Maurice A. Ferré Park

History and Significance

Set in downtown Miami, Florida, Maurice A. Ferré Park spans 30 acres of urban greenspace with a story to tell. Opening its gates in 1976, it originally carried the name Bicentennial Park in honor of America's 200th birthday celebration that year.

In 2019, the park was renamed to honor Maurice A. Ferré, Miami's first Hispanic mayor who left his mark on the city during his tenure from 1973 to 1985.

Vibrant blue and orange dog sculpture in the Sculpture Gardens

Photo: Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0)

Scenic Location

Perched along Biscayne Bay, this urban oasis treats you to breathtaking views of the water, cruise ships gliding by, and Miami's distinctive skyline. The park features Miami's longest waterfront promenade, with a path that stretches from Biscayne Boulevard all the way to the bay's edge.

Despite being in the heart of downtown, there's something wonderfully calming about this space - a peaceful retreat where the city's rhythm softens against the backdrop of water and sky.

Orange cat sculpture stands in the Dogs and Cats Walkway garden

Photo: Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0)

Recent Improvements

The park got a significant facelift in 2014 as part of the development that brought the Pérez Art Museum Miami and Frost Museum of Science to its edges. These renovations introduced fresh landscaping, new walking paths, and expanded green spaces for everyone to enjoy.

The grounds are well-maintained, with clean facilities and tended greenery that makes spending time here pleasant.

Lush green lawn offers views of Miami's tall skyscrapers

Photo: Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0)

Art Installations

Art lovers will appreciate the rotating outdoor exhibitions that call the park home. As you wander through, you'll encounter various sculptures and installations that change year-round, keeping the space fresh and surprising.

The colorful dog and cat sculptures along the walkways have been particularly charming additions, each featuring designs that capture Miami's vibrant cultural tapestry.

Walking paths lead toward the Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Photo: Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0)

Recreational Amenities

If you're a dog owner, you'll appreciate the dedicated dog park with thoughtfully separated areas for small and large dogs, including water fountains where your four-legged friends can refresh themselves.

For the humans, there's outdoor exercise equipment, smooth paved paths excellent for your morning jog or afternoon rollerblade, and plenty of open grassy areas where you can spread out a blanket for a picnic or simply lie back and cloud-watch.

Palm trees and native grasses frame the Pérez Art Museum

Photo: Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0)

Community Use

More than just a pretty space, Maurice A. Ferré Park is a community gathering place that hosts various events during the year. Its prime location near cultural institutions and beautiful waterfront setting makes it a natural draw for both locals and tourists alike.

The park is welcoming to families, offering plenty of room for children to run and play, however you won't find traditional playground equipment like swings or slides here.

Public restrooms are available and accessible from 7AM to 6PM daily - a practical detail that makes longer visits much more comfortable.