By: Robert Lovi By: Robert Lovi | August 31, 2022 | Culture, Food & Drink, People,
Miami is one of the most incredible places in the world. Everyone visits to enjoy its amazing culinary scene, nightlife, shopping, and other fantastic activities that make people wish they lived here. However, the Magic City is not only about glamour and partying. The city has a fascinating history, and many incredible things have happened since a woman founded it. If you want to learn more about this special place, you can find 11 fascinating facts about Miami below.
Miami Beach's Art Deco Historic District in South Beach has approximately 800 art deco-style buildings in less than one square mile and houses the world's largest concentration of art deco buildings. One of the most visited attractions in the city, take a walk in South Beach and admire the white buildings with pastel tones that decore its streets. Some of these buildings are home to iconic hotels and restaurants.
One of Miami's many fascinating historical facts is that it was founded by Julia Tuttle, also known as the city's mother. Julia relocated to what is now Miami in 1891 and purchased a square mile of land. She then persuaded railroad president Henry Flager to extend the train to her land's site. Once completed, the ground on which she lived became suitable for creating a large urban settlement, and the construction of Miami began. In fact, Miami is the only city in the United States founded by a woman.
Feel like sailing to a Caribbean destination with heavenly beaches? Then Miami is the perfect departure spot. The Port of Miami is the world's largest and busiest cruise ship port. About five million passengers yearly sail through this port, where you will find world-renowned cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Virgin, and many more. The second and third busiest cruise ports are also located in Florida in Port Canaveral and Port Everglades, about an hour from Miami.
James McLamore and David Edgerton founded the first Insta-Burger King (now known as Burger King) at 3090 N.W. 36th St. in Miami almost 70 years ago, on December 4, 1954. Insta-Burger King was created in 1953 in Jacksonville, Florida, and later the name was changed. The company famous for its delicious Whopper is still headquartered in Miami.
Miami is a popular recreational diving location because there are over 75 shipwrecks in its waters. This has earned the Magic City the tile of "Wreckcreational" diving capital, and the conditions are just perfect for diving with its clear, calm waters.
Miami owes its name to the Mayaimi tribe that lived in the area surrounding Lake Okeechobee, Florida's inland lake, until the 17th or 18th century. Mayaimi meant "big water." Also, during the early years of Miami's development, the city was known as "Biscayne Bay Country."
Miami is filled with magic, from its fantastic beaches and culinary scene to its dynamic nightlife and shopping. Locals and tourists often refer to the city as the "Magic City." You know the place is pretty magical if you live here or have visited. It is believed the name was given by journalist Ethan Blackman when he saw the city's original blueprints and realized its potential. He was not wrong; Miami only continues growing.
Coconut Grove was established in 1825 and officially annexed to Miami in 1925, making it the first place in the area to be inhabited. This lovely area of the city is also renowned as one of the greenest in Miami and has some of the best restaurants in the city. Coconut Grove is a charming waterfront area that everyone must visit.
In recent years, Miami has grown in the financial sector. Although many might not think of the city as an economic hub, Miami has the highest concentration of international banks in the country. It is also the largest financial center outside of New York City. Miami is home to more than 60 multinational banks and numerous private equity and hedge fund organizations. Many more continue moving their offices here.
One of the most visited neighborhoods in the city is Little Havana. This part of town is recognized for its strong Hispanic, mainly Cuban, influence. You can find excellent Latin restaurants, independent stores, entertaining events, and friendly people here; you can even watch them play domino. Little Havana was named to the National Trust for Historic Preservation's annual list of the 11 Most Endangered Places in 2015. Luckily, the Trust designated it a national treasure in 2017, and the neighborhood continues thriving.
Miami is one of the most Hispanic cities in the U.S. Its proximity to Latin America and the Caribbean has made the city a place for many immigrants from this region. The population of Miami is 71.57% Hispanic, and you can feel the culture everywhere you go. So if you feel like indulging in delicious food and culture and learning Spanish, come to the magic city.
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