Miami

Best Time to Visit Miami

Thinking about heading to Miami? Check out our list of the best times to visit.
By Sarah Harris

All you need to know about when to visit the Florida fave.

If you love beaches and swimming in the sea, Miami is the perfect place to visit. Well-recognized for its clear blue skies and lush tropical greenery, the Magic City is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in the United States – and with good reason! We love the city all year round, but each season has something a little different to offer. If you’re looking to make a splash and have fun in the sun, we recommend visiting during the spring or early summertime. For those who want to escape the crowds, autumn is the perfect choice for a fun seasonal getaway. And whilst usually slept on, Christmastime in Miami is a notion well worth exploring. Whatever time of the year you choose to visit though, you’ll find that the weather will be just perfect for outdoor activity. Still not sure which would be the best time of the year to make your way to Miami? Have a read through our guide to discovering the area. Whenever you choose to make the trip, we’re sure you’ll have a blast!

January - February

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Seated along the southeastern coastline, Miami is known for its hot weather. If you’re looking to beat the heat, we recommend booking your vacation for the beginning of the year, around January to February. The weather is usually in the high 70s with low humidity and little rain around this time of the year, but still warm enough for touring all of the city’s wonderful outdoor attractions in great comfort. We recommend bringing a sweater for the evening times, since temperatures drop after the sunsets. The city should be less crowded around this time of the year, making it a great time to explore without feeling too overwhelmed. Another reason why it’s great to visit during the wintertime is that it’s off-season – meaning that you’ll find great prices on luxury accommodation and flights. Perfect for those who like the idea of travel without all of the hustle and bustle that comes along with it, the start of the year is one of the best options for those who like to go low-key.

March - May

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No matter the season, Miami finds a way to shine in its own special way. Still, one of our favorite times to visit has got to be from March through to May, since the city comes alive from the wintertime. This great transition period brings balmy, moderate temperatures which heat up as you near closer towards the summer months. Sunseekers and beach bunnies will especially love visiting during this time of the year not only for the weather alone but also for the exciting events and activities which come along with it. We recommend checking out the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, OUTShine Film Festival and the Flamenco Festival. Though the city witnesses a great influx of visitors for spring break, this period is actually shoulder season, so you’ll still be able to find great deals on lodging and flights. For those looking to avoid the crowds, we recommend trying to avoid booking around spring break. We especially like this time of the year because it offers all the benefits of visiting Miami in the summertime, but with smaller crowds and less humidity.

June - July

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The Sunshine State often conjures up the postcard-perfect image of tropical paradise. To make the best of Miami’s magnificent soft white sand beaches and wonderful exotic foliage, we recommend heading over to the city during June or July. By travelling at the kick-off of summertime, you’ll be able to swim in the warm sea surf and hang at the pool whilst avoiding those uncomfortably hot days which occur more at the height of summer. Sunblock and bug spray are an absolute must during this time of the year, so don’t forget it! Still, since it’s hurricane season, it can get rather rainy, so we suggest bringing a light jacket with you. The city will be bold and active around this time of year, so you’ll find that there’s plenty to do here without it being intensely overcrowded. Though the heat isn’t quite for everyone, if you’re looking to enjoy the area’s wonderful natural attributes, there truly is no better time than the summertime.

September - October

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It’s not unusual for Miami to host over 20 million visitors each year, with many heading over in autumn. Those looking to hit the beach will love visiting around this time of the year, since temperatures hover around the mid-80s and the sea will still be warm enough to swim in. Still, Hurricane season runs on right through until the end of the season, so visitors can expect some drizzle and humidity. The plus side is that this is the quietest time of the year to visit, as the summer is winding down and school is starting back up. With the smaller crowds and perfect weather, the city is great for exploring a lot fantastic outdoor attractions. Those travelling during October will also find a lot of great seasonal events, including Oktoberfest, Pirates at the Wharf and South Beach Seafood Festival. Whether you’re looking to see the sites or take a romantic break, fall in Miami is an absolute dream.

November - December

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Miami might not welcome blankets of snow like many other US cities, but that’s no reason to sleep on it for a fun seasonal getaway. In fact, winter is one of the most popular times to visit Miami since it offers moderate temperatures and a break from all of the drizzle. Still, that’s not all that winter in Miami has to offer. Visitors during the wintertime can expect to see palm trees adorned in Christmas lights and all-around holiday cheer. You’ll also find that there are many exciting festive events and pop-ups around this time of the year - we recommend checking out the Winterfest Boat Parade, City Theatre’s Winter Shorts and Santa’s Enchanted Forest. This is a pretty popular time of the year to visit the Magic City, so we strongly recommend booking in advance. Since it’s during the holiday season, you’ll also find that hotel rates and flights are more expensive around this time of the year. Fun, atmospheric and buzzing with life, there’s no time to see Miami like the holidays.

