Domino Park

Park · Little Havana

2

Closed

Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null
Domino Park by null

Highlights

In the heart of Little Havana, Domino Park buzzes with spirited games of dominoes and chess under a comfy shelter, offering a slice of vibrant local culture.

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1444 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135 Get directions

Closed (Opens at 9:00 AM)

"Doble nueve", "puntilla", y "pollona". All are random Cuban domino phrases you may hear as you stroll into this magical little park full of locals partaking in their pastime. The destination is constantly crowded with players from sunrise to sunset, all of whom are warm and welcoming. A consistent laughter can be heard from the winning teams. Still, even though tourists flock to see them—come game time—their motives revolve solely on focus and concentration. You may find that many of the older residents that inhabit this cultural venue are some of the most lively, young-spirited locals you'll meet." - Colada Collective

·

Jun 11, 2024

View Postcard for Domino Park

"Domino Park, Little Havana by Colada Collective. "Doble nueve", "puntilla", y "pollona". All are random Cuban domino phrases you may hear as you stroll into this magical little park full of locals partaking in their pastime. The destination is constantly crowded with players from sunrise to sunset, all of whom are warm and welcoming. A consistent laughter can be heard from the winning teams. Still, even though tourists flock to see them—come game time—their motives revolve solely on focus and concentration. You may find that many of the older residents that inhabit this cultural venue are some of the most lively, young-spirited locals you'll meet."

Miami
·

Mar 16, 2022

View Postcard for Domino Park

stephanie cruickshank

Google
This was a cool stop on our walking tour but just know they play chess and checkers as well as dominos at this park. They also have food venders, music , crafts. It was a real party!

Marcela Bravo

Google
Domino Park in Little Havana is a charming, authentic slice of Miami’s Cuban culture. It’s a small park where locals gather to play dominoes, and you can feel the sense of community and tradition in the air. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it a great place to stop by, watch a game, and experience a piece of local life. It’s a quick, unique stop while exploring Little Havana!

Nils M.

Google
The place is nothing spectacular but a great starting point to walk little Havanna. A must see in Miami

George Fine

Google
The famed Domino Park in Little Havana In South Miami. The park was smaller than I imagined, but it is full of guys playing chess and Domino. Its worth a stop by if you're visiting little Havana. There is lots of old men playing who are playing up their role as Domino players.

Marnie Williams

Google
Love the vibe here! The people were so nice! I felt safe to walk around and explore the scenery, the stores, and the restaurants.

Shaniece

Google
The Domino Park is truly a nice it’s for 55th and up . It’s a nice park filled with a community vibe the players didn’t mind us watching them play . It was actually relaxing see them enjoying a game that they love so much !

Sean Lawrence

Google
Lively, tiny but packed with furious games of dominoes, and loud. Some of the most animated action I've seen, especially considering priority of game time at the tables is given to the social club members who have to be 55 or older. A great spot for energetic relaxation

MK

Google
Charming little park where locals play domino and chess. It is open only during the day.

Ariel W.

Yelp
Máximo Gómez Park is better known as El Parque del Domino or Domino Park. You can find it in the heart of Little Havana, on Southwest 8th Street and 15th Avenue, between the Tower Theater and McDonald's. The park was founded in 1961 by Rene Janero and friends who were part of a group of Cuban ex-political prisoners that fled to Miami after the Bay of Pigs Invasion. They began meeting to play dominoes in what was once an empty parking lot. Word spread and more began to gather, The lot was then incorporated into the City of Miami in 1976 who built the park at a cost of $115,000. In 1983, Miami renovated the park adding pavilions to cover the tables that are set up the way they are in Cuba to maximize the space. The walkways are decorated with dominos and lined with benches for spectators. Domino Park is named after Generalissimo Máximo Gómez who was born in the Dominican Republic. He led the Cuban rebel forces next to Jose Marti in the early 1900's when Cuba gained its independence from Spain. There is a bust of him in the park along with a mural created by Dominican artist Oscar Thomas, depicting the presidents of all American nations that attended the first Summit of the Americas, held in Miami in 1994. It is thought that the Chinese originated the tile game which dates back to the 1100's. Italian sailors brought the game back with them to Europe and in the 19th century and the game of Dominoes, as we now know it, was spread across the European continent and then brought here. Today dominoes is pastime enjoyed by many in the Latin culture, especially the older generation. If you want to play dominoes in this park you must be 55 or older and have a membership card. The park is a famous cultural landmark in Little Havana where the older generation can socialize, drink coffee, discuss politics, and play dominoes. Domino Park is open 9 AM to 6 PM daily.

