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Best Events to Attend While Visiting Miami This Spring

Spring is just around the corner, and Miami is ready to dazzle with unforgettable events that will make your vacation in South Florida even more special. From world-class sports to cultural celebrations, Miami’s springtime calendar is packed with something for everyone. Here are some of the top events you won’t want to miss during your visit!

The Miami Open
March 19 – 30, 2025 | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens

Regarded as the “fifth major,” the Miami Open attracts the world’s top tennis players. Held at the prestigious Tennis Grounds at Hard Rock Stadium, this thrilling event is a must-see for tennis fans. With tickets starting as low as $20 for early rounds, there’s no excuse to miss out on the action.

Purchase tickets here.

The Florida Derby
March 30, 2025 | Gulfstream Park, Hallandale Beach

Race over to Gulfstream Park and catch the action at the Florida Derby, where the world’s top thoroughbred horses compete on the road to the Triple Crown. Set in a vibrant entertainment complex featuring a casino, restaurants, and more, this is an event that combines the thrill of racing with fun-filled amenities. Tickets are available for as low as $60.

Get tickets here.

Miami Film Festival
March 1 – 10, 2025 | Various venues throughout Miami-Dade County

The Miami Film Festival is a celebration of the best in cinema, with over 120 films showcasing global talent. It’s the festival that launched the Academy Award-winning film Moonlight in 2016. Now in its 45th year, it continues to offer film lovers an exciting selection of movies to enjoy.

Check out the full schedule here.

Deering Seafood Festival
April 13, 2025 | Deering Estate, Miami

If you’re a seafood lover, the Deering Seafood Festival is a can’t-miss event. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Deering Estate on Old Cutler Road, this 18th annual celebration of fresh seafood features tastings, live music, and family-friendly fun. The event runs from 10 AM to 6 PM, and advanced tickets are available now.


Buy tickets here.

Fort Lauderdale Air Show
May 3 – 4, 2025 | Fort Lauderdale Beach

Head over to Fort Lauderdale Beach for the spectacular Fort Lauderdale Air Show, featuring high-flying performances from the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the A-10 Thunderbolt II, and more. It’s a thrilling event for aviation enthusiasts and families alike. Tickets range from $35 to over $1,000, with options to enjoy the show from different vantage points.


Purchase tickets here.

New Year’s Events in Miami

Top Ideas for Celebrating New Year’s Eve

in Miami: 2025

Miami is the perfect place to welcome 2025, with a wide variety of events to suit all tastes. Whether you’re looking for an upscale celebration, a family-friendly event, or a wild night of dancing, Miami offers something special for everyone to enjoy as the clock strikes midnight!

Sweets & Bubbles Rooftop Celebration at InterContinental Miami

If you’re looking for an exclusive, glamorous experience, the Sweets & Bubbles Rooftop Event at the InterContinental Miami is the place to be. From 11 PM to 1 AM, you can sip champagne and indulge in delicious homemade sweets while taking in an incredible view of Miami’s fireworks over Biscayne Bay. Tickets are available for $75 per person, including one bottle of champagne for every two guests. This intimate event offers private access to the rooftop, ensuring a memorable celebration. You can also start your evening with a luxurious five-course dinner at Toro Toro, featuring caviar, lobster, and Wagyu beef, available exclusively on New Year’s Eve. Book your table through OpenTable.

Studio 2025 Disco Party at The National Hotel

For those craving a retro celebration, head to The National Hotel’s Studio 2025 Disco Party. Start your evening at Mareva 1939, the hotel’s renowned Spanish tapas restaurant, and enjoy a flavorful five-course meal for $120 per person. The menu includes crowd-pleasers like jamón ibérico, Spanish octopus, and lobster paella. Finish the meal with a champagne toast and homemade desserts. Then, get ready to dance the night away at the Studio 2025 Disco Party, where you can groove to ‘70s and ‘80s hits, enjoy sparkling décor, and sip drinks from an open bar. For dinner, make a reservation via OpenTable, and party tickets can be purchased on EventBrite.

Celebrate with Calvin Harris at Fontainebleau Miami Beach

For an electrifying New Year’s Eve experience, don’t miss Calvin Harris performing live at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. This iconic venue promises an unforgettable night with live entertainment, premium dining, and an open bar. As the clock counts down to 2025, enjoy a virtual ball drop and a dazzling show under the stars. Before the party, treat yourself to an exquisite prix-fixe dinner at Mirabella, the coastal Italian restaurant led by Chef Michael White. With seating options at 6 PM for $199 and 8:30 PM for $299, it’s the perfect way to enjoy fine dining before the festivities. For tickets, cabanas, or tables, visit Fontainebleau’s website.

Family Friendly New Year’s Celebrations!

