How to Survive Memorial Day Weekend in Miami
Miami is a bustling and exciting city on the southeastern coast of Florida. Home to the Heat, Marlins, Dolphins, and South Beach, Miami is known for its vibrant sports scene, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. With its warm and sunny weather throughout the year, Miami offers activities for tourists and locals alike. From world-class museums and art galleries to shopping destinations and delicious dining options, Miami has something to offer everyone. Its diverse culture, and eclectic neighborhoods make it a fascinating place to explore, and visitors can enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere and vibe.
Memorial Day Weekend in Miami is a huge event. There are many Miami Memorial Day Weekend events from Thursday – to Monday. I’ve visited the city twice during MDW. I was in my twenties both times. If you’re in your twenties, visit Miami during Memorial Day Weekend with your friends. In today’s post, I share how to survive Memorial Day Weekend in Miami.
Check out the city
There is always something to do in Miami and the surrounding areas. Browsing the shops at the Lincoln Road Mall, walking down Collins Avenue, or even visiting the Tootsies are just a few. There are things to do on the beach and in the city. You can drive north to Sunny Isles, Hollywood, or Fort Lauderdale if you need a break from the mega crowds. All three of those cities have lovely beaches and fun things to do.
Be Patient
People from all over the country will visit Memorial Day Weekend in Miami. With people staying as far as Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, you are guaranteed to see a lot of crowds and traffic. The lines to some of the bars will be longer than they are during Spring Break! If you go to the club during MDW weekend, leave early. Mostly, the people in the crowds are there to have a good time. With anything, use common sense. Watch out for pickpockets and scammers.
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Check the Weather
During that time of the year, the weather is usually excellent. Who am I kidding? The weather is always great in Miami. With high temperatures in the 80’s, what is there not to like? Ensure you have sunscreen because you don’t want to get burned.
Book Tickets Early
Numerous hip-hop and R&B artists will be in town for MDW. Many will host parties at the clubs or perform near South Beach. If you’ve ever wanted to party or see them, this might be your chance. You can check Eventbrite to see what events are happening while you’re there. Also, check out StubHub. Sometimes, they have better deals than Ticketmaster.
Price Gouging
This usually happens with any holiday. MDW is no different. The same party that will be thrown by your favorite rapper that would typically start at $25 per entry will now be at least $50. Also, hotel prices will be a lot higher than usual. A room that usually costs $140 per night may be more than double that price. The rooms cost higher the closer you get to the South Beach area.
One way to beat some of the price gougings is to book your rooms in advance. Since Memorial Day is in May, I’d try to have my room booked by the end of February. The last time I visited Miami Memorial Day Weekend, I booked a room at HomeAway. They were much cheaper than the local hotels out there. VRBO is another option. You can search to see if rooms or houses are available during that time. Learn more about VRBO here.
Parking
Parking already sucks on South Beach. It is ten times worse during Memorial Day Weekend. You’re better off walking to most places. You can use Uber or take a taxi if your destination is too far. The two times I spent Memorial Day Weekend in Miami, I stayed within walking distance of most places I was trying to go. I didn’t need a car that weekend. I made sure that I stayed in South Beach. If you can, do the same thing. You’ll save a lot of money doing that.
Be Careful
I’ve never had a problem in Miami during Memorial Day Weekend at all. Having people come in from all over the country, I could see how something could happen. This could be the case for any event, though. To my knowledge, there hasn’t been too much violence down there. Hopefully, it stays that way. It’s been a few years since I’ve been down there. A quick Google search shows you recent crime statistics. Most people are down there to party and have a good time anyway.
Drink Water
Staying hydrated is critical. It’s going to be 80 degrees during the day. Remember to drink water if you’re walking and hitting up different bars. Dehydration is real. You don’t want to be that person that has to go to the hospital on vacation. Make sure that you have some water with you or in your room.
This post should help you survive Memorial Day Weekend in Miami. It’s a fun experience if you’re in your twenties or possibly early thirties. Once you turn a certain age, this event won’t be for you. Unless I get paid to attend, I’ll never go to Miami for Memorial Day weekend again. I’ve been there and done that. I also can’t hang out as I used to, either. If you’re young and like Miami, I suggest that you visit at least once.
Miami Beach Resources
TripAdvisor
You can book your hotel room with TripAdvisor. They have some great deals. Click this link for more details about Priceline.
CamelBak
As I stated earlier, you must ensure that you stay hydrated. A Camelbak will help you with that. You can put water and other liquids in it. Check out the one below for more info.
Cooler
This cooler can be used for the beach or your hotel room.
Beach Towel
You need a towel for the beach. Check this one out.
Sunscreen
Here’s some sunscreen that you can use. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Jason Butler is the owner of My Money Chronicles, a website where he discusses personal finance, side hustles, travel, and more. Jason is from Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Savannah State University with his BA in Marketing. Jason has been featured in Forbes, Discover, and Investopedia.
