Ultra 2015
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Ultra 2010 by Oliver Correa
Ultra Music Festival is the world's largest electronic music festival, with over 100,000 attendees from nearly 80 different countries. The festival started as a closing exhibition to Miami's Winter Music Conference in 1999, and has since expanded to three full days of pulsating electronic music. While the Winter Music Conference and Ultra are now separate events, they both overlap during Miami Music Week, which usually happens in the last full week in March.
Ultra is a must for electronic music lovers. The atmosphere of being surrounded by fellow passionate enthusiasts from around the world is rare to come by and hard to beat. Be prepared to get sweaty, dirty, and make lots of new friends to rave with throughout the weekend. So if you enjoy dancing for three days straight, soaking up the Miami sun, and receiving hugs from the nicest strangers in neon wigs and fuzzy boots that you'll ever meet, all while listening to the best established and emerging electronic artists the world has to offer, then grab your sunglasses and glow sticks, because Ultra is for you.
Note: Ultra overlaps with Winter Music Conference, so even if you're in Miami just for Ultra, you can still use our Guide to WMC in addition this one. While this guide has the rundown on Downtown Miami, the WMC guide has all you need to know while in South Beach.
Festival Line Up
Lineup to be announced.
- How do I get to and from Miami?
- What area is the festival in? How do I get around?
- What time does the festival start and end?
- Is reentry allowed?
- What are the prohibited items?
- What's the deal with food and beverages?
- What do I need to know about money?
- What will the weather be like?
- What should I wear?
- What should I bring?
- Does the festival have a mobile app?
- What are the ticket options?
- Is there anything else I need to know?
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How do I get to and from Miami?
If you're flying into Miami, the closest airport is Miami International Airport (MIA). Nearly 40 airlines operate out of MIA, serving over 30 million passengers each year.
From the airport, there are several options to get you to Downtown Miami and South Beach. Many hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport. Check with your hotel to see if they provide shuttles and, if so, how to book them. If you're hotel doesn't offer a shuttle service, try American Shuttle, which can be found on the arrivals level, outside of the baggage claim areas.
If you want to take a Taxi, the fare between MIA and Downtown Miami is approximately $24. Taxis can be found on the arrival level of the airport, outside the baggage claim area.
For more information on the airport's shuttle and taxi services, check out the airport's Rate Chart, or call the Miami International Airport Taxi & Shuttle Service at (305) 876-7000.
If you can't get a direct flight to Miami, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is approximately 30-45 minutes away from Downtown Miami. Flying into Fort Lauderdale can be cheaper than flying to Miami, but since it's further away, you should expect to spend more on ground transportation. There are four main ground transportation options you can take to get from FLL to Downtown Miami and South Beach.
Taxi cabs, which can take up to 5 people, are available from the Transportation Podium. Fees are based on a meter -- expect to pay approximately $67 to get to Downtown Miami, and $72 to South Beach. Be sure to indicate at the dispatch station if you would like to pay by credit card, so that you get a car equipped to take one, or else you'll be scrambling for cash to pay your fare.
With the shared ride option, operated by GO Airport Shuttle, you'll pay $21 to get to Downtown Miami or South Beach. The shuttle seats 10, and they accept cash or credit card. Prepare for a wait time of anywhere between 10 and 30 minutes and you should allow up to 90 minutes for travel time, especially if it's rush hour.
Luxury Sedan: GO Airport Shuttle also operates luxury sedans for up to 4 people, which cost $70 per ride to Downtown Miami or South Beach.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, take the Tri-Rail commuter train, which offers a direct link to Miami's Metrorail Orange Line at Miami Airport. From there, you'll have to take a taxi or any of Miami's other transportation options. The Tri-Rail provides free shuttles from the FLL terminals to the station; at the west end of Terminal 1, between Terminals 2 and 3, and between Terminals 3 and 4.
Check the airport's Transportation Choices Chart for more information about estimated rates. Vehicle options can also be obtained at the Transportation Podium outside of baggage claim on the lower level.Back to Top -
What area is the festival in? How do I get around?
Ultra will take place in Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami.
If you're planning to drive, parking near the festival will cost you around $40. If you don’t mind walking, you can usually find parking a little farther from the festival entrance for about $10.