So, there you have it – the best times to visit Miami! Each season has something a little different to offer, so if you plan on visiting more than once a year, you’ll be able to experience the city from a different perspective. Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris

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Things to do in Miami During the Day

Miami may be known for its non-stop nightlife, but that doesn’t mean that you should just sleep the day away! From interesting cultural amenities and historical sites to wonderful hidden gems, the city is bursting with fantastic attractions for you and your loved ones. Of course, the city is a haven for beach bunnies and seaside lovers - if you’re looking to soak up the sun, head over to South Beach where you can enjoy a wide array of water sports or simply kick back with a book. For nature enthusiasts, Miami is a great place to be, with some wonderful botanical gardens to be enjoyed – we recommend Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for its expansive collection of exotic plants. Or, if you’re looking for art and culture, why not check out Pérez Art Museum? With so much to see, do and experience, there’s no way you’ll be bored in the Magic City. So, if you're planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of the best things to do during the day in Miami. Keep scrolling to learn more! See the Sites If you’re looking to fit some culture into your travels, one of the best things you can do is make a stop at the local art gallery. Standing out for its comprehensive collection of contemporary international pieces, the Pérez Art Museum has been a long-time favorite for locals and visitors alike. The institution itself is beautiful and spacious, having been redesigned in 2013. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an impressive repository of over 2,000 works coming from the Americas, Western Europe, and Africa. Take a good look at Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s colorful works, then stroll out through the grand staircase to enjoy the magnificent waterfront view. A fantastic educational experience for those of all ages, we love this space because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Whether you’re a fine art aficionado or a crafting geek, you’re sure to enjoy this attraction. Though Miami may best be known a fun beach town, there’s still plenty to see here for architecture buffs. Located on Biscayne Bay in the picturesque neighborhood of Coconut Grove, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is one of Miami’s most popular visitor attractions – and it’s not hard to see why. The impressive historic building, surrounded by 50 acres of gardens is truly not to be missed. Built in the early 20th century, this stunning Gilded Age estate retains much of its original grandeur. The villa’s breathtaking façade, (adapted from traditional Mediterranean architectural elements) still impresses to this day. Upon entrance, visitors can explore the idea of what a luxury home meant in a different time. The museum is well-restored, and there are exceedingly opulent and curious pieces dotted around the building. In addition, the house is circled by extensive Italian Renaissance gardens with fountains, sculptures and other decorative design objects most definitely worth seeing. With its exquisite beauty and historical backstory, this attraction should rank pretty high on the itinerary. Get Some Fresh Air For those who want to take in the natural beauty of Miami – don't worry, we’ve got you covered! Situated just downtown of the city, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a historical 83-acre green space featuring plants from all over the world. The garden is named after famous botanist David Fairchild and showcases much of his collection which was brought back from his travels many decades ago. No doubt one of the most beautiful spots in the city, there’s a little something for everybody here – and in every season. Walking around the park, you’ll be able to enjoy America’s biggest palm collection, as well as the largest collection of tropical bamboo in the world, with 125 species to be enjoyed. To put the icing on the cake, the garden also has a small butterfly emporium bursting with color and life. A true urban jewel, this wonderful attraction should the keenest of nature lovers. Those who are travelling with family might enjoy the next item on our list. The perfect stop for all animal lovers, Jungle Island merges the tropical backdrop of Miami with wonderful exotic animals for an awesome day trip to remember. We love this attraction because it offers the chance to see animals close up without affecting them or their habitat. The park was first founded under the name ‘’Parrot Jungle’’ in 1936. To this day, their collection largely features rare and unusual parrots and other birds species. Still, that’s not all there is to see here. From alligators and snakes to tigers and lemurs, Jungle Island has a lot to offer for everybody. The park is also home to Parrot Cove Beach, Miami’s only private beach. Naming this place a beach might be a bit of a misnomer – this place is more of a fantastic waterpark, with obstacle courses, rides, slides, and a climbing wall. Providing a great educational opportunity for all the family, this place is one of our favorite spots in the city. Hit the Beach! No Miami vacation is complete without a trip to the beach. If you’re looking for the ultimate Floridian seaside experience, look no further than South Beach. Known for its turquoise waters and palm fringed shores, this picturesque attraction more than lives up to the image it brings to mind. Walking along the shores, you might find this spot all too familiar – which is because it’s a pretty popular filming location for movies and shows shot in Miami. Among the various things to do here, you’ll find that surfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing and sailing are all popular activities. But for those who just want to relax, you can rent beach chairs and an umbrella for a small charge. Aside from the beach itself, the surrounding area is well worth exploring. Venture just a little off from the shores to find an eclectic mix of world-class eateries, waterside cafes, fashion boutiques, galleries, and much more. Offering a paradisial break from city life, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Miami. There are countless things to do in Miami. It’s all up to you to pick your favorite! To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Miami in May

