Miami has long been adored by sun-seeking holidaymakers, and enjoys a reputation for sunshine and beautiful beaches. There’s more to this popular destination than meets the eye, though; an affluent and gleaming city with a fascinating and sometimes checkered past, Miami is rich in cultural capital and famed for its art, architecture, and multicultural style.
Miami Architecture
A list about the beauty of Miami has to start here. Much has been written about the art deco district, and it’s hard not to wax lyrical about the chic moderne styling of the architecture there. Built between the 1920s and 1940s, the art deco district was saved from near-total disrepair and is now sympathetically restored to movie-set perfection. Look out for the almost-nautical ‘Jerry’s Famous Deli’, the sumptuous symmetry of the McAlpin, or Delano South Beach Hotel, whose 1994 renovation was designed by Philippe Starck.
Miami benefits from its links with Latin America and showcases Spanish and traditionally influenced buildings. The Freedom Tower, with its classic old-Spain design, once served to receive Cuban refugees and now houses art exhibitions curated by Miami Dade College, as well as the historic New World Mural.
Modern Miami architecture proudly draws on the best of its heritage and over the last few decades developers have filled the city with clean, bright white shapes reflecting natural sunlight, sharp lines and big ideas. The Miami skyline is getting higher and higher, and the expectations of the visitors follow suit.
Art Galleries and Museums in Miami
It’s hard to go anywhere in Miami without finding art in some form, and it’s home to a number of galleries, large and small. The Bass Museum of Art in South Beach is the grandfather of the Miami art scene, showcasing the best there is from classical to contemporary names. Just the building is worth a look, a solid art deco form with bas-relief friezes celebrating the history of the area.
The Wynwood Arts District is home to lots of smaller independent art galleries, drawing everyone from big names to emerging talent. While much is housed in traditional galleries, what makes Wynwood unique is that the galleries themselves are also the art that is alongside a variety of miami local businesses. Classic murals and cutting-edge graffiti cover the district and the dedicated Wynwood Walls display the best in street art.
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offers a more traditional and tranquil environment, with over 70 rooms dedicated to Old World decorative arts, and meandering walks through formal gardens. The building is a testament to classical Italianate style and rightfully deserves its place as one of the most important historical buildings in America.
If local history is your thing, you’ll find the HistoryMiami museum fascinating, it tells the story of the area through a collection of art and artefacts, preserving and celebrating Miami’s cultural heritage.
Boutiques – to browse, to buy?
Miami is well-known among those who love to shop, with the greater Miami area housing malls ranging from the very top-end of design chic right through to bargain-grabbing at the outlets. For those wanting to stay central, Miami’s many outdoor shopping areas are the places to browse among highly desirable labels, tiny independent boutiques, and a handful of knowingly kitsch vintage stores.
It’s hard to stay away from the beautiful Art Deco District, so the Lincoln Road shopping area is a must. Not just shopping, it houses ArtCenter/South Florida, a hub of artistic and cultural community. Theatre buffs can find music and drama at the stunning Colony Theatre. Aside from that, you have a world-class boutique shopping experience, amid elegant bars and cafes.
Miami Food
Wherever you go in Miami, whether for the art, the sh…
