You can feel the spirit of Christmas since the festival of lights offers fun activities for everyone. Visitors may enjoy shopping at the Zoo Gift Shop. The beautiful lights in Miami showcase over one million dazzling twinkle lights trees.
Zoo Miami is among the best zoos in the world. Witnessing the Christmas light show in the zoo can give you a wonderful holiday celebration.
Zoo Lights Miami Dates (2023-24)
The light exhibition in Zoo Miami is a yearly event during the Christmas season. There is no exact date for the festival, but it is usually held from November to December. You can admire the themed nights of the fairy lights show. These themed nights include Superhero Nights, Ugly Sweater Nights, and Galactic Nights.
Families, especially children, will enjoy the dazzling and bright lights. Since it is celebrated on holidays, you have more time to visit Zoo Lights Miami and participate in various fun activities. You can also listen to harmonious holiday music during your visit.
Where It’s Located and How to Get There
The twinkle lights festival is celebrated at Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Garden, also called Zoo Miami. It was the biggest zoo in Florida, featuring 500 species and 3000 animals. It was a zoological park and garden at 12400 SW 152nd St., Miami, FL 33177, United States.
The distance from Zoo Miami to Miami Airport is about 15 miles. There are 19.9 miles of road distance. It is situated off Florida Turnpike’s Exit 18 on the way to other South Florida points of interest, such as the Florida Keys and Everglades.
Getting to Zoo Miami using Public Transportation:
Miami-Dade Transit provides public bus service to Zoo Miami during weekends and six major holidays, including Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day. You can catch bus route 35, which serves the zoo on weekends and holidays, or connect through Metrorail’s Dadeland South Station to bus route 252 (Coral Reef MAX) on weekdays.
Utilizing these public transportation options, visitors can reach the zoo without the need for private transportation, making it a convenient and eco-friendly choice. For the latest schedule and fare information, consult the Miami-Dade Transit website or app.
Here’s a more detailed guide on how to get to the twinkle lights festival at Zoo Miami, focusing on public bus transportation:
From Miami International Airport:
- Metrorail Option:
- Take the Orange Line Metrorail from Miami Airport to Dadeland South Station.
- Transfer to bus route 252 (Coral Reef MAX), which stops near Zoo Miami.
- Check the schedule as this bus runs on weekdays.
- Bus Route 35 Option (Weekends & Holidays):
- Bus route 35 directly serves Zoo Miami during weekends and major holidays.
- You may need to connect through other bus routes or Metrorail, depending on your starting point.
- Consult the Miami-Dade Transit website or app for the most accurate information tailored to your location.
From Downtown Miami:
- Metrorail and Bus Combination:
- Take the Metrorail’s Green or Orange Line to Dadeland South Station.
- Transfer to bus route 252 (Coral Reef MAX) to Zoo Miami.
- Note that route 252 runs on weekdays.
- Weekends & Holidays:
- Bus route 35 serves Zoo Miami directly. Plan your trip using the Miami-Dade Transit website to find the best route from your starting point.
Miami-Dade Transit provides public bus service into the Zoo Miami during weekends and six major holidays, including Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
Festival Hours
During the holidays, you can enjoy the blinking Christmas lights from 6:30 to 10 pm. So, there is much time to relax and feel the spirit of Christmas. It is the best time to have fun with the beautiful lights display.
Cost To Visit The Festival
The Zoo Lights Miami has limited tickets, so you should get yours as soon as possible. The tickets for the curtain lights are as follows:
$20.95 for each adult
$18.95 for each child (ages 3 to 12)
+ tax
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (13 and over) | $20.95 + Tax |
| Child (ages 3 to 12) | $18.95 + Tax |
You can visit their official website for updated pricing of the tickets.
Weather and What to Wear
It is winter season in Miami during the lights festival. It is among the best times to visit Zoo Miami. The average high temperature is upper 70’s, and the low rarely reaches below 50 degrees.