If you prefer a lively, family-friendly event, Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami is the place to be. This popular celebration features a fantastic fireworks show at midnight, along with live music, food trucks, and plenty of fun activities for all ages. For families with younger children, both the Miami Children’s Museum and Jungle Island offer early New Year’s Eve celebrations. With arts and crafts, live performances, and early countdowns, these events are the perfect way to introduce little ones to the magic of ringing in the New Year.

The Wharf Miami

For a more laid-back celebration with great food and drinks, check out The Wharf Miami. Situated along the Miami River, this open-air venue offers live music, food trucks, and plenty of space to mingle with friends while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for those who want to celebrate the new year in a relaxed but festive setting.

No matter how you want to celebrate, Miami offers a diverse range of events to kick off 2025 in style. From glamorous galas to lively beach parties, the Magic City is the perfect place to make unforgettable memories!

What’s Hot in Miami Right Now: October to Mid-November

As the leaves change and the air cools, Miami turns up the heat with an array of exciting activities and events. From mouthwatering cuisine to
captivating art and lively nightlife, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to all the hot happenings from October to mid-November!


Last Call for Miami Spice

Calling all food lovers! Don’t miss your last chance to experience Miami Spice, ending in October. Indulge in prix-fixe menus at top restaurants like
Ariete and Glass & Vine, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary landscape—from fresh seafood to delectable Latin-inspired dishes. This is your
opportunity to taste the best of Miami without breaking the bank!

Dive Into Wynwood’s Art Scene

Wynwood is bursting with creativity, making it the perfect time to immerse yourself in Miami’s art scene. With Art Basel just around the corner, the neighborhood is alive with vibrant murals and innovative galleries. Explore the artistic side of the city with a street art tour, visit the Wynwood Walls Museum, or check out the latest exhibits at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). The museum’s stunning architecture and breathtaking views of
the Port of Miami will leave you inspired.

Halloween Vibes Everywhere!

Miami knows how to celebrate Halloween in style! The Wynwood Fear Factory is the ultimate destination for thrilling Halloween parties, complete with
live music and costume contests. If you’re in the mood for a more upscale spooky experience, don’t miss the Halloween festivities at the Faena Hotel or The Wharf Miami, where glam meets ghoulish for an unforgettable night.

Shop Local at Miami’s Markets

Looking for unique souvenirs or artisanal treasures? Head to the Wynwood and Coconut Grove Farmers Markets for a delightful selection of local handmade goods. If you’re in the mood to splurge, explore the high-end boutiques at Brickell City Centre or the Design District—a shopper’s
paradise filled with designer labels and exclusive finds.

Miami’s Cultural Events

Mark your calendars for November! The Miami Book Fair is a must-visit, celebrating both Latin and English-speaking authors with readings and
signings. For film enthusiasts, the Miami Short Film Festival showcases a captivating array of independent films from around the globe, making it a highlight for cinephiles.

No matter your interests, Miami’s vibrant culture, tantalizing food, and exhilarating nightlife promise to keep you entertained all season long. So pack
your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Miami this fall!

Unique Miami Must-See Spots!

It’s no secret that there’s an abundance of sights and activities awaiting travelers in Miami. From vibrant Little Havana and the decorated Wynwood Walls to the amazing Art Deco architecture prevalent in Miami Beach, the city offers a myriad of distinctive experiences. So today, we decided to curate a list of some of our personal favorite must-see spots for your next Miami adventure!

VENETIAN POOL

Opened in 1924 as “Venetian Casino,” Venetian Pool was created from a 4-acre old coral rock quarry, abandoned in 1921, and is the only swimming pool listed on the National Register of Historic Places! The pool was founded by George Merrick as part of the development of Coral Gables and is the largest freshwater pool in the U.S with its’ 820,000 gallons of spring fed water refilled every day. The pool features two waterfalls, cave-like grottos and a café offering a fun experience for the entire family.

https://www.coralgables.com/attractions/venetian-pool

VILLA VISCAYA MUSEUM & GARDENS

Initially built in 1916 as the winter home of the affluent businessman James Deering, Villa Viscaya encompasses 34 exquisitely decorated rooms, formal gardens, a mangrove shoreline, a hardwood hammock, and a historic village that once supported the estate. Today serving as a public museum, Viscaya remains a cultural treasure enchanting visitors from throughout the world. Visitors such as Pope John Paul II (1987), President Ronald Reagan (1987) and Queen Elizabeth II (1991) have enjoyed the splendor and majesty of Villa Viscaya as one of Miami’s must-see attractions

https://vizcaya.org/: Unique Miami Must-See Spots!

