The Miami Marine Stadium: A One-of-a-Kind Venue 

Situated at the heart of Biscayne Bay—barely more than a stone’s throw away from the glitz and glamour downtown—the Miami International Boat Show offers a show-venue experience like no other.

The action kicks off on Virginia Key, where the Miami Marine Stadium overlooks the lively bay and Magic City skyline. Even beyond show weekend, it’s a great place to cruise past as you explore the splendor of Crandon Park, Coconut Grove and more.

The stadium, though, is more than a venue—it’s a spot of historical significance, too, and helped to shape Miami’s powerboating scene more than 50 years ago.

As we approach show weekend, let’s take a cruise down memory lane and learn the ins and outs of this truly unique on-the-water landmark. Just read on!

A penchant for powerboats

In 1963, the Miami Marine Stadium was built to serve as a powerboat racing stadium—the first of its kind in the United States. The speed and modern, high-tech allure of powerboats drew the attention of water sport enthusiasts, while the stadium helped to put Miami on the map as a true thrill-seeker’s destination (in addition to its reputation for sun, sand, and nightlife).

The modernist stadium was also built to showcase the lux vista of Miami’s ever-growing skyline, and the natural beauty of Biscayne Bay.

Famous faces

Throughout the years, the idyllic setting of the Miami Marine Stadium has attracted some of the biggest names in politics, music and more. Former President Richard Nixon had a home on nearby Key Biscayne, and shared the stage with Sammy Davis Jr. during a Young Voters Rally in 1972. The two shared a hug. Even earlier, in 1967, Elvis Presley starred in “Clambake” here. Of course, one of the stadium’s most famous events was Jimmy Buffet’s “Live by the Bay” concert in the summer of 1985. Here, stadium attendees, as well as passengers in surrounding boats, got to sway to the musician’s breezy, island-inspired music—like the famous “Margaritaville”—all while enjoying the balmy ambiance of Biscayne Bay. It just doesn’t get much more “Florida” than that!

Making a comeback

After Hurricane Andrew, the stadium fell into disrepair, but recent restoration projects have breathed new life into the famous landmark (now on the National Register of Historic Places). Though the stadium has seen its fair share of changes over the years, its current role as host of the Miami International Boat Show represents a return to tradition—it’s only fitting that the stadium which started as a hub of cruising thrills, continues to serve as one in 2019.

Now that you know its history, see the Miami Marine Stadium in action for yourself! The fun kicks off February 14^th.