of modest warehouses rather than in galleries or behind admission gates. 

Take a stroll, rent a bike, or get off your cart tour and explore. Don’t forget to look up – most of the murals span entire tall buildings, and even newer buildings exhibit some magnificent art on a huge scale. 

Note: Although Wynwood Miami is a busy place, it is better to stay cautious, particularly at nighttime or on side streets.

2. Museum of Graffiti

One of the best places to study art history is this museum. It features changing exhibits and a fantastic gift shop. Every tag you see on the street will have a new meaning for you when you leave.

3. Second Saturday Art Walk

Wynwood’s pop-ups, art galleries, and creative spaces are open until 10 pm on the second Saturday of each month. This free community event remains one of the best ways to experience the cultural side of Wynwood Miami. There will be food trucks, DJs, and an uncontrollable energy.

4. Wynwood Marketplace

This place is a mix of art exhibit, a street festival and a beer garden. It has a huge array of food vendors, live music, craft vendors and themed evenings. 

For groups or anyone who enjoys a variety of foods, it’s ideal. Read on to find out which are the best shops in Wynwood Miami and learn more about when to go and what to buy there.

5. Wynwood Graffiti Golf Cart Tour

These guided tours of small groups include interesting information about the artists, techniques, and politics of the painting, and are guided either by local artists or art historians. I strongly advise it for first-time visitors and families.

Best Restaurants in Wynwood

Wynwood has modified its artistic environment alongside its food industry. You’ll find everything here, whether it’s tacos, artisan donuts, or a gourmet brunch. I recommend: 

• Coyo Taco ($$): Always crowded, this is the most famous taco shop in Wynwood Miami. Don’t miss the hidden speakeasy located at the back. Outdoor seating is available. Midrange price  
• The Salty Donut ($): In house hand-crafted original and traditional donuts as well as  small-batch coffee. An exciting taste adventure that is both delicious and affordable 
• Panther Coffee ($): A hip local neighborhood hangout that serves bold coffee in an artistic atmosphere. Casual and bustling creative types gather both indoor and outdoor under a big tree on benches. Affordable 
• Doya ($$–$$$): This Aegean casual dining restaurant is elegant, characterized by stunning mezze plates and chic indoor-outdoor seating. Midrange to upper pricing
• Uchi Miami ($$$): The right choice if you want to enjoy fine sushi. Higher pricing

Where to Stay in Wynwood

Though Wynwood lacks the density of hotels that Miami Beach does, there are a few  excellent places. 

• Arlo Wynwood ($$): This youth oriented modern upscale boutique hotel was the first hotel in the area. It is known for murals, minimalist interiors and rooftop pool.  Medium pricing.  Book Here!
• AC Hotel Wynwood ($$): a Marriott Bonvoy hotel – newly renovated contemporary quiet hotel featuring large rooms,  rooftop pool and bar. Medium pricing Book Here! 
• Sentral Wynwood ($$): Fashionable apartment style rooms with a view of the city, pool and amenities.  Medium pricing  Book Here!

The Transformation of Wynwood: From a Local’s Perspective

Wynwood wasn’t always polished. It was formerly a grittier, but edgier, rather loud art district with basement studios, street art, and artists who could afford to both live and work in the area. Now,  branded murals, rooftop lounges, and hotels are moving into the area. Wynwood Miami is sleeker today. Chain stores have substituted indie galleries. The horizon is bordered with high-rises. And yes, a good number of the original artists and businesses have been driven out. 

Still, all is not gone. Walk off the main blocks, and you will discover small islands of artists, hidden murals, mini-galleries, and spots operated by local individuals who still retain the original essence.

Wynwood Today

The Wynwood of today isn’t just spray paint and scaffolding. Chain stores, boutique hotels, and luxury condos have crept in, often replacing the raw charm that once defined the area. 

The sanitization, or the clean-up, of the neighbourhood is a commonly discussed matter since the price of properties has begun to escalate and there is a lot more police presence, which tends to discourage crime.

The murals in Wynwood are not painted by anyone at any time, artists are authorized before painting any murals. Murals over a certain size need a permit from the city of Miami, and the permission of the property owner. 

With regard to the legendary Wynwood Miami Walls, only the artists, which were selected by the curation team, get an opportunity to present their work. This ensures that the neighborhood art is of quality, intentional and it matches the vision of creativity.

Note:  The Wynwood art is still evolving and new murals and installations keep appearing every day. Although you might already have been in the neighborhood, coming back and seeing the new works is certainly worth it and you may end up discovering new artistic talents.

Shopping in Wynwood and Off-Beat Finds

No tour should be devoid of some shopping. The Wynwood shopping experience is the epitome of high-end and low-end finds you can not miss in any tour.

• UNKNWN: LeBron James’ concept boutique
• Frangipani: for eclectic Miami-themed gifts
• Zak the Baker Market: buy some sourdough before you go

If you want a slightly less curated experience, these quirky stops will do:

• MVP Tattoo or Salvation Tattoo Lounge: to get the best ink.
• Republic Bikes: for stylish cruisers (and yes, you can ride them around Wynwood Miami!).
• Basico or Plant the Future: very local boutiques that combine design, art, and Miami style.

And make sure to check the alleys; this is where true Wynwood murals reside, raw and free of any sponsorship deals.

Final Thoughts

So, is Wynwood Miami worthwhile to visit? Absolutely. Nevertheless, using caution is always a good idea in a tourist area. For a day visit, both the museums and sightseeing locations, e.g., the Wynwood Walls, are a must. The art is outstanding in both talent and expression,  especially if you visit the lesser-known places and projects created by the community there as well.