Ultra Music Festival 2026 Miami Travel & Rental Guide
TL;DR: Ultra Music Festival 2026 takes place in downtown Miami at Bayfront Park. Fly into MIA or FLL, stay in Downtown or Brickell for walkable access, and use Metromover or Metrorail to avoid traffic. If you rent a car, plan parking away from the venue and consider an SUV or van for groups and gear.
Ultra 2026 Overview: Dates, Location & Festival Highlights
Dates & Location:Ultra Music Festival 2026 takes place March 27–29, 2026 at Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami. Bayfront Park’s waterfront setting (with Biscayne Bay on one side and Miami’s skyline on the other) creates a picturesque backdrop for the festival. Ultra is one of the world’s premier electronic dance music (EDM) festivals, featuring top DJs and producers across multiple stages. Expect three days of nonstop music spanning house, techno, trance, dubstep and more, with a global audience of fans flying in from all over the world. The energy in downtown Miami during Ultra weekend is electric the entire city pulses with late-night parties, Miami Music Week events, and after-parties that keep the music going around the clock.
What to Expect: As a large-scale EDM festival, Ultra draws huge crowds and big-name headliners. Music runs from the afternoon into the night each day, culminating in epic main stage performances. Be prepared for dense crowds, loud music, and an unbeatable festival atmosphere. Miami’s warm late-March weather means you should dress for sunshine during the day and slightly cooler breezes at night. Sunscreen, hydration packs, and comfortable attire are a must. Ultra does not offer single-day tickets, so attendees typically commit to the full 3-day experience. Plan ahead for your transportation and lodging the festival’s popularity means flights and hotels will book up early.
Getting to Miami: Flights & Transportation
Major Airports: The Miami area is served by two major airports. Miami International Airport (MIA) is the closest option it’s located about 10 miles west of Bayfront Park, roughly a 15–20 minute drive (depending on traffic). MIA is a large hub with many nonstop international and domestic flights, making it convenient for travelers coming from overseas or across the U.S. Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is an alternative about 30–35 miles north of downtown Miami. FLL often has budget-friendly flight options, especially from within the U.S., and it’s roughly a 45-minute drive to Miami (longer during rush hour). If you find a significantly cheaper flight into FLL, it may be worth the extra transit time. Another smaller airport, Miami Opa-locka Executive Airport, handles some private or charter flights, but most travelers will use MIA or FLL.
Flight Tips: Book your flights as early as possible Ultra weekend (and the surrounding Miami Music Week) is a peak travel period, so flights fill up and prices rise closer to March. Aim to arrive by Thursday (or even earlier) if you want to catch pre-festival events or just settle in before the main festival starts on Friday. International travelers should plan for possible longer immigration lines at MIA due to increased arrivals; FLL can be a quieter entry point for those who don’t mind the extra drive. When booking, also consider flight + hotel packages or Ultra’s official travel partners, which sometimes offer bundled deals. Keep an eye on budget airlines that service South Florida (like Southwest into FLL, or international low-cost carriers into MIA), but factor in baggage fees and ground transportation costs when comparing.
From the Airport to Downtown: Once you land, you have several options to reach downtown Miami:
- Driving/Taxi/Rideshare: A taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) from MIA to downtown will typically cost ~$20–$30. From FLL, a rideshare or taxi to downtown Miami can run $40–$60 (or more, depending on surge pricing). Rideshares are plentiful at both airports, with designated pickup zones (follow airport signage to the rideshare pickup area). Note that peak arrival times (Thursday or Friday before Ultra) could mean high demand for rideshares be patient or consider alternative options like shuttles or public transit if cost is a concern.
- Public Transit: Miami’s Metrorail orange line runs from MIA Airport’s station into downtown (to Government Center) for just a few dollars a budget-friendly option if your flight times align with its schedule. From FLL, the Tri-Rail commuter train connects FLL’s airport station to Miami (Tri-Rail’s Miami station is near the airport area, where you’d transfer to Metrorail or other transit to downtown). The Tri-Rail fare is inexpensive (around $5) and they often add late-night trains during Ultra weekend. Keep in mind public transit with luggage can be less convenient, but it’s doable for light packers.