May A.

Yelp
Domino Park had a scene from Father of the Bride [2022] Domino Park is located in the heart of Little Havana by 15th Ave and the famous "Calle Ocho." It is a short five minute walk from the Memorial Boulevard Park. How is this hidden gem on historic Calle Ocho (8th) a Cuban tradition? Well, it became a meeting spot for older Cubans and they would socialize, sip coffee, and have a domino match, a tradition for over 35 years, carried over from Old Cuba, maybe? These senior citizens were serious about their domino matches too. One older lady even got mad at me for taking a quick video. I dunno if she was distracted and I made her lose her concentration. Oops! sorry! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ This isn't really a park so not sure why it is called that. There are (4) Domino tables and (3) Checker/Chess tables with fixed seating and a shade canopy. General Máximo Gómez has a Marker and bust in the park. Domino Park played a cameo appearance in the 2022 movie, Father of the Bride, with Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan (third filmed version of the story) after the original 1950 film and the 1991 remake (Steve Martin, Diane Keaton). When we visited Little Havana for the first time, Calle Ocho was blocked from car traffic in celebration of the Gay8 festival. The food vendor booths were all lined on the street and we missed seeing the Domino Park. Review #2891

Anthony K.

Yelp
Máximo Gómez Park (Domino Park) in Little Havana located on historic Calle Ocho (8th Street) where the locals come to play dominoes and/or chess for the past several generations. For visitors, it is a cool place to come watch the locals play dominos. The style of play is Cuban, and they use a double nine set. There is no cost in visiting the park, but don't be surprised if there is some friendly wagering at the tables. Visitors won't be able to play, but you're welcome to take some pictures out front, watch people play, and enjoy the culture a bit. Outside the gates there are some bricks on the ground decorated like dominos, which make for good photos. FACT: Domino Park played a cameo appearance in the 2022 movie, Father of the Bride, with Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan

Diomedes L.

Yelp
This is a famous hangout for the locals to socialize here in Little Havana. I was surprise there were so many domino ppl playing domino. I mean, this park is practically a place they have built for simple recreation place of 55 over residents. They may have been some tournament because the players was very serious. Plating Bones(domino) is pretty fun. For the players here in the park, they're pretty serious about their he(s) . It is also a popular area location for movie scenes.

Robert S.

Yelp
Máximo Gómez Park in Little Havana, more affectionately known as Domino Park by the locals, is a hidden gem right on historic Calle Ocho (8th Street). Named after General Máximo Gómez, a Cuban revolutionary, this is a social spot popular with locals. At any time of day, you will find the regulars sipping Cuban coffee, playing dominoes and chatting with friends. A tradition for more than 40 years, gameplay at the park is serious and exciting to watch, with authentic Latin energy and competitive banter. Games are typically for members only. Anyone over 50 with a Maximo Gmez Domino Club card has free, lifetime membership to play here - and the players don't mind an audience. Tourists, visitors and others love taking pictures of the Domino players with their faces so focused on the game, it's intense ! There are many rules if you intend to play. Check out the attached pics for more information. The park features walkways of domino-decorated tile work and a perimeter lined with benches for spectators, based on where the sun is, you can pick a shady spot or a sunny spot. You can't miss the painted mural that serves as a background to the Domino tables. Created by Dominican artist Oscar Thomas, the mural depicts the presidents of all American nations that attended the first Summit of the Americas, held in Miami in 1994. There's a public restroom in the back of the park, which is a great feature, especially if you are in the area for a festival. A life saver !

Jeannette L.

Yelp
If you're visiting Little Havana, it's worth checking out/walking by Maximo Gomez Park on Calle Ocho to get a feel of the local culture and to people watch. Locals play dominoes and socialize here. You can take some good pictures here, too.

