Bayfront Park Chosen as Official FIFA Fan Festival Site for 2026 World Cup
In a major announcement, City of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and the Miami Host Committee confirmed that Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami will serve as the official FIFA Fan Festival™ site for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 32-acre waterfront park will transform into the epicenter of celebration and community for local residents and visitors from around the world as Miami takes its place on the global soccer stage.
What to Expect at the Fan Festival
The FIFA Fan Festival™ will be a free, family-friendly celebration open to all ages, designed to capture the excitement of the World Cup. Fans can expect:
- Live match screenings on massive LED screens showing all seven matches hosted in Miami at Hard Rock Stadium.
- Concerts and DJ performances featuring top international and local artists throughout the tournament.
- Food and beverage activations highlighting Miami’s diverse culinary scene.
- Cultural exhibits and interactive experiences celebrating the spirit of the game and the city’s multicultural identity.
- Merchandise zones and partner activations from global and local brands.
The Fan Festival is expected to run for approximately three weeks, coinciding with the World Cup tournament dates in June and July 2026. Specific schedules, performer lineups, and event hours will be announced in the coming months.
Why Bayfront Park Was Selected
Bayfront Park was chosen for its central location, stunning waterfront views, and proven track record hosting major events. Situated in the heart of Downtown Miami, the park is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it the ideal site for welcoming thousands of fans each day.
The park’s layout — including its open green spaces and amphitheater — provides a natural setting for large-scale gatherings while maintaining easy access to public transportation such as the Metromover and Metrorail. Its location along Biscayne Bay also ensures that visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the water and skyline, further enhancing the festival experience.
Miami’s Role in FIFA World Cup 2026
Matches at Hard Rock Stadium
Miami is set to host seven FIFA World Cup matches at Hard Rock Stadium, including four group-stage games, a Round of 32 match, a quarterfinal, and the prestigious third-place playoff. These matches will attract soccer fans from every continent, positioning Miami as one of the marquee host cities of the tournament.
Government and Private-Sector Collaboration
Miami-Dade County and the City of Miami have committed significant financial and logistical support to ensure the success of both the tournament and the Fan Festival. Miami-Dade County officials have pledged cash support not to exceed $10.5 million, along with substantial in-kind services for public safety, permitting, and transportation support.
In total, the public commitment — including contributions from surrounding municipalities — is estimated to reach roughly $46 million, supplemented by an additional $100 million in private fundraising through the Miami Host Committee. These funds will not only support event operations but also finance legacy projects aimed at improving infrastructure and community facilities long after the tournament ends.
Economic Impact on Miami-Dade County
Hosting the FIFA World Cup is expected to deliver an unprecedented economic windfall for Miami-Dade County, with early projections estimating between $1.3 billion and $1.5 billion in total impact. This includes direct and indirect spending on tourism, hospitality, retail, entertainment, and transportation.
The event is expected to attract 700,000 to 1 million visitors to the region, filling hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues during what is typically Miami’s slower summer season. Local businesses across the hospitality and service sectors will see a significant boost, while temporary job creation will help fuel local employment.
Officials have likened the impact to hosting seven Super Bowls back-to-back, underscoring the scale of the opportunity for South Florida’s economy. The long-term benefits are also expected to include increased global visibility, enhanced tourism infrastructure, and stronger positioning for future international events.
Beyond the Tournament: Lasting Legacy for Miami
The World Cup presents Miami with a rare opportunity to leave a lasting legacy that extends well beyond the tournament. As part of the hosting agreement, Miami-Dade County is investing millions into community-focused legacy projects, ensuring that the improvements made in preparation for the event benefit residents for years to come.
The FIFA Fan Festival™ at Bayfront Park will showcase the city’s culture, energy, and global influence — uniting locals and visitors in celebration of sport, music, and diversity. Beyond the immediate economic impact, the festival will help further establish Miami as a world-class destination for international events and a city that thrives at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and sport.
What Fans and Residents Can Expect
- Free admission to all FIFA Fan Festival™ events at Bayfront Park.
- Daily entertainment including live matches, music performances, and interactive activities.
- Enhanced transportation options, including extended Metromover and Metrorail service, along with dedicated event shuttles.
- Increased security and street closures around downtown during the festival period.
- Local business participation, providing food, drinks, and cultural showcases throughout the park.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark a defining moment for Miami — one that highlights its global reach, vibrant culture, and ability to host world-class events on an unprecedented scale. From the high-energy matches at Hard Rock Stadium to the unforgettable experiences at Bayfront Park’s Fan Festival, the world will once again have its eyes on Miami.
