At a time when opera is often seen as an elitist or inaccessible art form, one iconic South Beach hotel is changing the tune.
The Betsy Hotel, a family-owned and operated Michelin Key property on Ocean Drive, has long been revered as a cultural hub for the arts in Miami Beach. Through its monthly Opera on the Terrace series—now in its 11th year—The Betsy is bringing opera back to the people: free and open to all. The 30-minute pop-up performances take place on the fourth Saturday of every month and have become a beloved staple in the community.
In a neighborhood more often associated with nightlife, The Betsy is quietly redefining what’s possible in South Beach.
In partnership with the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival (MMF), a local nonprofit providing affordable, world-class musical instruction and performance experiences to young artists in South Florida—The Betsy curates performances of classic opera solos, Broadway and other classic tunes. The backdrop? The hotel’s iconic front terrace, facing the vibrant stretch of Ocean Drive.
The artists—rising stars and alumni of MMF’s acclaimed training program—bring world-class vocals to Miami Beach’s streets, echoing opera across one of America’s most recognized cultural corridors. Many of them go on to grace international stages.
With this series, The Betsy is doing more than keeping opera alive. It’s making it accessible, approachable and unforgettable.
The hotel’s commitment to the arts extends well beyond opera. The hotel also hosts live jazz nine times a week in its Piano Bar—without a cover charge or drink minimum. Performances feature award-winning jazz musicians from around the world and take place Sunday through Thursday from 6 to 11 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to midnight, and during weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Scheduled performances can be viewed by visiting the hotel’s entertainment calendar.
Photo credit: Miami Beach Classical Music Festival (MMF)