Famous Roosters of Little Havana
Searching for ideas of things to do in Miami? A must see for any visitor is a trip to Miami’s Little Havana. Home to the Cuban Diaspora since the 1960s, this historic neighborhood located between 16th South Street and West 27th Avenue, provides visitors with a taste of Cuba’s vibrant culture without leaving the country. This important immigrant community adds the extra spice to Miami’s already fiery cultural salsa and visitors seeking an authentic Miami experience should look no further.
Playing Dominos at Domino Park
Start on Calle Ocho, the main artery of Little Havana that is lined with Cuban restaurants, cigar shops, bakeries, cafés and galleries. Those interested in learning more about the Cuban exile story should pay a visit to the Cuban Memorial Plaza on the corner of 13th Street, which gives an overview of the political events that shaped this expat district. Visitors should also check out Maximo Gomez Park, nicknamed Domino Park for the favorite pastime of the Cuban retirees that congregate here during the day. Games are strictly for members only, but this is a great place to sit and observe some heated domino matches. After this brief tour of the barrio, it’s time to get down to business? Here’s a list of things every visitor should do in Little Havana:
Where the magic happens!
Stop and Smell the Coffee
Do as the locals do in Little Havana and stop for cup of famously sweet café cubano. Chatting with friends of over a cup of coffee is an important aspect of Cuban socializing and residents of Little Havana take this duty very seriously. Order a cafecito or cortadito and take a moment to sip your sugary espresso in the sunshine while chatting with the locals. One of the most famous coffee establishments in Little Havana is Los Pinarenos Fruteria (1334 SW 8th St) and this lovely café with adjoining fruit store also offers a variety of delicious smoothies. However there are many coffee counters on Calle Ocho, so don’t be afraid to explore!
Delicious Cuban sandwich
Cuban sandwiches
If you have never had one of these sandwiches before, then I suggest you drop everything and run to Little Havana immediately! A delicious grilled sandwich consisting of ham, roast pork, cheese, pickles add perhaps most importantly, Cuban bread, which locals say you can only get the best in South Florida. The best place to try one is the Versailles (3555 SW 8th Street). This place is no family secret and it is generally packed with locals. Be prepared to wait in line for a table but you will be glad that you did once you sink your teeth into a delicious Cuban sandwich.
Cigars
Cuban cigars are world renowned for their high quality and Little Havana is a mandatory must see for any cigar aficionado. Many stores allow visitors to watch their cigar makers gently roll the tobacco by hand. There are numerous cigar shops and it can be overwhelming for an unprepared cigar novice.
Cigar shop
The Big Kahuna of Cuban cigars is El Credito Cigar Factory (1100 SW 8th Street) and a good place to start. This well-known brand now makes the vast majority their flavorful smokes off-site in the Dominican Republic but visitors can still watch some cigar makers in action and tour the historical interior of the store.
Cigar maker hard at work
El Rey de los Habanos (1120 SW Eighth Street) is another option run by José “Pepin” Garcia. While he may be the King of Cigars, José still has to run this family business and frequently stops by the store. Visitors should expect a much more intimate shopping experience while they watch the dozen, master cigar makers hard at work. Stock up for your personal supply or think of others who might enjoy a premium souvenir from your Miami tour.
Cultural Fridays/Viernes Culturales
Murals in Calle Ocho
If you happen to be so lucky as to be in town on the last Friday of the month, then you must check out Cultural Fridays in Little Havana, one of the best things to do in Miami. Part of a neighborhood campaign to revitalize the arts scene in Little Havana, this monthly street fair will give you the chance to explore Calle Ocho in the warm Miami night. Culture is in the air and see how this neighborhood shows off it’s Latin roots with its galleries, poetry reading or live show. The arts are alive and well in Calle Ocho!