José Martí Park

Riverside Haven

Tucked along the Miami River in the vibrant Little Havana neighborhood, José Martí Park offers 1.7 acres of green refuge from the city's constant motion. Named after the renowned Cuban poet and independence fighter José Martí, this park has become something of a community living room for locals and a pleasant discovery for visitors.

The park's riverwalk might be our favorite feature - a stretch where you can sit on benches and watch boats and luxury yachts cruise by on the Miami River. It's the kind of place where time slows down a bit. If you're lucky (and patient), you might even catch sight of dolphins playing in the river waters - a little moment of wild Miami that feels like a gift.

Recreation Facilities

Whether you're looking to break a sweat or just enjoy some outdoor time, José Martí Park offers several options. The basketball courts here are usually buzzing with energy, especially on weekends when pickup games transform into community events with players of all skill levels joining in.

For fitness enthusiasts, the park offers an indoor gym and fitness room if you prefer working out with a roof over your head. More of an outdoor exerciser? The outdoor exercise equipment stations are well-suited for those who like their workouts with a side of fresh air and sunshine. The calisthenics area is particularly well-equipped if bodyweight exercises are your thing.

Families with kids will appreciate the thoughtfully designed playground with separate zones for the little ones (ages 2-7) and older children. Beyond the usual swings and slides, there are climbing structures, a covered play area for those intensely sunny Miami days, and even musical instruments for budding musicians to explore. The adjacent grassy field is excellent for impromptu kickball games or just running around freely.

Aquatic and Wellness Activities

The six-lane, 25-meter swimming pool is a true community asset. Early birds can start swimming laps as early as 6 AM, while throughout the day the pool hosts everything from casual swimmers to water aerobics classes. The learn-to-swim programs are a particular highlight - affordable and accessible for neighborhood children. Adults pay just $3 for admission while kids swim for free, making it one of the most budget-friendly swimming options in Miami.

If you're looking to center yourself, free yoga classes take place on Tuesdays, offering a peaceful moment to stretch and breathe in this riverside setting. The Zumba classes bring a different kind of energy, with the seniors in particular showing up to prove that moving to the rhythm knows no age limit.

Community Programs

Beyond the physical amenities, José Martí Park serves an important role for nearby neighborhoods. After-school programs provide safe spaces and enrichment for children from surrounding areas, including those from disadvantaged communities.

The community garden gives residents a chance to grow their own food and flowers while connecting with neighbors. Organizations like Amigos for Kids run various initiatives here, and music classes offer creative outlets for those looking to develop artistic skills. These programs transform the park from just a place to visit into a genuine community resource.

Historical Significance

What you might not realize while enjoying the park is that you're standing on historically rich ground. The area beneath the nearby I-95 once contained Indian camps dating back to approximately 400 A.D.

In 1982, archaeological digs uncovered pottery fragments, shell tools, projectile points, and even an Indian woman's grave - tangible connections to the area's ancient past. For Miami's Cuban-American community, the park holds additional significance through its statue of José Martí, a symbol of cultural heritage and the freedom-seeking spirit that connects Miami to Cuba's history.