Miami to decide fate of stunning stadium where speedboats raced and Jimmy Buffett played

The Miami Marine Stadium, a 6,500-seat venue famed for its midcentury Brutalist architecture and panoramic city views, first opened its gates in 1963. Designed by Cuban refugee Hilario Candela, the stadium once hosted powerboat racing and major musical performances, including Elvis Presley's 1967 film "Clambake" and the legendary concerts of Jimmy Buffett.

The venue became a beloved cultural icon, playing host to Jimmy Buffett's movable floating stage, Gloria Estefan's performances, and even Easter sunrise services for the community.

However, the stadium's grandeur came to a halt in 1992 after Hurricane Andrew inflicted severe damage. Now fenced off and covered in graffiti, the historic gem has fallen into disrepair despite being listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

On Tuesday, Miami voters will decide the stadium's fate. If approved, the city will partner with a private company to restore the unique landmark, situated on Virginia Key across from downtown Miami. President Richard Nixon and Sammy Davis Jr. graced the stadium during a 1972 campaign rally, and the late Jimmy Buffett expressed a desire to save the "little cathedral of musical fun" in a letter to city officials.

The restoration effort has already gained support from Jimmy Buffett's daughter, Savannah, and Donald Worth, co-founder of Restore Miami Marine Stadium. Meanwhile, Breakwater Hospitality Group co-founder Emi Guerra sees the stadium as a potential entertainment destination that could rival Denver's Red Rocks Amphitheatre, thanks to its stunning views over the city skyline and Biscayne Bay.

However, Ernesto Cuesta, head of the Brickell Homeowners Association, raises concerns about the potential impact of noise and traffic on nearby residents and wildlife. He argues that the stadium should be preserved as a historical landmark rather than converted into a large-scale event space.