Weird & Unusual Attractions in Havana, La Habana, Cuba
1. Callejon de Hamel
An Afro-Cuban cultural center in Centro Habana, filled with vibrant murals and Santeria-inspired art. It solves the challenge of showcasing the unique Afro-Cuban culture in Havana.
- Mural Art: Features over 50 murals depicting Santeria deities and symbols
- Cultural Performances: Hosts daily dance and music performances showcasing Afro-Cuban rhythms
- Art Market: Offers a market for local artists to sell their unique art pieces
2. Museo del Ron Havana Club
A museum dedicated to rum, located in the heart of Havana. It solves the challenge of showcasing Cuba's famous rum-making tradition in a fun and interactive way.
- Interactive Experiences: Offers hands-on activities like blending your own rum cocktail
- Historical Insights: Provides a history of the Havana Club brand and the Cuban rum industry
- Tasting Sessions: Includes guided tastings of various Havana Club rums
3. Fusterlandia
A whimsical neighborhood in Jaimanitas filled with colorful mosaics created by artist José Fuster. It solves the challenge of showcasing local artistry and creativity.
- Mosaic Art: Features over 80 houses and monuments covered in intricate mosaics
- Community Engagement: Proceeds from tours help fund local community projects
- Artist's Workshop: Visitors can watch José Fuster working on new mosaics at his studio
4. Hotel Raquel
A time-capsule hotel in Vedado where John Lennon and Yoko Ono spent their honeymoon. It solves the challenge of preserving a significant piece of music history.
- Historical Significance: Room 502, where John Lennon and Yoko Onn spent their honeymoon
- Authentic Experience: Retains original furniture and decor from the 1970s
- Honeymoon Suite: Rent Room 502 for an unforgettable, history-rich stay
5. Catedral de San Salvador de Los Barros
A bizarre church in La Habana Vieja, decorated with thousands of colorful keys. It solves the challenge of creating a unique and symbolic religious space.
- Key Decorations: Covered in keys donated by faithful parishioners
- Historical Restoration: Rebuilt after the 1762 earthquake and Hurricane Irma
- Key of the City Ceremony: Officials give new residents a key to the city during the ceremony
6. El Morro Castle
A fortress in La Habana Vieja with a lighthouse shaped like a crown. It solves the challenge of protecting Havana's harbor while providing a scenic viewpoint.
- Historical Significance: Constructed in the 16th century to defend against pirate attacks
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of Havana's coastline and harbor
- Architectural Style: Features a unique blend of Spanish and military architecture
7. Casa del Abuela
A house in Vedado filled with over 30 years of collected trinkets. It solves the challenge of showcasing Havana's quirky and eclectic nature.
- Eccentric Decor: Filled with thousands of knick-knacks, trinkets, and curiosities
- Local Guide: Guided by the owner, a vibrant local woman named Abuela Diana
- Historical Context: Provides insights into Cuban life and history through collected items
8. Cemetery of Colón
A sprawling cemetery in La Habana Vieja with elaborate mausoleums and crypts. It solves the challenge of showcasing Cuban culture's respect for the dead.
- Grave Architecture: Features ornate, ornamental mausoleums and crypts
- Historical Figures: Burial site of numerous Cuban heroes and famous figures
- Street Art: Frequented by local street artists, offering a glimpse into Cuban art scene
9. Hotel Nacional de Cuba
A grand Art Deco hotel in Vedado with a rich history and secret underground tunnels. It solves the challenge of offering luxury accommodation while preserving historical charm.
- Historical Significance: Built during the 1930s Golden Age of Cuban tourism
- Underground Tunnels: Secret underground passageways used by famous guests like Ernest Hemingway and Frank Sinatra
- Luxury Accommodation: Offers elegant rooms, restaurants, and a cigar lounge
10. El Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón
An eclectic cemetery in La Habana Vieja where the dead and living mix harmoniously. It solves the challenge of creating a unique and colorful space for remembrance.
- Grave Architecture: Features eclectic, ornate tombs and mausoleums
- Living Among the Dead: Many families maintain homes on the cemetery grounds
- Cultural Diversity: Offers a glimpse into the cultural and architectural diversity of Havana's past
11. Museo de la Revolución
A museum in La Habana Vieja dedicated to the Cuban Revolution. It solves the challenge of showcasing Cuba's revolutionary history in a comprehensive and engaging way.
- Historical Artifacts: Displays cars, weapons, and other artifacts from the Cuban Revolution
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits like a replica of the Granma boat
- Guided Tours: Provides informative guided tours in multiple languages
12. La Bodeguita del Medio
A famous bar in La Habana Vieja where Ernest Hemingway was a regular. It solves the challenge of preserving literary history while offering a vibrant nightlife experience.
- Literary History: Frequented by famous authors like Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Neruda
- Live Music: Offers live music performances, particularly trova music
- Traditional Drinks: Known for its Daiquiri cocktails and the Hemingway favorite Mojito
13. Museo de Arte Cubano
A contemporary art museum in La Habana Vieja showcasing Cuban artists. It solves the challenge of supporting local talent while providing a thought-provoking experience.
- Contemporary Art: Features contemporary Cuban art and temporary exhibitions
- Supporting Local Talent: Supports emerging and established Cuban artists
- Guided Tours: Provides informative guided tours in multiple languages
14. Hotel Parque Central
A historic hotel in La Habana Vieja with a secret speakeasy. It solves the challenge of offering luxury accommodation while preserving historical charm.
- Historical Significance: Built during the 1920s in the neoclassical style
- Secret Speakeasy: Features a hidden bar called Sloppy Joe's, once frequented by Ernest Hemingway
- Luxury Accommodation: Offers elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace with city views
15. El Templete
A small octagonal monument in La Plaza de Armas commemorating the founding of Havana. It solves the challenge of honoring Cuba's history in a unique and meaningful way.
- Historical Significance: Commemorates the foundation of Havana by Spanish conquistador Santiago de la Vega
- Architectural Style: Features a unique octagonal design with a copper dome
- Symbolic Meaning: Offers a symbolic connection to Cuba's rich history and founding myths