Just south of downtown Miami, perched on the edge of Virginia Key, sits the iconic Miami Marine Stadium. In its heyday, the unique floating stage was filled with musical performances by Queen and Ray Charles, as well as boat races, boxing matches and other events.
Sitting on land but also hanging out over the water, the impressive venue still stands today but remains unused. It closed to the public after Hurricane Andrew in 1992, when city officials deemed it an unsafe structure. And after more than three decades of neglect and graffiti art at every turn, support for restoring the historic landmark and giving it a new lease on life has continued to grow.
What is the Miami Marine Stadium?
Built in 1963 and designed by Cuban-born architect Hilario Candela, the Miami Marine Stadium would be home to a diverse range of events and public gatherings. Many local residents will remember Jimmy Buffett‘s legendary 1985 performance or the times he leapt off stage and into the water.
Most might have even spotted the stadium during a racing scene in the 1967 movie “Clambake,” starring Elvis Presley.
The venue, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, seats 6,500 and overlooks Biscayne Bay as well as the downtown Miami skyline. When the stadium was brought to a close in 1992 and left to decay, many graffiti artists began to leave behind their colorful designs. While it has remained empty ever since, the land around the stadium hosts regular events, with the most recent being this year’s pickleball-fueled Pickle Games and the recurring Country Bay Music Festival.
But could things change for the waterfront landmark?
Could the Miami Marine Stadium be revived?
Everyone loves a good comeback and it’s been a long time coming when it comes to restoring the stadium. Friends of Miami Marine Stadium, an advocacy group, have played a large role in raising awareness as well as Gloria and Emilio Estefan, who have performed on its very stage.
The Miami city commission had already given approval for a comprehensive restoration plan more than three years ago, which included repairs to the seating, roof and infrastructure as well as an authorized $45 million in bonds.
As reported by the Miami Herald this year, Commissioner Damian Pardo, whose district includes Virginia Key, would push for the city to get the restoration project on track, such as hiring an operator, re-approving the expired bond authorization and preparing a 2025 referendum to win voters’ approval. This would be backed by Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, who has long supported the restoration and said he would make it a priority before his term ends in 2025.
Hopes are high for the empty stage to return to concerts and sporting events, which could rival Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheater. Fortunately, per the Miami Herald, some repairs have recently been completed: a $3 million project to repair corroded grandstand pilings in the water, mostly funded by the Florida Inland Navigation District.