Memorial Day weekend is swiftly approaching and with it also comes the start of summer! Whether you’re looking to escape the city or welcome the warmest season, we’ve got the ultimate checklist of must-do activities around the Magic City. From high-flying aircraft on the beach to immersive museum exhibits and deals, here’s what you can do during your long weekend:
1. Step into impressive art at Superblue
A mirrored labyrinth, clouds made of soap bubbles, thousands of lightbulbs glimmering to different heartbeats and plenty more immersive installations await at Superblue Miami. Across its 50,000 square feet of space, you’ll find unique works by renowned artists like James Turrell, teamLab, Es Devlin and Rafael Lozano-Hemmer. Art lovers can get their tickets here.
2. Look up at Miami Beach’s annual Air & Sea Show
Of all the exciting events happening this summer in the city, the annual Hyundai Air & Sea Show is undoubtedly one of the best. This year’s festivities will return on May 24 and 25 to wow spectators lined up along the shore. Take in the show-stopping view as F-16s, B-52s and dozens of different jets fly overhead, complete with divers and parachute teams! Learn more here.
3. Enjoy some cool photo ops at an optical illusions museum
If you find yourself in Wynwood this weekend, Paradox Museum offers over 70 immersive installations that’ll play tricks on both your eyes and brain. In some rooms, you can simply get wildly funny or perplexing photos, while in others, you’ll learn about the science behind the illusions. Snag tickets here!
4. Splash away at a rooftop pool
Swim on over to one of the city’s rooftop pools where you’ll get to take in the most stunning views of the city while you cool off! Depending on the location, you can snag a hotel day pass for a decent price, as well as renting out a daybed or cabana. Check out our entire list of best rooftop pools here.
5. If you’re a veteran, enjoy a complimentary pool party!
Memorial Day weekend in Miami isn’t complete without a party! The Goodtime Hotel is offering military members complimentary admission to its lively poolside events. From May 23 to May 26, non-hotel guests who present a valid military ID will receive free access to the hotel’s IG-ready pool deck and bar perched high above South Beach’s busy streets. Swim and dance all weekend-long to top-tier DJs, handcrafted cocktails.
6. Indulge in Asian dishes at Smorgasburg’s Asian Street Food Festival
With several guest vendors, live music and even Polynesian dancers, there’s something for everyone at Smorgasburg’s annual festival! This year’s event returns for two days in partnership with lifestyle journalist and culinary consultant Cheryl Tiu of Cross Cultures, bringing together some of South Florida’s best culinary vendors to honor AAPI culture. Check it out on May 24 (12-10 p.m.) and May 25 (12-8 p.m.) in Wynwood.
7. Make it a Memorial Day to remember at 26 Degree Brewery & Kitchen
The Pompano Beach tap room is inviting everyone to celebrate honoring our nation’s heroes with plenty of beer, delicious food and live entertainment. On May 26th, from noon to 8 p.m., they’ll have live rock music, a friendly corn hole tournament with prizes and the debut of a special “Hero Plate” BBQ menu. At 3 p.m., the brewery will observe a moment of silence to honor fallen service members..
8. Grab your crew for a mini trip to the Palm Beaches
In case you weren’t aware, Palm Beach County hosts a month-long celebration of arts and culture — called MOSAIC (Month of Shows, Art, Ideas and Culture) — with discounted deals to enjoy. This means MOSAIC comes to a close on May 31st, making Memorial Day weekend the ideal time to take advantage! You can find all the deals on their website, ranging from discounts on performances at the Arts Garage to BOGO admission to the Norton Museum of Art, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and more.
9. Treat yourself 20% off your meal at STK
This Memorial Day weekend, the modern steakhouse with locations in Aventura and South Beach will be honoring America’s heroes with a special offer as a thank you for their service. All veterans, active-duty military, reserves, first responders and gold star facilities are invited to enjoy 20% off food all weekend-long. Think favorites like Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, Maine Lobster Linguine or a Filet topped with your choice of signature melted butter!
10. Take a day trip to run a 5K at this Key West Hotel
With a long weekend ahead, there’s tons of lovely escapes to be made. Spend it at The Marker Key West Harbor Resort for its upcoming pool parties, amazing deals and a 5K Run supporting VFW Post #3911. As part of its Salute to Service package, military members and veterans, first responders, teachers and healthcare workers can take advantage of up to 25% off nightly room rates. Additionally, you can participate in their 5K Run/Walk (registration now open), where finishers will be celebrated with a challenger coin and treated to a complimentary drink at a post-5K Rehab Pool Party. It all goes down on May 25th!