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Art Deco Historic District

An Introduction to the Art Deco Historic District on Miami Beach

By Kara Franker

Vibrantilizing

Satisfy your palate and palette with something "Vibrantilizing".

Submerse yourself in world of colors when you walk along Art Deco pastel-lined streets followed by a savory meal of colorful cuisine.

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Art Deco Architectural AUDIO Tour (Self-Guided)

Walk through Miami Beach’s Art Deco District at your own pace, and learn about its architectural history using our app-based self-guided tour and accompanying map. The complete tour takes approximately 1 1/2 hours, but you can set your own pace. MDPL’s guided and self-guided Miami Beach tours are the only official tours and the best Miami tours.

Commentary is provided in one of four languages: English, Spanish, German, and French. Self-guided tours begin at the Art Deco Welcome Center at 1001 Ocean Drive. And since you download the tour to your phone, you can take it any time.

Latest Blog Post

Art Deco in Miami Beach Gets City Protection Rule (1986)

Read Time: 2 mins Editors Note: The Barbara Baer Capitman archives “Historic Threads” project is partly sponsored by the Department of State, Division of Historical Resources, and the State of Florida. The year was 1986, marking

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Whether you’re seeking an art-filled escape, a day on the white sands of South Beach, or a night out at the trendiest new eatery, Miami has plenty to offer. Stay up to date with all the happenings in South Beach with The Sagamore Hotel South Beach Blog.

A Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Art Deco District

Consisting of over 900 historic buildings constructed between 1923 and 1943, Miami Beach’s Art Deco District is the nation’s largest concentration of Art Deco architecture. Vivid colors, striking lines, curves, and details designed in the Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Miami Modern style helped put South Beach on the map. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl who wants to see the District lit up with striking neon lights, travel at your own pace at a time of your choosing with our free self-guided walking tour of the Art Deco District.

Sagamore Hotel, 1671 Collins Ave.

Begin at The Sagamore Hotel. The original historic building was designed in 1948 by famed Art Deco architect Albert Anis and was later renovated to include more boutique accommodations. Anis is credited with incorporating his own brand of modernism into his designs, and has produced a number of Art Deco-style buildings in Miami Beach including The Whitelaw Hotel, The Leslie Hotel, and The Clevelander Hotel. Step inside The Sagamore Hotel to browse our contemporary art collection, sculpture garden, and exhibitions, including the groundbreaking I’m Not a Trophy by Arno Elias exhibition, on view now through February 2020.

National Hotel, 1677 Collins Ave.

Next door to The Sagamore, Roy France’s National Hotel towers high above Collins Avenue. The hotel built in 1939 honors its classic past by keeping up with the vibes, decor, and furnishings of the 40s. The National Hotel was recognized by Historic Hotels of America for maintaining its architectural authenticity. Bonus stop: Delano South Beach is next door to National and was the tallest building in Miami upon its construction in 1947 by Rob and Rose Schwartz.

Loews Miami Beach Hotel, 1601 Collins Ave.

Take a five-minute walk south on Collins Avenue to Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Built around the historic St. Moritz, Loews was the first new hotel to be erected in over 30 years at the time of construction in 1998. The St. Moritz Hotel was an Art Deco gem, and Loews created a balance by honoring its Art Deco past while generating a new state-of-the-art concept hotel. Catch a glimpse of Roy France’s 1939 building on the right side of Loews.

Señor Frog’s, 1450 Collins Ave.

Continue south to the party bar and grill, Señor Frog’s. Its pale seafoam color and curved architecture makes it one of the most eye-catching buildings on Collins Avenue. Designed by prominent architect Henry Hohauser, the 1939 building once housed Hoffman’s Cafeteria, Warsaw Ballroom, and Jerry’s Famous Deli.

The Winter Haven, 1400 Ocean Dr.

