What to explore in Little Haiti

Along 2nd Ave. stands an all white building with the words: Nina Johnson stamped in black letters. This is the newest home of Nina Johnson, formerly known as Gallery Diet, a contemporary gallery in Little River that’s focused on supporting emerging artists with provocative exhibits. Since relocating from its previous location in Wynwood, this unique space has continued to serve as a hub for culture and art.

(Photo Courtesy of Nina Johnson)

Named for its owner and founder, Jon Mapou, Liberei Mapou has been a cultural cornerstone of Little Haiti. The bookstore was opened in the early 1990s in order to provide books, newspapers, and other reading materials for the Haitian community. Now it serves as a library as well a gathering place. Mapou also hosts a program on WLRN 91.3 on Friday evenings and teaches French and Kreyol classes at the bookstore. 

If you’re on the prowl for an urban oasis, check out the Little Haiti Community Garden. Since 2009, the farm has provided hands-on agricultural and nutritional education and fresh food for Miamians. It’s also a great place to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty while doing a little volunteering.

Little Haiti is a vibrant community, and the community gathers at the equally bright and bold Little Haiti Cultural Complex. From visual and performing arts, to an after-school program serving neighborhood kids, to handmade goods for sale in the Caribbean Market, there’s always something special here. Don’t miss the signature Big Night in Little Haiti party every third Friday, where you can dance the night away with local musicians and neighbors, try delicious Creole food, and do some hands-on activities with the kids.

Spirit & Beyond (formerly Majestical Lips) is your go-to for natural herbs, spices, teas, and incense.  The staff is warm and always willing to explain everything from their crystals to their artwork. An eclectic space with a spiritual vibe, it can be easy to miss from the outside, with a nondescript tan wall belies the magic inside. An especially wonderful time to visit is during their have the poetry slams in the cozy, twinkle-light lit backyard.

Formerly called the Little River Mission Club, Saint Mary’s Cathedral had its first mass on July 20, 1930. By 1937, the congregation grew so large that the parish had to move from its original location to its current site at 7525 NW 2nd Ave. This beautiful cathedral has a long history, and in 1987, was the site Pope John Paul II chose as his first venue during his visit to the US. Today, mass is split up into three services, one in English, one in Spanish, and another in Kreyól, serving the broad range of cultures living and working in the area. 

Yo Miami is a passion project of Miami-native Yuval Ofir. His goal is to create an ecosystem of arts and culture in Miami, and is cultivating a climate of enthusiasm for the creative direction our city is headed in. It’s tough to pin down exactly what that means at first, but you can start by checking out Yo Space, a 800 square foot art gallery and studio space in Little Haiti. There are seven in-house studios offered, each about 100 square feet. It’s close to Wynwood, far enough “away from the circus, but close enough to be part of the show.”

This creative shared space in Little Haiti is designed to be a welcoming and open atmosphere where individuals are encouraged to explore their ideas and innovate. The company offers different access plans, ranging from a $25 day pass to $200 – $550 monthly company passes. The space comes stocked with all the business essentials you could ask for, including internet access, lounges, a kitchen, a conference room, and event space.

Formerly the beloved Magnum Lounge Space, The Anderson opened in March 2016 to bring that 80s piano bar vibe back to the 79th Street neighborhood. Though technically not Little Haiti/Little River, this guide couldn’t be out in the world without this awesome spot for great cocktails, live music, and late night boogie-ing. Plus there’s a tiki bar! Come for the patio, stay for the gold-encrusted bathroom sinks.

(Photo courtesy of The Anderson)