Journey through the Art Deco Historic District - Miami

In the heart of the famous South Beach, is the history-laden Art Deco Historic District. With a mercurial blend of cultural influences, namely Hispanic and Latino, the Art Deco best represents Miami’s diverse architecture. With over 800 buildings to explore and view, the District has become known for its vibrancy, energy and bustling nature. Comprising of a few dozen hotels and apartment buildings, largely built in the 1930s, these remarkable constructions highlight pre-war modernism with its typically rounded corners and geometric trimmings.

Tourists visiting the city will be met by a distinctively designed vicinity – the only stretch of land in the United States meant to be constructed in this way - and will find it a wonderful alternative to the beaches and amusement parks on offer. The Art Deco and Welcome Centre have many tours and educational presentations to attend, aimed at enlightening people to the history behind the buildings as well as Miami, itself. For example, the intriguing “Underworld Tour” offers a glimpse into the world of infamous mobster Al Capone, by visiting some of his rumoured meeting spots where he conducted many of his illegal activities. Besides the tours and presentations, there are numerous boutique-style hotels that have been restored to their former glory, which line the District, each with its own personal and unique story.

The Art Deco attracts a wide audience of people from all walks of life and recently has become a renowned destination for gay and lesbian travel. There are a wide range of gay-friendly hotels and bars to visit, while the area also boasts copies of gay-oriented publications. The Art Deco District has received plaudits from all over the world, landing the prestigious recognition of being named in the National Register of Historic Places and is now being called the ‘American Riviera’, easily being the trendiest spot in all of Florida. While on vacation, the District is a must visit for anyone ready to experience the cultural and sensory experience of a lifetime.