Miami Cocaine Capital History Tour: 1980's Landmarks

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Miami

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Step back in time and explore the 1980’s Miami cocaine capital on this immersive history tour. Discover iconic landmarks and learn about the city’s role in the drug war.

Duration: 1 hour

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Rickenbacker Causeway - Take in the breathtaking Miami skyline from our convertible Jeep and discover the connection between real estate and drug money, a relationship that was evident during the 1970s. Drug trade money was pervasive, significantly impacting the top industry, real estate, which generated $9 billion annually, while the drug trade brought in an estimated $12 billion each year to the local economy.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens - En route to the Grove, we will pass by the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a stunning structure with European influences. Overlooking the clear waters of Biscayne Bay, this magnificent estate provides a tranquil contrast to Miami’s otherwise lavish and vibrant atmosphere. Its remarkable architecture draws thousands of visitors annually, making it one of the city’s most popular attractions. Vizcaya’s grandeur also made it a target for thieves; in 1971, three New Yorkers stole $1.5 million in art, jewelry, and collectibles. They were apprehended in New York City three days later, but only a small portion of the stolen items was recovered and returned to Vizcaya.
Coconut Grove - After exploring the history of the Miami skyline, we will head to Coconut Grove. Known locally as “The Grove,” it is one of South Florida’s trendiest, most vibrant, and welcoming areas. Coconut Grove is home to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and upscale hotels. Due to its proximity to several marinas and the infamous Mutiny Hotel, a hub for 1980s cocaine kingpins, we will drive through this luxurious district to glimpse how it became a focal point in the 1980s drug war. The area is also famous for its freely roaming peacocks, which we will have the chance to see with their dazzling colors and impressive tails.
Supreme @ Grove Harbor - We will pass by one of the marinas in Coconut Grove to learn about the various distribution channels used by drug kingpins in the 1980s. During the Prohibition era, these boats were used illegally for smuggling drugs. Drug dealers used these fast boats to evade the U.S. Coast Guard and DEA agents, whose standard patrol boats couldn’t match their speed.
Miami City Hall - On our way to the Mutiny, we will pass by Miami City Hall. Originally built in 1934 by Pan American Airlines as a terminal for its flying boats, the building was sold to the city of Miami in 1946. After a brief period as Jackie Heller’s Dinner Key Terrace restaurant, it was converted into Miami City Hall in 1954.
The Mutiny Hotel by Provident Hotels & Resorts - Our final stop will be at one of the most iconic symbols of the 1980s drug war. You will hear various stories about The Mutiny Hotel in Coconut Grove, a hotspot for drug dealers and celebrities during Miami’s cocaine heyday. The hotel was a mecca for 1980s cocaine kingpins, consistently overbooked and transporting cash profits in armored trucks. It was a gathering place for celebrities, corrupt politicians, spies, informants, and both good and bad cops. The influx of drug money was so significant that the Mutiny sold more bottles of Dom Pérignon than any other establishment worldwide.

What's Included

Bluetooth to play your own music
Bottled water
Small Group tour (maximum 4 guests per car)
Convertible Jeep
Driver Guide

What's Not Included

Bathroom
Gratuities

Additional Information

Dive into the narratives of how Miami rose to be the prominent hub for cocaine in the United States during the initial years of the 1980’s. Tailored to satiate the curiosity of those who are interested in this specific era, this guided tour primarily takes place in Coconut Grove, enveloping several historic locations that were pivotal in the drug conflict. From high-end condos, speedboats, sailing vessels, the renowned Mutiny hotel, to peacocks, you will be introduced to and educated about remarkable landmarks that were the heart of the cocaine empire in the 1980’s.

Location

David T. Kennedy Park

South Bayshore Drive

You will be able to park your car at the parking lot right at the entrance of the park should you drive down south bayshore drive from Brickell Avenue

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

5.0