Explore Miami with Go City

Miami 4th of July Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in July

By Katie Sagal

Visiting sunny Miami during this 4th of July holiday season? If so, you’ll likely be in search of some top local activities, events, and things to do to help celebrate the occasion. Although you’ll find plenty of fireworks, Miami has more to offer than just your traditional fireworks show - much more! If you’re looking for Miami 4th of July Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Miami in July, including...

  • Key Biscayne 4th of July Parade
  • Biscayne Bay Sightseeing Cruise
  • Miami Beach Fire on the 4th Festival
  • Day Trip to Key West & Key Lime Festival
  • and more...

Save on Admission to Popular Attractions

Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Miami pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Miami attractions and activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Miami attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special July and 4th of July weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Miami pass.

4th of July Parade - Key Biscayne July 4

waving-american-flag-day-parade

If you’re up for an all-day long celebration, you should head to Key Biscayne’s 4th of July Parade. Now in its 60th year, the jamboree features a traditional parade with homemade floats, high school marching bands, and more. Following the parade, head to the Village Green to enjoy a picnic on the grass while listening to live music. Of course, the night finishes off with fireworks at 9:00 pm. A classic way to spend your Independence Day holiday! While you are in the area, we suggest you head aboard a Biscayne Bay Sightseeing Cruise. This is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of the area. Getting In: The Key Biscayne 4th of July Parade is free to watch. Biscayne Bay Sightseeing Cruise tickets must be purchased separately.

America’s Birthday Bash - Bayfront Park July 4

If your goal for your 4th of July in Miami is finding the best spot to watch the fireworks, consider joining the crowds at America’s Birthday Bash at Bayfront Park. This popular party features a free Kids Zone, a massive beer garden, live music, lawn games, and one of the largest fireworks displays in South Florida. Tourists and locals alike flock to Bayfront Park for this all-day extravaganza. It's the place to be. Getting In: America's Birthday Bash is free to attend.

Miami Beach Fire on the 4th Festival July 4

This all-day festival is a great option for those looking for family entertainment. It's filled with live music, food trucks, DJs, and even yoga! It's located in the North Shore Park Bandshell, at 73rd Street and Collins Avenue. The event runs from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, so there's fun to be had all day. If you'd like to watch the fireworks from the beach itself, be sure to arrive early to save a spot. As it's a very popular event, you may find trouble parking, so use their shuttle system to get to the event. Getting In: Miami Beach Fire on the 4th Festival is free to attend.

July 4th Fireworks Celebration at the Biltmore Hotel

Another top local July 4th event can be found in charming Coral Gables. Enjoy a special concert by the Greater Miami Symphonic Band, plenty of concessions for purchase, and of course, a spectacular fireworks show. The event is held on the Biltmore Hotel Golf Course, so you'll get a beautiful view of the hotel from afar. The grounds open at 5:00 pm, the concert is at 7:00 pm, and the fireworks commence at 9:00 pm. We recommend taking the free shuttle to the Biltmore to avoid the hassle of parking. Getting In: The July 4th Fireworks Celebration at the Biltmore Hotel is free to attend.

Miami Animal Attractions

sable-antelope-male-miami-zoo

Take advantage of the nice weather and give your kids a wonderful afternoon. Pay a visit to Jungle Island, modest in size but big on fun and education. See some of the world's most amazing animals in areas like the feather-filled "Winged Wonders" and the felines of "Wild Encounter." Bonus: Jungle Island re-opened last year with new and exciting things to do, like the new Neo Splash Water Park pop-up. Another option is Zoo Miami, which houses animals from Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Amazon. The Playworld Playground is the perfect place for the kids to frolic after they've had their fill of animal adventures, too! Getting In: Zoo Miami tickets and Jungle Island tickets are both included with the Go Miami pass.