- Brightline Train: A popular new option is the Brightline high-speed train. Brightline runs from Orlando, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Fort Lauderdale to its MiamiCentral Station, which is just a short walk from Bayfront Park. If you’re flying into Orlando or want to stay in Fort Lauderdale and avoid driving, Brightline can zip you to downtown Miami quickly. During Ultra 2026, Brightline is offering late-night trains (departing Miami around 1 AM) so festival-goers can get back to those cities after the shows. They even have promo codes (e.g. ULTRA15 for discounts) and group discounts. This is a great option for anyone coming from other Florida cities or using FLL airport (take a short rideshare from FLL to the Brightline Ft. Lauderdale station).
Arriving by Car/Road Trip: If you live in Florida or nearby states, you might consider driving to Miami. Expect heavy traffic on I-95 and the Florida Turnpike as you approach Miami, especially on the Thursday and Friday of Ultra weekend. Parking in downtown is very limited (more on that below), so if you drive, your best bet might be to park at your hotel (ensure your hotel has parking for guests, often $30–$50 per night in Miami) and then use other means to reach the festival. Another idea is to park outside the city and use public transit for example, some attendees coming from the north choose to park at a Metrorail station lot (like in Coconut Grove, Earlington Heights, or Dadeland South) and then ride the train into downtown. This avoids bringing a car into the most congested areas.
Car Rental Tips for Ultra Miami Travelers
Renting a car can give you flexibility to explore Miami and South Florida on your own schedule. Here are key car rental tips and considerations for Ultra 2026:
- Airport Car Rentals: Both MIA and FLL have convenient rental car centers. At MIA, all major rental companies (Alamo, Hertz, Enterprise, etc.) are housed in the MIA Rental Car Center, accessible via the MIA Mover tram from the terminals. At FLL, rental car companies are located in or near the terminals (Terminals 2, 3, and 4 use a shuttle to a centralized rental center at Terminal 1). It’s wise to reserve your vehicle in advance, as Ultra and spring break travelers can lead to high demand. Booking early also locks in better rates last-minute rentals on Ultra weekend might be scarce or expensive.
- Choosing Your Vehicle:Consider your group size and plans. Solo travelers or couples might do fine with a compact or economy car (cheaper and easier to park). If you’re traveling as a group of friends, splitting a larger vehicle could be both fun and economical think about renting an SUV or even a minivan for extra seating and luggage room. Having a larger vehicle is great if you plan day trips (like to the beach or Everglades) or have a lot of festival gear. Just remember, larger cars can be harder to park in tight city garages. Also, Miami’s weather is sunny a convertible might be tempting for the vibe, but only go for it if you’re comfortable (and wear sunscreen!).
- Driving Considerations:Traffic in Miami can be intense, especially in downtown and Brickell during Ultra. Expect road closures near Bayfront Park and slow going as tens of thousands head to the festival each afternoon. If you have a car, it might be useful for activities before or after festival hours (like late-night food runs or sightseeing on off-days), but you may not want to drive it to the festival itself (see Parking section below for why). Also, be mindful of Miami drivers and one-way streets downtown use a GPS navigation app to avoid confusion.
- Airport to Hotel to Festival: One strategy is to rent your car only for the days you’ll use it. For example, some travelers arriving at MIA will rent a car at the airport, use it to get groceries or festival supplies, maybe hit some attractions in the days before Ultra, and then return the car before the festival starts so they don’t worry about parking during Ultra. You could then rely on rideshares or walking during the festival. Alternatively, if you plan to hit up Miami’s beaches or suburbs after Ultra, you could pick up a rental for those days instead. Both Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports allow one-way rentals (you could pick up at MIA and drop at FLL or vice versa if that suits your flight plans), but check for drop-off fees.
- Under-25 Drivers: If any drivers in your group are under 25, note that most rental companies charge a “young driver” fee (often $25+ per day) for renters age 21-24. Some companies (or membership programs) waive this, but budget accordingly. Drivers under 21 will generally not be able to rent from major companies in Florida.
- Insurance: Verify whether your personal auto insurance or credit card covers rental cars. If not, you might need to budget for the rental company’s insurance/LDW. Miami’s traffic can be chaotic, so having coverage is important for peace of mind.