If you're coming from South Beach, the easiest way to get to Bayfront Park is to take a taxi, which costs around $20 each way. Be sure that you bring cash with you -- some Miami cabs are equipped with a credit card reader, but the city’s whole fleet is yet to go digital, so you still might need paper money to pay. To catch a taxi, you can try flagging one down, or you can call for a pick-up:
Yellow Cab: + 1 (305) 444-4444
Super Yellow Cab: +1 (305) 888-7777
Central Cab: +1 (305) 532-5555
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly, Public Transportation option, try the Metrobus, which has routes that travel between South Beach and Downtown Miami. To get to the festival site, take route 3, 93, 95, 103, or 119 to the Biscayne Boulevard stop. The Metrobus costs $2 and offers 24-hour service on select routes. Metrobus routes accept cash and change, but don't give change. The easiest payment option for riding the Metrobus is to purchase an EASY Card or EasyTicket.
We recommend that you stay in Downtown Miami, which is closer to the festival site and better equipped with public transportation. In addition to traveling on foot, in taxis and on the Metrobus, you can also take the Metromover, a 4.4-mile tram that loops around Downtown Miami and interconnects with Metrorail and Metrobus. Metromover is a free service and operates from 5am to midnight, seven days a week. Trams run every 90 seconds during rush hour, and every three minutes during off-peak hours. To get to the festival site, take the orange MMI Inner Loop train and get off at the Bayfront Park stop.
Want the rundown on how to get around South Beach? Head to our WMC Insights.Back to Top -
What time does the festival start and end?
Doors open at 4pm on Friday and at 12pm on both Saturday and Sunday. The lines entering the festival can get pretty long, so make sure to take that into account when calculating your travel time.
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Is reentry allowed?
Reentry is not allowed, so plan accordingly and bring everything you’ll need for the day.
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What are the prohibited items?
Alcohol, illegal drugs, bottles, backpacks, animals, sound systems, and recording devices, both audio and visual, will not be allowed through the gates.
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What's the deal with food and beverages?
Food will be available at the event. If you don’t feel like waiting in line, keep an eye out for mobile vendors wandering around the festival grounds.
Beer and cocktails will also be sold at the event and, once purchased, can be taken anywhere within the grounds. You must get a wristband from an age-verification station if you plan to purchase or consume alcohol, so make sure you bring a valid, government-issued ID.Back to Top -
What do I need to know about money?
Festival vendors do not accept credit cards. There are ATMs on the grounds, but the ATM fee is an astronomical $12 per transaction, so try to bring enough cash to get you through the day.
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What will the weather be like?
Weather in Miami is consistently hot, humid, and sunny and March is typically one of the sunniest months of the year. The average temperature range in March is between 61-80°F (16-26°C). During the day it can be moderately hot and humid, but a night the temperature can drop to where you’ll need warmer attire.
Click for weather forecastBack to Top -
What should I wear?
Summer clothes are generally best, but because the festival goes from day to night, prepare for the weather transition by bringing a light layer. Many follow the “less is more” mentality, with girls wearing bikini tops and guys going shirtless. Fashion-wise, anything goes. You may feel ridiculous on your way to and from the festival, but once through the entrance gates, neon colors, sparkles, and tutus become the norm.
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What should I bring?
Sunscreen is a must. Apply before you arrive and bring it with you to reapply - there is nothing worse than getting burnt the first day of a festival and having to suffer through the pain for the rest of the weekend. Since backpacks aren't allowed, fanny packs are a great idea to store your phone, cash, and sunscreen while leaving you hands free for dancing - it is after all an anything-goes fashion fest.
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Does the festival have a mobile app?
The festival's mobile app can be an extremely helpful tool when navigating the grounds. We'll keep you posted on any updates for 2015.
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What are the ticket options?
General Admission 3-Day Combo: TBA; access to all stages within festival grounds for all three days
VIP 3-Day Combo: TBA; 21+, access to multiple VIP covered areas, preferred viewing of the main stage, VIP bars, air-conditioned restrooms, seating areas, exclusive fan access to bands and DJs, Ultra gift bags, and premium food service.Back to Top -
Is there anything else I need to know?
Winter Music Conference also takes place in Miami the same weeks as Ultra, so after the festival ends at midnight, there are dozens of parties across Miami to choose from. This is where staying in Downtown Miami can come in handy - you have a nearby place to relax and freshen up immediately after the festival before heading out again at night.
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No Events Listed
Eat
Ultra does not allow you to bring outside food or drink, but there are vendors within the festival grounds. If you want to eat before or after the shows each day, there are a number of great options in the vicinity. Whether you feel like a swanky sit-down dining experience or something more casual and quick, Downtown Miami has you covered.
For the rundown on where to eat in South Beach, head to our Guide to WMC.
