Located at Brickell Point on a coastal spit of land in Miami, Florida, the Miami Circle is a fascinating archaeological site dating back between 1,700 and 2,700 years. Pre-dating other known permanent settlements on the East Coast, this 2.5-acre site features a perfect 38-foot (11.5m) circle cut into the Oolitic limestone bedrock, consisting of 600 postmolds and 24 holes or basins. Believed to be the capital or ceremonial structure of the ancient Tequesta Indians, the location was discovered in 1998 prior to condominium construction.
Recognized for its historical significance, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and declared a National Historic Landmark. Because of the artifact's extreme fragility, the actual circle is buried beneath layers of limestone rather than displayed directly. However, you can visit the waterfront Miami Circle Park, managed by HistoryMiami.
While walking through the park, you can explore several informative display panels and take an audio tour detailing the site's rich history, indigenous artifacts like shell tools and shark teeth, and the excavation efforts that saved it from development. Artifacts recovered from the site are stored and displayed at the HistoryMiami museum nearby.
What to see at Miami Circle
- Ancient 38-foot limestone bedrock circle with 24 cut holes and 600 postmolds
- Historical capital and ceremonial site associated with the Tequesta tribe
- National Historic Landmark situated on a 2.5-acre waterfront site
- Educational audio tour and historical informational panels situated around the park
- Original excavated artifacts on display at the HistoryMiami museum repository
Visiting tips
Head to HistoryMiami to view the authentic excavated artifacts recovered from the site, including shell tools, axe heads, and shark teeth.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Miami Circle is easy to reach on Miami’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and Miami Seaquarium. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Miami travel guide.
See the full Miami travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.