In summary, renting a car is ideal if you plan to explore beyond the festival hitting beaches, distant neighborhoods, or doing day trips. It’s less necessary if you’re staying in the urban core just for Ultra. If you do rent, plan your parking strategy in advance and consider avoiding driving to Bayfront Park during peak hours.
Parking, Rideshares & Navigating Ultra Weekend
Parking at Ultra: Plan Ahead or Avoid Driving
One of the biggest challenges of Ultra Miami is parking. Ultra does not provide any designated parking lots for attendees, and being in the heart of downtown means that nearby parking is extremely limited and fills up fast. Thousands of people driving in means a traffic nightmare and scarce spots. If you attempt to drive and park close to Bayfront Park, be prepared for frustrating searches and high parking rates. Downtown Miami parking garages and lots will surge prices during Ultra (expect event rates $30, $40, even $50+ for the day if you can find a spot). Street parking is almost nonexistent in the area and many streets may be closed off.
Parking Alternatives: Festival organizers and locals strongly encourage attendees to use alternative parking options away from the immediate downtown area. If you must have a car, consider parking in neighborhoods adjacent to downtown and then walking or ridesharing in. For example, Brickell (just south of the Miami River) has several public garages under office buildings and around Brickell City Centre mall parking there and walking ~15-20 minutes or taking a short Metromover ride can save you a headache. To the north, the Edgewater and Arts & Entertainment District area (near the Adrienne Arsht Center) has some garages and street parking; it’s about a 1 to 1.5 mile walk to Bayfront Park from there or a quick rideshare. These areas offer more parking and are within reasonable distance of the festival venue. Just remember to only park in legal, public areas (towing is strictly enforced in Miami if you park illegally on private property).
Another smart strategy is to park at a Metrorail station’s Park-and-Ride lot and use public transit. Several Metrorail stations outside downtown have cheap parking garages (around $4.50 for the day). You can park at stations like Coconut Grove, Dadeland South, Douglas Road, or Earlington Heights, then take the train into downtown. Miami-Dade Transit often extends Metrorail operating hours during Ultra; in 2025 they ran trains until 2 AM on festival nights, and a similar extension is likely for 2026. From the Government Center station downtown, you can transfer to the free Metromover which stops right by Bayfront Park. This way you avoid driving into the city center entirely. The official Ultra site also suggests this approach parking at a Metrorail garage and riding in may be more efficient than battling traffic downtown.
Finally, if your hotel is in downtown or Brickell, the best advice is do not move your car. Walk or use public transit to get to the festival to avoid losing your parking spot. Many downtown hotels are within walking distance of Bayfront Park.
Rideshare & Taxi Tips
Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are plentiful in Miami and a popular way to get to Ultra. However, due to road closures and heavy traffic, you cannot be dropped off right at the festival gates. There will be designated drop-off/pick-up zones a few blocks away. These zones might be on Biscayne Boulevard a few blocks north or south of Bayfront Park, or on adjacent streets like NE 2nd Ave. When you call a ride to leave, be prepared for surge pricing and possibly long wait times (thousands of people are doing the same). Pro tip: after the festival ends each night, walk a few blocks away from the immediate area of Bayfront Park before hailing a rideshare. By putting a little distance between you and the crowd, it’ll be easier for a driver to reach you and you might escape the highest surge prices. For example, walk to the other side of Biscayne Boulevard or into Brickell across the river, then request your Uber once you’re away from the gridlock.
Miami also has traditional taxis, which will likely queue near the festival exit. They don’t surge price like Uber, but meter rates can still be high in traffic. If you’re in a group, sometimes hopping in the first available taxi and splitting the fare can be as effective as waiting for an Uber. Just ensure any cab you take is a licensed Miami-Dade taxi.
Designated Zones: Ultra and the City of Miami usually publish information on official rideshare drop zones closer to the event. Keep an eye on Ultra’s website or social media for maps indicating where Uber/Lyft can pick up. In past years, pick-up zones were a few blocks west of the park (near NE 2nd Avenue and around Bayside Marketplace) to keep Biscayne Blvd in front of the park clear. When leaving, expect to walk at least 5-10 minutes to meet your ride and that’s often faster than sitting in a vehicle that’s stuck in the jam near the festival.
