Miami, FL, is a city known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and diverse community. Living in Miami means enjoying year-round sunshine, delicious cuisine influenced by Latin American and Caribbean flavors, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Whether you’re settling into a new apartment in Miami, looking at homes for sale in the city, or have been a longtime resident, this Redfin article will dive into some fun facts about Miami you’ll want to know.
Quick facts about Miami
Median home sale price
$600,000
Average monthly rent
$2,566
Walk Score
77/100
Transit Score
57/100
Bike Score
64/100
1. Miami is the only major city in the United States founded by a woman
Miami was founded by a businesswoman named Julia Tuttle, who convinced a railroad tycoon to extend his railway to the area by sending him oranges from her garden during a cold snap. This led to the development of the city of Miami.
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2. Miami has the largest collection of art deco architecture in the world
The city is home to over 800 buildings in the art deco style, making it a paradise for architecture enthusiasts and a popular filming location for movies and TV shows. There’s no better example of this style than Miami’s picturesque Art Deco Historic District.
3. Miami is the only city in the United States that is bordered by two national parks
While Miami might be best known for its beaches, there are plenty of other opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in and around the city. Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park are both located just a short drive from Miami, offering residents and visitors the chance to explore unique ecosystems and wildlife.
4. Miami is the cruise capital of the world
Miami proudly holds the title of the Cruise Capital of the World, serving as the gateway for millions of travelers embarking on their dream sea voyages each year. The city’s location, with proximity to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, makes it an ideal starting point for a variety of cruise adventures. Miami’s PortMiami, renowned for its impressive passenger traffic and expansive facilities, accommodates some of the largest and most luxurious cruise ships globally.
5. Several art galleries can be found in Miami
Miami is also a thriving hub for art lovers. The city boasts an impressive array of art galleries, each offering a unique glimpse into both local and international artistic expressions. From the Wynwood Arts District’s Bakehouse Art Complex to the Fredric Snitzer Gallery, these exhibitions reflect the city’s rich artistic culture. Whether you’re an avid art collector or a curious tourist, the art galleries of Miami offer endless inspiration and discovery.
6. The world’s largest boat show takes place in Miami
If you’re a boating enthusiast in Miami, this fun fact is for you, as the city hosts the world’s largest boat show, the Miami International Boat Show. This event draws enthusiasts from across the globe, showcasing an impressive array of vessels from super-yachts to fishing boats. The annual event turns the city into a nautical hub, providing an exciting glimpse into the latest marine technology and luxury lifestyle.
7. Miami has the largest concentration of international banks in the United States
Miami not only dazzles with its vibrant nightlife and pristine beaches but also stands out as a financial powerhouse. It hosts the largest concentration of international banks in the United States, serving as a pivotal hub for finance between the Americas.
8. A famous TV show was based in Miami in the 80’s
Some cities are made famouse by movies and TV shows that are filmed there, and Miami is a perfect example of this. In the 1980s, Miami’s vibrant scenery and unique cultural backdrop became the setting for the iconic TV show Miami Vice. The series not only showcased the city’s stunning ocean views and neon-lit skyline but also played a pivotal role in introducing the world to Miami’s dynamic blend of music, fashion, and nightlife. This phenomenon left a lasting imprint on the city’s global image and remains a point of nostalgia for fans around the world.
9. The first Burger King opened in Miami
Here’s a tasty fact about Miami: the city also holds a special place in fast-food history. The very first Burger King restaurant opened its doors here in 1954, launching what would become a global burger empire.
10. The city is named after the Mayaimi tribe
Miami takes its name from the Mayaimi tribe, which lived around Lake Okeechobee until the 17th or 18th century. The name, which means “big water,” is a nod to the vast lake, reflecting the connection between the city’s identity and natural surroundings.
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11. Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood was named a national treasure
Miami’s vibrant Little Havana neighborhood was officially named a national treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2017, spotlighting its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. This designation celebrates the neighborhood’s unique blend of Cuban and Latin American influences.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.
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Chibuzo is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about local insights and home improvement. His dream home is a Mediterranean-style house with a large kitchen and plenty of windows.
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