Devaneé T.

Yelp
Come here any day, any time and you're guaranteed to see games of dominos being played. Family like environment. Definitely stop by if you're ever in the area!

Brian B.

Yelp
Awesome place. Only for residents that are 55 and over or I would still be sitting there. The place is packed and I wish it was open to everybody, but again, that would probably ruin the whole vibe and it would be overrun. Still, a cool spot to walk through and watch a few games when in the area.

Hank R.

Yelp
I have to start off with I LOVE this place. I've been stopping by this park for at least 15 years. Probably closer to 20 years. This place has history here, in the making and organically growing here on a daily basis. This is always a well kept and clean area. If it's not someone will be answering for it. It is one of the best places to come, sit, watch and learn and be taught. Phenomenal people always here. All are always welcome. Generations have come through here and continue to develop and grow through this park. I'm not sure if it's called domino's but that's what I've watched being played. It might be called something that I'm unaware of. If the benches could speak. Now that'd be a school lesson. It has been too long since I've been here. Long overdue. I'm due for a fix this weekend. You'll know where to find me.

Rebecca R.

Yelp
If you are a local resident and a senior citizen, you can play dominos at Maximo Gomez Park (aka domino park). It is a park owned by the city where locals can come hang out and play until 6pm. For visitors, it is a cool place to come watch the locals play dominos. The style of play is Cuban, and they use a double nine set. Visitors won't be able to play, but you're welcome to take some pictures out front, watch people play, and enjoy the culture a bit. Outside the gates there are some bricks on the ground decorated like dominos, which make for good photos. You'll only spend a few minutes here if you're just visiting, but it's worth a stop and you can enjoy some of the other things next door and across the street: ice cream, the art deco style movie theater, a few bars, and live music playing at the bars.

Sara D.

Yelp
In the heart of Little Havana and what little remains of the neighborhood, this park is where Dominoes are played. There are rules governing the game posted on its fences. This area is restricted to the players; Adjacent is a walkway with Dominoes engraved in the paved way with tiles. Cuban paintings along the sides It's almost like a pilgrimage for Cubans while visiting Miami. A Tourist destination as well. A Gem and I hoped protected from developers

Mark D.

Yelp
**Pre-pandemic review** My friend from Chicago really wanted to visit here, envisioning a welcome atmosphere where you could sit and smoke a cigar and watch the viejos in a spirited game of dominoes smoking their cigars. I was underwhelmed with the size of the playing area, and the kind of side eye they were giving us even though we were in the over 55 demographic. The weirdest part was when we lit up our cigars several people had a conniption fit screaming "no smoking". Luckily, there was a small plaza area adjacent to the actual playing area where apparently smoking was allowed. Basically, this park just has a big tourist hype, but I wasn't that impressed.

Ryan F.

Yelp
Stopped into Maximo Gomez Park on a Sunday afternoon for some great people watching. It was a packed house and I got to enjoy a few competitive games of dominos. Quality Maximo Gomez Park, more commonly known as Domino Park, is what I would consider the unofficial capital of Little Havana. Although it is called a park, it is not a park in the traditional sense. Rather than green space and playgrounds it is an urban area populated with lively tables of abuelos playing dominos and chess. More than anything it is a community hub where lots of locals hang out and visitors can't help but want a quick peek to see what they are missing. Quantity The park is small and is exceptionally tight quarters on the weekends. Expect a standing room only affair on a weekend afternoon. Value There is no cost in visiting the park, but don't be surprised if there is some friendly wagering at the tables. Ambiance Maximo Gomez Park is located in Little Havana right on Calle Ocho. The park itself is a small area that is completely fenced in with several large coverings overhead. The park also has some shades to pull down on the side to keep out the sun and keep in the cool. The area is basically split into two sections, one for dominos and another for chess. There is some space around the tables in case you just want to watch. On the weekends it is very busy so I chose to just hang out to the side. However, during the week when it is less busy there is more opportunities to join in on the fun. Be forewarned it is a group of gentleman who love to tease beginners. Make note that the park closes early, so don't expect to see a game past sunset. Crowd While you will find most of the players are older Cuban gentlemen from the area, the park is a hot spot for tourists. Stick around for a bit and you will see tour buses unload right outside the park and walking groups directed right inside. Service The park is small and pretty clean, though it is not too hard to maintain a concrete park. Parking If you choose to park on Calle Ocho you are a braver, or possibly crazier, individual than me. Just south of the park is a residential area with plenty of easy and free street parking. Just always check the signs. Extra Maximo Gomez Park is a one of a kind cultural destination in Miami. It is a place visitors to Miami love to check out and a place locals have really made their own. Whether or not you play dominoes it is a place anyone can go to enjoy watching the colorful players duke it out.