Paramount Miami Worldcenter Hosts Lara Trump for Exclusive Interview with Miami Mayor Francis Suarez
Paramount Miami Worldcenter proudly hosted Lara Trump, the President’s daughter-in-law, today for the filming of her Fox News program My View with Lara Trump. The special episode featured Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and was filmed inside one of Paramount’s penthouse residences before concluding on the 55th-floor skydeck, where sweeping views of Downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay set the stage for a high-profile conversation.
A Historic Announcement in Downtown Miami
Just yesterday, the State of Florida announced that it donated land in Downtown Miami to the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library Foundation. The site, located only a few blocks from Paramount Miami Worldcenter, will serve as the future home of the Trump Presidential Library. The donation marks a historic moment for Miami and cements the city’s growing role as a hub for culture, politics, and history.
Likely Focus of the Interview
While there has been no official word on what topic Lara Trump and Mayor Suarez discussed during today’s filming, the timing strongly suggests it was centered on yesterday’s announcement of the Trump Presidential Library. Hosting the interview at Paramount, just steps away from the future library site, further reinforces the likelihood that the conversation touched on this historic news for Downtown Miami.
Paramount Miami Worldcenter as the Setting
As one of Miami’s most iconic residential towers, Paramount Miami Worldcenter was a fitting venue for this high-profile feature. Known as the crown jewel of the $6 billion Miami Worldcenter development, Paramount is celebrated for its luxury residences and unmatched amenities. Its penthouses and 55th-floor outdoor patio offered the perfect backdrop for Lara Trump’s interview, showcasing the city’s skyline at its most dramatic.
About My View with Lara Trump
Since premiering on Fox News in 2021, My View with Lara Trump has built a loyal national audience. The program blends interviews, commentary, and personal insight, offering viewers a unique perspective on politics, culture, and family. By bringing the show to Paramount Miami Worldcenter, Lara Trump highlighted both the luxury lifestyle of the building and Miami’s growing importance on the national stage.
When to Watch
The episode featuring Lara Trump’s interview with Miami Mayor Francis Suarez at Paramount Miami Worldcenter will air this Saturday at 8:00 PM Eastern Time on the Fox News Channel. Viewers will be able to tune in for the wide-ranging conversation set against the stunning views of Miami’s skyline.
Trump Presidential Library Proposal Advances at Miami Dade College Site
Florida is moving forward with plans to establish the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library in Downtown Miami. Earlier today, Miami Dade College voted to transfer a 2.63-acre parking lot on its Wolfson Campus to the state, setting the stage for the Florida Cabinet to vote next week on dedicating the land for the library. The property, currently used as an employee parking lot, sits adjacent to the historic Freedom Tower and in the heart of Downtown Miami, making it a highly visible and symbolic location for what would be the first presidential library in Florida.
The proposal, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis, has gained momentum with strong support from state officials, including Florida Attorney General James “Jim” Uthmeier, who has already announced he will vote in favor. If approved, the library would become a landmark institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 45th and 47th President of the United States. State leaders argue that the site’s central location in Miami not only underscores Trump’s deep ties to Florida but also positions the project to attract significant tourism, research interest, and economic activity.
The location of the proposed Trump Presidential Library is particularly significant. Situated near the Freedom Tower, a National Historic Landmark often referred to as Miami’s “Ellis Island,” the site adds symbolic weight to the project. Supporters say it could bring prestige and international attention, boosting Miami as both a political and cultural hub. Critics, however, may raise concerns about traffic congestion, land use priorities, and whether the site might have been better used for educational or community purposes given Miami Dade College’s central role in the city.
The next major milestone will come when the Florida Cabinet, acting as the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, votes on the matter. That decision, expected on September 30, 2025, will determine whether the land is formally dedicated for the Trump Presidential Library. Until then, Miami—and the nation—will be watching closely to see how the proposal unfolds.
Miami Police Department Creates East District, Adding 300 Officers to Brickell, Downtown & Edgewater
Miami is entering a new era of public safety. In late August 2025, Miami Police Chief Manny Morales announced the formation of a new East District, consolidating Brickell, Downtown, and Edgewater into one unified zone handling approximately 120,000 service calls annually.
To strengthen response capabilities and visibility, the department plans to hire 300 new officers over the next three years, assigning many to this new district. Chief Morales expects the East District to be fully operational by the end of 2025.
The Downtown Development Authority is supporting the effort with enhanced surveillance infrastructure, funding for overtime, and even a drone to bolster public safety efforts.
What This Means for Brickell, Downtown & Edgewater
1. Enhanced Safety & Visibility
- More boots on the ground: Expect greater street presence, with officers patrolling on foot, scooters, and bikes.
