Ever since Lionel Messi decided to make his move to Inter Miami, it seems like the city just hasn’t had enough of him (including us). From helping the team to a historic Leagues Cup triumph to receiving his record eighth Ballon d’Or, a new wave of excitement has sparked in the 305 and the hype isn’t letting up.
As Miami continues to get swept up in Messi magic, we’ve gathered the many places fans can embrace the soccer superstar, whether that be at an exhibit, a mural or an inspired menu item. Check them out:
1. Get tickets to The Messi Experience
You simply can’t get any closer to the greatest of all time than at the brand-new Messi Experience. Coming to Miami in April 2024, this immersive exhibition will feature different zones themed around Messi’s life and career, 360-degree projections, a training zone to test your skills and more.
Get tickets to The Messi Experience: A Dream Come True here.
2. Watch an Inter Miami game at a sports bar
Are you even a Messi fan if you don’t catch an Inter Miami game? Well, while you’ve probably been enjoying the games from the comfort of your home or live at the Fort Lauderdale stadium, there are plenty of lively bars and restaurants to enjoy a beer and cheer alongside fans. And many will throw in a special deal just for showing up in a jersey. Check out our roundup of the best places to watch Inter Miami games here.
3. Snap a pic at a nearby mural
Miami is known for its vibrant works of art and Messi has become quite the source for artistic inspiration, with several murals scattered throughout the city since his arrival. Some have come and others have gone, but here’s where to find the Argentine footballer currently gracing our city’s walls:
- Mural by artist Maximiliano Bagnasco (with a little help from David Beckham): 148 NW 28th Street
- Mural by Diana “Didi” Contreras (Didirok) and Paul Hugues (PHD): 2800 N Miami Avenue (at Grails Wynwood)
- Mural by the members of Vice City 1896: 55 NW 25th Street (near Veza Sur)
4. Indulge in R House’s Messi-est Happy Hour
Speaking of murals, R House’s backyard patio offers a front row seat to artist Maxi Magnaso’s larger-than-life masterpiece. And to really bask in Messi’s mark on the Magic City, the Wynwood restaurant serves its Messi-est Happy Hour on Wednesdays through Fridays, from 4 to 7 p.m. Chow down on chicken wings, short rib empanadas and more, but don’t forget about the highlight of the menu: the Mila-Messi. This chimichurri chicken milanesa sandwich is served with garlic herb aioli, arugula, tomatoes and red onion.
5. Have Messi-inspired brews at Prison Pals Brewing Co.
Paying homage to Messi’s talent and arrival to the city, Prison Pals sells an IPA and premium lager named GOAT 10 at each of their taprooms. The cans sport the player’s teams’ colors, as well as number (10).
6. Enjoy the best Argentinian fare at Fiorito
At Fiorito, a family-owned restaurant located in Little Haiti, you’ll find some seriously delicious grub, from empanadas to perfectly charred meats. And aside from its menu, the restaurant is home to a brick-painted mural of Messi that was created long before his Inter Miami arrival, by artist Claudio Picasso.
7. Try a sandwich created by the legend himself at the Hard Rock
If you make your way to the Hard Rock Cafe, you’ll get a chance to taste one of the player’s favorite meals. The brand teamed up with Messi to launch the Messi Chicken Sandwich, “Made For You by Leo Messi.” The dish is inspired by one of his favorite Argentinean dishes growing up — Milanese-style chicken. The crispy chicken breast is topped with melted provolone cheese, herbed aioli, tomatoes and arugula on a toasted artisan bun.
8. Check out the Adidas x Lincoln Road pop-up
Anyone remember that time Messi was spotted on Lincoln Road? He was actually paying a visit to the latest Adidas pop-up and you can too! The store is decked out in pink and black Inter Miami CF gear and even features an exhibit showcasing Messi’s World Cup appearances and Ballon d’Ors, plus a product customization station where you can put his name and number (or your own) on jerseys and other products.