Watch CBS News

Best 4th Of July Parties In South Florida

Where else to be for the peak of summer if not in the party capitol of Miami? Whether at the beach or on the water, South Florida is one of the most spectacular backgrounds for celebrating. We have the best list of parties for this year's Independence Day. Each will make for a memorable holiday.

IndepenDance Fireworks Cruise
The Musette Yacht
401 N. Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33132
(212) 724-3900
www.july4thcruises.com

Date: July 4, 2013

Hop aboard Musette, a multi-level luxury yacht, at 6 p.m. sharp. Expect a DJ, deck, libations and dinner together with breathtaking views of downtown, South Beach and Biscayne Bay. Enjoy the freedom of being transported through the warm breezy canals and watch the Bayfront Park Fireworks form an advantage point. Nothing will obstruct the spectacle of the Independence Day fireworks while in the company of your best friends or family.

Old-Fashioned July 4th Picnic
Barnacle State Historic Park
3485 Main Highway
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
(305) 442-6866
www.floridastateparks.org

Date: July 4, 2013

Since 1891, the Barnacle has been an intact symbol of Old Florida and when you enter the site, it seems that time has stopped. Surviving over a century of hurricanes, thanks to its solid structure, the park is a rare living example of disappearing Miami Hammock. Bring blankets and baskets of your own prepared food (there's also the easier option to buy food at the Barnacle Society) and listen to live music on the lawn descending towards the bay. The kids will be entertained with crafts and games culminating in a scavenger hunt. Sunscreen or old-fashioned white parasols will protect you from the high temperatures and make the day memorable.

4th Of July Celebration At Peacock Park
Peacock Park
2820 McFarlane Road
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
(305) 960-4670
www.miamigov.com

Date: July 4th, 2013

The location of Peacock Park makes it one of the most popular in Miami. It is right by the bay and at the same time within walking distance of all the amenities of Coconut Grove. Moreover, it provides a giant space for concerts, games and parties. If you live in Coconut Grove, the best solution is to arrive on foot, because if you need to drive you are better off coming early and spending the day barbecuing or enjoying the food trucks to secure the best spots for the fireworks show.

Related: Best Live Blues In Miami

America's Birthday Bash
Bayfront Park
301 N. Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33132
(305) 358-7550
www.bayfrontparkmiami.com

Date: July 4, 2013

One of the most known parks in Miami, Bayfront Park, is a popular destination for tourists, especially from the cruiselines. Located on the bay next to the Port of Miami and the American Airlines Arena, it is a location of a series of free events and classes all year round. Celebrating Independence Day at the park means free admission including a free kids' zone from 3 p,m. to 7 p.m. and the largest fireworks spectacle at 9 p.m. Just note that no cans, coolers or personal fireworks are allowed, although with such an array of restaurants and bars, libations will not be an issue.

Fourth of July Spectacular at Black Point Park
24775 S.W. 87th Ave.
Miami, FL 33174
(305) 258-4092
www.miamidade.gov

Date: July 4, 2013

Who can resist a 20-minute firework show sitting on the lawn by the bay close to Biscayne National Park? Just come prepared with your own chairs and blankets, let the kids play around and enjoy the time with your best friends. Food and beverages will not be an issue, since you have the option to cook at home and stuff baskets, grill by the picnic pavilion or enjoy the cuisine of the restaurant by the dock.

Related: Best Dive Bars In The Keys

A resident of South Beach for 16 years, Francesca Belluomini has long been an iconic presence on the local nightlife scene. Raised and educated in Tuscany, Italy, she has also lived in two fashion capitols, Milan and London. She writes about all fashions in Miami. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.