- Deterrence through presence: Police visibility encourages more people to get out and enjoy their neighborhoods.
2. Faster, Smarter Response
- With dedicated staffing and new technology, response to violent incidents — such as the recent stabbing at Icon Brickell Tower 3 or April’s shooting near Brickell City Centre — should improve.
3. Greater Community Investment
- The Downtown Development Authority’s involvement signals investment in long-term city safety infrastructure — not just policing, but tools like cameras and drones.
Potential Trade-offs & Concerns
1. Budget Pressure & Resource Allocation
- Approving funding for 300 new officers (~100 per year through 2028) will likely require creative budgeting — potentially from federal grants or reallocating city funds.
- Without community input, some residents may worry this investment sacrifices other pressing needs like affordable housing or parks.
2. Community Trust & Oversight
- Miami’s police department has a documented history of oversight challenges, including reform efforts stemming from a 2016 consent decree with the DOJ over excessive force.
- Expanding staffing without reinforcing accountability, transparency, and community policing might undermine trust.
3. Equity & Neighborhood Disparities
- Brickell is dense, affluent, and highly visible. By contrast, Edgewater, while growing fast and appealing with historic and luxury developments, has fewer resources and less political clout.
- Ensuring equitable distribution of officers and services — especially to under-resourced communities — will be key.
Final Thoughts
Miami’s launch of the East District marks a bold statement: the city is scaling its public safety infrastructure to match rapid urban growth. For residents and businesses in Brickell, Downtown, and Edgewater, this could mean fewer crime fears, safer streets, and enhanced neighborhood confidence.
But the success of this initiative won’t hinge on headcount alone. It will depend on equitable deployment, transparent oversight, and robust community engagement to reinforce trust — especially in neighborhoods like Edgewater that are rapidly evolving but historically underserved.
5 Supertall Skyscrapers Set to Reshape Miami’s Skyline by 2030
Miami’s skyline is reaching new heights—literally. Over the next several years, the Magic City is expected to welcome five supertall skyscrapers, each rising more than 1,000 feet into the sky. From luxury-branded residences and iconic hotels to corporate headquarters and ambitious mixed-use towers, these projects signal Miami’s emergence as a world-class vertical city.
Below, we spotlight five supertall skyscrapers set to transform the city’s skyline by 2030:
Height: 1,044 feet
Stories: 87
Location: 400 SE 2nd Ave, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2030
Part of the ambitious redevelopment of the James L. Knight Center and Hyatt Regency site, Miami Riverbridge Tower 3 will be the tallest of three towers in the mixed-use project. Designed by Arquitectonica and developed by Gencom and Hyatt, the project includes a new convention center, hotel, and over 1,500 residential units. Once complete, Tower 3 will rise to 1,044 feet, nearly hitting the FAA’s maximum height limit for downtown Miami.
Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 93
Location: 100 S Biscayne Blvd, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2030
Originally approved over a decade ago, One Bayfront Plaza is Miami’s longest-standing supertall proposal. The tower will combine Class A office space, a luxury hotel, and residential units within a single, mixed-use structure. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), the tower is strategically located across from Bayfront Park and promises to be a game-changer for downtown.
Height: ~1,049 feet
Stories: 62
Location: 1201 Brickell Bay Dr, Brickell
Estimated Completion: 2030
Hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin, founder of Citadel, announced plans to move his company’s headquarters from Chicago to Miami—and with it, construct a Foster + Partners–designed tower that will anchor Miami’s growing financial core. The tower is expected to exceed 1,000 feet in height, featuring Citadel’s HQ offices along with supporting retail and public space. The move marks a defining moment in Miami’s evolution into a global financial hub.
Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 90
Location: 888 Brickell Avenue, Brickell
Estimated Completion: 2028
Developed by JDS Development Group, 888 Brickell will become one of Miami’s most iconic branded skyscrapers. Designed in partnership with Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana, the building will include 259 luxury residences and a five-star hotel. The design features a bold, stacked architectural form and interiors curated with opulent D&G flair. With FAA approval already in place for a 1,049-foot height, 888 Brickell is on track to be among the city’s tallest and most distinctive towers.
Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 100
Location: 300 Biscayne Blvd, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2027
Currently under construction, the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami will be the first 100-story building in Florida. Designed by Sieger Suarez Architects in collaboration with Carlos Ott, the tower features a stacked glass-cube design that’s already become an icon in renderings. Upon completion, it will house 360 private residences and a 205-key Waldorf Astoria hotel, redefining luxury living in Miami.
