15 Tips and Tricks For Surviving Miami

​By now, you probably know that you can bring wine and get boozy in the grass while watching a free movie with the New World Center wallcasts. And you're also likely aware that -- although it used to be easier -- a determined drunk can definitely get sloshed for free on the Second Saturday Art Walks through Wynwood. Such are the little hustles that get us through our hectic, penny-pinching lives in one of the world's weirdest cities. A few of our staffers collaborated to bring you fifteen other tips and tricks that make us feel like geniuses every time we pull them off. Hopefully, at least a few items on this list will be helpful to both Miami lifers-- don't roll your eyes smugly when we get to Laurenzo's-- and new transplants.

The whole reasons we're sharing our secrets, of course, is because we want yours. Drop some knowledge in the comments section.

1. Memorize the acronym CRAP. When you're first trying to figure out the grid system, the different types of streets get confusing. Remember CRAP (court, road, avenue, place) goes one way (north to south) and all other street designations go the other way. It comes in mighty handy, and by its nature, it's an acronym you won't forget.

2. Park like the pilots at MIA. The new express bus route from the airport to Miami Beach, with a stop at the Earlington Heights Metrorail system, is surprisingly functional. But we follow the lead of the dudes with the wings on their hats. Book long-term parking in advance at the Sheraton right outside the airport, using a booking site like this. Search for a coupon code when you make the booking. You can sometimes get it as low as $4 a day, $11 bucks cheaper than the airport's long-term parking. It's valet, with a quick shuttle to the terminals every fifteen minutes. Also, if you're flying out of Fort Lauderdale (and have the time and patience) don't be afraid to take a public bus there. You'll transfer to a Broward bus at the Aventura Mall.

3. Sneak into Oleta River State Park without paying. This one's from our boss, which tells you what kind of outfit we're running here. Use the side entrance on Biscayne. "I've even done this in my car," says Chuck, "though I just about offed three bikers." Also, if you have suffered the injustice of paying to enter a national park -- such as Shark Valley in the Everglades -- your receipt should get you in for a week. So hit it the next weekend to maximize your dollar.