Since its establishment in 1988, Hispanic Heritage Month has taken place from the second half of September to the first half of October. During this time, we recognize the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the group’s heritage and culture.

See the Mansions of Millionaire’s Row

Bayside Marketplace is where you can join us on our scenic Millionaire’s Row™ tour and learn about the houses and mansions of some of the influential Hispanics and Latinos who inhabit the many dazzling islands of our beautiful and historic Biscayne Bay.

In Star Island, you’ll see the beautiful home that belongs to Gloria & Emilio Estefan. The two Cuban-American philanthropists have made great contributions to the Latino community with their work in music, film, children’s books, restaurants and so much more. Their scholarship provides Latin students with financial hardships a substantial four-year scholarship at the Berklee College of Music.

One of the Estefan’s neighbors is Xuxa, a famous actress, dancer, model, singer, and television show host for children. Most famous in the 90s for her eponymous show Xuxa, she became the first and only Brazilian to have a TV program in the US.

Another resident of Star Island, Paul Cejas, a born Cuban, served as ambassador of Belgium. He’s been voted one of the “100 most powerful people in southern Florida.” He’s been a chairman of the Miami-Dade County School Board and FIU named its architecture building after him.

Another beautiful mansion you’ll see on Star Island belongs to world renowned singer and Spanish icon Julio Iglesias. Recognized as the most successful continental European singer in the world, he’s performed in over 5000 concerts for a total audience of over 60 million people! He also holds the Guinness World Record for the Best-Selling Male Latin Artist.

The Homes of Hibiscus Island

Hibiscus Island is another beautiful sight on our tour. There, you’ll see the beautiful dome atop the mansion of Ricky Martin. The King of Latin Pop has been entertaining audiences since he joined the all-boy pop group Menudo at the age of 12. He is the founder of the Ricky Martin Foundation, a non-profit organization that advocates for the well-being of children around the world and holds summer camps in which he personally participates. As of 2003 he serves as Goodwill Ambassador to UNICEF and he received the Hispanic Heritage Award for his humanitarian work.

Hispanic Influence on Dilido Island

More royalty resides in Dilido Island, where Queen of Latin Pop Paulina Rubio lives. The Mexican singer and actress rose to prominence as one of the main member of the pop group Timbiriche. As of 2007, she joined the Latino Commission on AIDS, which helps in the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS in the Latino community. She has also worked with the Lili Claire Foundation to provide comprehensive care for children living with neurological disorders.

Commemorations such as Hispanic Heritage Month are a great opportunity to pause and reflect on our shared history as Americans and to celebrate the rich mosaic of people and cultures who, together, built and strengthened our nation as well as our beautiful city of Miami.