Outdoor Activities in Miami

happy-young-friends-eating-takeaway-food

It wouldn’t be a proper Miami vacation without some fun in the sun. Get off your feet and explore scenic South Beach with an informative bus tour of Miami. It’s a great, low-effort introduction to the city and it’s fun to boot! If you prefer to be more active, rent a bike and explore the Art Deco district. You can also use your bike rentals as transportation to some of these fun 4th of July events, many of which offer specific bike parking. Getting In: Big Bus Miami tickets, and Miami bike rentals are all included with the Go Miami Card.

The Key Lime Festival in Key West

key-west-famous-duval-street-view

A delightful local tradition is the Key Lime Festival, held each year around the 4th of July on Key West. It takes place from July 4-7, and offers a wide variety of citrus-themed events from culinary demonstrations to cocktail judging contests. If you'd like to explore Key West during this festival - or at another time - take a guided Key West Day Tip that escorts you all the way from Miami to this amazing island. There is much to explore, from arts and culture to food and drink. Getting In: Key West Day Trip tickets are included with the Go Miami pass. The Key Lime Festival is separately ticketed and is not included with the pass.

Remember to Save on Attraction Admission

There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Miami in July to help you plan your 4th of July weekend itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Miami pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!

Continue reading

Blog

Miami in June

There are countless reasons to visit Miami in the summertime. A quintessential Floridian beach city, the area is characterized by its palm-fringed shores, gentle surf and year-round beautiful weather. Still, this place is no one-trick pony. More than 20 million people visit Miami each year, and they all go for something different. For nature lovers, Miami has some of the best botanical and zoological gardens in the United States. If art and culture is what you’re after, you’ll be spoilt for choice with fantastic cultural amenities and architectural sites. After dark, the city comes alive with waterside cocktail bars and rooftop hotspots to be enjoyed. Trust us when we say that the only problem you’ll run into when deciding on fun things to do in Miami is narrowing down your options. So, grab your sunscreen and comfiest walking shoes and get ready to jot some things down! However you choose to enjoy your time in Miami, we’re sure it’ll be just great! See the Sites It’s summertime and you’re in Miami. So, what do you do? Go, to the beach, of course! Stretching for 3 miles offshore of the city, South Beach’s white-sand shores and turquoise waters are famed as some of the area’s most beautiful. If it all seems a little too familiar to you, it’s because this particular outdoor attraction has appeared on just about every movie and TV show set in Miami. Amongst the various things to do here, you’ll find that surfing, longboarding, paddle boarding and sailing are all popular activities. If you’re looking to just relax on the beach, you’ll be able to rent seats and umbrellas and just watch the world pass you by. As one of Miami's most popular tourist attractions, the area surrounding the beach is pretty interesting to explore – we suggest taking a stroll to enjoy the unique Art Deco architecture and fantastic eateries. We also recommend sticking around after dark to experience a taste of South Beach’s legendary nightlife. A quintessential Miami attraction, this one is a total must-see. No matter what your age, seeing animals up close is always a captivating experience. As fascinating as it is fun, Jungle Island offers the chance for you to see and learn about animals from all over the globe in one place. Founded in 1936, Jungle Island is known for being one of the oldest tourist attractions in the Miami area. Walking through the park, you’ll be able to view around 3000 animals, with over 