A Brief History of Wynwood, Miami
Not just America’s largest outdoor art district but one of the world’s, Wynwood, Miami, is pure magic. And this is what gave it its nickname, The Magic City.
However, to know if Wynwood is worth visiting or to have the best moments and fun in the city, it is important to be aware of the history of one of the world’s finest outdoor art districts.
Wynwood, Miami, did not just descend into one of the world’s most vibrant art cities at its founding. In fact, it was primarily a massive warehouse district where garments were in abundance, especially in the early 1920s.
Since then, it has gained recognition as many tourists invaded the city to immerse themselves in the beautiful artworks gallantly displayed all over the city and a common question among tourist is: Is Wynwood, Miami, Worth Visiting?. If that is you, then you are about to find out.
What is Wynwood known for?
What comes to mind when you hear about Wynwood? Wynwood is famous for its artwork, murals, graffiti, etc., which are largely displayed without little or no restrictions all over the city.
It is one of the world’s leading art destinations.
Although Wynwood is famed for her beautiful artwork, that is not all there is to the Magic City. Wynwood is also known for being a city filled with so much entertainment, with exotic restaurants available for locals and tourists to dine and wine. There are industries such as breweries, clothing stores, and many fashion institutions.
You might not know, but Wynwood has two major sub-districts: the Wynwood Art District in northern Wynwood and the Wynwood Fashion District along West 5th Avenue.
Is Wynwood, Miami, Worth Visiting?
There are many things that make Wynwood worth visiting and exploring. You might have been in Miami for a while now or you are currently planning to visit, and if you haven’t really found a place that catches your fancy, you should try Wynwood.
Is Wynwood, Miami, Worth Visiting? Yes, definitely. Ranging from her unique artworks and murals displayed unashamedly all over its walls to the fashion district along West 5th Avenue, there are many things worth looking forward to in Wynwood, Miami.
Did you know that there is a sizeable population of Puerto Ricans in Wynwood? In the early 1950s, many Puerto Ricans migrated to Wynwood from the island and northeastern cities. And this is why Wynwood has long been referred to as Little San Juan and is commonly known as El Barrio.
How you should spend your day and Things you should do in Wynwood, Miami
Do you feel Wynwood, Miami, is worth visiting? Are you planning to spend your day in this unique city? Then you should worry no more because you’ll definitely get all the fun you desire at Wynwood.
Most especially, art lovers and critics will find this city fascinating. Visiting Wynwood is more like visiting a museum in the real sense. You don’t need to look around for a museum because you are already in one.
I remembered the last time I visited Wynwood. The artwork displayed all over the city walls looked so surreal that I started sightseeing immediately after I entered the city. I just couldn’t wait!
The following are some of the best and fun things to do in Wynwood and the answer to that pressing question in your mind: “Is Wynwood, Miami, Worth Visiting?”
1. Wynwood Walls
Arguably Wynwood’s most popular and iconic attraction site, the Wynwood Walls, is a must-visit. You would agree with me that when in Wynwood, it is all about the arts, and the Wynwood Walls, since being opened in 2009, have served that purpose.
When you visit Wynwood Walls, you’ll get to see different art and murals by some of the world’s most renowned graffiti and street artists displayed beautifully.
It is such a beautiful sight to behold, and don’t miss the chance to take beautiful pictures by those beautiful and colorful walls.
2. Museum of Graffiti
Do you want to know more about American art and graffiti? Then the Museum of Graffiti at Wynwood is your best bet.
Housing some of the world’s most renowned street art and graffiti collections, the Museum of Graffiti is definitely a sight to behold.
Some of the works displayed in the museum include those of Alan Ket, a well-known graffiti artist, art collector, and historian, and Allison Friedin, among many others.
3. Wynwood Tours
One thing I’m very sure of is that you can’t exhaust all of the beautiful and amazing sights in Wynwood. However, one of the best ways to get the most fun and satisfaction out of Wynwood is to sign up for the Wynwood Tours.
The Wynwood Tours offer you the chance to explore Wynwood fully and not miss out on any fun. Some of the tours available to you with Wynwood Tours include the super-popular Graffiti Golf Cart Tour, Wynwood Walking Tour, and Wynwood Walls and Street Art Tour.
Is Wynwood, Miami, Worth Visiting? Sign up for the Wynwood Tours and see for yourself.
4. The Marguiles Collection at the Warehouse
The Marguiles Collection at The Warehouse is another interesting place to visit and a sight to behold in Wynwood. The non-profit art gallery is accessible to the public from late October to early April.
It includes pieces created by several of the most well-known artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. It has previously included artwork by Joan Miro, Willem de Kooning, and Jasper Johns.
Additionally, educational activities and special exhibitions are housed in the 50,000-square-foot facility.
