Little Havana (Calle Ocho)

Overview

Little Havana is Miami's vibrant Cuban quarter — a sensory feast of cigar shops, domino-playing elders, coladas from walk-up windows, and live salsa music spilling from open-air bars along Calle Ocho (8th Street).

Highlights

• Máximo Gómez (Domino) Park: Elderly Cuban men playing dominos — a cultural landmark.
• Cigar Shops: Hand-rolled cigars made while you watch at traditional studios.
• Walk-Up Ventanitas: Cuban coffee windows serving shots of sweet espresso for under $1.

History

Cuban exiles created Little Havana after the 1959 revolution, recreating the culture and commerce of pre-Castro Cuba. The annual Calle Ocho Festival is the world's largest Hispanic street party.

Visitor Tips

• Guided Walk: Food and cultural walking tours capture the neighborhood's depth.
• Calle Ocho: Concentrate your visit along SW 8th Street from 12th to 17th Avenue.
• Duration: 2 hours.