Final Thoughts
As Miami continues to attract global investors, finance executives, and lifestyle-driven buyers, these five supertall towers exemplify the city’s meteoric rise—both figuratively and literally. With multiple towers already under construction or FAA-approved at 1,049 feet, Miami is solidifying its place among the world’s great vertical skylines.
Whether you’re an investor, architecture enthusiast, or future resident, these upcoming supertalls are worth watching.
Interested in buying a condo in one of Miami’s future landmark towers?
Contact us today or explore our database of preconstruction buildings on MiamiCondoInvestments.com
Top 10 Reasons the Trump Presidential Library Belongs in Downtown Miami
As conversations swirl about the future home of the Trump Presidential Library, one location emerges as both iconic and strategic: Downtown Miami. A hub of culture, commerce, and global tourism, Downtown Miami offers an unparalleled setting for a presidential institution of national significance. Below are the top 10 reasons why Downtown Miami is the ideal location for the Trump Presidential Library.
1. Proximity to the Port of Miami
Known as the “Cruise Capital of the World,” the Port of Miami welcomes millions of domestic and international visitors each year. Its close proximity to Downtown makes it a vital asset—positioning the Trump Presidential Library to benefit from year-round tourist foot traffic, including high-net-worth travelers disembarking from luxury cruise liners just minutes away.
2. Direct Access via MiamiCentral
MiamiCentral, home to the Brightline high-speed rail system, connects Downtown Miami to key cities like Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando. A Trump Library within walking distance of this transit hub would make it one of the most accessible presidential libraries in the country, inviting day trips from across Florida.
3. Steps from Kaseya Center
The Kaseya Center, home to the Miami Heat and a premier venue for major concerts and sporting events, draws millions of fans each year. A Trump Library located nearby could tap into this energetic crowd, offering visitors a meaningful stop before or after attending events.
4. Anchored by Miami Worldcenter
Miami Worldcenter, one of the largest private urban developments in the U.S., is transforming the city’s skyline with luxury residences, world-class retail, and dining. Nestled near this development, the Trump Library would thrive in a high-foot-traffic, high-visibility district that attracts tourists, locals, and investors alike.
5. Centralized Location in Miami
Downtown Miami sits at the epicenter of the city, just minutes from South Beach, Brickell, Wynwood, and Miami International Airport. This central location provides unmatched accessibility, ensuring the Trump Presidential Library is just a short drive or ride from Miami’s top neighborhoods and key transit points.
6. Across the Street from Bayside Marketplace
The Bayside Marketplace is a vibrant, open-air shopping and entertainment complex on Biscayne Bay. A presidential library across the street would be a natural cultural companion, providing a historical and educational experience to balance the area’s lively retail and dining offerings.
7. Seamless Access via the Metromover
The Metromover, Miami’s free, elevated public transit system, loops through Downtown and connects to major venues, parks, and districts. A Trump Presidential Library near a Metromover station would offer easy, no-cost access for students, tourists, and professionals alike.
8. Cultural Proximity to Adrienne Arsht Center
The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts is the cornerstone of Miami’s cultural scene. Placing the Trump Library nearby would enrich the civic and intellectual fabric of the neighborhood, complementing the arts with a historical and political presence.
9. Near World-Class Museums
Downtown Miami is home to two of Florida’s most visited museums: the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science and the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). A presidential library in this corridor would elevate the district into a true cultural and educational hub, attracting school groups, scholars, and tourists year-round.
10. A Neighbor to the Waldorf Astoria Residences
Rising as the tallest residential building south of New York, the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami is redefining luxury living in Downtown Miami. Its presence would amplify the prestige of a Trump Presidential Library located nearby—appealing to both dignitaries and affluent travelers.
Honorable Mention: Bayfront Park
Overlooking Biscayne Bay, Bayfront Park is one of Miami’s most iconic outdoor venues, hosting large-scale concerts, festivals, and political rallies. A presidential library nearby could benefit from the overflow of event attendees and enhance its visibility during public gatherings.
Conclusion:
From global transit connectivity and cultural institutions to booming development and unparalleled visibility, Downtown Miami offers the ideal environment for the Trump Presidential Library. Strategically positioned among world-class attractions and infrastructure, the library would not only draw millions of visitors but also solidify its place in one of America’s most forward-facing cities.
Trump Presidential Library May Land in Downtown Miami—with a 747 Jet in Tow
Recent reports suggest that Downtown Miami is being considered as a potential site for the Trump Presidential Library. Eric Trump, who is involved in the site selection process, has reportedly visited vacant lots adjacent to the historic Freedom Tower on Biscayne Boulevard, which are owned by Miami Dade College. The site is being evaluated for its capacity to accommodate a Boeing 747 jet, a gift from Qatar, which is envisioned as a central exhibit in the library.
