Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida: Miami, Fort Lauderdale & Beyond (2025 Guide)

December 5, 2025 No Comments

Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida

Let’s be real—when it’s 82 degrees in December, it’s not always easy to feel that classic holiday cheer. But one thing South Florida does better than almost anywhere else? Holiday lights. From immersive botanical displays to iconic boat parades, these festive shows bring all the magic—minus the frostbite.

Whether you’re visiting Miami this winter, planning a family outing, or staying at one of our SoFLA Vacations properties, here are the top holiday light shows in South Florida for 2025.

NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (Coral Gables)

NightGarden transforms the lush Fairchild grounds into an illuminated wonderland with glowing mazes, interactive features, and vibrant installations. It’s just minutes from The Avenue, our boutique hotel in Coral Gables.

Why We Love It:

Immersive lights & interactive experiences
Perfect for photos, couples, and families
A garden holiday must-see

Symphony in Lights at Gulfstream Park Village (Hallandale Beach)

This free holiday light show features a 50-foot tree, nightly music-synchronized displays, and festive entertainment—right next door to our Sunset Inn in Hallandale Beach.

Why We Love It:

It’s free and family-friendly
Music + lights = instant holiday joy
Surrounded by restaurants and shops

Zoo Lights Miami (South Miami Heights)

Zoo Lights Miami features over one million twinkling lights, glowing animal displays, themed encounters, treats, and nighttime train rides through the expansive Zoo Miami.

Why We Love It:

One million lights across the zoo
Kid-friendly nighttime activities
A festive twist on an iconic Miami attraction

Winterfest Boat Parade (Fort Lauderdale)

Known as “The Best Show on H2O,” this one-night-only illuminated parade cruises up the Intracoastal with themed yachts, decked-out boats, and thousands of spectators. The 2025 theme is “Yacht Rock of Ages” so get ready to jam out!

When: Saturday, December 13 at 5:30 PM

Why We Love It:

Iconic Fort Lauderdale holiday tradition
Over-the-top floating light displays
The most Florida-style holiday celebration

Plan Your Holiday Stay

Whether you’re exploring Miami, Hallandale Beach, or the Keys, stay close to the festivities at our SoFLA Vacations properties like The Avenue, Sunset Inn, and our brand-new oceanfront escape SeaGlass Cove.

Outdoor Holiday Shopping in Miami: Best Places to Shop in 2025

November 21, 2025 No Comments

If you’re looking for the best outdoor holiday shopping in Miami this season, you’re in the right place. Because holiday shopping shouldn’t feel like a chore—especially in perfect Miami winter weather. Miami’s winter weather makes it ideal for outdoor holiday shopping in Miami, with markets and open-air malls offering seasonal events and unique gifts.

If you’re lucky enough to spend winter in South Florida, you know the drill: sunshine, breezy afternoons, and zero chance of shoveling snow. But the holidays still come with a long to-do list, and shopping can feel… less than magical. So we made a list (and yes, checked it twice!) of the best outdoor holiday shopping experiences in Miami—places where you can find unique gifts and enjoy the gorgeous winter weather South Florida is famous for. Shop, stroll, sip, repea

Vizcaya Village Holiday Night Market (Coconut Grove)

If you’re staying at Hotel Arya or near Coconut Grove, this stop is a must. Vizcaya Village transforms its historic space into a glowing, open-air night market with more than 20 local vendors. Expect handcrafted jewelry, artisan gifts, gourmet treats, and that magical Vizcaya ambiance the Grove is known for.

When: December 19th, 2025

Where: 3250 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129

Hours: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

The Shops at Merrick Park (Coral Gables)

Just steps from The Avenue Hotel, this Coral Gables gem is one of Miami’s most beautiful open-air luxury shopping destinations. Think lush landscaping, strolling paths, and a massive 50-foot Christmas tree towering over the courtyard. Browse brands like Nordstrom, Gucci, J.Crew, and Sephora, then swing by their Sunday farmers market for locally baked goods, jewelry, candles, and more. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon of shopping, snacking, and holiday wandering.