Jonathan T.

Yelp
After you stuff your face with a scoop (or two) of Azcar Ice Cream's Abuela Maria (Signature Miami Flavor), salsa step across Calle Ocho to Little Havana's iconic Domino Park. Watch elderly men (and a few women) play the Latino version of Mahjong (lol) while seated on the evergreen, metal chairs with their forearms resting on the custom-crafted-for-dominos-and-chess, pearl-colored tables. Overhear banter about that infamous bastar*o named Castro, and how the country will eventually experience democracy. Inhale the aroma -- an unforgettable blend of bold Cuban espresso, Number 7 cigarette smoke, and freshly fried croquettas. Welcome to Miami. Snap a pic of the mosaic offering an ode to Calle 8 and Domino Park, and then enjoy the rest of Little Havana. You're in, for an experience.

Cyn T.

Yelp
This was such an authentic experience! I thought I was in Cuba as I walked through tables filled with men and women playing dominoes in deep concentration. The area is a historic site called 'Domino Park' were the locals go. It was such a treat to visit.

Phylicia K.

Yelp
This is a historical staple of Little Havana! Tourists, I encourage you to stop by and check it out! You will see and feel the hustle & bustle of many generations of domino players. While a majority are Cuban you do find various cultures gather here for the classic game! Beware these are some serious players! There is also a really nice mural near the back!

Alexa C.

Yelp
A quintessential slice of Miami nestled amongst the main block of Calle Ocho is where you'll find the famous Domino Park that everyone talks about. What they don't tell you is that you basically aren't allowed to play even in the circumstances that you're lucky enough to find a table at. I took my Cali friends for a stroll down the block and since I had my dominoes, I wanted to obviously play. I sat down and halfway through a game, I was told I had to leave because I wasn't 55 & I wasn't a member. Mind you, there's a bunch of open tables. I was super confused to be honest. Growing up in Miami, everyone always visits this spot but since it's so hard to get a table I guess most of the reviews are based on the ambience instead of the actual functionality. Apparently, they only open the park to the public after 6 ONLY on Viernes Cultural which is the last Friday of the month. My luck was it was actually cancelled that day due to the afternoon rain. I had no choice but to pick up halfway through my game and play elsewhere. The whole mystique went out the window and that precious idea of the cool domino park in little Havana kinda dwindled. Why don't you guys just charge an entrance fee instead of only offering a membership for Senior Citizens ? I am a part of this community just like they are and I shouldn't be blocked from enjoying this public space. Dude, I was made in Dade and I live and breathe cafecito and dominoes. Just because old people have inhabited this slice of the block longer than me should prohibit me from being able to enjoy my city just like they do. For the record, the tables are super unkept and there's dirt everywhere. I ended up playing dominos at the cigar shop across the street free of charge and in a nicer setting. I'm appalled that I was not only blocked from buying a member because of my age but that a public space is blocked from people using the facilities and blocking my right to buy a membership. Dude, in totally writing a letter to the Mayor.

Patrick L.

Yelp
I find it perplexing that this has become some kind of major tourist attraction. I see all the hordes of tourists standing around the park, doing......what, exactly? It's not like they can get in on any of the action. Speaking of which, am I the only one that finds it weird, if not out-and-out illegal, that use of a public City of Miami park can be restricted to a certain demographic (age 55 and up)? What if I want to play? I live here too....what if I wanted to show up early, grab a table and play some dominoes? I always thought that the intent of a public park was to be an inclusive place, open for all to enjoy regardless of age, color, gender. I get that this tradition of elderly Cuban men playing dominoes exists, and yeah, I know this is little *Havana*, not little Kingston, but let's be real here, most other islands in the Caribbean have this tradition as well. It's well past time to open this place up and let anyone who wants to play, play. OK, rant off - anyway, if I was a tourist and someone told me to come here, and I did, I'd be pretty annoyed. You can watch old men play dominoes. That's supposed to be a fun cultural experience? You might as well go to Shenandoah Park and watch teenagers play pickup basketball. The only positive I see about this place is that Azucar and Ball & Chain are across the street, so once you're done with this "attraction" you can go have a cocktail and some ice cream.

