Make the most of your long weekend with roaring fighter jets, water park thrills, complimentary pool access for military members and more!
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Staff Writer
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May 7, 2026
Memorial Day is swiftly approaching, bringing the official start of summer right to our shores! Whether you’re looking to escape the daily grind or welcome the warmest season in style, we’ve put together the ultimate list of must-do activities around Miami.
From high-flying aircraft to immersive museums and unbeatable local deals, here’s how to make your long weekend unforgettable.
Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images
The “Greatest Show Above Earth” returns to grace Miami Beach skies on May 23 and 24! Catch the daytime action — which includes an appearance from the Air Force Thunderbirds — between 11th and 14th streets. Beyond the fighter jets and offshore powerboats, Lummus Park will also transform into an open-air showcase where you can meet active-duty service members and enjoy curated zones filled with live music and hospitality experiences.
Superblue Miami
Escape the heat and dive into something truly mesmerizing at Superblue Miami, where you’ll find a mirrored labyrinth, clouds made of soap bubbles, thousands of lightbulbs glimmering to different heartbeats and plenty more immersive installations. 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.
Unsplash/Richard Sagredo
If you want to escape the city crowds, Memorial Day is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors! Visitors can enjoy free entry for the holiday to U.S. national parks, whether you decide to spot some native wildlife at the Everglades or explore the vibrant ecosystems of Biscayne National Park.
Note: International visitors are now required to pay regular entrance fees.
Paradox Museum Miami
If you find yourself in Wynwood this long holiday weekend, Paradox Museum offers over 70 interactive exhibits that’ll play tricks on both your eyes and brain, leaving you wondering, “How did they do that?” In some rooms, you can simply get wildly funny or perplexing photos, while in others, you’ll learn about the science behind the illusions.
Cool off in style with free pool access at The Goodtime Hotel (if you’re a military member)
Matthew Taylor-Gross, courtesy of The Goodtime Hotel
Memorial Day weekend in Miami isn’t complete without a party! From May 22 to 25, the Miami Beach hotel is honoring service members by offering visitors with a valid military ID complimentary access to its signature pool parties at The Pool at Strawberry Moon. Perched above the streets of South Beach, this Insta-worthy pool deck and bar is the ultimate spot to unwind, complete with scalloped cabanas and a dreamy pastel palette.
Make a splash at Tidal Cove
Courtesy of Tidal Cove
If you’re looking for summer thrills, the JW Marriott Turnberry Resort & Spa’s Tidal Cove water park is the place to be. Choose from seven water slides on a 60-foot tower, the FlowRider Triple surf simulator, a relaxing lazy river and a 4,000-square-foot kids’ play area. Adults can retreat to the VIP Oasis pool and everyone can fuel up with delicious bites and refreshing drinks.
Join a STAMPED: AYA x Friends party
Higher Ground
Get ready to dance this Memorial Day Weekend as STAMPED returns to Arlo Wynwood’s Higher Ground on Sunday, May 24. From 5 to 11 p.m., this #UnapologeticallyAfrican celebration is set against sweeping views with pulsating Amapiano and infectious Afrobeats to keep you moving long after the sun goes down.
Get reduced admission to the Deering Estate
Miami-Dade County / Deering Estate
Take a step back in time and spend your holiday at the stunning Deering Estate. Paying tribute to our nation’s heroes, the Miami-Dade County Heritage Park is offering a reduced general admission rate of just $8 from May 23 to 25. It’s a great way for families to explore nature trails, historic architecture and sweeping views of Biscayne Bay.
Run, relax and give back at The Marker Key West
The Marker Key West Harbor Resort
With a long weekend ahead, there are tons of lovely escapes to be made. Spend it down south at the Key West Historic Seaport for The Marker Key West Harbor Resort’s second annual Salute to Service Race Weekend on May 23 to 24. Dedicated to honoring military members, veterans, first responders, teachers and healthcare workers, the weekend features a Saturday Happy Hour Pool Party and a Sunday morning 5K run/walk that benefits the Key West Firefighters’ Hardship Fund.