1000 varieties of parrots. Highlights include king vultures, African penguins, alligator snapping turtles, lemurs and more. For those who interact with the animals, this place offers experiences to satisfy this need, including animal feedings and a petting zoo. You'll also catch tours, keeper talks, and educational presentations throughout the park daily. In addition, there are cafes, stores, kid’s playgrounds (and even a waterpark!) to be enjoyed. Combining the beauty of Miami’s tropical landscape with rare and exotic animals, this place provides a fantastic educational experience to remember. Find Interesting Activities If you’re looking to get in touch with Mother Nature, there’s no better place to be than Miami. Aside from its beautiful beaches, the area is home to some wonderful botanical gardens thanks to its unique ecosystem and wonderful weather. Standing out for its expansive collection of rare and exotic plants, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is one of the most interesting parks of its kind to visit in the United States. Covering over 83 acres, this quiet and serene green space showcases much of avid plant explorer David Fairchild’s discoveries which he brought back from his travels. Walking through the park, you’ll be able to enjoy carefully planted flower beds, shrubs, vines, trees, and much more. This landscape is also home to the largest palm collection in America, with over 500 species to see. A treasure trove of natural beauty and wonder, this spot is perfect for those looking for a relaxing way to enjoy the area. Don’t forget to take your phone for this one, since you’ll definitely want to capture some snaps of this outstanding excursion. Though Miami is perhaps best known for its great beaches and tropical greenery, there’s a lot to see here for all types of travellers. Anybody looking for art and culture in the area will be pleasantly surprised by the city’s unique offerings. A peculiar achievement defying all laws of physics, Coral Castle is most certainly one of the city’s most distinctive attractions. Carved out of 1, 100 tons of megalithic stone in a time when no modern construction advances were available, the structure is most notable for the questions it brings up. Over the years, this piece has even become subject to many conspiracy theories, which postulate that the artist might have used reverse magnetism or supernatural abilities to make it. Whatever the case, the final result is well worth the visit for its incredible handiwork alone. Fascinating and beautiful, this unusual work of art tells the artist’s story whilst retaining a little mystery. Relax! June marks the beginning of hurricane season in Florida, making it pretty hot and humid throughout the month. Still, if you’re looking to beat the heat, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Great for those days when you just want to take it easy, the Venetian Pool is the perfect place for spending time with friends and family. Built into an old coral rock quarry and opened to the public in 1924, the pool has been a long-time favorite for visitors and locals alike. Filled with an impressive 820, 000 gallons of water from artesian wells, this is the largest freshwater pool in the United States. The pool starts at four feet, going deeper as you move further on, and there is a two-foot kiddie pool with a lifeguard station for little ones – so nobody is left out! The end wall has a grand waterfall, where you can feel the rush of fresh water over your face. If you’re not much of a swimmer, you’ll find a great sunning area where you can kick back and soak up those summer vibes. Fun, laid-back, and unique too, this place kind of has it all. There’s nothing quite like Miami in the summertime. With a fantastic blend of nature and urban attractions, this place truly has it all. And now, you don’t have to miss out – with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can find an exhaustive array of things to do, for cheaper. 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
Blog