Sarah S.

Yelp
In the heart of Little Havana, you'll find Domino Park! We rolled through on a Saturday morning and it was packed full of adorable Cuban Grandpas playing dominoes. It's legit! It's a thing! I couldn't believe this park was packed full of tables of mostly men playing the old school game. It's a weekend ritual for these guys to get together and chat over a game of dominoes. I felt kind of like a weirdo just coming to the park to observe but it's a bit of a tourist destination and the guys seem used to it. You'll see some other tourists hanging about, as well. There are tons of benches you could grab a Cuban Coffee or Cuban Ice Cream across the street, then chill out at. Fun place to chill out and witness a Little Havana tradition!

Mary B.

Yelp
Hot damn this place is cool. Maximo Gomez Domino Park is a famous site. A must see for tourists. In my opinion. First of all, the sound! The loud metallic ringing of the dominoes crashing together announces a new shuffle, a new game. The sound of excitement, of friendship, of luck, nostalgia, and freedom. Domino park is a members-only park where dominoes are played. There is a wait, there is service, there is an employee yelling in Spanish "Your time is up!" There is a player exclaiming in Spanish: "Today is my lucky day!" Many cultures have nostalgic games to play. Mah Jong, chess. Backgammon, Gin, in my family . In Cuba, dominoes. There are benches to sit at at stare at the moving scene. Cafes, bars, shopping and more on either side of the park. Pony rides available in front on the weekends. The people are very friendly here. I met Richard, who, for no reason at all, told me all about the, park, salsa and Cuba. He tells me that he loves his job. (pronounces it yob) He asks if there is Cuban food in LA. I tell him that there is. He teaches salsa and Merenge on 8th street in Calle Ocho. He tells me where the best salsa clubs are hiding. According to him, none of them are in South Beach. I try to imagine the back story between these old friends that meet here every day to play dominoes with each other. And my heart feels warm.:-)

Tony D.

Yelp
Cool place to watch people play dominos. You can play also if you want. I enjoyed watching the older gentleman playing and arguing.

Marqus R.

Yelp
Totally cool and a must see for any tourist or anyone having an interest in Cuba or Cuban culture. Just looking at speaks volumes of what Cuba must have been or what life there must really be all about. Basically it's an elderly Cuban men's playground of sorts; great to see and watch elderly as they play. I can only think that this lovely little park must represent the Hallmark or essence of what is known as "Little Havana."

Taylor J.

Yelp
What a cute little piece of cultural History located in Little Havana on Calle Ocho. This park marks the center of Little Havana. Packed with men and women playing dominoes and cards at built-in tables, it's a tourist stop on any visit to the area. What's in the park is a mural dedicated to influential members of Cuba. There is also a bust in the park dedicated to individual the park was named after. It's a small Park and there isn't much to do there unless you're playing the games but it's a nice place to stop by take a few photos to mark your visit to this cultural Mecca of Miami.

Angellé S.

Yelp
Domino park is everything I thought it would be. There really is a lot of older gentlemen gathered together smoking Cuban cigars and playing rounds of dominoes. They take their domino competitions very seriously. The atmosphere was lively and fun. Domino park is centrally located in Little Havana/Calle Ocho so you can't miss it. I stumbled upon it just walking down 8th street and the main strip. Definitely get you a cup of Cuban coffee or a Cuban ice cream fruit pop and join in on the fun!

Jeff G.

