When you visit Miami, one of the places you cannot miss is the iconic Calle 8, located in the heart of Little Havana. This historic avenue offers an authentic experience, full of flavor, culture and entertainment. From little shops with local art and typical Cuban products to restaurants where you can enjoy delicious food with that authentic Latin flavor, Calle 8 has something for everyone. Here on this post we show you what you can’t miss on Miami’s famous 8th Street. Let’s explore!
— Some links take you to the map for location —
Let me be clear with something, a few years ago, strolling around Calle 8 wasn’t part of my suggestions of things to do in Miami. Of course, famous spots like the park where people get together to play dominoes, having a Cuban Cortadito in the morning or perhaps a mojito in the afternoon was never a bad idea, I even added the area on my travel video from 2011 (here, it’s in Spanish). Nowadays it has a variety of restaurants, not only Cuban, and more active and alive, to describe it in a way, than years ago. It has always had that warm Latin touch, but it seems to me that nowadays it attracts everyone’s attention.
A Stroll through History and Culture
Miami’s 8th Street, also known as “Little Havana,” is more than just a road that reaches the Brickell area, this street is a place where the past mixes with the present. The street has been a meeting point for Cuban immigrants since the 1960s and continues to be a place of cultural importance, not only for Cubans, but for all Latinos in Miami. Here you will find the famous “Walk of Fame” in which Hispanic celebrities are honored, similar to the Walk of Fame in Hollywood.
What to do on 8th Street?
- Explore Unique Stores
Along the street, you’ll find art and gift shops selling everything from guayaberas and Panama hats to cigars and Cuban rum. The Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center It is a must-see, as it is not only an art gallery, but also a museum and cultural center where events and exhibitions are held. - Taste Authentic Cuban Food
Calle 8 is famous for its renowned Cuban restaurants, such as Versailles Restaurant, Known for its traditional food and its famous little window, where you can order Cuban coffee and pastries. Another popular place is La Carreta, a Miami classic where you can try everything from croquettes to an authentic Cuban sandwich. Versailles is one of my favorites, the food is delicious and the prices are good. Other good options are Ciao Bella, Cubata o El Santo. Don’t forget a Cuban mojito! - Feel the Music and the Latin Environment
Calle 8 is always full of music. In many bars and restaurants, you can find live bands playing salsa, Cubano, and other Latin rhythms. One of the most emblematic places is the Ball & Chain, a bar and lounge with a rich history dating back to the 1930s. Today it is one of the most visited spots in the area. - Máximo Gómez Park: “Domino Park”
This park is a classic spot on Calle 8 and an icon of Little Havana. Here, you will see older people playing dominoes and chatting, creating an atmosphere that reflects everyday Cuban life. It is a perfect place to observe local life and immerse yourself in Cuban culture.
8th street was officially declared “Calle Ocho” in 1977 in honor of the Cuban community in Miami. So remember, it’s not ‘8th Street’, it’s Calle 8 🙂
At the Calle Ocho Festival, one of Miami’s largest events, the Guinness record for the “longest conga in the world” was held. It’s a one-day street festival to end the Miami Carnival. Here you will enjoy live music, Latin food outlets (croquetas, Cuban sandwiches, arepas and more cannot be missed) and dominoes competitions cannot be missed.
How To Get There
Miami 8th Street is located in the Little Havana neighborhood in southwest Miami. From downtown Miami, you can get there by car in about 10 minutes. There is also public transportation that will leave you close to the area or for a touristy touch, do not hesitate to take the famous ‘hop on hop off’ bus that has a stop on Calle 8.
My general recommendation is, perhaps after a delicious breakfast in Versailles in their bakery with some pastries and coffee, park near the parque de domino and walk around the area calmly. Plan to have lunch at one of the many restaurants there, whether Cuban, Italian, Mexican or even Spanish. Generally you can spend 1 hour without eating, just walking or a little more if you include food and/or drinks. You can extend your walk through the area by visiting Brickell or Downtown Miami, which offers many more attractions and interesting points to see.
To park on the street you have the option to pay online with Pay By Phone, very easy, you just have to see the location number that will be on a street sign and in some points you have a machine to pay on the spot.
Calle 8 is a destination that captures the spirit of Miami and the richness of Cuban culture. Obviously what stands out the most is the Cuban culture with its restaurants and traditions, but you also find a little bit of everything and for everyone. We even visited a Tiki Bar! So as I always say, Miami is much more than beaches and shopping :).
