If you want a destination that offers a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the United States, look no further than sunny Florida. With its vibrant Caribbean population, there are numerous places in Florida to experience Caribbean culture. Whether you’re interested in Cuban cuisine in Miami or Bahamian heritage in Key West, there’s something for everyone in Florida.
Miami
Miami is the perfect place to start your Caribbean cultural journey. Known for its Cuban influence, Miami also boasts a large population of Bahamians, Jamaicans and Haitians. Take a stroll down Calle Ocho in Little Havana to experience lively Latin music, street performers and some of the best Cuban cuisine in the country.
Visit the Little Haiti Cultural Complex to experience Haitian music, dance and art. Experience these and many other places, such as the Miami Design District, on your road trip to Miami and Southern Florida and make wonderful memories of artistic and cultural scenes.
Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem for those seeking Caribbean culture. Head to Sistrunk Boulevard, named after Dr. James Sistrunk, the first black physician in Broward County, where you’ll find the heart of the city’s Caribbean community.
The area hosts festivals celebrating Caribbean culture, including block parties and art shows. There are also restaurants like Jerk Machine and Aunt I’s Jamaican Kitchen, which offer wonderful Caribbean cuisine.
Key West
Key West may be tiny, but it packs a punch regarding Caribbean culture. One of the best places in Florida to experience Caribbean culture is the Bahama Village neighborhood.
Visit the area to taste Bahamian heritage, with colorful homes and street vendors selling conch fritters and other Caribbean delicacies. Don’t miss out on the Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the author’s love of Key West and his friendships with Bahamian immigrants.
Tampa
Tampa has a large population of Caribbean people, particularly from Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. Visit the annual Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival to experience Caribbean music, dance and food, or check out the Caribbean-inspired murals at the Ybor City district. Don’t forget to sample the jerk chicken at Jazzy’s BBQ, one of Tampa’s best Caribbean restaurants.
Orlando
Orlando is a great place to experience Caribbean culture. Visit the African Caribbean Marketplace in the heart of Orlando’s Parramore neighborhood to experience the sights and sounds of the Caribbean. Take a look at Bob Marley’s former home, now a museum, or attend one of Orlando’s Caribbean festivals for live music, dancing and Jamaican cuisine.
