Things to do in Miami for Birthday

By Sarah Harris

Happy birthday! Well, it might not be your birthday just yet, but it’s always good to be prepared, right? If you’re planning on travelling to the Magic City for your cake day and are having a little trouble coming up with some ideas, don’t worry – we've got you covered with a great list of things to see and do in the area. Well recognized for its sugar-sand beaches, great nightlife, and all of the glitz and glam, Miami is the perfect place for celebrating. From clear bottom kayaking and swimming with dolphins to drinks at South Beach, there’s a lot to do here for all types of travellers – all you have to do is pick your favorite! So grab a notepad and get ready to jot some things down. No matter how you choose to spend your special day, we’re sure you’ll have a blast!

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Relax!

For those who are looking to just kick back and relax on their birthday, we recommend the Venetian Pool. Standing out from all other aquatic attractions in the area, this refreshing tourist hotspot is well-recognized for its unique architecture and history. The pool first opened to the public in 1924, and has long served as a great respite from the Miami heat and humidity. To reflect and celebrate the local community, the attraction was designed in Mediterranean Revival style, utilizing a large amount of coral for ornamental features. Filled with around 820,000 gallons of fresh water from artesian wells, this place is known as the largest freshwater pool in the continental United States. The spot is perfect for sunseekers, too, with a tranquil sunning area and bar to be enjoyed. Totally swoon-worthy and luxurious, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a hot day in the Sunshine State.

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If you’re the type who likes to take things slow on their birthday, why not try a hand at deep-sea fishing? Whether you’re a total novice at the sport or a seasoned angler, this is a great way to take in the wonderful natural attributes of the southeastern coastline. For the best experience, we recommend Therapy-IV. Set sail from Miami Beach in a luxurious yacht and spend the day with the company’s highly knowledgeable and friendly crew to guide you through the experience. This tried and true spot is known for landing some big game – you'll be reeling in mahi-mahi, sailfish, and even hammerhead sharks! Soak up the sun, crack open a frosty cold one, and enjoy those breathtaking ocean views. A great choice for all outdoorsy types, this one-of-a-kind experience is not to be missed.

Find Fun Activities

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Ever wanted to swim with dolphins? Well, now you can! Bringing all of our childhood dreams to life, Dolphin World provides ultimate animal encounter adventures for those of all ages. Interact with the ocean’s friendliest and most intelligent creatures and learn more about them at the same time. If you’re not a strong swimmer, don’t fret – this place also has shallow pool experiences, where you can touch, train and play with the dolphins. Still, dolphins aren’t the only thing that there is to see here. Aside from the exciting dolphin packages, you can also hang out with seals, penguins, sea lions, and much more! In addition, you can do deep-sea scuba diving at this location to get up close with unique tropical fish, string rays and a wide variety of fascinating sea creatures. We love this spot because it’s impossible to leave without a massive smile spread across your face.

Miami is one of the dreamiest destinations in America, and a perfect place to spend your birthday. If you’re a nature enthusiast, the area provides a wide array of fun activities and day trips to choose from. For a delightful and scenic adventure to remember, why not try out clear bottom kayaking? Providing a new perspective on life under the sea, this unique excursion is a great way to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. On the tour, you’ll be able to see everything from colorful tropical fish and sea turtles to dolphins and manatees up close. This tour is great for kayakers of all skill levels since you’ll be accompanied by friendly and informative guides. We recommend that you bring water and lots of sunscreen along for the trip to stay comfortable. Exciting, captivating, and just a little bit different, we like this one because it’s a total crowd-pleaser.

Have a Blast!

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Another one of our favorite things to do in Miami for a birthday is a trip to South Beach. Well-recognized for its unparalleled natural beauty, this popular tourist hotspot is a fantastic place for spending your cake day. A quintessential Florida activity, a day at the seaside is great for those travelling in big groups because there’s a lot to see and do here – the best part is that the beach is really what you make of it. For those who like to relax, you can rent out lounge chairs and beach umbrellas upon arrival, and just kick back with a podcast under the sun. Still, if you're looking to get active, there are a wide variety of water sports to be enjoyed, including surfing, paddle boarding, jet skiing and sailing. We suggest staying until after dark since the area is well known for its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a pina colada at a swanky oceanfront cocktail bar, or explore the surrounding area’s fun dance clubs and karaoke bars. The world’s your oyster!