Also, consider using rideshare at off-peak times. If you can head to the festival earlier in the day (before the late-afternoon rush) or leave slightly before or after the mass exodus, you’ll have a smoother ride. Ultra’s biggest acts typically end at midnight (and encores by 1 AM), so a huge wave departs then; staying an extra half hour within the venue or grabbing a late snack nearby can make your trip back much easier.
Public Transit Options During Ultra
Miami’s public transit can be your secret weapon for Ultra. The Metromover, Metrorail, and special event trains can efficiently whisk you around and help you avoid traffic entirely:
- Metromover: The Metromover is a free elevated people-mover that circles around Downtown and Brickell. It has a station literally at Bayfront Park (as well as First Street and College/Bayside, all adjacent to the festival). If you’re staying anywhere in Downtown or Brickell, you can likely hop on the Metromover to reach Ultra and did we mention it’s free? It runs from 5 AM to midnight normally, and during Ultra weekend the hours often get extended a couple of hours later to accommodate festival-goers. This is a highly recommended way to get around locally no cost, no traffic, no hassle. Just expect it to be packed with fellow ravers around festival opening and closing times.
- Metrorail: Metrorail is Miami’s heavy rail train that runs north-south through the county. It’s very useful if you’re staying by the airport, Coral Gables, south Miami, or near any of its 20+ stations. For example, if you booked a hotel in the Airport area or Dadeland, you can take Metrorail to Government Center, then transfer to Metromover’s Inner Loop to Bayfront Park. Parking at Metrorail stations is cheap as noted, so even those driving from suburbs can use it. Normally, the last trains leave around midnight, but as noted, Ultra weekend sees extended Metrorail service (about 2 hours past festival end) meaning trains might run until ~2 AM on Friday and Saturday nights. This is great for getting back to areas like Hialeah, South Miami, or near the airport without needing a car.
- Metrobus: If you’re coming from Miami Beach, there’s no train from the beach to downtown, but there are buses. The city often runs a special event shuttle or increases frequency on key bus routes (like the 120 Beach MAX or Route M) to connect South Beach to downtown. The bus over the Venetian Causeway or MacArthur Causeway can drop you near Omni/Arsht Center or downtown, where you can connect to Metromover. A bus might take ~30–40 minutes from South Beach to Bayfront area. It’s just a few dollars and avoids you having to pay for parking in Miami Beach and downtown.
- Brightline/Tri-Rail: As mentioned, Brightline can bring people from Ft. Lauderdale or West Palm directly to downtown. Tri-Rail, the commuter train, is another affordable option mainly for those coming from south of Miami or from Broward/Palm Beach counties on a budget. It’s slower and less fancy than Brightline, but it’s just $5 round-trip on weekends. Tri-Rail’s Miami terminus is MiamiCentral station (shared with Brightline), which is a 10-minute walk to Bayfront Park.
Summary of Best Approach: For most, the combination of walking and Metromover will be the easiest way to get to Ultra if you’re staying downtown. If you’re farther out, park and ride via Metrorail or take Brightline. Use rideshares or taxis sparingly, and if you do, be strategic about where/when you request them. With a bit of planning, you can avoid sitting in a traffic jam and instead cruise past the gridlock while saving money.
Where to Stay: Hotels Near Bayfront Park (Budget to Luxury)
Finding the right place to stay is crucial for an enjoyable Ultra weekend. You’ll want to balance proximity to Bayfront Park, your budget, and the type of Miami experience you’re after. Here are the main areas and hotel options to consider:
Downtown Miami & Brickell Closest to Ultra (Walk or Metromover)
Staying in Downtown or Brickell puts you right near the festival action. You’ll be within walking distance or a short Metromover ride from Bayfront Park, which is a huge advantage for beating traffic and easily popping back to your room between festival days. These areas are full of high-rise hotels and are generally safe and bustling.
- InterContinental Miami:Nearest luxury hotel to Ultra. In fact, the InterContinental is adjacent to Bayfront Park, just across Biscayne Boulevard you can’t get any closer. It’s a 5-star hotel known for its huge rooftop digital mural (often lit up at night). During Ultra, the InterContinental often hosts official after-parties and pool parties, making it a hub for festival-goers. If you want to literally walk out of your hotel and into the festival in minutes, this is the spot (approximately a 5-10 minute walk from your room to the gates). It is a premium option (rooms can be pricey, especially during Music Week). Tip: Book early Ultra dates sell out fast here.
