Miami 4th of July Weekend

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.

UPDATED OCTOBER 2024
By Katie Sagal
Explore Miami with Go City

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 to 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...

4th of July Parade - Key Biscayne July 4

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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

Fireworks

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

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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. Jungle Island has endless 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 on all Go City® Miami passes.

Outdoor activities in Miami

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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 included on all Go City®  Miami passes.

The Key Lime Festival in Key West

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A delightful local tradition is the Key Lime Festival, held each year around the 4th of July in 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 on all Go City® Miami passes. The Key Lime Festival is separately ticketed.

Save up to 50% on 4th of July Miami attractions  

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, with Go City®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  

Please note: Some of these special Fourth of July events and activities are separately ticketed.

☀️See all Miami attractions ☀️ – 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 – ✈️ Buy a Miami pass ✈️ 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Outdoor Activities Miami

Miami has very warm weather and a lot of sunshine, making it the perfect place for outdoor activity. In fact, even if you choose to visit in the wintertime, the temperatures should still be great for those who like to get out in the open air. Trust us when we say that there’s a lot to do here. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, something educational, or just to kick back with a book at the beach, you’re sure to find something for you. If you’re not quite sure where to begin, don’t worry – we've done all the heavy lifting for you! So, if you’re planning a visit to the Magic City, have a read through our list of the best outdoor activities in the area. See the Sites When travelling, visiting the zoo is a great idea for a day out. Honestly, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in the city. Ranking high up on our itinerary, Zoo Miami is a total crowd-pleaser, merging the beautiful backdrop of the area with some wonderful wildlife. What makes this place a little different is that it’s the only tropical zoo in the continental United States. The park houses over 3, 000 animals and has over 100 exhibits in total – so if you’re an animal lover, this is the place to be. Prepare to see everything from river otters and ostriches to Asian elephants and Bengal tigers. The coolest part about this spot is probably its animal encounters, feedings and rides that it offers. In addition, the zoo has several spacious play areas for kids. A fantastic educational excursion, you won’t want to miss out on this one. For those who are looking for something a little different, we’ve got you covered! Merging history, architecture, and art, Coral Castle is a fantastic historical attraction that’s sure to keep you guessing. Carved out of over 1,100 tons of oolite limestone in a time where no modern construction advances were available, this one-of-a-kind outdoor exhibit stands as both a curious scientific anomaly and jaw-dropping testament to the artist’s handiwork. Because of its mind-bending backstory, the structure has been featured in countless books, magazines and television shows since its conception. In fact, the piece is so well-recognized that Billy Idol even wrote a song about the place, entitled ‘’Sweet Sixteen.’’ So, what can you expect? Well, upon entrance visitors can see awe-inspiring sculptures in a wide variety of shapes, as well as a stunning fountain and sundial. For history lovers and art enthusiasts alike, this world-famous structure is not to be missed. Get Some Fresh Air If you’re looking to spend some time in nature, look no further than Everglades National Park. An average of one million people visit the park each year – and with good reason! Covering over 2, 000 square miles of tropical wetlands and flatwoods, this place is the third largest national park in the United States. Characterized by its unusually rich biodiversity, the Everglades’ ecosystem is completely unique to this area of Florida. Walking through the park, visitors are sure to notice the area’s wonderful greenery and the protected species which thrive there. Amongst the many activities to do here, you’ll find that hiking, birdwatching, airboat tours, and kayaking are all popular choices. Quite possibly one of the most beautiful areas in America, this place is sure to blow you away. Seated along the southeastern coastline, Miami is well-recognized for its year-round tropical weather and all of the greenery that comes along with it. If you’re looking to discover the true natural beauty of the area, there’s no better place to be than Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Founded and designed in 1936 by Robert H. Montgomery, this place works to house the expansive plant collection of avid botanist David Fairchild. Covering over 83 acres, this wonderful space has over 10, 000 species of exotic and native flora to show. Those looking to escape all the hustle and bustle of the city will find solace in this sensational space. Soak up the Sun Miami can get pretty hot and humid, especially around the summertime. If you’re looking for a place to cool off, we recommend checking out the Venetian Pool. An aquatic attraction unlike any other, this spot provides an idyllic escape from the hectic pace of city life. Built into an abandoned coral rock quarry in 1921, the pool’s unique Mediterranean Revival style sets it apart from other attractions of its kind. Filled with 820, 000 gallons of fresh water from artesian wells, this is the largest freshwater pool in the US of A. This place is great for a relaxing day with the family, with a kiddie pool for the little ones. For those who just want to soak up the sun, there’s an area with beach chairs where you can take some time for yourself uninterrupted. Fun, refreshing, and luxurious, too, we love this spot because it just has so much to offer. It goes without saying that one of the best things to do in Miami is hit the beach. The city is home to countless great seaside tourist hotspots, but our top pick has got to be South Beach. With its clear waters and pristine shores, this picturesque place is pretty much perfect for catching some rays. Visitors can rent out lounge chairs and umbrellas for a small fee for a great relaxing beach experience. Still, this stop is no one-trick pony. For those who like to stay active, there are a wide array of water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, longboarding and sailing – it's just up to you to decide! We also recommend taking some time to explore the surrounding area. There’s a wonderful boardwalk, beautiful Art Deco architecture, and many cafes and stores to be enjoyed. Set aside a whole day for this to take some time away from the sprawling city. Boasting perennial warm weather and clear blue skies, Miami is the perfect place to take things outdoors. 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 Alone in Miami

