Kathryn Mikesell is the founder of Fountainhead Arts, the Miami art organization that boasts an impressive tally of over 480 alumni from around 50 nations in their year-round residency programs. Fountainhead also hosts Miami's only countywide open-studio events and a career-focused program series.

As Miami Art week approaches, we asked Mikesell to provide some tips to help visitors who don't share her South Florida expertise.

“I tried to pick a few unknown things people might not otherwise know about and encourage people to attend our Open Houses when they're in Miami,” Mikesell said. "Each month guests meet new artists from around the world. Start your Miami Art Week early by attending Fountainhead's November Open House."

AUTHENTIC ARGENTIAN DINING AT FIORITO

"You know a place is great when most of the patrons are from the country the food originated. This is absolutely the case at Fiorito, named after the city where Argentina’s most famous soccer player Messi was born. It’s super casual and the food is outstanding! Unlike some Miami restaurants, you’ll leave with your belly full and your wallet intact. It’s also a great place to watch soccer games!"

GLAMPING IN THE EVERGLADES

"A must if you haven’t already done it — I promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Spend the day kayaking or canoeing, then night by the grill and campfire. The beds are amazingly comfortable, and though the bathrooms are still just park bathrooms, anyone can handle them for a day. If you’re a bit more adventurous, go on a slog through a Cypress Dome. They’re magical gardens you won’t see anywhere else in the world. And while you’re there, see what the Artist in Residence in Everglades (AIRIE) is up to.

SNORKELLING BY THE SOUTH POINTE JETTY

"This is an amazing experience that takes no planning! Park along South Point Drive or Nikki Beach or Smith and Wolenski’s and walk straight to the beach. The jetty separates Government Cut from the swimming area of Miami Beach. If you swim out just a little bit from shore, you’ll feel like you’re in an aquarium. You can see many different species of fish including beautifully coloured parrot fish, sergeant majors, spotted eagle rays, manatees and eels. Check out the Coral City Camera by Coral Morphologic to get a glimpse of what you can see."