Yelp
I was taking pictures for fun in Little Havana and heard about this tiny park on the corner. It is what it says it is: a park where people play dominos! I took some great photos, and all of the people were super cool about it. The place is bustling. I actually have no clue how to play dominos so I didn't dare get in line for a game -- players seemed to be taking it pretty seriously! But they were having fun, and it was fun just to watch and take pictures for a few minutes. If you're in Little Havana in search of some good Cuban food (See: El Exquisito, Cafe Versailles), then stop here for an extra dose of Cuban culture.

Maribel M.

Yelp
Great place to visit in Little Havana. I loved listening to them speak on several topics and get into competitive matches. Wonderful place to relax and people watch

Lisa G.

Yelp
Want to experience a slice of Cuban culture? Go to Domino Park and watch the guys (and gals) play. It's a ritual and something to behold.

John T.

Yelp
I have long been entranced by city parks. I think it's because I learned to swim, ride my bike and drive all at city parks. The idea of communal urban green space has always resonated with me. I love it. Oftentimes, as well, I find parks to be centerpieces of neighborhoods; anchors of urban exploration that do much to reveal the soul of an area or community. Such as it is with Maximo Gomez 'Domino' Park. I knew when I moved to Miami, there were a few things I needed to do: have a Cuban sandwich, smoke a Cuban cigar, hit the beach, shake it on Ocean Drive, yell at strangers in Spanish, enjoy a coffee at 3:05, and come to the park to watch the old men play dominos and yell at each other. There's not much (any?) green space to speak of. The park is a cultural institution that allows tourists to gawk and abuelos to do their thing. That's pretty much it... and it's entirely worth experiencing. The space is pretty tight and there's not much to it so come in with a plan. If you walk around to gawk and take up real estate, prepare to be yelled at (or, at least, given a good glower). One aspect of the park I really enjoyed was the mural with all the heads of state of various Latin American countries. Despite being at the park with latinos who looked like me (complexion, etc.) there was little representation of that pigmentation on the wall. It's interesting that countries that have so much color are governed by, well, I don't need to spell it out. It was an interesting observation (especially given the park's named after a revolutionary who inspired ALL Cubans against a common enemy - the Spanish). Enjoy the park as resident or tourist and gain a sense of Miami (or, old Cuba) that doesn't translate that well to book or video. Cross it off your bucket list or go to spend time playing a game I still don't understand no matter how many times the rules are explained to me. Just don't stand in the way.

George M.

Yelp
Came here after breakfast so it was about 9:30 on a Saturday morning and even at that time of the day the games are INTENSE I sat down on one of the benches watching some of the games and reading the paper looking interested but playing a bit hard to get I was able to start a conversation with someone's grandpa about the Marlins upcoming season I was in 20 minutes or so later i was sitting at a table playing dominos with two old cubans and an Asian fellow that spoke better spanish than all of us My team lost but I was able to be competitive with my odd playing habits I am sure the other players were thinking to themselves "This guy either has no clue what he is doing or is diabolical domino game destroyer" locking the game with everyone still holding 5 bones = awesome the other players wanting to punch me in the face = scary To make this review useful I am going to share an insider tip with Yelp - you have to be a member to play @ Maximo Gomez You can play as someone's guest but unless you are 55 and older and a registered member, don't even try unless you want a cane up the side of your head Also no smoking inside the park A steel-cage match almost started when one abuelo sat at a table with a cigar This lady started to curse him to hell and the great part is the security guard that works there didn't even make a move to stop it My guess, loud shouting matches are the norm

Tuong Vi P.

Yelp
If you are visiting Miami and want to get a true taste of the local flavor, you will be more than satisfied once you make a stop at Máximo Gómez Park. This time was my second visit to the park and without my Cuban boyfriend to shield me! (So kidding!) I was in the area, getting ice cream from Azúcar Ice Cream Company, which is on the other side of Calle 8. I was wandering around, wondering if I should get in the car and go home or use up the hour of parking that I had already paid. I crossed the street and walked east and ended up here. I was a bit nervous, seeing as I don't really blend in. But shortly after I got there, a bus full of tourists stopped in front of the park and a tidal wave of non-natives poured into the park. They came in, walked around, took some pictures. Don't get me wrong, I, too, snaps some flicks. I'll load them up later. But after the tourists left, I was left standing there, like the crazy chinita. After watching a few rounds of dominoes, I noticed that each player got 10 pieces but I didn't understand why there was pieces at the corners of the table. After watching a bit more, I gathered up courage to ask someone who was standing by, waiting for a turn to play. He explained it to me, but I think I need to read up a little bit more. They were all in shock when I opened my mouth and were so warm once they knew that I could talk to them in their language. I told me to get my Cubano to teach me to play and to come back to get in on a round. I think I will do just that. I felt completely safe here, listening to political banter and occasional grunts of annoyance from those playing. I noticed only one woman playing, as well as a table of chess players. But the rest were playing the national game of Cuba. Go and have a glance, but don't break their concentration or annoy them. While they are a tourist attraction, the players here come to really play, not to look pretty.