In many ways, Miami is the perfect solo city. With its pristine beaches, fantastic cultural attractions and world-famous nightlife, the Magic City boasts no shortage of great things to do. And luckily for us, pretty much anything you want to do in the city can be done alone – it's just up to you to pick your favorite. If you’re an outdoorsy type, head over to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden to experience the true beauty of Florida. Or, if you want to inject a bit of education into your travel experience, check out the Rubell museum. And of course, no Miami vacation would be complete without a trip to the beach – we like South Beach for its energetic atmosphere. So you see, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a creative type, or a seaside lover, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Looking for the best things to do alone in Miami? Have a read though our list! See the Sites If you’re into architecture, you might just enjoy the next item on our list. Located in the scenic Coconut Grove area of the city, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a historic villa and estate well worth the visit. The magnificent structure was built in Mediterranean Revival style to resonate with the tropical climate. Though this beautiful spot once served as a private home to businessman James Deering, it is thankfully now open to the public for viewing. A feast for the eyes and excellently preserved, the museum features much of the original art and furniture from Deering’s private collection. Visitors will no doubt also enjoy ambling through the meticulously maintained extensive formal gardens, as well as the native woodland which surrounds the estate. A thoroughly unique experience, we love this spot for offering a glimpse into the life of luxury in a different time. With the city‘s perennial wonderful weather and clear blue skies, it’s only right to check out some of the local outdoor exhibits. A quintessential Miami mainstay and historical feature of the city, Coral Castle has been a longtime favorite for locals and visitors alike. In 1923, Edward Leedskalnin first began creating Coral Castle in secret following a difficult breakup with his fiancé. Since the structure is made of over 1, 000 tons of sedimentary rock in a time when no modern construction advances were available, this unusual attraction brings up many questions. To this very day, the site has many scientists, engineers and philosophers questioning the artist’s method of construction. The attraction was a spectacular success, and has been drawing in visitors from near and far ever since out of sheer curiosity. A thoroughly unique experience, this place is perfect for those who are craving something a little different. Soak Up the Sun A Miami vacation just wouldn’t be a Miami vacation without hitting the beach – are we right? Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or go for a dip, we recommend South Beach - almost for its beautiful scenery alone. Standing out from a lot of other beaches in the area, this spot is known for its pristine, palm-fringed shores and turquoise waters. Because of its inherent beauty, this spot is often used as a backdrop for modelling shoots, and many popular TV shows - walking down the beach, you might even catch some in action! For those who are looking to kick back and relax, sunbeds and umbrellas are available to rent upon arrival. You’ll also find that there are many activities at the beach, including surfing, paddleboarding, longboarding, and sailing. We suggest staying until the evening time, since the surrounding area has a lot of great bars and restaurants to be enjoyed. For those who want to take refuge in the beauty of the natural world, there’s no better place than Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Accountant Robert H. Montgomery first established this garden in 1936, naming it after his friend, renowned botanist and plant collector David Fairchild. Today, the park stretches over 83 acres, and still houses many of Fairchild’s tropical plant collection which was brought back from his travels. Think magnificent centuries-old oak trees, wild romantic trailing vines, and colorful flora of all kinds. The garden is also home to the largest palm collection in America, and the biggest tropical bamboo repository in the world, with over 125 species. Walking through the park, visitors will also enjoy viewing the wide variety of wildlife which thrives there. A tranquil urban oasis, this space is perfect for getting some fresh air and taking a little time for yourself. Get Creative There are some things that are certain in life, and Miami weather is one of them. If you’re looking to beat the heat, there’s no better option than checking out one of the city’s incredible cultural amenities. We particularly love the Rubell Museum for its impressive collection of contemporary art. In fact, its repository is the largest of its kind in North America. The institute houses many recognizable names, such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Barbara Kruger, and Cindy Sherman. Highlights include Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroee, 1967 and Damien Hirst’s Dance Naked, 1997. We recommend setting at least a couple of hours aside for this, so that you can truly take in the masterpieces here. No doubt one of the best museums in the city, this place works to provide a fantastic visual experience to remember. Another one of our favorite solo spots in the city is Wynwood Walls. Situated in the trendy Wynwood Art District, this fantastic outdoor art museum works to spotlight some of the best working urban artists today. Covering over 80, 000 square feet of wall space, this attraction is one of the largest open-art installations in the world. Visitors can expect to see everything from bold tagging pieces and stencils to wheat paste posters and ceramic tile works. The murals change constantly, but some names you might recognize include Shepard Fairey, Lady Pink, and Miss Van. We recommend sticking around to explore the surrounding area, where you’ll find quaint cafes, unique stores and of course, tons more galleries! A great stop for all artsy types, we love this space for bringing something new to the table. Miami is a mecca for millions of tourists per year – many of whom tackle the city solo! 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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Miami in October