View Cultivora's Guide to Ultra 2013 in a larger map
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Biscayne Tavern
- 146 Biscayne Boulevard
- Miami, FL 33132
- +1 (305) 307-8300
- biscaynetavern.com
A gastro-tavern dishing up "local grub and craft brews." Open for 6:30am breakfast all the way through midnight, Biscayne Tavern is ideal for a laid-back atmosphere and gourmet comfort food whether it be before the festival or afterwards. We hear the dessert is not to be missed - who said you can't order milk and cookies at a restaurant?
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Area 31
- 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, 16th Floor
- Miami, FL 33131
- +1 (305) 424-5234
- www.area31restaurant.com
Area 31, the brainchild of Chef E. Michael Reidt, is located on the 16th floor of the EPIC Hotel. Reidt has won numerous awards for his work in the kitchen, including the 2011 Eater Award for Chef of the Year. While the majority of the menu is inspired by Miami's costal location, there are vegetarian and vegan options available as well. Be sure to check out the pool bar, where you can sip on a cocktail and have appetizers while overlooking the bay.
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Michael's Genuine Food & Drink
- 130 NE 40th Street
- Miami, FL 33137
- +1 (305) 573-5550
- www.michaelsgenuine.com/miami
Michael's Genuine Food & Drink serves dishes using natural and locally sourced ingredients-they mean it when they say genuine. Their food is mostly gourmet American, with a few hints of Asian and French thrown in. Whether you go for a special occasion or simply a night out, Michael's is sure to leave you feeling happy and satisfied.
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Sweat Records Café
- 5505 North East 2nd Avenue
- Miami, FL 33137
- +1 (786) 693-9309
- www.sweatrecordsmiami.com
This café is Miami’s only completely vegan coffee house and doubles as a Wi-Fi lounge. After you’re done surfing the net and trying one of the café’s vegan treats, take a walk around the rest of Sweat Records ‐ an indie music store and event space for workshops, movie nights, and live music performances.
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Cafeina
- 297 Northwest 23rd Street
- Miami, FL 33127
- +1 (305) 438-0792
- www.cafeinamiami.com
Cafeina is a combination restaurant, lounge and art gallery. The restaurant serves tapas-style plates, such as goat cheese croquettes and stuffed dates. Wash down your small bites with one of their signature cocktails - the Hot Passion combines pureed citrus flavors with a kick of jalapeño. If you need a break from the dance floor, be sure to check out the back patio, which features a live DJ and hammock beds.
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Andiamo Pizza
- 5600 Biscayne Boulevard
- Miami, FL 33137
- +1 (305) 762-5751
- www.andiamopizzamiami.com
This brick oven pizza joint may resemble an old drive through on the outside, but the only thing served on the inside is classic Napoli style pizza. Offering classic Italian combinations, as well as some modern American ones, Andiamo is the place for pizzas, calzones, and even meatball subs on your trip to Miami.
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S&S Diner
- 1757 North East Second Avenue
- Miami, FL 33132
- +1 (305) 373-4291
- www.facebook.com/pages/S-S-Diner-South/165825945409
Miami’s oldest diner provides affordable comfort food in a retro setting. They serve breakfast and lunch while providing a great little slice of vintage Miami. Make sure to hit an ATM before you arrive though, this is a cash only joint.
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DB Bistro Moderne
- 255 Biscayne Boulevard Way
- Miami, FL 33131
- +1 (305) 421-8800
- www.danielnyc.com/dbbistroMiami.html
This upscale restaurant, located in the JW Mariott Marquis Hotel, is the perfect choice for a special occasion or a nice meal. Taking its inspiration from the abundance of local fresh seafood, DB Bistro puts a classical French touch into each of its dishes. One of the main attractions here is the French Spice Dinner, which changes seasonally. This five-course meal, at $50 per person, gives diners a taste of some traditional and more modern French plates.
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Versailles
- 3555 Southwest 8th Street
- Miami, FL 33135
- +1 (305) 444-0240
- www.versaillesrestaurant.com
With a French name and decorative chandeliers, this quirky restaurant may not seem Cuban, but that's what they serve. Don't let the appearance fool you, this is one of the most loved Cuban restaurants in town, and despite it's decor, the food is very authentic.
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Granny Feelgood's
- 25 West Flagler Street
- Miami, FL 33130
- +1 (305) 377-9600
- www.facebook.com/Grannyfeelgood
Open for breakfast and lunch Monday-Friday, Granny Feelgood’s offers healthy and traditional American diner food and many vegetarian/vegan options. The portions tend to be quite large but the chefs utilize natural and fresh ingredients so you don’t have to feel guilty about stuffing your face.