From Señor Frog’s, walk south to 14th Street, take a left, and continue until you reach The Winter Haven on Ocean Drive. The sherbert-colored building with prominent awnings was constructed in 1939 by Albert Anis. Today, Winter Haven retains its historic elegance by incorporating classic furnishings like plush velvet sofas and 1940s original artwork. Bonus stop: The nearby coral pink and turquoise McAlpin Hotel features a tripartite facade and was built in 1940 by L. Murray Dixon.

The Cavalier, 1320 Ocean Dr.

Just steps from The Winter Haven, The Cavalier was originally built in 1936 by Roy France and stands apart from other buildings due to its unique stucco friezes on its facade in golds, turquoises, and reds. The boutique hotel enhances its original architectural integrity by furnishing the lobby with eclectic features like black and gold fittings, nautical decorations, and terrazzo floors. Bonus stop: Next door, The Cardozo was built in 1939 by Henry Hohauser and has appeared in movies Any Given Sunday and There’s Something About Mary.

The Carlyle, 1250 Ocean Dr.

Continue south on Ocean Drive to The Carlyle. Featured in films like Scarface, Bad Boys 2, and The Birdcage, The Carlyle was designed by German architect Richard Kiehnel in 1939 and highlights rounded edges that are accentuated by a monochromatic exterior. Today, the building houses luxury condominiums and a sidewalk café. Bonus stop: The cheerful yellow Leslie Hotel next door to The Carlyle was built by Albert Anis in 1937.

The Tides, 1220 Ocean Dr.

A few doors down, the 10-story Tides hotel was built in 1936 by L. Murray Dixon as his first Art Deco hotel masterpiece in Miami Beach. Asymmetrical design, decorative detailing, the Art Deco rule of thirds, and large porthole windows set this hotel apart. Bonus stop: Although not designed in the Art Deco style, the Spanish-style The Villa Casa Casuarina is one of the most photographed buildings along Ocean Drive, serving as the former residence of fashion designer Gianni Versace. The mansion is just south of The Tides on Ocean Drive.

Art Deco Welcome Center, 1001 Ocean Dr.

A few minutes’ walk south of The Tides and located across the street in Lummus Park, the Art Deco Welcome Center , Museum, and Gift Shop is the hub of all things Art Deco. The nearby Beach Patrol Headquarters is the first stop on the official guided tour, and for good reason. The unique 1934 building designed by Robert Taylor features nautical details like porthole windows and a circular tower flanked by wings. Bonus stop: The Clevelander Hotel is located directly across the street from the Art Deco Welcome Center and was built in 1938 by Albert Anis. Today known as a place to party along Ocean Drive, The Clevelander got its name from its original Ohio-born owners.

Stay in the heart of the Art Deco District, be steps from all the Art Deco Weekend action, and choose from our best rates and special offers when you book your South Beach stay with The Sagamore Hotel.

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Little Havana Food and Cultural Tour

South beach, miami, food and art deco tour, wynwood food and street art tour, miami design district walking food tour.

• Corporate Groups
• Family & Friends
• Bachelorette Parties
• Birthday Parties

Experience the Best of SoBe on this South Beach Food Tour

South Beach, Miami, Food and Art Deco Tour Highlights

Enjoy historic Art Deco architecture and Miami’s best local cuisine! Our tasting menu serves a full meal, so come hungry!

• Start your journey with a flaky and savory beef empanada , a local favorite.
• Enjoy a fresh tropical ceviche .
• Savor a classic Cuban dish, ropa vieja , served with crisp, fluffy plantain tostones .
• Indulge in a chicken taquito at a hidden bistro in Miami Beach.
• Finish your tour with an award-winning homemade pastry.

Between food tastings, we make several stops to learn the history of the Art Deco period on South Beach with visits to famous movie locations!

Does this sound like the perfect outing for your private event? Whether you’re planning something special for friends and family, a bachelorette party, or an event for a corporate group, Miami Culinary Tours can make it happen! Find out more about our private food tours in Miami!

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants do you visit.

