Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County rises magnificently from the shores of Biscayne Bay in a combination of geometric designs and glass walls. The attractive building has as an electrifying appearance, which is matched by the nearly 400 exciting performances a year inside. Walk through the entrance into the 570,000-square-foot (53,000-square-meter) structure to be welcomed into the lobby, where it becomes apparent that this is southern Florida’s cultural center.
The venues include an opera house, an acoustically superb concert hall, a multipurpose theater and an outdoor performance area that attest to the building’s versatility.
Miami’s need for a center began in the 1970s with the development of a symphony orchestra, opera and ballet companies and the cultural assets of its growing Latin American community. Notice the hexagonal portion in the central area, which is the remaining part of a Sears Roebuck store torn down in 2000 to make way for the new structure.
The center’s architect, Cesar Pelli, incorporated part of the old store, which was the first major art deco structure in Miami. His method connected the past with the modern building. Walk adjoining streets to browse quality stores, dine in chic restaurants and visit establishments that contribute to a lively nightlife. You might hear the area being referred to as Miami’s new town square.
To further support the town square definition, the center has Market Mondays in the afternoon and evening, with vendors selling local produce and prepared foods. A popular farm-to-table five-course dinner is prepared for diners during Market Mondays. Take a 1-hour tour of the gigantic complex at noon on Mondays and Saturdays, with no reservation required.
Find Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County in Downtown Miami. The site has full accessibility. Nearby parking is available however, you may consider using valet service if attending an event to avoid some of the traffic congestion after a show. Alternatively, public transportation serves the area from many city points.