Miami in July

Forever fun and boasting some of the best beaches in Florida, there are so many great things to do in Miami for every type of traveller! From its fantastic museums and parks to top-notch dining and nightlife, you’re guaranteed to have a blast exploring this wonderful coastal metropolis. Of course, July is prime time to visit, since the weather will be perfect for soaking up the sun and sightseeing. Still, visiting a new city can be a little bit daunting – but don’t worry! That’s why we’re here for. If you’re worried about catching your bearings in a new city, have a read through our list of the best things to do in the area. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller looking to explore a different side of the city, we’re sure you’ll find something to suit your tastes. However you choose to enjoy Miami, we’re sure it'll be great! See the Sites With its unique ecosystem and climate, Florida makes a fantastic spot for the next item on our list. Founded in 1948, Zoo Miami is known for being the only tropical zoo in the continental United States. With a stellar reputation and distinct traction, this major Miami attraction draws in thousands of visitors each day – and with good reason. As the largest zoo in Florida, the zoo houses over 100 exhibits and 3000 animals over a wide variety of species. Among the different animals you can see at the institution, you’ll find jaguars, warthogs, and spotted hyenas. We recommend checking times online before you visit, so that you can catch animal feedings for some of your favorite furry friends. And for those who are interested in learning more about the animals, you’ll find special programs and tours. For families and solo travellers alike, this place provides an unmissable educational experience to remember. Those searching for great indoor activities to stay cool in Miami will not be disappointed. Located just downtown of the city, the Miami Seaquarium works to foster curiosity in the natural world. Founded in 1955, the institute is known for being one of the oldest oceanariums in the United States. As one of Miami’s top tourist attractions, this place brings in half a million visitors a year – and who are we to argue with that many people? Upon entrance, you’ll be able to go nose-to-nose with a wide variety of colorful reef fish, jellyfish and sharks. In addition to the fish, you’ll find many semi-aquatic animals, including birds, reptiles and manatees. We love this place because it brings out our inner child and sense of wonder. With so much to take in, you could easily get lost spending an entire day here. Find Interesting Activities For those looking for art and culture in Miami, Coral Castle should do just the trick. Merging history, creativity and nature, this famous outdoor sculpture garden is a fantastic visual experience for those of all ages. Created by Latvian-American eccentric Edward Leedskalnin, this unique exhibit is carved out of over 1,100 tons of oolite limestone – however, his working process remains a mystery. Since Leedskalnin worked at night and undercover, and in a time where there were no modern construction advances, this piece remains one of the world’s most unusual accomplishments. With such beautiful handiwork, the park even became subject to many conspiracy theories – some said that lifted the blocks with psychic powers or by singing to them. Others thought that Leedskalnin had secret knowledge of magnetism. Whatever the case, we’re just happy to have the opportunity to see it up close. If you’re looking to get in touch with Mother Nature, look no further than Fairchild Tropic Botanic Garden. Located just south of the city, this wide-open green space offers a paradisial retreat from the city. Established in 1936, the garden showcases the expansive tropical plant collection of David Fairchild, which he brought back from his travels. This avid botanist and plant explorer spent years cultivating the garden, and bringing back over 200, 000 varieties of crops to America. Walking through the park, you’ll be able to enjoy cycads, flowering trees, orchids and vines. In addition, this wonderful landscape is home to the largest palm collection in the United States. Other highlights include Chihuly glass sculptures, gleaming ponds, and outdoor exhibits. Way more than just a great photo opportunity, this exquisite display of wild greenery is one of the most relaxing spots in Miami. Relax! Miami can get pretty hot in the summertime – thankfully, we’ve got the perfect antidote. A pool quite unlike any other, this picturesque aquatic attraction is perfect for kicking back with friends and family. Built into a former limestone quarry, the Venetian Pool was originally opened to the public in 1924. Filled with a whopping 820, 000 gallons of fresh water from artesian wells, this place has most definitely earned its stripes as the best place in the city for a refreshing dip. The pool has a shallower end and a kiddie pool, making it a great spot to take the kids. There is a sunning area for those who just want to lounge and catch some rays, as well as a café serving classic American-style cuisine. For the best way to beat the heat, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a lazy afternoon in Miami. When it comes to a casual day out, there's nothing quite better than a trip to the mall. Situated just downtown, Bayside Marketplace is recognized as the number one most visited attraction in the city. Of course, die-hard shopaholics will find much to do here, with over 150 stores to choose from. If you’re wondering about food options (and let’s face it, why wouldn’t you be?) Bayside has over 50 carts and kiosks around the center. Still, this place goes way beyond the standard mall experience. More of an entertainment complex than anything else, Bayside offers regular live music, family events and exhibits to be enjoyed. But for those who prefer to take it easy, you’ll find many cafes and restaurants dotted along the waterfront. The perfect crowd-pleaser with a lot to give, there’s absolutely nothing to hate here. Well, what else is there left to say? We love Miami! As one of Florida’s biggest tourist hotspots, the city is known for its great beaches and museums, but there are plenty of lesser-known attractions and local experiences that are definitely worth a visit. Explore Miami to its fullest with Go City’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
Blog