- Kimpton EPIC Hotel: ~8-minute walk to Bayfront Park. A luxury hotel at the mouth of the Miami River, the EPIC is actually the host hotel for the Winter Music Conference (WMC) right before Ultra. Expect a stylish scene with DJs and industry folks. It has a great pool deck and rooftop views. Close enough to walk, but far enough to get a breather from the noise.
- JW Marriott Marquis / Hotel Beaux Arts: These two (a Marriott and a luxury smaller hotel on top floors) are in the same downtown skyscraper ~0.5 miles from Ultra. High-end, with great city views, and about a 10-12 minute walk.
- East, Miami & W Miami: These are in Brickell (around 0.8–1 mile from Bayfront Park). East, Miami (in Brickell City Centre) and W Miami (near Brickell Key bridge) are both chic, upscale hotels with rooftop lounges. They blend luxury with proximity you might take a 5-minute Metromover ride or a 15-minute walk to the festival. Brickell is perfect if you want a slightly more upscale dining and nightlife scene and quick festival access.
- Mid-Range Options Downtown: If the premium hotels above are out of budget, there are still downtown options. YVE Hotel (formerly a Holiday Inn) is right across from Bayside Marketplace, about a 5-minute walk from Ultra a solid mid-range choice with an unbeatable location. Hilton Miami Downtown (in the Arts District, about 1.2 miles north of Bayfront) is another favorite; it’s a longer walk or a short Metromover hop away, and you get a rooftop pool with skyline views. Hampton Inn & Suites Brickell is a highly-rated, affordable option in Brickell (steps from a Metromover station, with free breakfast) from there it’s maybe 10 minutes to Bayfront via transit or a short rideshare.
- Vacation Rentals: Downtown and Brickell also have many condo rentals via Airbnb/VRBO. A downtown high-rise condo can be cost-effective for groups and puts you close by (just ensure the host is legally allowed to rent, as some buildings have restrictions). Plus you might get a full apartment with a kitchen to prep meals, etc.
Benefits of Downtown/Brickell: You can easily walk to Ultra (no commuting costs, no parking issues). This convenience cannot be overstated when you’re exhausted after midnight you can be back at your hotel to crash or change within minutes. Also, you’re right by many restaurants, Bayside Marketplace, and other Miami Music Week event venues. The downside is cost proximity is in high demand, so hotels here charge a premium during Ultra week. Also, some hotels may experience noise from festival stages (bass can travel); higher floors or earplugs help.
Miami Beach Beach by Day, Party by Night (15–30 min away)
If you want the quintessential Miami experience with sand and sea, you might stay in Miami Beach and commute to Ultra. Miami Beach (especially South Beach) is about 5–7 miles from Bayfront Park. South Beach offers Art Deco hotels, beach clubs, and nonstop nightlife. During Ultra/Miami Music Week, many of the world’s best pool parties and DJ events happen at South Beach hotels (Delano, Clevelander, Kimpton Surfcomber, etc.). The trade-off is the commute: it’s a 15-30 minute drive (or shuttle) to downtown, depending on traffic.
- Recommended South Beach Hotels: For luxury, 1 Hotel South Beach and W South Beach are top-tier (and host fancy events), but they come with a high price tag. More moderate picks include Kimpton Surfcomber (known for pool parties, literally on the beach), Shore Club (if reopened by 2026), or The Clevelander (a party-centric hotel/bar on Ocean Drive). If you want quieter by night, maybe look at Loews Miami Beach or The Shelborne still close to the action but a bit more refined.
- Mid-Beach and North Beach: Iconic resorts like the Fontainebleau (Mid-Beach) offer huge pools and famous clubs (LIV nightclub is there), though you’re further (around 20-minute drive). Faena Hotel in Mid-Beach is ultra-luxe if budget allows. Staying further north (North Beach or Surfside/Bal Harbour) isn’t ideal for Ultra unless you have a car, as it adds more distance.