Miami is a great city to visit all year round, but we especially love it around autumn time, when the weather is a little more temperate and the crowds have thinned out from the summer months. Though the city is perhaps best known as a hub for relaxation, we urge you to get out there and try it all. If you’re looking for art and culture in the Magic City, we recommend checking out the Chocolate and Art Show. For foodies, the South Beach Seafood Festival is the perfect way to get a true taste of local culture and soak up the sun at the same time. And definitely don’t forget to check out all of the cool Halloween parties which will be taking place throughout the month! So you see, there’s something to delight everyone in this sprawling southeastern metropolis – it's all up to you to pick your jam! If you’re not quite sure where to start, have a read through our list below. Soak Up the Sun Though October isn’t quite as hot as peak season, temperatures can get up to around 80 degrees – meaning that you can still enjoy most of the outdoor activities you’d still usually travel to Miami for. So, for those who are looking to enjoy the exquisite natural beauty of the area, don’t worry – this is definitely still an option! One of our favorite spots in the city to visit has got to be Pinecrest Gardens known for its expansive array of native and exotic flora. Think towering palms, 20 acres of meticulously manicured lawns, and vibrant flowers of all kinds. This beautiful landscape is also home to a lot wildlife, including koi fish, turtles, peacocks and swans. In addition, there is a children's playground and splash area, making this a great place for a family day trip. No doubt one of the most beautiful spots in the city, we couldn’t think of a better place to spend a sunny day in Miami. Foodies – pay attention! If you’re looking to try out some of the local cuisine, we highly recommend checking out South Beach Seafood Festival. Whilst there are plenty of great dining spots in the city, this festival only rocks around in the autumn time – so don’t skip it! Taking place towards the end of the month, this incredible culinary event merges great food with the beautiful backdrop of Miami to bring you something truly special. Savor the taste of king crab legs under the sun. Enjoy fried lobster tails whilst taking in the stunning beach views. And then, wash it all down with a nice cold one. Celebrating the fine ocean destination and a wide array of regional culinary artists, this event is a total must-do for any visitor who considers food their religion. Get Creative Or, if you’re looking to beat the heat, why not check out one of the city’s incredible cultural institutions? There are countless wonderful museums in the Magic City, but our favorite has got to be the Rubell Museum for its impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum is built into six former industrial buildings and features 40 small galleries and a library inside. The institute is home to one of the biggest collections of its kind, and features some of the most proficient and revered modern artists of the 20th- and 21st-centuries. Amongst its unique collection, visitors can enjoy works by Damien Hirst, Keith Haring, Cindy Sherman and Jean-Michel Basquiat. A thoroughly delightful endeavor, this cultural gem is perfect for art lovers of all ages. When travelling, it’s always a great idea to check out the local art scene. Taking place towards the end of the month in the trendy Wynwood Art District, the Chocolate and Art Show is well worth the visit. Held annually, this fun cultural event works to shine a spotlight on regional up-and-coming talent across a wide assortment of creative disciplines. No, really - trust us when we say that there’s a lot to see here. This underground art show features everything from conventional paintings and sculptures to modern installations and videography. All of the creatives should be at the event, for those who like to talk art. Alongside the shown pieces, guests can enjoy body painting, vendors, live music, and of course, free chocolate! Whether you’re a fine art enthusiast or casual crafter, you’re sure to have a blast browsing the pieces and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the Festivities! Of course, it wouldn’t be autumn in Miami without celebrating Oktoberfest. Our favorite celebration for this has to be Oktoberfest Miami, which is held at the German American Social Club. This event gains much traction, with over 40, 000 guests passing through its doors during its six-day run. This party is also the longest continuously running event of its kind in the continental United States. At the festival, visitors can enjoy a divisive array of beer and traditional Bavarian food unlike no other. For entertainment, you've got parades, folk dancing and bands direct from Germany. There are also bounce houses, slides and play areas for the kids, so there’s a little something for everybody here. With its incredible atmosphere and true dedication to the real thing, you won’t want to miss out on this one. If you’re anything like us, you love a good Halloween party. Luckily, Miami knows how to do it right, with many celebrations cropping up all across the city over the month of October. Still, our favorite event for this legendary spooky holiday has got to be Pirates of the Wharf, a waterside themed dress-up event complete with its own real pirate ship! Be sure to bring your best dress-up, since it’s pretty much mandatory. At the event, visitors can enjoy plenty of drink and Caribbean-style food throughout the night. For entertainment, there’s live music, dancing and a giant costume contest to spice things up. A little bit scary and a whole lot of fun, this fantastic annual event is perfect for any visitors with a penchant for the weird and the wonderful. October is an excellent time to book your Miami vacation if you’re looking for smaller crowds, lower accommodation rates, and festive events. 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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