Miami barely existed 130 years ago - it's America's youngest major city. Now it's where Latin America meets the United States, where pastel Art Deco meets sleek skyscrapers, and where more languages are spoken than almost anywhere in the country.
The World's Largest Art Deco Collection
Miami Beach's South Beach has more Art Deco buildings than anywhere on Earth - and they almost didn't survive:
- 960 Art Deco buildings in the Historic District
- Built between 1923-1943 as resort hotels
- Nearly demolished in the 1970s for high-rises
- Saved by Barbara Capitman and the Miami Design Preservation League
- The pastel colors were added in the 1980s (originally white)
Little Havana: Cuba in America
Miami has the largest Cuban population outside Cuba - and has fundamentally shaped the city:
- 70% of Miami-Dade residents speak Spanish at home
- Calle Ocho (8th Street) is Little Havana's heart
- Domino Park: elderly Cubans play dominoes daily
- The Cuban sandwich was perfected here, not Cuba
- Miami is often called "Capital of Latin America"
America's Youngest Major City
Miami was incorporated in 1896 with just 300 residents. Its rapid growth is unprecedented:
- Founded after Julia Tuttle sent orange blossoms to convince Henry Flagler
- The 1920s land boom created instant millionaires (and bankruptcies)
- 1926 hurricane killed hundreds and ended the boom
- Cocaine cowboys era (1970s-80s) funded the skyline
- Today it's a global financial hub for Latin America
More Miami Secrets
The Cruise Capital of the World
Port of Miami handles more cruise passengers than any port in the world - over 6 million annually. It's called the "Cruise Capital of the World." On peak days, 10+ massive ships depart simultaneously. The port also handles more cargo from Latin America than any US port.
Fun fact: You can watch giant cruise ships pass right by South Beach!
The Only US City Founded by a Woman
Julia Tuttle remains the only woman to have founded a major US city. She owned the land that became downtown Miami and donated half of it to Henry Flagler in exchange for his railroad extension. She never saw her vision fully realized - she died just two years after incorporation.
Miami Vice Changed Everything
The TV show "Miami Vice" (1984-1990) transformed Miami's image from retiree haven to glamorous tropical metropolis. The show's influence was so strong that architects began designing buildings to look good on TV. Tourism increased 30% during the show's run.
Want More Miami Stories?
Get our complete 80+ page ebook with all the trivia, attractions, and insider tips.
Ebook Coming Soon