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Category: Guide to Little Havana in Miami

The first things that may come to mind when you think of Miami are white sandy beaches, palm-lined boulevards, and countless boutique stores. And you wouldn’t be wrong! However, when you look beneath the surface, you’ll find that Miami is founded on culture, creativity, and innovation. 

At Miami Culinary Tours, we have explored every street in the city as part of our Miami Food and Culture Tours. From the murals of Wynwood to the cafes of Little Havana, we know just what makes Miami tick. 

If you’re wondering what are some must-see places in Miami, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve created this guide to the unmissable neighborhoods and locations in the city, where you’ll get to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and discover its exceptional diversity of experiences. Of course, a fair amount of food is involved, thanks to Miami’s unrivaled culinary scene.

Any questions about our food tours? Feel free to get in touch. We hope this blog inspires your visit to Miami.

City skyline with modern high-rise buildings and palm trees

Discover Glitz and Glam at South Beach

Arguably the most famous neighborhood in Miami, South Beach is the city’s glamorous playground, with its hotels, restaurants, and nightlife scene. It’s also probably the best place to spot celebrities in town! Whether you’re looking for an lively night out or chill day on the beach, South Beach offers numerous ways to entertain. Home to the iconic Art Deco District, which deserves an entry in its own right, South Beach is also one of the most Instagrammable locations in Miami. 

However, we would say its the culinary scene here that takes the cake. The beachfront is lined with restaurants, from upmarket eateries to vibey hangouts. There’s even Michelin-starred restaurants for the fine dining enthusiasts. For an immersive experience of South Beach and its foodie delights, we recommend joining our South Beach, Miami, Food and Art Deco Tour, where we’ll visit a number of iconic restaurants while exploring the unique cityscape. 

Be Awed by the Art Deco District

Located in the heart of South Beach, the Art Deco District is one of Miami’s most iconic attractions. In the 1930s, Art Deco architecture saw a meteoric rise in Miami, with many of the original buildings remaining today. There are up to 800 historic buildings in one square mile, most of which have been turned into restaurants or hotels. 

Exploring the Art Deco District is a stimulating experience as you admire the striking designs and neon colors. It’s easy to see why this area has featured so prominently in movies! This district is at the heart of Miami’s artistic heritage, as the city continues to prove itself as the epicenter of design. 

To learn more about the famous district and what you can experience there, read our blog on the Top Things to Do in Miami's Art Deco District.

A street lined with white buildings and palm trees, with red umbrella-shaded outdoor seating areas

Enjoy a Sensory Feast in Wynwood Art District

In the Wynwood Art District, you’ll find Miami coming to life. This vibrant neighborhood has creativity running through its veins, with its myriad galleries, boutiques, and craft breweries. One of its most famous attractions is the Wynwood Walls, a street art museum showcasing the murals of internationally-renowned graffiti artists. Make sure to bring your camera — you’ll certainly want to capture envy-inducing pics for your feed! 

Beyond Wynwood Walls, street art can be found throughout the neighborhood, which you can discover during our Wynwood Food and Street Art Tour. The food here only adds to the sensory feast!

A group of people on private tours walking in front of a large glass sculpture.

Discover Innovation in Miami Design District

Just next door to Wynwood, the Miami Design District showcases a different side of the city’s imaginative spirit. This neighborhood is a hub for innovative design, pioneering architecture, and intriguing public art. Discover exceptional works of modern artistry at the Institute of Contemporary Art, or shop the biggest names in fashion and design at the sophisticated stores. On our Miami Design District Walking Food Tour, you’ll not only get to encounter the showstopping sculptures but experience a cutting-edge food scene. 

Buckminster Fuller's Fly's Eye Dome

Uncover Miami History in Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a historical gem beside Biscayne Bay. Built in the 1910s and 20s by businessman James Deering, Vizcaya is today a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. The main house takes its inspiration from Italian architecture, with interiors filled with Rococo and Neoclassical-style furniture. The gardens are arguably the focal point of the estate. This beautifully manicured landscape features ponds, sculptures, and spectacular blooms, creating a masterpiece of a garden. Native forests and mangroves also flourish here, making Vizcaya an important conservation destination.

A historic outdoor walkway bordered by lush greenery and classical sculptures

Take a Break in Bayfront Park

If all of the bustling restaurants, busy art galleries, and tantalizing stores get a bit much, Bayfront Park offers a much-needed tranquil escape in the city. This 32-acre oasis overlooks the glistening Biscayne Bay, with wide open spaces and swaying palms. You can come here for a relaxing stroll or a picnic, or even join one of the free yoga classes. Bayfront Park also has a solar amphitheater for performances. Nearby, the Skyviews Observation Wheel offers panoramic views of Downtown Miami and the ocean.

Explore Cuban Culture Little Havana 

Little Havana is home to Miami’s Cuban enclave, where you can fully immerse yourself in Cuban culture. This bustling neighborhood is replete with restaurants, cafes, live music venues, and domino clubs. The best way to get to the heart of this community is through its food. That’s why our Little Havana Food and Cultural Tour remains our most popular to date. 

We visit iconic locations like La Ventanita for a colada and dine on Cuban delicacies like cubanos and churros. Learn more about the history and heritage of the community and even watch a Cuban cigar be expertly rolled. You’ll gain a new appreciation for how Little Havana has made its indelible mark on Miami. 

A colorful rooster statue stands in front of a mural reading "Welcome to Little Havana."

See More of Miami with Our Culinary Tours

While you’ll have no doubt noticed we have food and culture tours in just about every neighborhood in Miami, the adventures don’t stop there. We can also arrange Private Miami Events for special occasions or celebrations, taking you anywhere you like in the city. However you want to experience Miami, we’ll be here to guide you. Contact us if you have any questions. 

 

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Our Little Havana tour is perfect friends & family groups, corporate outings, and bachelorette parties.
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