Marissa J.

Yelp
This famous park in in famous ijn calle 8. Local player are found playing dominoes. Park is located around many restaurant and store.no fee to enter.

Mel M.

Yelp
This is one of those special places where what it represents is bigger than its size. It's a small quaint area with a mural, domino tiles on the pavement and tables full of domino and chess players. Can you imagine all the stories that are told here from generation to generation. This is a pulse of the people of Cuba. A place where mostly the older generation congregate around domino games to mix mingle and tell stories of their homeland. The players paid no mind to the tourist walking in taking pics and observing their games. I'm sure they're use to it. Everyone is so nice here. Loved all the Cubans I met. Just be courteous and don't disturb their games. If you are fortunate to find your way to Little Havana, Domino Park is legendary.

Monica G.

Yelp
Miami culture at its best! This is where for generations people (especially the oldies) come to spend a day playing dominoes and some chess. If you happen to be around calle 8 during the day time you must stop by and take a look even though uou dont play. These oldies are fierce sharks at the game! Dont let them fool ya! Def a must see miami experience!

Raul M.

Yelp
This is not a place I would drive way out of my way to go to. But if I'm already in the area, why not check it out. This little park is located on Calle 8, a place where you can find everything you can think of Cuban. It was really cool to watch a bunch of old men playing dominoes against each other. They don't seem to notice the tourists walking around taking pictures. They just go on about their business playing their games. They look so serious playing as if they were playing for money.

Claudia J.

Yelp
Part of the Miami staple, YOU have to come and see this! This park is filled of abuelitos playing domino and chess, but mainly domino. Domino is a fast game, pretty easy to catch up but I wonder how they make their numbers and later pay up!! The park is clean, signs all over the place. 99% of the people here are men, some women here but not that many. It's intense how they play, and from what I hear they can be there for hours... it's a fast game! It made me feel like I was in a room filled of people playing Mah Jong!! Went there with a couple of tourist - their first time in Miami, they were also taking video of the players. Players didn't mind, they were into the game.

Jorge M.

Yelp
This is Definitely One of Little Havanas Monuments! This is a Must See if you are in the Area! Filled with men playing Domino's and discussing politics. Great place to hangout, watch and learn how to play if you dont' know how .There is some Serious Playing Going on Here! You have to be a Member to Play So be Prepared! The park is clean and well kept. I saw several Tour Buses stopping and letting people out to check out the Park!

Magda C.

Yelp
Amazing spot! Feels like you are in the middle of Havana in Cuba. So unique! Simply: a must see and must experience :) You won't regret observing local neighbors and friends playing domino, it's somewhat magical.

The O.