The tour visits multiple top-rated restaurants and eateries from our partners list below. The stops may change as a result of repeat customers but all tastings served are enough for a full meal and are included in the ticket price.

Bolivar Tavern

With a beautiful decor and inviting atmosphere, this local eatery goes above and beyond to create a place that creates authentic flavors of Latin American. Here it’s not just about enjoying a meal; it's about immersing yourself in an experience that celebrates the cuisine of various Latin cultures.

Havana 1957

Havana 1957 Cuban Cuisine offers an enchanting culinary experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Cuba right to your plate. With its rich history and cultural influence, Cuban food has become a beloved cuisine worldwide, and Havana 1957 captures the essence of this culinary tradition.

NT at Dream South Beach

The combination of the iconic location and the tantalizing flavors of Baja cuisine creates an unforgettable dining experience. From mouthwatering tacos to queso fundido, this local favorite takes guests on a culinary journey that captures the essence of Mexican street food with a modern twist.

Lincoln Eatery

Designed by the renowned architecture firm Arquitectonica, The Lincoln Eatery is a vibrant culinary destination in the heart of Miami Beach. A gourmet getaway that celebrates Miami's cultural diversity through artisanal cuisine.

Estefan Kitchen

A culinary treasure born from the minds of the creators behind the renowned James Beard award-winning restaurant, Yuca Miami. This exciting establishment offers a contemporary take on some of the most iconic Miamian foods that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Embrace the artistry of contemporary Peruvian cuisine and savor a delicious bite in a tropical-style setting. Yuca restaurant provides a unique culinary adventure that can't be found anywhere else. Step into the extravagant space for a taste of delicious ethnic cuisine.

What sets Rosetta Bakery apart is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional baking techniques. Every pastry is made with love and attention to detail, resulting in an exceptional taste that keeps locals coming back for more.

Meeting point and parking information?

Meeting Point: Bolivar Restaurant, 841 Washington Ave; Miami Beach, FL 33139

Parking: public garage located between Washington Ave and Collins Ave on 7th Street. Another recommended public garage is between Collins and Ocean Drive on 13th street.

Do you accommodate food restrictions?

Our Public Tours Can Accommodate:

• Vegetarians
• No chicken 
• Lactose intolerant: Disclosure: Since Miami Culinary Tours does not control the food preparation at the restaurants, we cannot guarantee that cross-contamination won't occur.
• Gluten-free: We do our best to accommodate gluten-free diets but please note that some of the stops do not always have substitutions. Disclosure: Since Miami Culinary Tours does not control the food preparation at the restaurants, we cannot guarantee that cross-contamination won't occur. 

Our Public Tours Can't Accommodate:

• Food allergies: WE DO NOT CATER FOR LIFE THREATENING FOOD ALLERGIES . Disclosure: Since Miami Culinary Tours does not control the food preparation at the restaurants, we cannot guarantee that cross-contamination won't occur. 
• Vegan diets.

What is your cancellation policy?

You can cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the tour. We do not accept cancellations by phone, they must be in writing for our mutual records. No refunds are granted for cancellations within 24 hours from tour start time as your space is guaranteed at the tour.

Where can we store our luggage?

Our tours are conducted on foot, so we don't have a place to store luggage, and restaurants don't want to be responsible, but here is a website that can help:

Luggage Hero at https://luggagehero.com

How much walking there is and what should I wear?

The South Beach walking tour is about a mile of walking with plenty of stops to rest. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. 

OVER 20,000 5-STAR REVIEWS

The Original South Beach, Miami, Art Deco Walking Tour

No visit to Miami is complete without immersing yourself in the magic of South Beach—its captivating Art Deco architecture, rich history, and, of course, its incredible culinary offerings.

This tour is an opportunity to witness the preservation of architectural treasures and to celebrate the local businesses and families who contribute to the vibrant fabric of this community.

I invite you to walk with us as we uncover the stories, taste the flavors, and soak in the beauty and diversity that make Miami such a remarkable place to call home.

