Downtown Miami’s vibrant art and culture scene continues to evolve

What started as a handful of artistic spaces only a decade ago has exploded into more than 30 thriving arts and culture organizations and more than 40 artists’ studios in Downtown Miami alone. And the community’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

Art is everywhere in Downtown Miami—from the walls that line the Miami Riverwalk to the impressive "Slide Mantra" sculpture by Isamu Noguchi in Bayfront Park. Downtown Miami is home to a wide range of art in unexpected places, including pedestrian walkways, inside hotels and in many other public places.

Let’s take a closer look at Downtown Miami’s unique art and cultural experiences.

Blue art installation at Perez Art Museum Miami — Admire the art at Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

World-Class Museums

Directly on Biscayne Bay and housed in a state-of-the-art campus designed by world-renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) features 200,000 sprawling square feet of artistic wonder. It's a playground for adults and kids alike, with experiential art, up-close-and-personal exhibits, forays into film and education, and a shaded outdoor veranda with hanging gardens and panoramic water views.

Sculpture near HistoryMiami's entrance — Learn about Miami's rich history at HistoryMiami Museum

In the heart of Downtown Miami, HistoryMiami Museum is located on historic Flagler Street and preserves exhibitions showcasing Miami’s rich history. For a unique and educational take on Miami’s past, book one of the many city tour options (walking, biking, by boat or by coach) and learn from distinguished scholars. HistoryMiami is a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate.

Front view of the Freedom Tower — Don't miss the Freedom Tower & MOAD

Nestled inside the historic Freedom Tower, the Museum of Art + Design at Miami Dade College showcases visual art and design. Attend one of the many year-round events including lectures, symposiums and art exhibitions. Group tours are also available.

Centro Cultural Español (CCEMiami) takes a step into the artistic side of Hispanic culture through music, theater, art and dance. This organization collaborates with local organizations and artists to co-produce projects in order to offer a continuous annual program in every cultural discipline. For a unique experience, its Microtheater Miami program features 15-minute performances inside a 160-square-foot shipping container on weekend evenings.

Private & Non-Profit Art Collections

For a look at stunning art collections maintained by private and non-profit organizations, visit:

Aluna Art Foundation at 1393 SW 1st St.
Miami Center for Architecture & Design (MCAD) at 310 SE 1st St.
Avant Gallery at 701 S. Miami Ave. at Brickell City Centre, Suite 121A
Nina Torres Fine Art at 1900 N. Bayshore Drive

Night view of the Adrienne Arsht Center across the bay — Enjoy a performance at Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Performance Spaces

Dress up for an evening at the theater, ballet or opera, or take in a live music performance. The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts is a state-of-the-art performing arts center located in the heart of Downtown Miami. The center includes the 2,400-seat Ziff Ballet Opera House, the intimate Carnival Studio Theater, the 2,200-seat Knight Concert Hall and the spacious Thompson Plaza, designed for outdoor performances. The Adrienne Arsht Center hosts greats like the Cleveland Orchestra, Miami City Ballet, the Florida Grand Opera and New World Symphony.

Olympia Theater's jewel-toned interior — Bask in the Olympia Theater's ornate décor and colorful history

Nearby, the Olympia Theater offers a majestic escape into a historic venue featuring ornate décor and gold balconies. It’s the crown jewel of Miami’s art and entertainment facilities. Dating back to 1926, the theater has hosted such greats as Elvis Presley and Etta James.