With Memorial Day Weekend breathing down our necks, the TML team decided to come up with a few ideas of things to do in Miami for those who want to stay away from the usual beach activities, air shows, and tabloid South Beach activities. It seemed pretty natural to come up with a list of the best Miami Dive Bars to hide at during the long weekend.

Our team tried to cover as much territory as possible, highlighting classic spots and new ones, scattered all around town. So here is the list of our favorite Dive Bars in Miami.

Mac’s Club Deuce

We know that kicking off the list with a South Beach dive bar might not seem the most intuitive thing to do if we are trying to stay away from all the influx of tourists, but Mac’s Club Deuce carries the weight of seniority being a landmark of our city. We are talking about the oldest bar in Miami, established in 1926, and owned & ran by Mac Klein from 1964 until his death in 2016. Some solid facts that add to its legacy are that Miami Vice threw its cast party here; Playboy named it one of the “best dive bars” (2010) in America; and Anthony Bourdain considered it one of his favorite spots in the world. Make sure you take advantage of their legendary daily 2-4-1 happy hour from 8 am to 5 pm. 

Address: 222 14th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website | Instagram

Don’s 5-Star Dive Bar

Right in the heart of the iconic MiMo district, Don’s is the newbie on this list. Located at Selina’s Gold Dust Motel, Don’s 5-Star Dive Bar pays homage to the famous Miami Dons that left a mark in the Magic City, from Don Johnson and Don Shula, to Don Bailey. When walking into this bar, you can find the classic neon signs and red lights, and you can taste some pretty creative cocktails. As the cherry on top, ​​guests who can prove their name is Don, Dawn, or Donna will receive a free shot, served from a neoprene bong.

Address: 7700 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33138
Website | Instagram

Ted’s Hideaway

Another South Beach iconic bar, and as the name implies, a hideaway for locals that want to have a low-key place to hang out. Located in the South of Fifth, and in business for over 30 years, Ted’s is the place where you can watch the game and enjoy a burger as well. It offers a selection of over 60 beers, pool tables, and a dark atmosphere for both locals and tourists alike looking for an alternative to the sunny and bright Ocean Drive.

Address: 124 2nd Street Miami Beach, FL. 33139
Website | Instagram

Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern

For those seeking an adventure in the real South, Bougies (as friends and family call it), is located in South Miami and it has the charm of a true Old Florida Tavern. It’s known by many as a hangout spot for students and devoted locals alike. It’s the only bar on this list that also offers live music and a pretty packed programming with karaoke night, DJs, and more. It’s probably one of the few places where you can still get a beer for $3.50 these days, and they also do have a pretty good sense of humor (check their IG). Bougainvillea’s, as all bars should, honors Wednesdays as ladies’ night offering free drinks from 10 pm – 2 am.

Address: 7221 SW 58th Ave, South Miami, FL 33143
Website | Instagram

Mike’s At Venetia

A Dive Bar with a view, Mike’s at Venetia is located on the 9th floor of a condo tower by the Venetian Causeway and patrons can enjoy a panoramic view of Biscayne Bay or sharpen their pool skills. It’s the perfect place for those wanting to enjoy a beer or a drink while watching the game since the waterhole also has over 20 TV. Their menu highlights all the classics in American bar food, from burgers & wings to pasta and pizza. Mike’s has been in business for over 30 years and it’s owned and operated by Mike and Norma Shelow.

Address: 555 NE 15th St 9th Floor, Miami, FL 33132
Website | Instagram