Julia & Henry’s Holiday Village (Downtown Miami)

This brand-new Holiday Village on Flagler Street brings major festive energy to Downtown Miami. With 60+ vendors, a unique outdoor ice rink, holiday bars, live performances, Santa photos, and a huge seasonal market featuring handmade soaps, vintage finds, toys, décor, and more—it’s basically the North Pole, Miami-style.

When: Nov. 15 – Jan. 1, 2025

Where: 200 E Flagler St Miami, FL 33131

Hours: Saturday 1 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Miami Design District (MiMo)

Just a quick ride from The New Yorker Hotel, the Miami Design District is where luxury shopping meets art-world cool. Here you’ll find Hermès, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and other high-end boutiques, all tucked between bold architecture and some of Miami’s best public art. During the holidays, the district lights up—literally—with installations and festive décor that make the entire area sparkle. Whether you’re shopping for designer gifts or just soaking up the atmosphere, it’s the most stylish holiday stop in Miami.

Ready to Shop the Season?

Wherever you stay, you’ll find plenty of outdoor holiday shopping in Miami to make your trip festive and fun. Whether you’re staying in Coral Gables, Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove, or the MiMo District, South Florida is full of festive outdoor experiences to make your holiday shopping actually enjoyable. Sunshine included.

🍔Best Cheeseburgers in Miami: Where to Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day Like a Local

September 18, 2025 No Comments

Here at SoFLA Vacations, we consider ourselves burger aficionados. In honor of National Cheeseburger Day (September 18), we’re sharing our top five Miami burger spots you can’t miss. From trendy smash burgers to Cuban fritas to pub-style giants — we know where to celebrate National Cheeseburger Day like a local.

🍑Lala’s Burgers (Bird Road)

Hidden behind Lincoln’s Beard Brewing in the Bird Road warehouse district, Lala’s Burgers is one of Miami’s best-kept secrets. Their Angus beef smash burgers come stacked high and dripping with flavor (thanks to their signature Lala’s sauce). With a simple rotating menu of just three burgers, a pint from Lincoln’s, and a gooey chocolate chip cookie for dessert, this spot is pure Miami burger bliss.

🪄El Mago de las Fritas (Little Havana)

Before smash burgers, Miami had fritas — the Cuban burger classic made with a beef-and-chorizo patty, buttery Cuban bread, and a mountain of potato sticks. And nobody does it better than El Mago de las Fritas. Open for 35+ years, it’s a true slice of Miami history. When our guests stay in our Little Havana Retreat vacation home, we always recommend a frita walking tour — but trust us, El Mago is a must-stop.

🌴Chug’s Diner (Coconut Grove)

Part Cuban café, part American diner, Chug’s is the heart of Coconut Grove. Their Diner Burger—juicy beef, potato sticks, and secret sauce on a sesame bun—is easily one of the best burgers in Coconut Grove. Plus, it’s just steps from our rentals at Hotel Arya, where you can enjoy the best bay views in Miami before or after your burger run.

🍟Blue Collar (MiMo District)

For longtime Miami locals, Blue Collar is comfort food heaven. Sitting right on Biscayne Blvd in the historic MiMo District, this laid-back restaurant serves a classic cheeseburger that’s all about quality meat and the perfect bun. No gimmicks, no trends—just one of the best cheeseburgers in Miami-Dade. Pair it with the neighborhood vibe (and a stay at The New Yorker Hotel nearby), and you’ve got the ultimate vintage Miami experience.

🍺 Keg South (Pinecrest & Kendall)

If you’re craving a true Miami pub-style burger, head south to Keg South. This no-frills local dive serves juicy, made-to-order burgers that taste like a summer backyard cookout. Add in cold pints, plenty of TVs for the game, and grilled wings (locals swear they’re the best wings in Miami), and you’ll feel right at home.

🎉 Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day in Miami

So there you have it — our local guide to the best cheeseburgers in Miami. Whether you’re smashing patties at Lala’s, tasting fritas in Little Havana, or going classic at Blue Collar, Miami’s burger scene has something for every appetite.

Now grab your stretchy pants, celebrate National Cheeseburger Day Miami-style, and don’t forget — SoFLA’s vacation rentals put you right near all these mouthwatering spots.