Miami is one of the best places to celebrate your birthday. With a wonderful array of fun and exciting attractions and activities, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing what to do for your big day. Whether you’re looking to relax at the pool, kiss a dolphin on the nose, or have blast at one of South Beach’s many great bars, there’s more than enough to keep you busy. 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
Go City Travel Expert

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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
Explore Miami with Go City
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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.
Katie Sagal
Beach
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Miami Itinerary – 3 Days in Miami for First Timers

Spending a long weekend in Miami and aren’t sure what to do with your time? Check out this popular 3 Days in Miami Itinerary for ideas on what to do and where to go. This 3 day itinerary includes: Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Sightseeing Tour Little Havana (free!) Everglades Tour from Miami Key West Day Trip Duck Tours South Beach Art Deco Walking Tour Miami Seaquarium Only have a few days in Miami? We’ve also put together a 1 day and 2-day itinerary to help you with your planning. On the flip side, if you have more vacation time, we recommend you spend some additional time down in Key West - this Florida Keys road trip itinerary is a fun way to explore Miami and everything in between Key West. DAY 1 Stop #1: Big Bus Miami Sightseeing Tour This hop-on, hop-off tour is an ideal introduction to the city of Miami itself. Big Bus Miami will take you throughout the city and the surrounding neighborhoods, hitting all the major highlights and hotspots. Some included sights on your tour include the Vizcaya Museum, the Freedom Tower, and much much more. Remember to pick up your ticket in advance at the Big Bus Miami Central Station. You can choose to hop on or off at any of the stops along the way, or, stay on for the full length of the tour (which will take about 3 hours). Stop #2: Little Havana (free!) Something you should not miss on your Miami vacation is the chance to explore on of the city's most famous neighborhoods – Little Havana. It's the locus of a whole bunch of cultural, social, and culinary traditions with a primarily Cuban influence (although many other Hispanic cultures are also represented here). You'll find frequent festivals and special events (so check an event calendar before your visit). Cultural Fridays are a recurring one that should be easy to check out. Or, if you just want to get a taste for the area – literally – hit up one of their authentic restaurants. Stop #3: Everglades Tour This Everglades Alligator Farm & Airboat Tour is the perfect way to see and experience the fantastic natural world of the Florida Everglades. It’s a half-day-long excursion that exposes you to the wild and wonderful throughout the swamplands. Take an airboat ride, marvel at the Wildlife Nature Show, stroll the Jungle Walkway, and more at this enchanting attraction. Don’t forget your camera to capture some photos of the iconic Florida alligator (from a safe distance, of course)! This tour lasts approximately 5 hours. DAY 2 Stop #1: Key West Day Tour Today is your day for total relaxation and fun. Take a Key West Day Trip and do nothing but lounge and enjoy the sunshine and waves. Or, you can opt to shop, dine, and otherwise explore Key West itself. Some optional activities you can do while in Key West include paying a visit to the Hemingway house, hopping aboard an eco-kayaking adventure, or setting sail on a dolphin-watching cruise. Whatever suits your fancy, you’ve got all day in Key West to enjoy it. Be sure to time your trip so that you see the setting sun in Mallory Square – you'll get some of the most beautiful photos you'll ever take. This tour will take the entire day, beginning early in the morning. DAY 3 Stop #1: Duck Tours South Beach Take your last day in Miami to spend a little more time in South Beach. The Duck Tours South Beach will give you a broad overview of the highlights and hotspots of South Beach and beyond, providing some really stellar photo opportunities. Some highlights of your tour will include the Art Deco District, Fisher Island, Millionaire’s Row, and Star Island, among many others. Plus, your tour guide is a professionally trained actor and comic who is sure to delight passengers the entire time. This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. Stop #2: Art Deco Walking Tours Another excellent perspective on South Beach comes with a stroll through its famous historic Art Deco district. Featuring the largest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the entire world (you read that right), this neighborhood is a must-see for architecture nuts and history buffs. This tour will take approximately 90 minutes, and is conducted on foot. We recommend comfy shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Stop #3: Miami Seaquarium Located on lovely Virginia Key, the Miami Seaquarium is the premier destination for all things marine life in Miami. Filled with exciting animal shows, educational exhibits, and informative presentations, an afternoon at the Seaquarium will delight the whole family. This institution is also dedicated to wildlife conservation and rescue, so many of the creatures that call the Seaquarium home have actually been rescued and rehabilitated from the wild. Be sure to pay a visit to the manatees, who represent the single largest population of rescued marine creatures at the park. We recommend reserving about 2 hours for this attraction. Save on Attraction Admission This 3 days in Miami itinerary is designed to combine the best of beachy, relaxing attractions with entertainment and education. Our suggested list of things to do will also help you really get a feel for the area, and allow you to leave knowing you’ve made the most of your limited time. Pick up a 3-day pass for Miami by Go City® and save big on combined admission prices vs paying at the gate. Remember, this 3-day itinerary is just one of many ways to experience Miami. Go City® gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from dozens of top attractions and create a vacation tailored to your interests.
Katie Sagal

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