Little Havana - Cuban Culture in Miami

The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 brought 40, 000 Cubans to Miami, as they fled from the Communist government of Fidel Castro. They wanted to find an area where they could get affordable housing, and build an isolated community and retain their Cuban culture. West Miami became their new "Little Havana" along SW 8th Street ("Calle Ocho"). The second-generation of Cuban-Americans established shops in a commercial zone which was closer to downtown. This new "Little Havana" features Cuban culture in cigar factories, gift shops, cafes and bars, and a tribute to their heroes along "Cuban Memorial Blvd". Also, you'll find "Domino Park" where they play their national pastime. You will also notice that the sidewalk features the "Walk of Fame", with bronze stars honoring famous people like Gloria Estefan, Tito Puente, Roberto Duran, and many others. Hear about the Cuban sandwiches, the variations of the "Mojito" (a rum drink), Cuban coffee, and many other items. Plus, shop for gifts to take home.

-We will drive through the original Little Havana neighborhood to view typical Cuban homes, where home security was so important. Learn about the advantageous "exit strategy" of the neighborhood. Then, we'll pass by the "Versailles Restaurant" where Cuban activists gather. Next, we will move closer to downtown, along "Calle Ocho". -Enjoy an optional walking tour of the heart of the new Little Havana. Along "Calle Ocho", you find the Walk of Fame that features tributes to Gloria Estafan, Celia Cruz, Willy Chirino, Tito Puente, and Olga Guillot. From there, you can visit a cigar factory, or explore the many shops that feature gift items, like coffee, "Guayabera shirts", crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. ) Pause and watch the locals as they play dominoes at "Domino Park", showing their skills at this very high speed game! Just across the street is the fully restored speakeasy, the "Ball & Chain". -We'll drive past the Mayor's house, which was sold to the Ukranians, and see the displays on Cuban Memorial Blvd.