Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park occupies a singular place in Miami history. Established in 1945 as Miami-Dade County's only beach designated for Black residents during segregation, the park was closed in 1982 and sat dormant for more than two decades before a community-led restoration effort brought it back. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2002 and reopened in 2008 following a $30 million renovation, the park today serves as both a public destination and a working event venue on the shores of Biscayne Bay. The park offers a broad range of rentable settings — from intimate shaded pavilions seating up to 150 guests to expansive open-air areas accommodating festivals and concerts of several thousand. The colorful Chickee Village, beachfront spaces, and lawn areas each offer a distinct character suited to weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats, and community gatherings. The restored historic carousel and the park's natural mangrove landscape provide a backdrop that few South Florida venues can match. Outside vendors and catering are permitted. Events requiring permits — including alcohol service — are supported through the park's Special Events team, which coordinates the full permitting process with the City of Miami.