Miami is synonymous with sun, sea and sand, and luckily, the weather is amazing all year round. Even in winter, the temperatures hover around the mid-20 mark meaning you’ll get some much-needed beach time, but it’s cool enough to get out and explore the city.
Here’s what you can get up to in Miami over winter…
Hit the beach
Swap snowmen for sandmen on Miami’s famous sandy stretches. The city’s beaches are less busy over the winter period, meaning you’ll get those perfect sunbathing spots all to yourself. Take your pick from the popular Lummus Park Beach, the serene family-friendly Haulover Beach and many more. If you’re a keen surfer, you’ll be pleased to hear that winter is the best time to hit the waves. After hurricane season ends at the end of November, the swells are good right up until spring.
Beach Loop (Blue) Route, Stop: South Beach 1
Meet South Florida’s Santa
Santa’s Enchanted Forest, billed as the ‘world’s largest holiday theme park’ is a sprawling Christmas festival full of rides, attractions and shows to entertain kids and big kids alike. There are rollercoasters, fairground-style rides, shows and games to keep you busy. Plus, events like Christmas karaoke, live shows and, of course, the chance to meet Santa. You can tuck into loads of tasty treats like candy apples, roasted corn and ribbon fries, and feast your eyes on South Florida’s tallest Christmas tree too.
Experience Miami’s art scene
The cooler winter temperatures in South Florida over winter makes checking out Miami’s street art a breeze. Head to Wynwood Walls and browse one of the largest collections of colorful murals in the world, with work from leading artists like Shepard Fairey and Kenny Scharf. The lively district boasts a welcoming vibe and there are plenty of trendy bars and restaurants to duck into when you fancy a pit stop.
In December every year, Art Basel takes over the city. The commercial fair showcases the work of over 4,000 new and established artists. And you’ll find sculptures, paintings, photography exhibitions and art installations at various venues across the city including the Miami Beach Convention Center.
City Loop (Red) Route, Stop: Wynwood Walls
Step back in time
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is Miami’s very own slice of European architecture. The 34-room Renaissance-style villa was built in the early 20th century and is full of antiques and intricately-designed fixtures and fittings. You can explore the mansion and its 10 acres of landscaped gardens at any time of year. But, if you head there in December, Vizcaya holds a special ‘holiday evening’ where the mansion is decked in period-specific decorations and a huge Christmas tree. There’s live pipe organ music, hot chocolate and appetizers to enjoy, giving you the chance to experience what Christmas was like 100 years ago.
City Loop (Red) Route, Stop: Vizcaya Museums & Gardens
Spend Christmas with the chimps
Head to Lion Country Safari – America’s first cageless zoo – just before Christmas to see a special group of chimps receive their presents from Santa (yes really). This annual event involves Santa and his elves arriving on their sleigh with a pile of gifts to give to the chimps. Once they depart, the chimps head over to the stack of presents to unwrap their edible treats, toys and gifts. It really has to be seen to be believed. This is the only time throughout the year when guests can exit their vehicles to watch the chimps up close, so don’t miss this unique event.
Sorted for your winter trip to Miami? The best thing about this buzzing city is that it’s a top tourist destination all year round. Browse our Miami bus routes and attractions for more inspiration on things to do in the city.
