Located on Miami's main thoroughfare, Biscayne Boulevard, the Freedom Tower is an historic building that holds a special place in the hearts of Miami's Cuban exile community. In the 1960s, the Freedom Tower was the first stopping point for thousands of Cuban exiles fleeing Fidel Castro's communist regime. It's Miami's own version of Ellis Island.

Public transportation and parking at Freedom Tower
The Freedom Tower is easily accessible by Metromover via the Freedom Tower station. For those with a car, there is a plenty of metered street parking around the building.

Best and worst times to go to Freedom Tower
The building and museum are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Otherwise, it is a hidden gem without the crowds.

Must see at Freedom Tower
The building is now owned and operated by Miami Dade College and houses the MDC Museum of Art + Design on the 2nd floor. Exhibitions change on a rotating basis and admission is free.

Other places to visit near Freedom Tower
Visit with enough time to check out other nearby attractions like the famed American Airlines Arena, home of the Miami Heat, and the Perez Art Museum Miami.

Insider tip for visitors to Freedom Tower
Before leaving, be sure to sneak a peek of the "New World" mural on the 1st floor. Restored from a 1920s tapestry in 1987, the 60 by 20 foot mural highlights the journey and discovery of the New World and how two worlds became one.

Author's bio: Mandy Baca has lived in Miami for 27 years. She is a freelance writer for various Miami publications.