Art Deco Historic District

The Basics

Building elements in the district include sleek curves, glass blocks, terrazzo floors, pastel exteriors, and porthole windows and railings that are reminiscent of the ocean liners that docked in the area during that time. Ocean Drive is one of the best-known streets in the area, home to many Mediterranean Revival-style houses. Notable buildings include Casa Casaurina, a 1930s Spanish-style mansion that was once the home of Gianni Versace, and the 1937 Park Central Hotel, where Hollywood legends like Clark Gable and Rita Hayworth were noted regulars.

A walking tour is the most popular way to explore the area around Collins Avenue and Lincoln Road. Some Miami tours, by vehicle or Segway, include art deco–themed walking tours in the Miami Beach Historic District. Group tours available through the Art Deco Welcome Center include themes like gay and lesbian life, Jewish heritage, Miami scandals, and self-guided audio tours; they offer private tours as well.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Art Deco Historic District is a must for architecture aficionados.

• Restrooms and other amenities are available at the Art Deco Welcome Center, but once you start on a walking tour, there are few public facilities along the way.

• The welcome center houses an art deco museum and gift shop.

• Those with special mobility needs should contact the Art Deco Welcome Center 72 hours in advance of any tour to seek assistance.

How to Get There

The Art Deco Welcome Center, home to the Miami Design Preservation League, is at Ocean Drive and 10th Street, and is a good starting place to pick up brochures and books. The neighborhood stretches to the Atlantic Ocean in the east, Sixth Street to the south, Alton Road to the west, and Dade Boulevard to the north.

When to Get There

The Art Deco Welcome Center is open from 9am to 5pm every day, and different tours run throughout the day. In the summer heat, it’s advisable to book a walking tour in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun—and the crowds. You may want to avoid Miami’s rainy season, June to September.

Art Deco Weekend

The historic district hosts the popular Art Deco Weekend every year, during which Ocean Drive is closed to traffic and vendors showcase vintage and handmade paintings, photography, jewelry, sculptures, posters, and more. There are classic cars, food vendors, and street entertainment, all set against the famous art deco backdrop.

Ways to explore

A walking tour is the most popular way to explore the Art Deco District, with options ranging from private and small-group tours to self-guided routes. Many focus on Collins Avenue and Lincoln Road, while Ocean Drive stands out for its Mediterranean Revival–style buildings. For faster sightseeing, Segway and bike tours are popular alternatives. Some visitors also combine architecture with local flavor on food-focused walking tours or explore the district and wider Miami via open-air sightseeing bus tours. For seeing Miami highlights from afar, some visitors opt for the luxury option of a yacht tour.

Accessibility

Flat, paved sidewalks make the area generally wheelchair accessible, but access varies by property.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, small bag, reusable water bottle

What to wear

Lightweight clothing, walking shoes

Not allowed

Drones, littering, alcohol outside of permitted areas

Amenities

There are restrooms, maps, and gifts at the Art Deco Welcome Center.

Address 

The Art Deco District is located in Miami Beach along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue. It’s easily accessible by car or bus, but many visitors choose to come here on guided walking tours.

Driving

From downtown Miami, drive east across the MacArthur Causeway toward Miami Beach. There are several parking garages in the area, including the 7th Street Garage and 12th Street Garage. Plan for heavy traffic during peak tourist hours.

Public transportation

Public transportation is easy and convenient for getting around the Art Deco District. Miami Beach Trolley and Metrobus services operate in the district, with frequent stops along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue.

Best times to visit

Early mornings are a good time to explore the area, as you can enjoy cooler temperatures and smaller crowds than in the afternoons.

Best days to visit

Mondays through Thursdays are typically a great time to come if you want to avoid the weekend crowds.

Best months to visit

Skip the heat and humidity of July and August and visit between December and April for lovely weather.

Special events

January is a fun time to visit for Art Deco Weekend, with exhibitions, family-friendly activities, architecture tours, and celebrations.