You can wear a jacket and warm clothing for a comfortable tour at the Zoo Lights festival. You can enjoy hot drinks in the area.
Where to Sleep – Hotels Nearby
If you’re searching for accommodation near Zoo Miami, the following are the best nearby hotels.
Yuli’s Home
You can have a refreshing stay at Yuli’s Home. It has garden views, a terrace, an outdoor swimming pool, and a shared lounge. With its excellent amenities, you can have luxurious accommodation. There are free private parking and WiFi for the convenience of the guests.
Cozy Private Room
The property comes with free WiFi and a garden. The rooms have private bathrooms, towels, bed linen, flat-screen TV, and a wardrobe. The units also have a fridge. They have free private parking. You can have a comfortable stay in a Cozy Private Room.
Hampton Inn & Suites Miami, Kendall, Executive Airport
After witnessing the LED curtain lights at the Zoo Miami, you can sleep well at the Hampton Inn & Suites Miami, Kendall, Executive Airport. It features free private parking, WiFi, and a fitness center. It was a 3-star non-smoking hotel with a 24-hour front desk. You can enjoy American, buffet, or continental breakfast at the hotel. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and key card access.
Comfort Suites Miami-Kendall
The Comfort Suites has useful amenities to make guests’ experience more comfortable. It features vending machine, spa, free parking, and free WiFi to keep you updated on your social media accounts. The property has clean rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, telephone, and other amenities.
Hilton Miami Dadeland
Hilton Miami Dadeland has nearby dining, shopping, and tourist attractions. You can have a relaxing stay at the hotel. They have the best amenities, including LCD TVs, WiFi, a coffeemaker, and a work desk with an ergonomic chair. It is perfect for families and those wanting extended stays. They have a friendly staff who will accommodate your needs. The hotel has clean and organized rooms making the guests feel at home.
What to Eat
After visiting Zoo Lights Miami, eating delicious food can satisfy you. Here are some of the top suggestions.
Grails Miami-Restaurant & Sports Bar
Grails Miami is more than just an average sports bar. They combine hand-crafted cocktails, local beers, and shareable dishes. The restaurant has a welcoming and fun atmosphere. So you can feel at home while eating delicious food. Some of their famous offers include BBQ ribs, Cheeseburger Dumpling, and Take Home Sneaker. They offer takeout and delivery. You can also be impressed by their friendly staff.
Versailles
Versailles is the world’s most famous Cuban restaurant. It was founded in 1971 and has served tourists and the South Florida community with culture and delicious Cuban cuisine. Some of their top dishes are Cafe Con Leches, Cuban Sandwich, Vaca Frita, and Ropa Vieja. The restaurant provides Latin American, Coffee & Tea, and Cuban cuisines.
FINKA Table & Tap
The restaurant has several tasty dishes, including Risotto, Cuban Fried Rice, Vaca Frita, Cuban Bibimbap Bowl, and more. FINKA Table & Tap offers reservations, a full bar, and happy hour specials. If you want to relax and have fine dining, visiting this restaurant is advisable. In addition, they also have a respectful and accommodating staff. So, you can have a satisfying dining experience at FINKA Table & Tap.
Hole In The Wall
Do you love chicken wings? If yes, Hole In The Wall can be an excellent place to eat. Aside from chicken wings, their top dishes include Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Brisket Sliders, Blackened Mahi Tacos, Texas Toast, and more! The restaurant was established in 2010. They provide delivery and takeout. Hole In The Wall has a relaxing atmosphere for the convenience of its customers.
SUGARCANE Raw Bar Grill
SUGARCANE Raw Bar Grill is an eating place for everyone. It is LGBTQ-friendly, takes reservations, and offers happy hour specials. The place has a romantic vibe and outdoor seating. They have a globally eclectic-inspired menu. You can enjoy tasty dishes from Latin to American classics. If you want a raw bar, crudos, or crispy rice, it can be the best restaurant to try.
