Miami has so much to offer — from a thriving art scene and vibrant culture, to historically-rich landmarks and cuisine that’s reflective of its diverse population. It also has its fair share of winding roads, from ones stretching through the most historic parts of the city to ones that have their own unique vibe such as Calle Ocho or Miracle Mile. But have you ever wondered which street stands out as the longest?
Collins Avenue may come to mind, as the Art Deco mecca is considered the longest street in Miami Beach. State Road 934 is another possible candidate, which runs a little over 13 miles from Miami Beach all the way to the Palmetto Expressway in Medley.
But according to our research, the honorable title goes to Biscayne Boulevard, which offers plenty of stylish shops, towering hotels and must-try eateries along its route. Technically an extension of US 1, the road is named South Dixie Highway before becoming known as Biscayne Boulevard as it reaches the Miami River into downtown. It continues north through the rest of the county we call home, spreading over several neighborhoods such as Wynwood, the MiMo District, Miami Shores, North Miami and Aventura, among others. The street then extends well past Broward County but under a different name.
For perspective, all of US 1 runs 2,370 miles from Key West to Fort Kent, Maine, at the Canadian border. Biscayne Boulevard only encompasses about 14 of those miles, all within Dade County!
History
Construction of Biscayne Boulevard began in 1925, in the midst of the Florida real estate boom, according to a MiMo/Biscayne Boulevard designation report. The route began at the gateway to the gardens of the historic Royal Palm Hotel — one of the first hotels in Miami — and stretched north until it reached NE 55th Street, where it merged to become US Route 1 (known as Federal Highway at the time).
Lined with royal palms, it was originally designed as a beautiful boulevard offering shops and services but the stretch of road would fall on hard times and several businesses along the corridor would shut down. But over the years, new restaurants, stores and hotels would spring up.
Present day
Along its route, Biscayne Boulevard crosses some of the most interesting sights and locations to stop by. You’ll find the 1925-built Freedom Tower, a historic landmark that once served as The Miami News office before it would become an assistance center for hundreds of thousands of Cubans fleeing the 1959 communist revolution. It is currently home to Miami Dade College’s Museum of Art and Design, but closed due to renovations.
The street also passes by the Kaseya Center, perfect for the best concerts and basketball games; the Adrienne Arsht Center which houses incredible talent; MiMo’s historic ’50s and ’60s motels; and Aventura Mall, one of the largest malls in all of the country.
While we don’t suggest walking the entire street due to its length — but hey, Shark Valley’s Tram Trail is 15 miles so biking could be a great option — Biscayne Boulevard is easily accessible driving and there are several City of Miami trolleys that run along the route (free of charge). Click here for information on trolley routes and schedules.