Colony Hotel
Miami, FL
Photo courtesy Bob Jagendorf

Few buildings capture the look of Miami Beach better than this one. With its bright blue neon and classic Streamline Moderne styling, the Colony Hotel has become one of the most photographed landmarks on Ocean Drive. 03-06

Built in the 1930s, the Colony helped define the colorful Art Deco character that South Beach is famous for today. Its glowing vertical sign, rounded lines, and pastel facade have appeared in countless photographs, movies, and television shows over the years.

The hotel is still welcoming guests, and when the neon comes on after sunset, it's easy to see why the Colony has become one of Miami Beach's true roadside icons.

UPDATE: The Colony Hotel remains open, and its famous blue neon continues to light up Ocean Drive. 07-26

Hotel Clifton
Miami, FL
Photo courtesy Bob Jagendorf

A classic car and a neon hotel sign are a combination that's hard to beat. The Hotel Clifton fits right in among the colorful Art Deco buildings that have made Miami Beach famous, and the vintage automobile out front only adds to the scene. 03-06

Built in 1948, the Clifton is one of the many postwar hotels that give Collins Avenue its distinctive character. Its clean lines, blue accents, and vertical neon sign capture the streamlined look that defines South Beach architecture.

Today the hotel continues welcoming visitors, and its familiar neon still glows each evening. It's another reminder that some of the best sights in Miami Beach aren't found on the sand, but right along the roadside.

UPDATE: The Hotel Clifton remains open, with its vintage neon sign continuing to brighten Collins Avenue. 07-26