The Miami street art scene is awesome. From Wynwood Walls to Little Havana, and even the random overpasses, there’s incredible graffiti art everywhere.
In this article – we share where to find the best Miami street art while you’re exploring the city.
Wynwood Walls
Wynwood Walls was one of the highlights of my trip to Miami. It looks and feels like nowhere else, with an edgy, isolated vibe. There are super-trendy bars popping up but it doesn’t feel pretentious (just yet). The signs are there that it’s likely to be gentrified soon so visit while it’s still authentic.
The street art murals are exceptional. Coming from Bristol, the home of Banksy, I’ve been pretty spoilt by graffiti art on my doorstep. But Miami brought its A-game with works by renowned and local artists, including Shepard Fairey, Retna, and Aiko.
Wynwood Walls actually consists of two elements – the museum (complete with gift shop) and the surrounding streets which have their own art. One is a fully organised and structured location (which is where Google Maps directs you) that charges a very reasonable $12 for a ticket. But in reality the impressive street art stretches across walls and buildings for several blocks (80,000 square feet to be precise). So it’s definitely worth exploring the area to absorb it all.
There’s a main street running through the middle with glimpses of art at every turn. This is where the venue is located. But it’s the side streets, particularly NW 24th Street, where you can enjoy mural after mural.
Wynwood is a testament to the power of art – the colours and designs transform the otherwise drab surroundings. And for anyone who doesn’t think graffiti can be art – Wynwood will change your mind. It’s spectacularly creative with universal appeal. Accessible to all rather than exclusively reserved for the rich.
Where did Wynwood’s murals come from?
Wynwood Walls started as an initiative by the late Tony Goldman, a real estate developer and art aficionado. The project was launched in 2009 as a way to transform the once neglected and rundown neighbourhood into a vibrant cultural destination.
Goldman invited artists to create large-scale murals on the walls of worn out warehouses and buildings of Wynwood, bringing colour and creativity to the area. The project aimed to showcase the talent and diversity of street art while revitalising the neighbourhood and creating a public space for art enthusiasts and visitors to enjoy.
Little Havana Street Art
Miami street art isn’t just about Wynwood – many of the neighbourhoods have their own stunning examples. Little Havana is one that you just can’t miss if you’re visiting the city.
Infused with lively Cuban culture, it’s a destination worth visiting just for its atmosphere. But if you like street art, then you’re going to love it even more…
It has giant murals on the sides of its buildings along the main street, Calle Ocho.
Art that’s set into its pavements and sidewalks, like Domino Park.
And even the public litter bins (trash cans) have their own artistic flair!
So, if you want to take in some awesome street art in Miami, then Wynwood Walls and Little Havana are must-sees. They’re completely different, yet both mesmerising in their own way.
You might also like… 10 Fun Sights & Activities In Brickell, Miami.
Did we miss any epic murals or have you got tips for other cities around the world? Let us know on Instagram what your top street art recommendations are.
FAQs
Absolutely, it’s was definitely worth the detour from Miami Downtown and I actually preferred it to the highrise centre.
Get an Uber or taxi as it’s not located near a metro station and walking through the surrounding neighbourhoods to get there is pretty sketchy (according to locals).
Miami Design District is a 5 min drive from Wynwood Walls so it’s easy to combine both into an outing.
1-2 hours is enough for a leisurely stroll around the main venue and surrounding streets.
Yes it feels safe in the daytime and there’s plenty of buzz about the place (but the surrounding neighbourhoods less so – get an Uber there rather than walking).
