The hype
Travelers obsess over the water views and the 'silent' soundproofing, but consistently drag the housekeeping consistency.
Kimpton Epic Hotel
$220-350/ night
Book this if You want a sexy, high-rise Miami base that feels like a party but sleeps like a sanctuary—without the South Beach chaos.
Why People Love It
- Massive balconies in every single room (a Miami rarity)
- Two 16th-floor rooftop pools that catch the sun all day
- Pet-friendly policy that actually means it: no fees, no weight limits
Quick Take: A glossy downtown stunner where the views are epic, but the elevator waits and valet costs will test your patience.
Reviewed by @ettevi_wanderlust: I spent my evening at the rooftop bar and the transition from golden hour to nightlife was incredible. The sunset views over Miami are insane, and the energy picks up the second the sun goes down. Definitely the place to be seen.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might find dust bunnies under the bed or a skipped turndown service, even at this price point.
- You travel with a dog (literally any size)
- You prioritize a balcony with a killer view over beach access
- You want to be near Brickell's dining scene but not stuck in traffic
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Reviews frequently mention missed turndown service or superficial dusting.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally good, but watch for slow-draining tubs and water spots on the glass.
- Maintenance: Aging gracefully, but reports of loud plumbing and finicky AC units are common.
- Linens & towels: Crisp and high quality (Frette linens), usually the highlight of the room.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells like their signature 'white tea' scent; rooms are neutral but can smell 'new/IKEA-like'.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Plumbing/water pipe noise in some rooms
- Weekend DJ bass from the 16th-floor deck (affects floors 17-20)
- Sirens from Biscayne Blvd (if on a lower City View floor)
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'City View' often just means looking at the building across the street—pay for the upgrade.
- There is no coffee maker in the room by default; you must request one.
- The 'Exhale' spa is now 'Privai Spa + Fitness'—same space, different menu.
What to pack
- Earplugs (for the pool deck bass if you're on a lower floor)
- A portable steamer (irons are hit-or-miss)
- Your dog's favorite toy (they get a welcome kit, but bring the comfort item)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Water View rooms (floors 20+) for the iconic river/bay vista and less street noise
- Junior Suites (like room 2833) for a massive corner balcony
- Tall rooms: Ask for 'High Floor' to clear the neighboring buildings
Rooms to avoid
- City View rooms on floors 16-19 (closest to the pool deck noise)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (high foot traffic)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love a 'Water View' room on a floor higher than the 20th to avoid the pool deck noise. If available, a corner unit would be amazing.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, both pools are heated, but wind on the 16th floor can make it feel cooler in winter.
How much is the hold on my credit card?
Expect a hefty incidental hold of ~$150 per night on top of the room rate.
Can I walk to the beach?
No. You are downtown. South Beach is a 15-20 minute Uber ride away.
Is breakfast included?
No, and it's pricey ($30+). Grab coffee at the lobby or walk to a local spot.
What's the deal with the elevators?
There are two banks (low and high rise). During checkout (11am), waits can hit 15 minutes.
Is it actually pet friendly?
Yes. Zero fees. No weight limit. If it fits in the elevator, it's allowed.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the 'text the front desk' service for everything—it's faster than calling.
- ✨
Check HotelTonight for last-minute rates; this hotel often dumps inventory there.
- ✨
Ask for the 'Goldfish' amenity—they will bring a live goldfish in a bowl to your room for company.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom sinks are shallow and splash water everywhere.
💡The 'balcony' furniture is often just two heavy metal chairs—not exactly lounge-ready.
💡You have to take two elevators to get to your room (Ground to 16, then 16 to Room).
💡The minibar is sensor-based; move a water bottle and you get charged.
💡The AC vents sometimes blow directly onto the head of the bed.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Kimpton Epic Hotel is located and what's nearby.