Little Havana

The basics

The neighborhood's colorful spirit unfolds on Calle Ocho, Little Havana's bustling main street, reminiscent of Cuba. On this block between SW 15th and 17th Avenues, the Miami Arts District contains a string of studios and galleries that showcase some of the best Latin American art in the country. Nearby, travelers will find the Bay of Pigs Museum & Library, which enshrines the crew of the ill-fated Bay of Pigs invasion, and on the two blocks at SW 13th Street, south of Calle Ocho, are monuments of Cuban patriots and freedom fighters.

Many tour options combine a visit to this neighborhood with tours of other popular spots in Miami and the surrounding area: South Beach and its art deco architecture, Miami Beach, the Everglades National Park, Coconut Grove, or the art galleries in nearby Wynwood. Walking tours and bike tours are easy ways to see the area, while bus tours can be a welcome respite from Miami's summer heat. Half-day Little Havana tours take in the neighborhood's sights, while full-day options also visit other Miami highlights.

Things to know before you go

• Little Havana houses some of Miami's most popular live music spots. Stop by Ball & Chain, Bar Nancy, or Hoy Como Ayer for a show.

• Make sure to grab doughnuts at Velvet Creme, Miami's oldest doughnut shop, and ice cream at Azucar.

• There's a lot to explore—plan to spend at least three hours here.

• The Calle Ocho Walk of Fame celebrates the actors, writers, artists, and musicians who have helped shape the Little Havana community.

How to get there

The Miami River separates Little Havana from downtown Miami on the northeast border. Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) is the neighborhood's epicenter, running between NW 22nd Avenue and SW 10th Avenue. You can get to the area via the Metromover train or by bus. If you're coming by car, take I-95 to NW 7th Street.

When to get there

Daily life is always pulsating to the beat of Cuban music in Little Havana. A daytime visit lets travelers see the neighborhood's charming, banal side; the nightlife that erupts after dark is worth a visit in itself.

What to eat in Little Havana

One of the best ways to experience a culture is through its food, and Cuban culture in Miami's Little Havana is no exception. On a culinary tour, you can taste authentic Cuban foods and specialties such as guava pastries, chicken plantain cups, and flan ice cream while learning about Cuban traditions, history, and culinary practices from a local tour guide.

Is Little Havana worth visiting?

Yes, this neighborhood in Miami is known for its food, music, history, street art, cigar stores, and more. One of the best ways to explore is with a guided tour offering background information and insider access to the best parts of the neighborhood.

Where does the Little Havana tour start?

There are several starting points for tours of Little Havana; tickets should be purchased in advance. Some tours offer transportation to this Miami neighborhood from popular tourist areas such as South Beach or Brickell. Other tours begin at a meeting point within the area, like a park, restaurant, or theater. Street parking is available within Little Havana.

Is Little Havana a good area in Miami?

Yes, Little Havana is one of Miami's top cultural neighborhoods. While it does not offer access to beaches like other neighborhoods, it's worth a visit to explore its food, music, street art, and history. Explore Little Havana with a tour to maximize your time.

What types of tours can you do of Little Havana?

Little Havana offers many types of tours. Go for a guided stroll on a tour of this Miami neighborhood that's focused on themes like food, history, and culture. Some tours begin at a meeting point in Little Havana, while others offer transportation from popular tourist areas like Miami Beach.

How long is a tour of Little Havana?

A tour is typically 2–3 hours long. Most Little Havana tours include a guided walk through the neighborhood to explore its food, street art, music, and history. A tour with transportation to and from a starting point like Miami Beach may run slightly longer.

What should I wear on a tour of Little Havana?

Wear comfortable shoes and loose, light clothing during a Little Havana tour. Most tours of Little Havana include a guided stroll around the neighborhood, so comfortable shoes are essential. In some parts of the tour, visitors will be exposed to the sun with little cover, so wear sunscreen and a hat, too.

Ways to explore

Little Havana's energy centers around Calle Ocho—its vibrant main street lined with Cuban cafés, cigar shops, and lively music. Between SW 15th and 17th avenues, galleries highlight top Latin American artists. Travelers can explore on foot, by bike, or on guided tours that include other Miami highlights such as South Beach, Miami Beach, the Everglades National Park, Coconut Grove, or the art galleries in nearby Wynwood. Half-day tours focus on Little Havana, while full-day options combine multiple neighborhoods to showcase Miami's culture, history, and food scene.

Accessibility

Many of the sidewalks in this area are wide and flat, offering good access for wheelchair users.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, bottled water, contactless payment method

What to wear

Casual clothing for daytime explorations, comfortable shoes, hat

Not allowed

Smoking in restricted areas, littering, drones

Amenities

Cafés, shops, restaurants, restrooms

Address 

The Miami River separates Little Havana from downtown Miami on the northeast border. Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) is the neighborhood's epicenter, and it's easily accessible by train, car, or bus.

Driving

From Miami International Airport, take N Harbor Drive west, then turn onto SW 8th Street and drive a few blocks to the heart of Little Havana. Parking around the area can be limited, though, so a rideshare may be better.

Public transportation

Use Miami-Dade Transit routes such as bus Nos. 207 or 208, which stop near SW 8th Street and SW 12th Avenue. Boards at Government Center or Brickell and alight at either stop for walking access.

Best times to visit

It’s a good idea to come in the late morning (ideally 11am) when cafés and shops are open, but before the peak afternoon crowds arrive.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, giving you a more relaxed stroll through the cafés, murals, and shops.

Best months to visit

March–May or September–November provide warm weather, fewer tourists, and better conditions for exploring than the summer months.

Special events

The annual Calle Ocho Festival in March draws massive crowds, so visit if you want the energy, but expect packed streets and limited parking.