More Than Just A Street
South Beach’s Ocean Drive is more than just your regular old street. Miami Beach Art Deco Historic District, a vibrant and captivating neighborhood that transports you back to the glamorous era of the 1920s and 1930s.
There is probably no other district in Miami that is as well known beyond the city limits as the Art Deco Historic District.
Of course, not only the architecture can be admired in the district – after all, the buildings are still in use. Among them are many restaurants, bars and shops where you can sit down and watch the hustle and bustle on Ocean Drive and the Boardwalk. Overall, the Art Deco District is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Miami and one of the most important historical landmarks in the entire country in general.
Art Deco Welcome Center & Museum
Located within the Welcome Center, the Art Deco Museum takes visitors through Miami’s architectural history. If you’re interested in history and architecture, you’ve come to the right place. Because not only Art Deco is the subject of the exhibition, but also the architectural styles Mediterranean Revival and Miami Modern.
The Welcome Center is also your best point of contact for professionally guided tours of the district. On the official Art Deco Tour you will receive exciting information about the history and architecture of the district. But of course you are also invited to stock up on free brochures and maps to set off on your own.
The Art Deco Welcome Center is currently open seven days a week from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
What is Art Deco?
The art form, which has influenced far more areas than just architecture, first appeared in 1925. Presented at the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris
A multitude of architects around the world have been inspired and Miami was not spared. The architectural form, which was modern at the time, was considered non plus ultra and was exactly what tourists wanted to see at their holiday destination.
Why are there so many Art Deco buildings in Miami Beach?
During the 1920s and 1930s, Miami Beach experienced a significant development boom. The city was undergoing a transformation into a popular resort destination, and as a result, experienced a surge in construction with a need for eye-catching buildings that would cater to the glamorous and fashionable lifestyle associated with the beachfront.
But the glitz and glamor didn’t last long. During the 70s, Miami Beach was already facing urban decay, with many buildings being on the verge of demolition.
New life was eventually breathed into the historic district when the newly formed Miami Design Preservation League, led by Barbara Baer Capitman, advocated the preservation of these historic buildings.
Through their passionate commitment, the Art Deco style gained national protection in Miami and prompted designers and developers to revitalize the dilapidated pastel-colored house facades.
Today, the historic district consists of well over 800 buildings and structures constructed between 1923 and 1943.
Where to see more art and culture in Miami
Oh Miami, your artistic influences are everywhere! Hardly any other city embodies the various arts like the metropolis on the Atlantic Ocean. In addition to the exciting architectural history of the Art Deco Historic District, there are also numerous other sights to explore.
