Miami Beach Convention Center

Built in 1957 to draw more business to Miami Beach, the convention center has served as the backdrop for some major moments in South Florida history, from  political conventions and Miss Universe beauty pageants to a Billy Graham religious crusade and the 1964 fight between Cassius Clay (before he became Muhammad Ali) and Sonny Liston for the nothing less than the heavyweight championship of the world.

Political conventions from both sides of the aisle were held at the convention center: the 1968 Republican National Convention, and, in 1972, both the Republican and Democratic National conventions.

Though its boxy façade has lost some of its luster and plans to redevelop it have been considered for years, the center continues to draw well-heeled international visitors in droves for events such as Art Basel and the Miami International Boat Show.

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