These days, visitors are downright spoiled with things to do in Miami. As one of the most popular tourist hotspots in America, the city continues to surprise us with new attractions and events cropping up each day. Spring is a great time to visit, since the weather should be warm enough to enjoy all of the area’s fantastic outdoor attractions without being too hot to function. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Have a blast at Zoo Miami. Or simply explore the boardwalk at South Beach. No matter where your interests may lie, you’re sure to find something to suit your style. If you‘re not quite sure where to start, we’re here to help! Use our guide as a starting point to plan your perfect vacation. No matter how you choose to enjoy the Magic City, we’re sure it’ll be great. See the Sites With lots of sunshine and little rainfall, May is great for spending time outdoors. Those looking to learn more about the background of the city might enjoy Coral Castle for its unique history. Built single-handedly over the course of 28 years, this mysterious sculpture garden is perhaps best known for the questions that it brings up. Constructed out of 1, 100 tons of oolite limestone in a time when no modern construction advances were available, the piece is somewhat of an anomaly. Walking around the site, there’s no doubt you’ll be mind-blown by the intricately hand-carved pieces telling the story of artist Edward Leedskalnin’s heartbreak. A mysterious mindbender and true testament to the artist's innovation, Coral Castle is an attraction quite like no other. Undoubtedly one-of-a-kind, this place is a total must-see for any first-time visitor to the Miami area. Looking to discover a different side of the city? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Standing out as the oldest building in Miami by a long shot, the Ancient Spanish Monastery is a total treat for architecture buffs and history aficionados alike. Parts of the structure date as far back as 1133 AD, long before America was even established. Apparently, the monastery was originally built in northern Spain around this time, but later bought, shipped to New York, and dismantled stone by stone. In 1953, two entrepreneurs bought the stones to build a tourist attraction – and the Ancient Spanish Monastery was born! As such, Time Magazine characterized the building as ‘’the biggest jigsaw puzzle in history’’. Today, the structure stands as a fine example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The interiors are incredibly preserved, showcasing a number of captivating architectural and religious details. Walking around the space, you’ll notice impressive hand-carved columns, sweeping arches and beautiful shrines from the original structure. Rich in history and most certainly unique, this place should rank right at the top of your itinerary. Get in Touch with Nature No doubt, Miami is the perfect haven for all nature lovers. Standing out for its unusual and expansive display of exotic flora, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a fantastic place to spend a sunny spring afternoon in the area. Established way back in 1936, this historical attraction works to showcase the unique collection of avid botanist David Fairchild, which was brought back from his travels. Thousands of varieties thrive here, including many rare species you’d never expect to find in the United States. Bursting with color, scents and spectacular views, the gardens are an absolute joy to wander. Walking through the park, you’ll be able to see the birds, fish, lizards, and crocodiles which call the site home. Don’t miss the butterfly emporium, with too many species to count. We suggest setting a few hours aside for this, since it can take a while to get around the entire place. Remember to bring lots of sunscreen and wear your comfiest walking shoes! A total treat for the senses and educational, too, this place is not to be missed. If you’re anything like us, a visit to the zoo would be right down your alley. Luckily for you, Miami is home to some fantastic nature reserves to bring out that sense of childlike wonder. Combining the natural beauty of the area with incredible exotic wildlife, one of the most popular tourist attractions for animal lovers has got to be Zoo Miami. In fact, this place is recognized as the only tropical zoo in the United States. Featuring over 3, 000 animals and around 100 exhibits to be enjoyed, there’s a little something for everybody here. Expect jaguars, warthogs, spotted hyenas, hippos and much, much more. You’ll need a whole day at the zoo to make the best of it - we suggest heading off pretty early so you can fit as much in as possible! A fantastic educational opportunity, we love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Try Something Different Though the city is perhaps best known for its palm-fringed beaches and exotic greenery, there’s plenty to see here for those looking for art and culture. Open to the public and free of charge, Wynwood Walls is a trendy outdoor street art museum shining a spotlight on some of the world’s best urban artists. Carefully curated and periodically transformative, the exhibit works to showcase a wide variety of styles; at Wynwood Walls, you’ll be able to enjoy the work of old school graffiti artists and the newest innovators in the game all in one space. For those who are interested in learning more about the creatives, different styles, and history of the art form, we recommend booking a guided tour. Aside from the museum itself, the surrounding area is great to explore, with lots of cool shops and eateries to check out. The perfect stop for all creative types, this place provides the perfect taste of the city’s art scene. Few places are as exciting and energetic as the Floridian hotspot of Miami. May is great time to visit, since the temperatures are warmer but it's not as busy as the summer months. Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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