CAPE FLORIDA LIGHTHOUSE

Located at Bill Baggs State Park on the south end of Key Biscayne, The Cape Florida Lighthouse is a time capsule containing an immense amount of history. Built in 1825, the lighthouse was used to guide sailors around the Florida reef, helping avoid an unfortunate accident. Today, it is a cultural landmark with its’ place on the National Register of Historic Places. Spend a day at Cape Florida Beach and enjoy a tour of the lighthouse Thursday-Sunday at 10am and 1pm.

https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/bill-baggs-cape-florida-state-park: Unique Miami Must-See Spots!

Clubs to get your GROOVE on while visiting Miami, FL

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

Top Breakfast Spots in South Miami

South Miami has expanded a lot over the last decade, with many local businesses setting up shop in the area. This would be the driving reason that led to SoFLA Vacations opening our newest addition “The Sunset Inn” in South Miami. One of the best things about The Sunset Inn, is how it’s within walking distance of so many fantastic restaurants and bars. Lately, we’ve been getting a lot of questions about this. Questions like “What’s good around here?” or “What places would you recommend?”. Fear not, for SoFLA Vacations is here to give you the inside scoop with our very own personal favorite breakfast spots!

Casa Cuba

If you’re looking for a quality hispanic breakfast that embodies the culture of Miami, Casacuba is the go to move. Their croquetas are some of the best in Miami, and I highly recommend their cafe con leche with Cuban toast. They have a beautiful outdoor terrace where you can enjoy your food, and in addition to their breakfast, they have a wonderful lunch menu.

Deli Lane Cafe

Established in 1988, South Miami’s Deli Lane Cafe has stood the test of time for a reason. Along with the wonderful venue, Deli Lane Cafe is a wonderful place to sit outside and have a delicous, fresh breakfast, brunch, or even lunch. They have a diverse menu, which should cater to anyone no matter what you’re craving!

Cecile Bakery + Cafe

Rumored to have the best croissants in South Miami, Cecile Bakery + Cafe is a delicious French bakery that makes for the perfect place to grab a quick bite and coffee in the morning. From the pastries, to smoothies, everything here is delicious. They also have great salads & sandwiches if you’re looking to get an early lunch, or if you’ve got a sweet tooth, try their locally made gelato and sorbets!

The Salty Doughnut

The Salty Doughnut has some of the best sweets you can get in the morning. They have baked goods, perfectly crafted coffee, and most of all… a really freakin’ good donut! Starting out as a pop up in Wynwood, The Salty Doughnut has ascended beyond the local scene and into new territory due to it’s fantastic, ever changing menu. Located right around the corner from The Sunset Inn, this is a place you have to try at least once during your stay.

5 Best Beaches in South Florida

Whether it’s winter, summer, spring, or fall, it’s always a good time to go to the beach in Miami, FL! Home to some of the best beaches in the country, Miami is a tropical paradise that seems like something taken straight out of a movie. The pristine coastlines, the vibrant blue Atlantic ocean water, the palm trees that decorate the beaches… it truly does seem like movie magic but it is indeed real. If you’re a local, you most likely already know where all the good beach spots are, but if you’re not, they might be a lil tricky to find. Have no fear, we are here to help with the five best beaches in South Florida!

Lummus Park Beach

When people think of Miami, they tend to think of South Beach. This is Miami Beach at it’s peak. Located on the eastern side of Ocean Drive, Lummus Park is a great place for all out fun in the sun. Things like sunbathing, swimming, beach volleyball, and so much more! There’s also a boardwalk across the street filled with wonderful bars, shops, and restaurants.

South Pointe Park Pier

If tourists and locals can agree on one thing for sure, it’s that South Pointe Park is a fantastic and stunning beach. Located on a 17-acre park, South Pointe Park has boat loads of activities such asdesignated picnic areas, playgrounds, and a fishing pier.

Haulover Beach

Located between Sunny Isles and Bal Harbour, Haulover Beach has stunning landscapes that you will most likely end up photographing before you leave. This is also a great beach to go to if you have a dog, as they have a designated dog area between lifeguard stations #2 and #3.

Surfside Beach

Surfside is a small beach town that has their own view of paradise. Located between North Beach Oceanside Park and Bal Harbour Beach, Surfside Beach has pristine clear shores with upscale resorts over its near mile long shore. This is a wonderful beach to go relax at.

Sunny Isles Beach

Sunny Isles is two miles of pure beaches, nightclubs, upscale hotels, and tons of delicious restaurants. Their local beach, Sunny Isles Beach, has a well maintained shoreline and provides easy access to events, attractions, and some luxury resorts.

5 Hot New Restaurants in the Grove

The Grove is full of Art, Entertainment, Stores, Restaurants, and a rich history. Known as the oldest neighborhood in Miami Dade County, Coconut Grove has only gotten better over time. In addition to the newly renovated Cocowalk, the Grove has also seen a rise in new businesses opening up to the public. To pay homage to our local businesses, here are five new restauraunts you need to try the next time you’re in Coconut Grove!