5. Panther Coffee
A taste of Panther Coffee does the trick for me. Anytime I’m in Wynwood, my first go-to destination is always Panther Coffee.
The fun in Wynwood looks inexhaustible. However, a taste of Panther Coffee is what keeps me going.
You can decide to start your day at Panther Coffee whenever you are in Wynwood or go there to refresh yourself after embarking on a tour before going on another one.
They offer beer and wine, too.
6. Wynwood Brewing Company
Looking to do something outside the usual in Wynwood? Sampling seasonal beers at Wynwood Brewing Company is a great option.
Wynwood Brewing Company offers the chance to sample local beers and engage in some cool vibes even as you bask in the euphoria of the beautiful arts and murals around.
It is also a great place to get away from the noisy Wynwood arts metropolis. Not only do they offer great beers, but the ambiance is cool, and the environment is neat and tourist-friendly as well.
Their craft beer is a must-try!
7. Bakehouse Art Complex
For lovers of the arts, the options are not limited to Wynwood, Miami. Founded in 1986, Bakehouse Art Complex is another destination where people can immerse themselves in the beauty of the arts.
It is a non-profit organization that promotes artistic creativity through diversity and collaboration.
Although formerly a bakery site but now housed in the Art Deco building, Bakehouse Art Complex provides art lovers with the platform to view the work of more than 100 artists, from painters to performance artists, who work in the on-site studios from noon to 5 p.m. daily.
Aside from entertainment, seeing the artists draw live is an avenue to foster one’s creative and critical thinking.
Whenever you are in Wynwood, you should check out the Bakehouse Art Complex.
8. Zak the Baker
Zak the Baker is an independent artisan kosher bakery founded in 2012 in Wynwood, Miami, Florida. It is overseen by the popular Zack Stern. You will likely hear most locals say his name. He is somewhat of a local celebrity.
Whenever you are in Wynwood, be sure to try out the highly sought-after artisan bread and pastries at Zak the Baker.
You can also get kosher food and baked goods at the bakery. They operate every day except Saturday.
It’s the perfect place to give your tastebuds a taste of heaven.
9. Cervecaria La Tropical
Eat and drink at the Cervecaria La Tropical whenever you are in Wynwood.
Before or after a long day of sightseeing and enjoying the beauty of Wynwood’s peculiar arts and graffiti, the Cervecaria La Tropical is a perfect place to eat, drink, rest, and feel comfortable.
The setting at the Cervecaria La Tropica is a beautiful garden tailored to suit your comfort.
You can order your avocado salad, pumpkin bisque, fish tacos, etc. Accompany it with a chilled Cuban beer to experience optimum satisfaction.
Is Wynwood, Miami, Worth Visiting? Try visiting Cervecaria La Tropical and seeing for yourself.
10. Paradox Museum
The Paradox Museum leaves you in awe and your mouth wide open. This place is simply breathtaking.
Different kinds of mind-tricking experiences and reality-defying moments are what characterize the Paradox Museum.
Kids will particularly enjoy the spinning horses of the Paradox Carousel as they play with their perception. Trying to balance the body through the rotating tubes of the Paradox Tunnel is another mind-blowing experience they will love.
Other things you can enjoy at the Paradox Museum include dancing, jumping, taking photos and videos, etc.
The Paradox Museum is a great place to visit with your family, friends, and loved ones. Your kids will especially love it.
11. ASTRA: The Pink Building
Astra, the Pink Building, is named after the goddess of stars and constellations, who is also known as the goddess of beauty and celestial power.
This amazing rooftop restaurant and bar is definitely living up to its name.
Located atop a bohemian paradise, Astra is the perfect embodiment of Miami’s most creative neighborhood. The restaurant radiates beauty and proclaims the creative culture for which Wynwood is known.
Visit the restaurant today and try out their Mediterranean and Greek-inspired cuisine.
Other places you can visit to spend your day in Wynwood include:
- Guided City Tour and Boat Ride
- Private Boat Tour Rental Charter
- 1-800 Lucky
- The Salty
- Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop
- Party Bike Happy Hour Crawl
- Wynwood Marketplace
- Mad butcher
- Gramps
- J. Wakefield Brewery
Conclusion
Still having second thoughts about whether Wynwood, Miami, is worth visiting? Be a doubting Thomas no more; tidy up your bags, buckle up your shoes, and start preparing yourself to visit one of the world’s most renowned art cities.
Check the list of things to do and how to spend your day above and include these activities in your itinerary.
Also, most of these places are kid- and family-friendly.
Finally, don’t restrict yourself to just sightseeing and enjoying the artwork, murals, and graffiti. Make sure you try out the restaurants, bars, and breweries as well.
