Miami Lakes, FL
- About the City
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums and Art Spaces
- Universities and Higher Education
- Healthcare Institutions and Services
Miami Lakes is a master-planned community in Miami-Dade County, Florida, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, parks, and the historic Graham Building.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Miami Lakes, Florida.
- Miami Lakes is an incorporated town in Miami-Dade County, Florida, United States. It holds the governmental status of an incorporated town within the state of Florida. It is not a county seat, as the administrative center of Miami-Dade County is Miami. The region is globally renowned for its vibrant multicultural population, beautiful beaches, and as a major hub for international trade, tourism, and finance.
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Miami Lakes is sometimes referred to as "The Town of Golf and Country Clubs" due to its development around the Miami Lakes Golf Course and its numerous private country club communities. It is also known as a "Master-Planned Community," a term that reflects its origins as a thoughtfully designed suburban development.
Date of Foundation and Age
- The area was initially developed in the early 1960s by the Graham family (owners of The Washington Post). The Town of Miami Lakes was officially incorporated on December 5, 2000. Therefore, the town is relatively young, currently 24 years old.
Geographical Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 25.9125° N latitude, -80.3214° W longitude.
- The town is located in inland Miami-Dade County, approximately 18 miles (29 km) northwest of downtown Miami. It is situated on the Atlantic Coastal Plain, a flat, low-lying region typical of South Florida. The elevation of the town center is about 3 to 5 feet (1-1.5 meters) above sea level. It is a suburban community.
Type of City and Economic Specialization
- Miami Lakes is primarily a residential suburb and a thriving business hub. Its economy is diversified, with a strong focus on professional services (law, accounting, engineering), healthcare, retail, and light industry. The town is home to numerous corporate headquarters and the Shops at Don Shula's Hotel, a major hospitality and conference center. It functions as a significant employment center within northwest Miami-Dade County.
Population and Demographics
- As of the 2020 census, the population of Miami Lakes was approximately 30,467 residents. It is considered a small to medium-sized town. The community is known for its diverse population, with a large percentage of residents being of Hispanic or Latino origin, contributing to a vibrant, multicultural suburban character.
The City's "Visiting Card" (Briefly)
- Miami Lakes is a family-oriented, master-planned community offering a suburban oasis with parks, golf courses, and a historic downtown area. Visitors and residents are drawn to its safe, green spaces, its blend of residential comfort and corporate convenience, and its easy access to the greater Miami area, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.
Landmarks
The Graham Building
- The Graham Building, located at 6601 Main Street, is the historic and symbolic heart of Miami Lakes. Constructed in the 1960s, it originally served as the sales and administrative office for the Graham Companies, the developers who master-planned the entire town. Today, this iconic structure, with its distinctive Spanish-style architecture, has been repurposed as an upscale event venue and houses offices. It represents the visionary family behind the town's creation and is a local landmark.
Miami Lakes Veterans Park
- This park is a major community focal point and memorial space. It is dedicated to the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The park features a poignant memorial wall and various commemorative elements. It serves as the site for the town's annual Veterans Day ceremony and is a peaceful place for reflection, combined with recreational amenities like walking paths and sports fields.
Shops at Don Shula's
- This is the primary commercial and hospitality hub of Miami Lakes. It is named after the legendary Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula, who was a long-time resident and partner in the development. The complex includes a hotel, conference center, numerous restaurants, retail stores, and offices. It functions as a town center, hosting community events and providing a gathering place for both locals and visitors. The adjacent Miami Lakes Golf Course is a key feature, designed by Bill Watts and associated with Coach Shula.
Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church
- This prominent church is a central religious and architectural landmark in the community. Its modern design and tall spire make it a visible and recognizable structure from the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826). It serves a large and active parish and is a cornerstone of the town's spiritual and community life.
Transport
Main Airports
- Miami International Airport (MIA) is the primary airport serving the region, located approximately 12 miles (19 km) southeast of Miami Lakes. Its IATA code is MIA. It is a major international hub, particularly for flights to and from Latin America and the Caribbean. Travelers can reach Miami Lakes from MIA via taxis, ride-sharing services, or by taking the Tri-Rail commuter train (via a transfer at the Hialeah Market station).
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) , IATA code FLL, is another major airport about 20 miles (32 km) north of Miami Lakes. It serves as a significant hub for low-cost carriers and is a convenient alternative to MIA, accessible via taxis or ride-sharing.
Major Highways
- The town is strategically located at the crossroads of several major highways. The Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) runs along its eastern border, providing direct access to Miami International Airport and points south. The Miami Lakes Drive (NW 154th Street) is the town's main east-west artery, connecting to I-75, a major interstate that runs northwest across the state and is a key route for commuters and travelers heading to Naples or Tampa. Northwest 57th Avenue (Red Road) and Northwest 67th Avenue (Ludlam Road) are other important north-south thoroughfares.
