Exploring Little Havana: A Taste of Cuba in Miami



Great music, amazing food, aromatic cigars, wonderful people, and energizing coffee—Bienvenido a Miami!

Before the Cruise: A Little Havana Adventure

Before embarking on the Norwegian Encore for a seven-day cruise, we took some time to explore Miami. One of the highlights of our adventure was walking up and down Calle Ocho in Little Havana. This vibrant neighborhood is filled with Cuban culture, history, and energy, and we’re excited to share our experience with you!

A Brief History of Little Havana

Little Havana was formed by Cuban exiles who fled to Miami after the Communist revolution in the 1950s. Today, it is home to the largest population of Cubans outside of Cuba. Named after Havana, the capital of Cuba, the neighborhood serves as a cultural hub where Cuban traditions remain alive and well.

Walking through the streets, we saw monuments dedicated to the Cuban exiles who lost their lives while attempting to reclaim Cuba from Fidel Castro. In 2017, the National Trust for Historic Preservation declared Little Havana a “national treasure,” and we couldn’t agree more!

Calle Ocho: The Heart of Little Havana

Calle Ocho, or “Eighth Street,” is the cultural and commercial center of Little Havana. This lively street welcomes everyone, from locals to tourists, and is home to a diverse mix of Cubans and other Latin American immigrants. As we strolled along Calle Ocho, we were immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this unique neighborhood.

Domino Park & Open-Air Market

One of the most iconic stops on Calle Ocho is Domino Park, where locals gather to play intense games of dominoes while spectators cheer them on. Right next to it is an open-air market featuring fresh produce, artisan goods, and souvenirs.

Pro Tip: Domino Park has public restrooms, a useful tip for anyone exploring the area!

Ball & Chain: A Must-Visit Spot

No visit to Little Havana is complete without a stop at Ball & Chain, a legendary bar and music venue. Here’s what made our visit unforgettable:

  • Live music filled the air, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

  • The Cubano sandwich was delicious and packed with flavor.

  • The fries—we’re still not sure how they prepared them, but they were amazing!

  • Mojitos that were as refreshing as they were strong.

  • We even got to witness a birthday party celebration happening right behind us!

La Colada Gourmet: The Perfect Coffee Stop

If you love coffee, La Colada Gourmet is a must-visit. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with the rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans. The shop roasts its own beans, ensuring a bold and authentic Cuban coffee experience. We couldn’t resist trying the Tres Leches, which was absolutely delightful.

Cigar Shops: A Cuban Tradition

Cigars are an essential part of Cuban culture, and Little Havana is home to several cigar shops where artisans roll cigars by hand. Even if you’re not a cigar smoker, it’s fascinating to watch the craftsmanship that goes into making them.

Tip: If you can’t find a cigar you like in Little Havana, you probably don’t like cigars! We picked up two for a friend who enjoys them.

Hand-Painted Memorabilia & Local Art

As we walked down the street, we met a friendly man sitting in a chair outside his studio. He invited us in to see his collection of hand-painted artwork and handmade jewelry. It was a unique and personal touch to our Little Havana experience.

Chickens: Yes, Chickens!

Little Havana has a quirky charm, and one of our favorite surprises was the abundance of chicken-themed art installations. From painted chicken statues to actual live chickens roaming the streets, it was a fun and unexpected sight!

Public Art: Murals Everywhere

Little Havana is a haven for street art lovers. Vibrant murals decorate the alleys, each telling a different story. Our favorite? A mural on the side of a taco restaurant with a bold statement: “Congratulations, drugs, for winning the war on drugs!”


Want to Experience Little Havana Yourself?

If you enjoyed this recap of our day in Little Havana, check out our Expedia link for travel opportunities. Full disclosure: This is an affiliate link, meaning if you click it and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. Your support helps us continue to share amazing travel experiences. Thank you!

Final Thoughts

Little Havana is a must-visit destination in Miami, offering a taste of Cuba through its food, music, art, and history. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just looking for a fun cultural experience, Calle Ocho has something for everyone. We can’t wait to visit again!

#LittleHavana #Miami #CalleOcho #CubanCulture #TravelBlog #FoodieAdventures #StreetArt #BallAndChain #CubanCoffee #CruisePrep

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