More Things to Do in the Area
Apart from enjoying Zoo Lights Miami, you can enjoy other activities there.
Tropical Park
You can enjoy a picnic, ride a bike and spend quality time with your loved ones at the Tropical Park. It is a good place for relaxation, exercise, and parties. Whether alone or with your colleagues, visiting the park can make you feel relaxed.
Amazian Massage
You deserve to feel relaxed and energized. After enjoying the lights festival at Zoo Miami, you can go to Amazian Massage to pamper yourself. They have well-trained therapists who will give you excellent massage treatment. They have a relaxing atmosphere to make their guests feel more relaxed.
The Falls Shopping Center
It is among the biggest open-air shopping centers in the nation. The shopping center has 100 shops, covered walkways, beautiful tropical gardens, and restaurants. During your vacation in Miami, you can shop cute items and goods at The Falls Shopping Center.
The Gold Coast Railroad Museum
If you love visiting museums, you should add The Gold Coast Railroad Museum to your list. They showcase Ferdinand Magellan’s presidential car. You can also discover the history of the Miami railroad.
Colonial Drive Park Walking at Colonial Drive Park can help you release stress and tension. If traveling solo or with your loved ones, visiting the park is an excellent way to have quality time. The park is peaceful and beautiful, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of nature. It is a great place to have meaningful conversations with your partner while walking.
A Final Sparkle: Wrapping Up Your Unforgettable Visit to Zoo Lights Miami
Come and immerse yourself in the magic of Zoo Lights Miami, a delightful festival of lights that promises to fill your holiday season with joy, excitement, and wonder. Whether it’s the mesmerizing display of over a million twinkling lights, the themed nights that add a touch of whimsy to your experience, or the world-class zoo itself, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
With ample options for dining, accommodations, and other attractions in the area, your trip to Zoo Lights Miami is sure to be a cherished memory. So grab your jackets, purchase your tickets, and join us as we embark on this festive journey that will light up your holiday season like never before. See you under the twinkling stars at Zoo Miami!
If you liked the festival and want to see more amazing lighting festivals, check out the following festival:
FAQ
Q: Where can I park my vehicle when visiting Zoo Lights Miami?
A: There are designated parking areas at Zoo Miami, providing ample space for visitors. It is advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on parking fees and availability.
Q: Is smoking allowed within the Zoo Lights Miami area?
A: No, smoking is typically not permitted within the zoo grounds. Designated smoking areas may be available outside the entrance gates. Please adhere to the posted signs and guidelines.
Q: Can I bring my pet to Zoo Lights Miami?
A: Pets are generally not allowed within the zoo premises to ensure the safety and well-being of the zoo animals. Service animals, however, are permitted in accordance with the ADA guidelines.
Q: Are dogs allowed at the Zoo Lights Miami festival?
A: Similar to other pets, dogs are generally not allowed, unless they are recognized service animals. It’s always best to consult the zoo’s specific policies to confirm the details.
Q: What are the dates and timings for the Zoo Lights Miami festival?
A: The Zoo Lights Miami is an annual event, usually held from November to December. Timings may vary, so it’s advised to visit the official website for exact dates and hours of operation.
Q: Can I purchase tickets for the Zoo Lights Miami at the gate?
A: Tickets are typically available online and possibly at the gate, but it’s worth noting that they may have limited availability. It’s recommended to purchase them online in advance to guarantee entry.
Q: What if I need special accommodations for mobility issues?
A: Zoo Miami offers various facilities to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, including wheelchair rentals. Detailed information can be found on the zoo’s website or by contacting their customer service.
Q: Is there a dress code for the Zoo Lights Miami festival?
A: There is no specific dress code for the festival, but considering the winter season, warm clothing is advised for a comfortable experience. Wearing a festive holiday outfit to match the theme of the night could add to the fun!
These answers aim to address common concerns, but for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s always best to consult Zoo Miami’s official website or contact their customer service directly.