Public Transportation
- Public transportation in the area is primarily provided by Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) . Several Metrobus routes serve Miami Lakes, connecting residents to nearby neighborhoods and to major transit hubs like the Golden Glades Interchange and the Hialeah Market Tri-Rail station.
- While there is no Metrorail station within Miami Lakes itself, the Tri-Rail commuter rail system is accessible at the nearby Hialeah Market station (just south of the town) and the Opa-locka station. Tri-Rail provides service north to West Palm Beach and south to Miami International Airport and downtown Miami, offering a crucial link to the wider South Florida region.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Miami Lakes offers a vibrant culinary scene that reflects the diverse cultural fabric of South Florida, with a strong emphasis on Latin flavors and creative fusions.
Signature Dishes and Local Specialties
- Brisket Sundae at La Traila Barbecue: This is arguably Miami Lakes' most Instagrammable dish. It's a deconstructed barbecue feast served in a bowl, starting with a layer of mac and cheese, followed by creamed corn and baked beans. This is then topped with cotija cheese, tender smoked brisket, a drizzle of house sauce, and crema . This dish is a must-try for its novelty and delicious combination of Texas-style barbecue and creative presentation. It's a prime example of the inventive spirit found in the local food scene.
- Texas Trinity Platter: For a true taste of pitmaster pride, the Texas Trinity platter from La Traila Barbecue is an experience to share. It features a generous spread of slow-smoked brisket, beef "dino" ribs, pulled pork, jalapeño cheddar sausage, pork spare ribs, and garlic pork sausage, designed to feed four to six people . This platter showcases the authentic, smoke-kissed flavors that the restaurant's founder, an Austin native, brought to Miami Lakes .
- Fresh Ceviches and Grilled Meats at 1910 Restaurant & Bar: Reflecting the area's strong Latin influence, 1910 Restaurant & Bar is celebrated for its sophisticated take on Latin American cuisine. The menu features fresh ceviches that capture the essence of Latin coastlines and high-quality charbroiled meats, including an Australian Wagyu churrasco . This spot is a favorite for those seeking an elegant dining experience with vibrant flavors.
Unique Local Products and Markets
- La Bodeguita Meat Market: More than just a butcher shop, La Bodeguita is a culinary destination in itself. It's renowned for its impressive selection of high-quality and exotic meats, such as alligator, elk, and wagyu beef . The market also doubles as a charming cafeteria serving everything from sizzling churrasco to tapas, and it offers unique grocery items sourced from South America . It's the perfect place to explore new ingredients or enjoy a casual, flavorful meal.
Dining and Atmosphere
- Live Music and Craft Cocktails: The dining experience in Miami Lakes often extends beyond the plate. Restaurants like 1910 Restaurant & Bar create a complete evening out with live music that energizes the environment and a selection of handcrafted cocktails, such as the signature 1910 Cocktail . Happy hour, with its specials on drinks and food, is a popular way for locals to unwind .
- Casual Culinary Hub: La Bodeguita Meat Market offers a more casual, upbeat atmosphere with music enhancing the experience, making it ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely meal . Its friendly staff and fast service have made it a beloved local spot.
Museums and Art Spaces
While Miami Lakes itself has a limited number of public museums, its location in Miami-Dade County places it within easy reach of one of the most dynamic art scenes in the United States. The city is surrounded by world-class institutions in nearby Miami, Coral Gables, and Miami Beach, many of which are a short drive away.
Major Art Museums in the Greater Miami Area
- Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): Located on Biscayne Bay in downtown Miami, PAMM is a flagship institution for modern and contemporary art. Housed in a stunning, state-of-the-art building designed by Herzog & de Meuron, its collection focuses on international art of the 20th and 21st centuries, with a strong emphasis on art from the Americas, the Caribbean, and the African diaspora .
- Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami): Dedicated to promoting continuous experimentation in contemporary art, ICA Miami in the Design District offers a dynamic program of exhibitions by both established and emerging artists . The museum is committed to making contemporary art accessible to a wide audience.
- Lowe Art Museum: Situated on the campus of the University of Miami in Coral Gables, the Lowe Art Museum has a diverse and comprehensive collection spanning 5,000 years . It includes original works of art from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, featuring ancient American and Native American art, Renaissance and Baroque paintings, and modern and contemporary works.
- The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum: Located at Florida International University, this museum serves as a significant resource for scholarly research and community engagement. Its mission is to provide transformative experiences through art, collecting and exhibiting works from across cultures .
