Miami Clubs 101: How To Get Past The Red Ropes

Greater Miami & Miami Beach is one of the hottest party destinations in the world. And while there are plenty of nightclubs and bars where you can get your groove on, it’s not always easy to get in the door.

Plan ahead and take a look at the tips below, then plot a strategy for getting your foot in the door – literally – of some of the best dance clubs in Miami.

Buy a Ticket Ahead of Time

LIV in Miami Beach, is easily one of Miami’s hottest clubs and their door policy is notoriously tough to crack. With a rotating cast of best-in-class DJs, hip-hop artists and pop stars headlining their parties, the most economical and surefire way to guarantee entry is to buy a ticket ahead of time. Depending on how early you make the purchase and how big the headlining name, you’ll pay anywhere from $60 to $100 and up.

Make Friends with a Promoter

For every Miami club that people want to get into, there are at least a few promoters who can get you in. Club promoters are regularly covering the club and restaurant scene, combing the streets of Brickell and the sands of South Beach, or advertising themselves on Facebook and Instagram to get people on their lists. Women can typically get tables for free, and once you’re on a promoter’s list, rest assured they’ll update you weekly with deals and steals to get you out on the town and into the hot clubs.

Dress to Impress

Let’s be honest: Going out in Miami’s see-and-be-seen scene is all about how you look and what you’re wearing – and nowhere does that apply more than in the city’s hottest nightclubs. Ladies and gentlemen alike, take note of the trends, dress fashionably and be sure to look your best.

While street wear is having a moment, in most cases you still want to avoid t-shirts, baggy or ripped jeans, sneakers or flip-flops. Bouncers are looking for one thing, and one thing only: fashionable people with plans to spend money.

Don’t Be That Guy

If you do succumb to the line, remember to stay classy. Don’t yell at the bouncer or grab him to get his attention. Being intoxicated and sloppy will get you nowhere. Don’t name drop. The bouncers have heard it all, and unless you’re a Kardashian, they don’t care. Be patient and nice to those around you. If you’re really pleasant and make friends in line with a big group of young women, that might increase your chances of getting in.

Nightlife For the Laid-Back Crowd

While Miami is home to serious nightclubs, there are just as many hip, laid-back spots where the above rules simply don’t apply. You can come as you are (that is, as dressed up or down as you want to be) and waltz right in without a line, a cover or an attitude.

Favorite low-key nightlife spots include the Broken Shaker at the Freehand Miami and Sweet Liberty in Miami Beach and Mama Tried and Lost Boy Dry Goods in Downtown Miami. The list is nearly endless.