Clubs to get your GROOVE on while visiting Miami, FL

October 9, 2023 1 Comment

There are many things Miami is known for that attract visitors from all over the world. The great beaches, amazing Cuban culture and food, Art Deco architecture and design and, of course, our beloved Miami sports teams and hall of fame players all offer something for travelers to the Magic City. There is so much to do in Miami, but nothing beats our amazing nightclubs and hot spots!! Here are a few of our favorite spots to GET YOUR GROOVE ON while visiting Greater Miami.

Ball & Chain

First opened in 1935, today’s version of Ball and Chain offers hot, live Latin and Jazz music where luminaries like Billie Holiday, Count Basie and others frequented during its’ 1950s heydays. In its latest revival, the storied bar combines the old-world charm of a classic Cuban nightclub with a tropical-themed ambiance represented by its lush open courtyard and Pineapple Stage all in the heart of Little Havana. Voted best mojito by #NewTimes Readers, Ball and Chain has a full menu of Cuban favorites and is open until 3am Friday and Saturdays.

Their website: https://ballandchainmiami.com/

CLUB E11EVEN

The world’s only 24/5 nightclub, Club E11even features a cast of top performers and DJs, outstanding food and drinks, private VIP rooms and five-star service. Voted as a “Top-50 Club in the world” by DJ Magazine and ranked #6 in the “World’s Top-10 New Year’s Eve Celebrations” by Yahoo Travel, Club E11even is one of the most sought-after venues for both public and private events not just in Miami but throughout the world! Open Wednesday – Sunday all day and night, you can get your groove on anytime at Club E11even.

Their website: https://www.11miami.com/

BLACKBIRD ORDINARY

Voted as one of Miami’s 100 Best Bars by #New Times Magazine, Blackbird Ordinary is in the heart of Brickell and features some of the best libations in Miami. Open until 5am, 7 days a week, Blackbird Ordinary is a magnet for locals featuring live music “under the stars” every Friday during Happy Hour and free drinks for the ladies every Tuesday night until 1am. Great music to dance and amazing cocktail creations make Blackbird Ordinary a perfect spot to get your groove on while in Miami.

Their IG Page: https://www.instagram.com/blackbirdordinary/?hl=en

Best Cold Spots this Summer in Hot, Miami, FL!

July 18, 2023 No Comments

Many areas throughout the United States have experienced record heat this summer, and Miami is no exception. High temperatures like this has locals and visitors scurry for places to get out of the heat, while having some good summer fun of course. In an effort to prevent any tourists/locals from having a heat stroke, here are our recommendations for the BEST VALUE in Miami while STAYING COOL.

BIRD BOWL

When it opened on Thanksgiving Day in 1956, Bird Bowl featured state-of-the-art AMF Bowling technology including the first underground ball return. Today, Bird Bowl has kept up with the times as it features not only bowling, but an arcade, private karaoke room, billiard Hall and a newly redone sportsbar! This is a great spot to go with both friends and family. Check them out at: https://birdbowl.com/

MIAMI MARLINS PARK

Much like the Earth, the Miami Marlins are on fire. Even while the Marlins contend for a playoff spot, there is no better value in professional sports in Miami than the Marlins. Loan Depot Stadium, in the heart of Little Havana, features a retractable roof. So on those hot summer days, the AC will be keeping you cool while you enjoy a Major League Baseball game. Check out the Marlins 4 for $44 and all their hot deals to see at https://www.mlb.com/marlins/tickets/specials/offers#4-for-44

DOLPHIN MALL

Miami’s largest and most popular outlet mall features over 250 stores and so much more……all in air-conditioned comfort out of the hot summer heat! Dolphin Mall features over 25 restaurants with a wide array of cuisines and favorites such as Texas de Brazil, The Cheesecake Factory and P.F. Changs. In terms of activities, Dolphin Mall also features Dave and Busters, Bowlero and CMX Cinemas (19 screens and Imax). All great entertainment options that are away from the blistering sun. Check out all to do at Dolphin Mall at https://shopdolphinmall.com/

VENETIAN POOL

Up for the outdoors while staying cool this summer in Miami? The cool, clear waters of Venetian Pool located in a residential area of Coral Gables will get the job done on any hot summer day! Carved out of coral rock, this historic landmark and swimming pool features caves, stone bridges, and waterfalls. Underground artesian wells with water temperature at 76 degrees year-round feed this 820,000-gallon pool that is drained and re-filled daily. Find out all the Venetian Pool has to offer at https://www.coralgables.com/attractions/venetian-pool

4 Best Places to Get Your Art Fix While on Your Next Miami Vacation

July 21, 2022 No Comments

Miami may be known for its beaches and nightlife, but with so much culture and affluence, the art scene is thriving. Whether you’re in the streets of Wynwood, the shores of Biscayne Bay or historic yet youthful Coconut Grove, good art is around every corner. Make the most of your Miami Vacation with SoFLA Vacations by indulging in this rich art scene.