Bayshore Club

Built right along the water on the historic Dinner Key site, Bayshore Club has a lot going on. From live music, to happy hour, to the 2$ oyster mondays, Bayshore Club is always up to something. Try their delicious seafood as you sit in this gorgeous outdoor venue.

https://bayshoreclubmiami.com/

Narbona

Narbona is so much more than just a restaurant. Located in the newly renovated Cocowalk, this family owned & operated Uruguayan restaurant also has a Market, Butcher, and Bakery located inside. The food is fantastic, and you must try their Gelato icecream!

https://narbona.com/

The Key Club

The King of Miami Nightlife is back with his latest hit… The Key Club. Known for creating club LIV, as well as restaurants Komodo and Planta, David Grutman’s latest restaurant is a all-new take on the classic American bar and grill. Whether it’s Brunch, Dinner, or Happy Hour, you will be leaving The Key Club extremely satisfied.

https://thekeyclub.com/

Amal

From the team behind popular South Beach restaurants Byblos and Meet Dalia, Amal is the newest (and most delicious) modern interpretation of traditional Lebanese food here in The Grove. Enjoy the breathtaking ambience, signature cocktails, and delicious Lebanese cuisine.

https://www.amalmiami.com/

Bodega

Coming over from South Beach, the Bodega’s newest location is right here in Coconut Grove! Although they serve mouth watering Mexican Cuisine, Bodega is also a great place to go for a drink. They have multiple floors to house their taco shack, lounge, and bar.

https://www.bodegataqueria.com/location/coconutgrove/

Top 3 Best Water Excursions For Your Next Miami Vacation

Virginia Key beach park aerial shot, great place for water excursions
Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

Looking for some fun and relaxation on the water during your next Miami vacation? From dinner cruises and kayak tours on Biscayne Bay to airboat rides in the Everglades, SoFLA Vacations has you covered! Here are the 3 best water excursions for your maiden voyage…

Whether you want a day, dinner or sunset cruise, Happy Cruises is your key to a great day on the water! Captain Derek will take you anywhere in Miami your heart desires, Vizcaya, Downtown Miami and Brickell, Millionaires Row, Key Biscayne and many more prime locations! Sailing out of Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove (walking distance from SoFLA Vacations’ units in the Hotel Arya), accessing the boat is very simple and straightforward. Book with Captain Derek for all your Miami cruise needs and leave happy, guaranteed!

Maybe you’re looking for something more lowkey and tuned into nature, if so Virginia Key Outdoor Center will take you back to a time when Biscayne Bay was a natural paradise. Explore the mangroves and hidden coves along the beautiful island of Virginia Key on a kayak or paddleboard. Solo and guided options are available. Or rent a mountain bike and venture into the mangroves on the shady and winding trails.

Okay, so you want an authentic Florida experience, Alligators, sawgrass and one of the most pristine wildernesses in the United States, The Everglades…then Everglades Airboat Expedition is for you! Just off of Tamiami trail west of West Kendall, Everglades Airboat Expedition offers a unique tour of the Everglades, up close and personal. Witness the animals in their natural habitat and marvel at this ancient landscape. From flying across sawgrass to slowly drifting through tree draped waterways, you will get the true Florida experience, one you’ll never forget!

The Perfect Night Out In South Miami

To have the perfect night out, one thing must be true, by the end of it you wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.

While staying at the Sunset Inn in South Miami, the perfect night out is right around the corner. Not only will you enjoy a comfortable and quiet stay, but you will also have access to tons of boutique shops and the beautiful, historic downtown area. With wonderful restaurants, bars, ice cream shops and movies, your options are endless.

First stop: Dinner is an obvious first stop for your night out, nobody wants to be hangry while trying to enjoy themselves. And while on vacation it’s always nice to try the local food, after eating the same meal prepped food everyday it’s time to give your taste buds a vacation too. While in Miami it’s a requirement to have authentic Cuban food, and adjacent to Sunset Inn is the exquisite Casa Cuba. Featuring indoor and outdoor dining, Casa Cuba is a full-service Cuban restaurant with breakfast, lunch, dinner and even pastries! My personal favorite is the ropa vieja with black beans and rice, and of course maduros.

Second stop: After dinner, dessert is in order. Casa Cuba features delicious Cuban desserts, but if you’re feeling like getting a good old fashioned ice cream cone look no further than Whip’n Dip Ice Cream Shop. There’s nothing like a rich and creamy ice cream cone to put your hunger to rest and with warm weather year-round it’s always a good choice.

Last stop: AMC Sunset Place 24 theaters is a perfect place to end the night, a good movie in a historic building will be the cherry on top. Go see the newest releases only a short walk from your hotel. Or if the night is young…Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern is a rustic dive bar with tons of selection, great specials and live music. Come meet your new best friends (for the week) and get a feel for being a South Miami local.