Discover the Hidden History of Miami with the Black Miami Matters Tour

Experience the Culture

Miami is known for its vibrant culture, diverse communities, and beautiful landscapes, but there’s a rich, often overlooked history that played a pivotal role in shaping the city we know today. The Black Miami Matters tour by Miami Native Tours is an unforgettable journey through the city’s historic Black neighborhoods and landmarks, highlighting the contributions of Black Americans and the long fight for civil rights. This immersive experience sheds light on Miami’s unique history, from its role in the Underground Railroad to its contributions during the 1950s and 60s Civil Rights Movement.

A Journey Through Time
The Black Miami Matters tour starts with a look at the deep historical roots of Black Miami, dating back to Spanish Florida, when the King of Spain declared Florida a “Slave Sanctuary” in 1693. At that time, escaped enslaved people could live freely in Florida as long as they converted to Catholicism, baptized their children, and helped defend the land from British attacks. This declaration made Florida a key destination on the Underground Railroad, long before it moved north.

As you travel through Miami’s historic Black neighborhoods, the tour brings to life the struggles and victories of Black Americans who helped shape the region. This includes stops in Coconut Grove, Overtown, Liberty City, Little Haiti, and Brownsville—communities rich with history, resilience, and culture.

Civil Rights and Miami’s Role

Miami played an underappreciated role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 60s, which comes to life on the Black Miami Matters tour. A highlight of this part of the tour is the Hampton House, an iconic hotel where leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Muhammad Ali stayed and strategized. The Hampton House was not just a luxury hotel, but a place of refuge for Black visitors in the days of segregation, and it remains a symbol of the ongoing fight for equality.

Another stop that sheds light on this era is the Black Police Precinct, which was created when Black officers in Miami were finally allowed to patrol their own communities after years of exclusion. The tour also explores the events surrounding the 1980 McDuffie Riots, a turning point in Miami’s racial tensions after a Black man was killed by police, leading to protests that left lasting scars on the city.

Cultural and Historic Landmarks

While the Civil Rights era played a major role in shaping Black Miami, the tour also highlights cultural and historical landmarks that showcase the community’s achievements. Stops like the Lyric Theater, if open, show the cultural heartbeat of Black Miami in the 1930s and 40s, while the Virginia Key Beach and Key Biscayne Lighthouse tell the story of Black Americans and Native Americans who fled to freedom across the water, escaping from slavery or forced relocation.

In Bahamian Coconut Grove, the tour uncovers the legacy of Miami’s Bahamian settlers who built much of the city’s early infrastructure. Historic sites such as Father Gibson’s church, Stirrup House, and the Thriller Cemetery, where scenes from Michael Jackson’s iconic music video were filmed, reveal the lasting contributions of the Bahamian community.

Exploring Modern Miami
Miami’s Black history is still being written today, and the Black Miami Matters tour takes you through neighborhoods like Overtown, which was once the heart of Miami’s Black community. Though the construction of I-95 nearly destroyed it, the neighborhood is experiencing a renaissance, with new developments and cultural spaces reviving its legacy. From historic churches to homes and schools, these sites paint a picture of Miami’s dynamic Black community, both past and present.

Other neighborhoods like Little Haiti and Liberty City continue to evolve. Though these areas have faced challenges like gentrification, their rich cultural roots remain strong. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Little Haiti or the famous landmarks of Liberty City, such as Muhammad Ali’s home, the tour explores the diversity and resilience of Black Miami across time.

A Deeper Understanding of Miami’s Black Heritage
By the end of the Black Miami Matters tour, you’ll have gained a deeper appreciation of Miami’s Black heritage and the significant role that Black Americans played in shaping the city. The tour highlights the cultural, social, and political milestones that are often overlooked in mainstream histories, offering an enriched view of Miami’s past and present.

For larger groups of 13 or more, special accommodations can be made, with professional drivers and step-on guide services to ensure a smooth, informative, and engaging experience. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, the Black Miami Matters tour will take you on a journey through a side of Miami few get to see.

Book Your Tour Today
Ready to uncover the hidden stories of Black Miami? Join Miami Native Tours on the Black Miami Matters tour for an eye-opening exploration of the city’s rich history, cultural landmarks, and the powerful stories of resilience and triumph that have shaped the Miami we know today. Book your spot today and experience the city in a whole new light.