Opened in 1984, the Perez Art Museum is a treasure trove of contemporary works from the 20th and 21st centuries. Located on beautiful Biscayne Bay, the views inside and outside of the Perez Art Museum are stunning. Just outside the museum is an interactive sculpture garden, the perfect place to snap your Instagram photos while vacationing in Miami. Perez Art Museum also features art talks and studio features, a great opportunity to connect with the artist.

Not far from the Perez Art Museum in Miami’s Design District is Markowicz Fine Art. With works from artists like Andy Warhol, Carole A. Feuerman and Banksy, come observe mastery of the contemporary field. Open since 2010, Markowicz Fine Art now has 3 locations nationwide in Miami, Dallas and Laguna Beach, that feature work from local artists and icons alike.

Now it’s time to get on the street and see the core of Miami art culture, at Wynwood Walls. Founded in 2009 by Tony Goldman of Goldman Properties, Wynwood Walls is an art installation that has quickly become one of the most famous art exhibits in the country. A series of walls hold breathtaking and profound murals from artists like Obey, Kenny Scharf and Futura, and are regularly replaced so that each time you visit you will experience new works.

Maybe you’re familiar with popular contemporary artists and the work that every gallery tries to emulate? If you’re ready for a new experience, longing to see what the best local artists of Miami hold, LnS Gallery is beckoning. Opened in 2017, this progressive contemporary art gallery is located in the lively and beautiful clutches of Coconut Grove. The focus of LnS Gallery is on multiculturalism and inclusivity, it is sure to inspire.

Best Miami Events for Spring/Summer 2022

March 11, 2022 No Comments

Music festivals, art shows, sporting events and more, The Magic City is know for hosting some of the most spectacular events year-round. From the Super Bowl to Art Basel to Miami International Boat Show, events occur in Miami that are known around the world! Here are our choices for the “can’t miss” events when visiting the Greater Miami area this Spring and Summer:

Ultra Music Festival

The Spring kicks off as party people from around the world descend on Miami as the Ultra Music Festival takes over Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami March 25-27. This 3-day electronic dance music festival features over 150 entertainers from around the world performing on 7 stages with music, pyrotechnics, lasers and confetti enhancing the performances. If you like music and energy, this is a can’t miss Miami event.

Deering Bay Seafood Festival

Love munching on the delectables from the sea? Then you won’t want to miss the 16th annual Deering Bay Seafood Festival April 10th from 10am-6pm on the grounds of the Deering Estate in Southern Miami-Dade. This family-friendly event features all the great treasures of the sea, chef demonstations, live entertainment and kids activities while exposing visitors and the South Florida community to the historic Deering Estate.

F1 Miami Grand Prix

Rev up your engines and check-out the inaugural Formula 1® Miami Grand Prix taking place May 6-8 on the grounds of Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. The action will be split across all three days as the greatest car racers in the World compete with Practice on Friday, Qualifying on Saturday and the Grand Prix on Sunday. The newly constructed Miami International Autodrome is a temporary circuit that features a 3.36 mile track with 19 corners and an anticipated average speed of 140mph. Fast and exciting racing on the streets of Miami!!

Miami Swim Week

My dream job? How about towel boy for Miami Swim Week! Why not, I mean it features the most beautiful women in the world modeling the latest swimwear fashion in a series of ticketed events from July 14 – 21 at various venues throughout Miami Beach. It surely gets hot and steamy for fashion lovers at the 2022 Miami Swim Week.

So remember, when traveling to the Greater Miami area this Spring or Summer there is an event for your food-, music-, art- or sports-loving side!

Category: Things to do in Miami