- The Wolfsonian - Florida International University: Housed in a historic building on Miami Beach, The Wolfsonian is a museum, library, and research center that explores the persuasive power of art and design . Its collection includes objects from the period of 1885 to 1945, ranging from furniture and glass to posters and political propaganda.
Key Art Events
- Art Basel Miami Beach: This is the most significant art event in the Americas, taking place annually at the Miami Beach Convention Center . As the sister event to the original Art Basel in Switzerland, it attracts the world's premier galleries, collectors, and artists, transforming the entire city into a hub of art fairs and cultural activities for a week each December.
Private Collections and Galleries
The area is also home to renowned private collections and galleries that are open to the public, such as El Espacio Twenty Three, founded by collector and philanthropist Jorge M. Pérez in the Allapattah neighborhood of Miami . The Rubell Museum, another major private collection, is also located in Miami, further cementing the region's status as a global art destination .
Universities and Higher Education
Miami Lakes hosts a diverse range of higher education institutions, from technical colleges to university campuses, serving both local students and those from the broader South Florida region. There are two colleges located directly within the city limits and many more within a 30-mile radius .
Universities and Colleges in Miami Lakes
- Ana G. Méndez University (AGMU) - South Florida Campus: Located in the heart of Miami Lakes, this campus is designed to support adult learners and a culturally diverse community . Housed in a 51,000-square-foot facility, the campus offers individualized academic programs and services, with a strong focus on health services. It provides high-fidelity simulation labs and industry-related technology for students to practice professional skills .
- Miami Lakes Educational Center and Technical College: This is a public, two-year college that focuses on career and technical education . It offers certificates and hands-on training in practical fields. Some of its largest programs include Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC), Truck and Bus Driving, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training, and Automotive Mechanics Technology .
Major Universities Near Miami Lakes
Beyond its city limits, Miami Lakes is in close proximity to some of Florida's largest and most prestigious universities, making it a convenient residential area for students and faculty.
- Florida International University (FIU) : Located just about 11 miles away, FIU is a public research university and one of the largest institutions in the country, with over 53,000 students . It is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, international relations, and law.
- University of Miami (UM) : Approximately 13.5 miles from Miami Lakes, UM is a private, top-tier research university . It is highly regarded for its marine science, music, business, law, and medical programs.
- Barry University: A private, Catholic university located about 8 miles away in Miami Shores, Barry offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in nursing, education, and social work .
- Nova Southeastern University (NSU) : Located about 12.6 miles away in Fort Lauderdale, NSU is a private university known for its comprehensive health professions programs, including osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry, as well as its law school .
- St. Thomas University: A private, not-for-profit university just 4.3 miles away, it offers programs in law, business, and other fields .
- Florida Memorial University: Located 3.2 miles away, this is a private, historically Black university (HBCU) with a rich history .
- Miami Dade College (MDC) : One of the largest institutions of higher education in the country, MDC has multiple campuses within easy reach of Miami Lakes, offering a vast array of associate and bachelor's degree programs .
Healthcare Institutions and Services
Residents of Miami Lakes have access to a variety of healthcare services, ranging from local urgent care centers and medical practices to the world-renowned hospitals of the Baptist Health South Florida system located nearby.
Local Medical Centers and Practices
- IMC Health Medical Centers: This is a multi-specialty medical practice located within Miami Lakes, offering a range of services including Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Pulmonology . It serves as a primary care hub for many local families and accepts a wide variety of insurance plans.
- Baptist Health Urgent Care Center: Conveniently located within Miami Lakes, this facility provides treatment for minor illnesses and injuries on a walk-in basis . It offers services such as digital X-rays, lab services, and treatment for conditions like respiratory infections, minor fractures, and sports injuries. As a department of South Miami Hospital, it is integrated into the larger Baptist Health network, allowing for seamless referrals if more advanced care is needed . Patients can also use the PineApp to start their registration online to save time.
- NSPIRE Healthcare Miami Lakes: Located nearby in Hialeah, this facility functions as a rehabilitation center, medical center, and senior residence . It provides specialized care for the elderly, including nursing home services and retirement community living.
Major Hospitals and Medical Systems Nearby
For more specialized or hospital-level care, Miami Lakes is situated close to the nationally acclaimed facilities of Baptist Health South Florida.
- South Miami Hospital: As the hospital to which the local Baptist Health Urgent Care is attached, South Miami Hospital is a full-service, acute care facility known for its comprehensive programs in cancer care, cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health . It is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the Miami metro area.
- Other Baptist Health Facilities: The Baptist Health system also includes other major hospitals within a reasonable distance from Miami Lakes, such as Baptist Hospital of Miami in Kendall, Doctors Hospital in Coral Gables, and West Kendall Baptist Hospital, providing residents with access to a vast network of specialists and cutting-edge medical technology.