W Miami

With a design that's kaleidoscopic and bold, the hotel feels like it belongs in South Beach—only it's not. Formerly a Viceroy, W Miami occupies one of three towers that make up a big condo complex in the bustling Brickell area, on Downtown Miami's southern edge. Unlike other hotels in the financial district, this one is decidedly non-corporate, thanks to Kelly Wearstler's exuberant design. The lobby mashes up Greco-Roman sculpture, gold-flecked turquoise marble and animal-skin rugs—with a hot-pink ribbon chair thrown in for good measure. Upstairs, the 148 rooms are only slightly more restrained, with four-poster beds, tufted leather armchairs and benches, lacquered lamps and large Audubon-style bird prints. The spa, designed by Philippe Starck, is another highlight as much for its whimsical look (chandeliers and acres of white marble) as for its menu of treatments. The hotel only recently became a member of the W family; its signature W "Living Room" is almost complete and the centerpiece pool area on the 50th floor (the one with the 300-foot infinity pool and a hot tub for 50) has been rebranded as a WET® deck.

A whimsical and hip design hotel in Downtown Miami.

On the beach… it's at least a 20-minute drive to the sand.

You're spending most of your time in Downtown, Wynwood or the Design District, and you want a hotel that's youthful and exuberant.

Biscayne Bay glitters 50 stories below as girls click by, their backless dresses revealing tanned skin and svelte waists. Men stand around the edges of the pool, rocks glasses in hand, casually unbuttoned shirts reminding you that this is Miami.

15th & Vine Kitchen and Bar - Comtemporary seasonal American Cafe Icon - Coffee bar