- Budget Stays in Miami Beach: If you’re young and on a budget, hostels and inexpensive hotels in South Beach can be a lot of fun. For example, Freehand Miami is a popular stylish hostel with a bar, about 1 block from the beach it offers affordable bunk beds and private rooms and a social vibe. Other hostels like Generator Miami or Miami Beach International Hostel cater to backpackers and partiers. You’ll save money, meet fellow travelers, and still be able to enjoy Miami’s beach scene. Just plan the daily commute (perhaps group up with others for Ubers, or use the bus shuttle as mentioned).
Staying on the Beach Pros/Cons: The pro is you get to enjoy Miami’s famous beaches and the Ocean Drive scene. You can party all night at clubs like LIV, Story, or Nikki Beach after Ultra or on off days, and recover on the sand by day. The con is the commute to Ultra you’ll need to either drive (and park, which we’ve covered is tough), take a rideshare (surge pricing from South Beach could be expensive), or use a shuttle/bus. If you stay in Miami Beach, strongly consider not renting a car just for Ultra parking in South Beach is also a challenge (and few hotels have free parking). Instead, factor in a budget for daily rideshares or the Ultra shuttle if one is provided.
Other Areas Affordable or Tranquil Options (Further Out)
A couple of other neighborhoods to note, especially if you have specific needs or a tight budget:
- Coconut Grove & Coral Gables: These areas are a 20–30 minute drive south of downtown. They are charming, lush, and more residential, offering a break from the madness. If you’d prefer a quiet place to retreat to, consider the Grove or Gables. For instance, Mr. C Coconut Grove is a boutique hotel with a rooftop pool, and The Biltmore in Coral Gables is a historic luxury resort with a golf course. You’d commute by rideshare or car to Ultra (or drive to a Metrorail station nearby). These areas won’t have the Ultra party atmosphere, which could be a pro or con depending on your taste.
- Airport Area Hotels: If you have a late arrival or early departure, staying near MIA might be practical for a night. There are many hotels by the airport that are cheaper than downtown (e.g., Hilton Airport, Marriott Airport). You could stay there on Thursday, then move to a downtown hotel for Fri-Sun. Not ideal for the whole Ultra experience, but an option if costs are a factor.
- Vacation Rentals Houses: If you’re coming with a large group, renting a house or villa a bit outside the city could be both fun and cost-effective per person. Neighborhoods like Wynwood, Edgewater, or even up in Midtown have houses for rent. You’ll have more space, the ability to cook, and perhaps amenities like a backyard or pool. The downside is you’ll definitely be driving in or taking multiple rideshares.
Booking Tips: Aim to book your accommodation early (as soon as you secure tickets, if not before). Ultra’s dates are known well in advance, and hotels near downtown will fill up months ahead. Prices also climb higher as availability shrinks. Look for free cancellation rates if you book far ahead, so you have flexibility if plans change. Also, check if Ultra offers any official hotel packages (sometimes they partner with hotels for slightly better rates or shuttle services e.g., “Ultra Hotel” deals).
No matter where you stay, ensure you have a plan to get to/from the festival each day (see our transportation section). If you’re not within walking distance, decide whether you’ll use transit, drive part-way, or rideshare, and budget time for it. The peace of mind of a well-located hotel can really enhance your Ultra experience it’s worth possibly spending a bit more to avoid a logistical headache each day.
Things to Do in Miami Before & After Ultra
One of the best parts of coming to Ultra in Miami is that you get to enjoy a mini-vacation in a world-class city. Whether you have extra days around the festival or just free mornings before the music starts in the afternoon, make the most of your time in Miami! Here are some top things to do and see:
- Enjoy Miami’s Beaches: Take a break from the crowds and recharge by the ocean. South Beach (around Lummus Park from 5th to 15th Street) is the iconic Miami beach with white sand, clear turquoise water, and lots of activity. Rent a beach chair or just lay out a towel March weather is usually mid-70s°F (24°C) and sunny, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. If South Beach is too hectic, head to Mid-Beach (around 30th-40th St.) or North Beach for a calmer vibe. Another option is Key Biscayne (about 15 minutes from downtown) check out Crandon Park Beach for a more secluded tropical beach with palm trees.
