Ocean Drive
Colony Hotel — South Beach Ocean Drive - in Miami Beach
Ocean Drive is a prominent thoroughfare in South Beach, Miami Beach, Florida, renowned for its distinct Art Deco architecture and bustling atmosphere. Developed in the 1920s and 1930s, this street serves as the heart of the Miami Art Deco District, home to about 900 preserved buildings, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Streamline Moderne style, an evolution of Art Deco, is a prominent feature along this vibrant street.
The drive is lined with numerous historic hotels and restaurants that have gained fame through their appearances in various movies and media. The Colony Hotel, built in 1939 and known as the most photographed Art Deco hotel, is a standout, featuring in numerous movies and TV shows, including "Dexter." Other notable establishments include the Clevelander Hotel, with its unique amenities such as an indoor sports lounge and rooftop lounge, and the Carlyle Hotel, which was featured in the 1996 comedy "The Birdcage." The Sunray Apartments also gained fame after being featured in the movie "Scarface" (1983).
Casa Casuarina, the former residence of Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace, is another highlight of Ocean Drive. Following Versace's death, it was transformed into a boutique hotel and remains one of the most photographed houses in North America.
Ocean Drive is also known for its vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Mango's Tropical Café offers Caribbean-inspired cuisine alongside live performances, and the Palace Bar is celebrated for its cabaret and drag queen shows, catering to the LGBTQ community.
The street's cultural impact extends beyond architecture and hospitality. It has been referenced in popular media, including the 2002 video game "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City," and has inspired music, such as the Lighthouse Family's single "Ocean Drive."