Our most popular tour regularly sells out!

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Guided Tours

On weekends we take curated walking tours of "Art Deco at the Oval" (approx. 60-70 minutes, 4-8 people), "Deco by the Sea – Marine Drive" (approx. 90-100 minutes, 6-10 people), and "Matunga's Family Art Deco" (approx. 110-120 minutes, 8-12 people). Oval Maidan and Marine Drive are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in south Mumbai, while Matunga is the city's earliest planned suburb. Those interested in architecture, design and history have enjoyed these tours. Customised private tours can be arranged on request. Please scroll to the bottom of this page to read what guests have to say.

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Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Riverfront

Tour the lobbies of five opulent Art Deco skyscrapers built near the banks of the Chicago River during the business boom of the Roaring '20s. Learn how Art Deco reflected the era’s fun-loving optimism with lavish materials and geometric ornament.

Discover the origins of Art Deco while admiring buildings like the Carbide and Carbon Building (now Pendry Chicago), the Chicago Motor Club Building (now the Hampton Inn) and the colorful, but often overlooked, Trustees System Service Building (now the Century Tower)—all of which are designated Chicago landmarks. This tour ends at the Merchandise Mart .

• Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.
• Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours .

Photos From This Tour

Upcoming Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Riverfront Tours

Tuesday jun 25.

• 2:00pm Buy Tickets

Wednesday Jun 26

Thursday jun 27.

• 10:00am Buy Tickets

Friday Jun 28

• 12:00pm Buy Tickets

Saturday Jun 29

• 11:00am Buy Tickets

Tuesday Jul 2

Highlights of this tour.

Carbide and Carbon Building

230 n. michigan ave..

Luxurious, exuberant and dramatic, the Carbide and Carbon Building is a metaphor for the sumptuous décor…

Merchandise Mart

222 w. merchandise mart plaza.

Size has always mattered in the Midwest.

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Little Havana Tours

Discover the history, sights, sounds, rhythm, aroma, and flavors of this vibrant pocket historic neighborhood

Little Havana, Miami’s Vibrant Cuban Heart

Designated a “national treasure” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, it is bursting in colors, music, art and food. Little Havana Tours offers a selection of cultural tours to discover the people, places and pastime traditions of the Cuban culture.

Choose an introductory tour to cover the past, present and future with visits to main highlights: an open-air market for an array of tropical Caribbean fruits; Bay of Pigs monument; a landmark tree for the site of religious rituals; a cigar shop to watch tobacco leaves hand rolled into fine cigars; a nondescript art gallery boasting the largest Cuban art collection in the US; a 1935 historic bar for a mojito cocktail and the rhythms of salsa and bachata; and family style restaurants for savory, traditional, homemade foods.

If that whets your appetite for more, no problemo. Our expert team can fully immerse you into the finer details of a cultural aspect. Our Cigar & Rum Tasting tour is a marriage of two sensual products. Discover the history, the process for developing them, and how to enjoy the pairing. The Little Havana Food Tour is a gastronomic delight in traditional finger food, hot meals, and drinks from tropical juice, coffee and cocktails. Finally our Rooster Tour takes you off the beaten path to discover other Latin American cultures that are now prevalent in Little Havana.

Our city and neighborhoods are evolving constantly, a beautiful kaleidoscope. Come discover this mosaic with us.

Book your Tour

“Greatest Tour Ever”

Reviewed March 10, 2018

“Terminamos Bailando” (We Ended Up Dancing)

Reviewed April 2, 2018

“Sensational Guides”

Reviewed March 22, 2018

Private Tours may be tailored to your group’s interest and may include any of the following: Finger food, hot plate meal, Hands-on cigar rolling, variety cocktails, dark rum tastings, art gallery and music tour, dance lessons (merengue or salsa).

Call or email us with your request for a quick turnaround quote.

Many platforms such as Trip Advisor, Viator, AirBnb sell our tours. For best prices and other benefits, book directly with us right here or contact our office or reservation center.