- Explore Wynwood’s Art Scene: Wynwood is Miami’s famous arts district, just a 10-minute drive from downtown. The Wynwood Walls are a must-see an outdoor street art museum of vivid murals by artists from around the globe. It’s like an open-air gallery of mind-blowing graffiti and art installations. The surrounding blocks are full of colorful walls, hip boutiques, and cafés. Daytime is best for photos, while nighttime in Wynwood brings a lively bar scene and music. It’s a great place to wander and take Instagram-worthy shots of the murals (you’ll see works from world-renowned street artists Wynwood boasts the largest concentration of street art in the U.S.). If you need a break from EDM, Wynwood’s art will inspire a different kind of creativity.
- Visit Little Havana: Dive into Miami’s Cuban heritage in Little Havana along Calle Ocho (8th Street). You can taste authentic Cuban food like savory ropa vieja or a classic Cuban sandwich at renowned spots like Versailles or La Carreta. In the mornings, grab a cafecito (Cuban coffee) from a ventanita (walk-up window) it’s strong, sweet, and will fuel you up for the festival. Little Havana also has cigar shops rolling cigars by hand, Latin music in the air, and Domino Park where locals play dominoes passionately. It’s a cultural experience that shows Miami’s Latin soul. If you’re there on Friday night, check out Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays), a monthly street festival with live music and art.
- Nightlife & After-Parties: If you somehow still have energy after Ultra’s daily shows, Miami’s nightlife will keep you entertained. During Miami Music Week, almost every club and hotel has after-parties featuring world-class DJs. Some popular clubs to consider: Club Space (downtown, famous for after-hours techno it can go until sunrise), E11EVEN (24/7 nightclub/cabaret downtown), LIV (glamorous club at Fontainebleau Miami Beach), and Story (South Beach mega-club). Keep an eye on official Ultra announcements and social media for special after-party lineups Ultra often has Resistance afterparties or label showcases at clubs around town. Pro tip: Pace yourself! It’s impossible to do Ultra all day and clubs all night for three days straight. Pick one night to go hard, and maybe another to chill.
- Tourist Attractions & Sightseeing: If it’s your first time in Miami, there are some great attractions to check out:
- Bayside Marketplace: Right next to Bayfront Park, this open-air mall has waterfront restaurants, shops, and live music. Even a quick walk-through is nice (maybe grab a pre-festival meal or a post-festival snack; it’ll be busy with other Ultra fans).
- Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): A modern art museum on the bay by Museum Park (walking distance from Bayfront). If you’re into art or just want a relaxing afternoon, PAMM’s galleries and outdoor hanging gardens are worth a visit. The sculpture garden overlooking the water is a peaceful spot .
- SkyViews Miami Observation Wheel: Located at Bayside, this Ferris wheel gives you a bird’s eye view of the festival site and downtown. Rides are about 15 minutes consider doing this at night for a skyline lit up (maybe on Thursday before Ultra starts).
- Boat Tours: Take advantage of Miami’s bay. You can do a boat tour of celebrity homes around Star Island, or a party boat cruise with music (some Miami Music Week events are even on yachts). There are also jet ski rentals if you crave an adrenaline rush zip around Biscayne Bay on a jet ski for an hour (just stay safe and sober while doing water activities).
- Everglades Trip: If you have a full free day and want to experience nature, the Everglades National Park is about an hour’s drive away. There are half-day tours where you ride an airboat through the swamps to see alligators and unique wildlife. It’s a very different vibe from Ultra, but a cool South Florida experience if you need a break from music.
- Food & Dining: Miami’s food scene is diverse and delicious. Some ideas: try Stone Crab (a local delicacy in season during March) at Joe’s Stone Crab in South Beach; eat fresh ceviche and seafood in Coconut Grove; or hit up a food hall like Time Out Market Miami (in South Beach) or Central Fare (downtown at MiamiCentral) for a variety of quick bites. And don’t forget late-night eats after Ultra, you might crave a 2AM bite. Miami has you covered with 24-hour eateries (like La Sandwicherie for a legendary baguette sandwich in South Beach, or pizza-by-the-slice joints downtown).
By mixing in some of these activities, you’ll turn your Ultra trip into a well-rounded Miami adventure. Plan a relaxing beach morning or a cultural outing to recharge before the festival chaos resumes. Miami is a vibrant city, so it’s worth exploring beyond the festival grounds to fully appreciate your travel.
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