While the phrase “Spring Break Miami” might conjure up images of beachside bottle service, 24-hour parties on Ocean Drive, and Pitbull lyrics come to life, this year will be historically different. The City Commission passed a resolution that will enforce a strict curfew, early beach closures, DUI checkpoints, and a slew of other preventative safety measures to protect the public from the drunken debauchery that has become characteristic of South Beach and its environs in recent years. Still, for anyone traveling to The 305 this March and April, there are countless ways to enjoy some fun in the sun that don’t result in a hangover and a drained bank account. Here are our top 10 things to do in Miami this Spring Break:
Water Parks
When the temperatures soar above 80 degrees, a little splish splash action is the only real solution. Miami’s beaches are world-class, but so are its water parks. Spanning 30 acres, Rapids Water Park is South Florida’s largest aqua center. Miami Watersports Complex features one of the largest wakeboard parks in the country. The Boomerango at Tidal Cove is a legendary destination for aquatic thrill seekers.
Salsa Dancing
Salsa dancing is a great way to be active, social, and learn about Miami’s rich Latin American culture. Historic Ball and Chain has been around since 1935 and offers free lessons on Thursday nights. Located inside an exquisite Art Deco hotel lobby, Havana 1957 is an immersive throwback to Salsa’s golden age. Cubaocho features antique furniture, a world-class rum bar, and some of the most dynamic live music found in the sunshine state.
Bike Tour
Did you know Vice City has over 200 miles of bike lanes? There’s no better way of taking in its diverse neighborhoods, Art Deco masterpieces, and world-famous beaches than on two wheels. A rental offers maximum flexibility while a guided tour is the ultimate combination of exercise and education amid a dynamic, social setting. Unlimited Biking’s Miami Beach Highlights Tour is the perfect way to start an epic spring break.
Everglades National Park
Feel like exploring the largest wilderness east of the Mississippi? At 7,800 square miles, it would be an exhausting feat to cover the entirety of Everglades National Park. However, getting up close and personal with alligators, panthers, and manatees can be an easy day trip, as the Everglades entrance is less than an hour from the city center. Gator Park is a reliable mainstay for airboat tours. Everglades Adventures is the premier outfitter for canoe and kayak excursions. Shark Valley offers wonderfully educational tram tours.
Ultra Music Festival
Thumping bass, transcendent light shows, glittery raver costumes, beautiful views of the Miami skyline. This is Ultra Music Festival 2024. As one of the largest and most acclaimed electronic dance music festivals on the planet, Ultra is being held at Bayfront Park from March 22nd – 24th, featuring headliners such as Calvin Harris, Tiesto, and Steve Aoki. It’s not hard to see why DJ Magazine consistently calls it the world’s best music festival.
Basement
Basement isn’t any old bowling alley. Located underneath the Edison Hotel in the heart of South Beach, Basement is the perfect venue for spring breakers looking for something a little left of center. With a 2,000 square foot ice skating rink, top tier DJs, refreshments galore, and mind-expanding light shows, Basement takes good ol’ 10-pin to the next level.
Little Havana Food Tour
Over 70% of the country’s Cuban population lives in South Florida. Therefore, it’s a no-brainer anyone visiting Miami should fill up on Cuban classics like Ropa Vieja, Arroz con Pollo, and Tostones while they’re in town. While a self-guided walk down the ever-vibrant Calle Ocho is enough to feel like you’ve been transported into the Caribbean, a group tour by the likes of Miami Culinary Tours or Secret Food Tours is the best way to get a side of education and socialization with your Cuban sandwich.
Museums
Need a break from the beach? Load up on air conditioning and cultural enrichment at one of Miami’s premier displays of art, science, and history. The Bass is the city’s top destination for international contemporary art. The Coral Castle Museum is a 1,100 ton castle that’s been described as Stonehenge with a Miami coral rock twist. South Beach’s Museum of Illusions is a surreal interactive adventure that lets its visitors walk on the edge of a skyscraper or fly a magic carpet.
Botanical Gardens
Magic City’s tropical climate makes it one the most unique biological destinations in the country. If rare plants, African Rainbow Lizards, and thousands of exotic butterflies are your jam, Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden is a must-see. Miami Beach Botanical Garden features 100 types of palm trees and offers community events like yoga, tai chi, and meditation sound baths. For a slice of Europe in Miami, visit the playful Maze Garden at Vizcaya.
Rooftop Pools
Whether you’re seeking skyline views, a DJ set, or some aqua time sans sand, Miami’s rooftop pool scene is among the world’s best. Snag a private cabana or dance the night away at Kimpton EPIC’s scenic rooftop sanctuary. Mediterranean fare, expansive ocean views, and Art Deco charm are all a part of the Gabriel South Beach pool experience. Novotel Miami Brickell’s rooftop pool features unparalleled skyline views and even hosts outdoor movie nights.
Miami may have “broken up” with spring break this year, but it’s still one of the most exciting places on the planet to wind down this March and April, especially when you’re swapping the Metrorail for a freshly-tuned hybrid. Stop by Unlimited Biking at 850 Washington Ave for all things bike-related this spring break!