However, the leading candidate for the library’s location appears to be the campus of Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton. The university has reportedly offered a 100-year lease on land at no cost, making it an attractive option due to its proximity to Mar-a-Lago. Plans for the library include displaying the Boeing 747, a section of the U.S.-Mexico border wall, and a replica of Trump’s gold-plated Oval Office. Fundraising efforts aim to raise up to $2 billion for the project.
If the Downtown Miami site were selected, it could have significant implications for the area. The presence of a presidential library could boost tourism and economic activity, potentially revitalizing the local economy. However, it could also lead to debates over the use of public land and the preservation of historic sites like the Freedom Tower, which holds cultural significance for the Cuban-American community.
As discussions continue, the decision on the library’s location will likely weigh factors such as logistical feasibility, cost, and community impact. Whether in Downtown Miami or Boca Raton, the establishment of the Trump Presidential Library will be a noteworthy addition to Florida’s landscape.
Central Fare to Open June 17 at Brightline’s MiamiCentral Station
Downtown Miami is about to get a major culinary upgrade with the grand opening of Central Fare, a dynamic new food hall located inside Brightline’s MiamiCentral station. Set to officially launch on June 17, 2025, Central Fare will feature 12 chef-driven concepts, offering everything from grab-and-go bites to fast-casual and full-service dining experiences .
A Culinary Hub in the Heart of Miami
Central Fare is designed as a “culinary incubator” and community gathering space, spotlighting Miami’s diverse and innovative food scene. The food hall will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to commuters, office workers, residents, and tourists alike. Beyond dining, the venue boasts approximately 12,000 square feet of private event space, making it an ideal location for special events and functions .
Rosetta Bakery: A Taste of Italy Now Open
While the full lineup of eateries will debut on June 17, Rosetta Bakery has already opened its doors at Central Fare. Known for its artisanal Italian pastries, breads, and desserts, Rosetta Bakery offers a delightful selection of freshly baked goods, including buttery croissants and signature focaccia . Located at 550 NW 1st Ave, Suite 240-C15, Miami, FL 33136, it’s a perfect spot for a quick coffee or a leisurely treat.
Easy Access for All
Situated within the MiamiCentral transit hub, Central Fare is easily accessible via multiple transportation options, including Brightline, Metrorail, Metromover, and Tri-Rail. The main entrance is at the corner of NW 5th Street and 1st Avenue, with additional access through Brightline’s main station entrance on NW 6th Street . Whether you’re commuting or exploring downtown, Central Fare is conveniently located to serve your culinary cravings.
A New Chapter in Downtown Dining
Central Fare is more than just a food hall; it’s a celebration of Miami’s vibrant culinary landscape and a testament to the city’s ongoing growth. With its diverse dining options and community-focused design, Central Fare is poised to become a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Mark your calendars for June 17, 2025, and be among the first to experience the flavors and ambiance of Central Fare. In the meantime, satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Rosetta Bakery and get a sneak peek of what’s to come.
For more information and updates, visit Brightline’s Central Fare page
First Glass Installed at Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami
A major milestone has recently been reached at Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami — the first glass panels have officially been installed, marking a visually striking chapter in the rise of Miami’s most iconic residential skyscraper.
Currently under construction at 300 Biscayne Boulevard, this architectural marvel is being developed by PMG (Property Markets Group) in collaboration with Greybrook Realty Partners, and designed by world-renowned architect Carlos Ott in partnership with Seiger Suarez Architects. The project broke ground in late 2022.
What makes the Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami unlike anything else is its bold and imaginative design. The tower is comprised of nine stacked and staggered cubes. As of now, construction has reached the third cube, which is where the dramatic staggering begins — making it one of the most visually captivating structures taking shape on the Miami skyline.
Set to be completed in Q1 2028, the Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami will redefine the city’s skyline and history. Upon completion, it will become Miami’s first supertall skyscraper and the tallest residential tower south of New York, rising to an astonishing 1,049 feet.
Demand for this once-in-a-generation property has been unprecedented — 93% of the building is already sold. Remaining availability includes:
- One-Bedroom Residences from $3.1 Million
- Two-Bedroom Residences from $3.3 Million
- Three-Bedroom Residences from $4.5 Million
- Four-Bedroom Residences from $7.5 Million
If you’re interested in owning a piece of this architectural icon, contact Lucas Lechuga at [email protected] for available inventory and private presentations.