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Democratic Republic of Beer
- 255 North East 14th Street
- Miami, FL 33132
- +1 (305) 372-4565
- www.drbmiami.com
This restaurant/pub is home to Miami’s largest selection of beer and provides customers with an ever-changing beer menu from more than 60 countries accompanied by a food menu with selections from all over the world. It is open until 5am 7 days a week and, with their happy hour specials, live music, and international atmosphere, it’s more than just a beer lover’s dream.
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Manhattan Café and Market
- 251 North East 14th Street
- Miami, FL 33132
- +1 (305) 372-1966
With their fantastic Italian-style sandwiches, this small café is great for grabbing a meal on the go. Wait time and lines tend to be short and prices are reasonably inexpensive. Close to many of downtown Miami's hotels, this is a good place to stop by before hopping on the bus or metro mover on your way to the festival.
Sleep
We recommend staying in the Downtown Miami district, as close to Bicentennial Park as possible. In addition to its proximity to the festival, Downtown Miami is in a central location, with respect to Miami International Airport, Miami's Art District, the Port of Miami, Bayside Marketplace, and South Beach.
While many events will take place in South Beach, the cab fare is around $20 to and from the festival, which, after three days, can really add up. It is much more convenient to be able to walk between your hotel and the festival. Trust us, you'll want to stop by your hotel and refresh before hitting the clubs, whether you go to one of Downtown Miami's many venues or venture across the bridge into South Beach.
For the rundown on where to sleep in South Beach, head to our Guide to WMC.
View Cultivora's Guide to Ultra 2013 in a larger map
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Marriott Miami Biscayne Bay
- 1633 North Bayshore Drive
- Miami, FL 33132
- +1 (305) 374-3900
- www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/miabb-miami-marriott-biscayne-bay
After its recent remodeling of the lobby and restaurant, this Marriott is now part of a small group of eco-friendly Port of Miami hotels. The hotel offers three casual dining and bar options and rooms with a modern Miami vibe. If you stay here you can reach the festival in 20 minutes via public transport or 30 minutes walking.
Amenities: Car Rentals, Room Service, Fitness Center, Outdoor Pool, Dry Cleaning Services. -
Doubletree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay
- 1717 North Bayshore Drive
- Miami, FL 33132
- +1 (305) 372-0313
- doubletree1.hilton.com/en_US/dt/hotel/MIABSDT-DoubleTree-by-Hilton-Grand-Hotel-Biscayne-Bay-Florida/index.do
A 30-minute walk or 20-minute bus ride away from Ultra, the Doubletree hotel at Biscayne Bay is a convenient spot for the festival and for surrounding clubs and restaurants. In addition to offering standard hotel amenities, the hotel is connected to a shopping promenade including a salon, grocery and liquor store, bank, clothing stores, and restaurants with live music Friday and Saturday Nights.
Amenities: Car Rentals, Room Service, Fitness Center, Pool, Dry Cleaning Services, Tennis Court, Sauna, Free WiFi in Lobby. -
Hilton Miami Downtown
- 1601 South Biscayne Boulevard
- Miami, FL 33132
- +1 (305) 373-7783
- www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/MIADTHF-Hilton-Miami-Downtown-Florida/index.do
A 20-minute bus or metro mover ride from Bayfront Park, Hilton Miami Downtown is a great option for Ultra-goers. The hotel is also newly renovated and connected to the MetroMover, Miami’s free light rail service connecting many destination areas downtown.
Amenities: Fitness Center, Pool, Room Service, Business Center. -
Viceroy Miami Hotel
- 485 Brickell Avenue
- Miami, FL 33131
- +1 (305) 503-4400
- www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/miami
Viceroy Miami is all about comfort and luxury. From the East Asian-inspired decor to the large guest rooms, this hotel creates a welcoming atmosphere. Each room is equipped with a kitchenette, two sinks in the bathroom, and separate shower and tub. Be sure to check out the Viceroy's website for any special offers on room rates; they occasionally offer three nights for the price of two, and other similar deals.
Amenities: Mini Bar, WiFi, iPod Dock, In-Room Espresso Machine, Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services, Fitness Center, Spa, In-Room Spa Services. -
EPIC Hotel
- 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way
- Miami, FL 33131
- +1 (305) 424-5226
- www.epichotel.com
EPIC Hotel is a Kimpton Boutique Hotel located in Downtown Miami, just four blocks from Bayfront Park. Its name does it justice, featuring spacious guest rooms, an award winning spa and a complimentary wine hour every evening. EPIC also offers rooms specifically de