Little Havana

Back in Miami, I spent the afternoon and evening in Wynwood, the vibrant neighborhood where my hotel is located. Wynwood is famous for its street art, and it’s no exaggeration to say that art is everywhere here. Entire buildings, sidewalks, and even the floors of certain spaces are alive with color, transformed into canvases for local and international artists. The highlight of my visit was Wynwood Walls, an open-air art gallery that celebrates the creativity and cultural significance of street art in Miami.

Wynwood wasn’t always an artistic hub. Originally established in the early 20th century as an industrial and manufacturing district, the area later fell into decline by the mid-century. For decades, it was a neglected part of Miami, known more for its warehouses than its culture. But in 2009, Tony Goldman, a visionary real estate developer, recognized Wynwood’s potential and decided to turn its massive, blank warehouse walls into works of art. This project was the birth of Wynwood Walls, which began as a way to showcase graffiti and street art as legitimate forms of artistic expression.

From those beginnings, Wynwood has grown into a cultural hotspot. Artists from around the world have been invited to contribute to the ever-changing collection of murals, making the area a dynamic and evolving gallery. What I found particularly fascinating is how the neighborhood has become a symbol of Miami’s diversity, with influences from Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond blending into the art here.

Walking through Wynwood felt like stepping into a living, breathing artwork. Each mural tells a story or conveys an emotion, and every corner has something unexpected to discover. The vibrant colors and intricate designs range from abstract pieces to lifelike portraits and political statements, all coming together to create an energy that’s uniquely Wynwood.

At Wynwood Walls, I took my time exploring the curated exhibits, where some of the biggest names in street art have left their mark. It’s more than just murals—it’s a space dedicated to preserving and promoting this art form, which is so often overlooked.

As the sun set, Wynwood transformed again. The streets filled with music, the lights brought a new dimension to the artwork, and the neighborhood’s creative spirit felt even more alive.Read more