Visiting Miami Zoo Coupons, Discount Tickets & Tips for Visiting

If you're an animal lover planning a family vacation to Florida, then we have the perfect attraction for you – Zoo Miami. Zoo Miami, formerly known as Miami MetroZoo, is the largest zoo in all of Florida and the only one designed to be “tropical.” This zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, many of which are featured in their 59 distinct animal exhibits, broken down into sections. Zoo Miami is a must for anyone visiting the city, so be sure to add it to your Miami itinerary. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the Miami Zoo, packed full of tips for visiting, ways to save on admission, other nearby attractions, and much more. How to get Zoo Discount Tickets? We’ve got you covered – Zoo Miami admission is available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. 3. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available Miami passes, attractions & prices. Tips for Visiting Zoo Miami Zoo Miami Facts Zoo Miami originally opened as Crandon Park Zoo in 1948, making it over 70 years old. It is home to more than 3,000 animals and around 500 species. In 1965, a hurricane forced the zoo to close. However, the zoo reopened in 1980 as Miami MetroZoo. Zoo Miami is committed to conservation programs. It takes around four hours to walk around the zoo, but you will want to plan to spend a lot longer there to really see all the animals. What is there to do at Miami Zoo? Animal Presentations Animal Close-up at Critter Connection At this animal presentation, you’ll be able to see and learn about local and exotic wildlife. This feature occurs daily at 11:30, 1:30, and 3:00 pm. Wildlife Presentation This presentation takes place at the new Sami Family Amphitheater and allows you to learn about more wildlife and meet some interesting animals. Presentation times are typically at 12 noon and at 4:00 pm. Please note that the featured animals may change without notice. Exhibit Sections Asian River Life Samburu Station Near the Samburu station, you’ll be able to see giraffes, zebras, ostriches, African elephants, gazelle, black rhino, and the spider monkeys. There’s also the starling aviary where they often do “Meet with the Zookeeper” presentations. Atlantic Forest The Atlantic Forest is filled with interesting creatures such as the river otter, the giant anteater, two-toed sloths, bats, and more. There are “Meet the Zookeeper” presentations that take place for the river otter. Flooded Forest The animals you’ll find at the Flooded Forest include the Orinoco crocodile, the anaconda, the harpy eagle, and the stingray. While you’re in the area you can stop at the village plaza to have lunch or let your kids play in the playground. Cloud Forest The Cloud Forest is often a big hit with the whole family. That is because there is a wide range of animal exhibits in that area, such as the howler monkey, another aviary, snakes, frogs, lizards, crane, jaguars, hogs, pigs, and giant tortoises. The jaguar exhibit has “Meet the Zookeeper” presentations as well. Australian Exhibit At the Australian Exhibit, you’ll see and learn about the singing dogs, the Matschie’s tree kangaroo, the crocodile monitor, emus, lemurs, tigers, orangutans, the Cuban crocodile, and more. At every animal exhibit you’ll be able to learn about each of the animals and take photos of the animals in their enclosures. Each species has a large space reserved just for them. Occasionally there are some animals that cohabitate in the wild and therefore are placed together in large enclosures. Petting Zoo There is a petting zoo inside of Zoo Miami where your kids will get to see, pet, feed, and learn about cute little animals. This is a great way for children and adults alike to get up close to the animals. It's sure to be a memorable experience – don't forget to bring your camera. Top tip: Make sure you take your little ones to the petting zoo – it's always a big hit with the younger kids! What should I bring to Miami Zoo? Bottled water. It can get hot walking around Miami Zoo so it is important to stay hydrated. Please not that other outside food and drinks are not permitted in the zoo. A camera. You don't want to miss the excellent photo opportunities at Miami Zoo, especially at the petting zoo. Comfy shoes and weather appropriate clothing. It can be a long, tiring (although fun) day walking around the zoo. Make sure everyone is comfortable to make the most of your visit. What attractions are near Miami Zoo? Where is there to eat near Miami Zoo? While you’re at Zoo Miami you can enjoy some delicious food from the Fiesta Café, the Carousel Café, or enjoy some great barbecue from the Oasis Grill. This is especially great if you’re going to spend all day at the zoo and don’t want to leave the park to find a restaurant. If you prefer to eat somewhere else, you'll find a plethora of different options, including sushi, Chinese food, plenty of fresh Cuban and Mexican fare, and more casual places like Subway. Save on Tickets with a Go City® Remember, Go City® is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Zoo Miami tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple Miami attractions for one great price!
Go City Expert

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

  • Thick check Icon