Yelp
the only plus is the free entrance to this public, city park which is overall an outdated locale, with more hype than it deserves. It is very hot in the summer (March-Nov in Miami) with fixed ceiling fans that do not provide cool air...instead a hot space is filed with a misty order from a bunch of sweaty elderly. When it rains, it is extremely stuffy inside vinyl curtains that unroll from the sides of huts' roofs and drop to the floor forming boxed in spaces. So avoid this place for sure when raining; you don't want to be caught in one of these hot huts. Very stuffy! Place is filled with ill elderly which at times are coughing or with a nose drip while playing, they wipe their noses with bare hands and keep playing...yuk! some seem to suffer from respiratory diseases and wont cover their mouths when they cough. Furthermore, clean hands after bathroom use is unknown. A friendly crowd most of the time, but several arguments erupt during game playing and some of these disputes have become physical.. the place is mostly for retired elderly with nowhere else to go, who play daily. A lot of tour buses do stop daily at various times of the day to allow tourist a quick walk around in order to see the alleged legendary "domino" park... but truth be told, nothing much to see. A dozen or so fixed, dirty tables, with elderly or disabled folks playing chess, dominos, or cards. A better view is online (YouTube) from the many already filmed versions. Not worth the drive or time, to go see in person. No one is allowed to play unless you're a member; must be retired, disabled, or over a certain age with a government ID to qualify for membership. Nothing to eat or drink, except water inside the park. Nowhere to sit, except cement low wall nearing plant, or metal seats under direct sun. Only one bathroom for ladies and a shared bathroom for men. Do not recommend this as a worthwhile tourist visit. If you still feel you must see in person, least uncomfortable time of the year, is perhaps in January. BYO water, wear very comfortable shoes, and do not touch anyone or anything; bring antibacterial!

Paul M.

Yelp
We came, we saw, we played dominos. Very cool place were lots of old Cuban guys hang out and play chess and dominos. I learned that the Cubans do not consider themselves immigrants -they are exiles. We had learned earlier in the week that South Florida i not the place for the boys to wear their Che Guevara t shirts. There was a free table so we rocked up to the booth and offered a $20 for some dominos. The guy looked at us like we were crazy, said it was free and gave us abox of dominos, so there we are, me The Honey, Thing 1 and Thing 2 and Soccerballgirl, al playing dominos in Little Havana. We played 4 games, Thing 1 won 2, Thing 2 won 1 and The Honey won 1. All good. Then two tour buses showed up and unloaded an absolute deluge of Italian tourists who took pictures and kept asking us why we where there since we were not over 60 years old and did not look like Cubans. "somos todos Cubanos" I said.

Dew P.

Yelp
This is one of the must-see's of Little Havana. It's like being in a different world when you walk in the park. Next time I plan to play a game! Yeah - I know this review sucks, but ill put more effort in next time.

Rodge B.

Yelp
Worth a visit if you ever go to El Cristo up the street. The old heads laying bones at lightning speed cracked me up. Some players are pretty vocal, but we didn't catch anyone screaming, 'Domino, motherf*ckers!" Well, not in English anyways...

Norco B.

Yelp
Fun little spot off the beaten path to people watch. Old cuban men and women play fast paced dominoes pretending you're not there.

Liz T.

Yelp
maximo gomez park (more commonly, domino park) is right smack in little havanna. it's named after a cuban revolutionary who fought against spanish oppression. and the park is pretty much the heart of calle ocho. there's always a few tables of old cuban guys playing dominos and chatting it up. this is really some of the best cuban culture miami has to offer. fyi, some of the guys don't want their pictures taken.

Billy D.

Yelp
Little Havana! Loud old Cuban men! Dominos!

Amador A.

Yelp
I love this place. Very energetic group of Cubans playing dominos. Such a great atmosphere and a must see if your around the area. I wish I had the chance to play dominos but I want a member. My most favorite place to visit while in Little Havana and Miami.

Cristy M.

Yelp
I had to give this place 5 stars because its so authentically Cuban. My boyfriend and I wanted to go down 8 street and take some cool pics. This place definitely has a lot of character and you'll get some good shots.

Bobby R.

Yelp
Nice little park in Little Havana. I've never been to a park where you can just hangout and play dominoes. I've only seen parks like this on television. The locals around and who come to the park are very friendly! if you're a tourist, I'd say this little gem should be on your list to check out.!

Gio H.

Yelp
This is a small park located in the heart of little havana, Miami's first and most iconic Cuban neighborhood. The park is dominated by tables especially designed for the game of Dominos. Locals congregate there and enthusiastically partake in this local tradition. You yourself can participate by renting a set of domino's and partaking in the local tradition. Nearby you can enjoy cuban art, food, cigars, and drinks at local art galleries, bars, and restaurants.

Mimi S.

Yelp
Such a fun and eclectic park. Elderly enjoy playing dominoes and chess in a park seeing. Covered cabanas. Must be a Miami resident.
Domino Park on Postcard