Little River is a neighborhood well-known to older Miami natives, and has recently entered the radar of younger generations. One of Miami's oldest neighborhoods, Little River was established as an agricultural community. A natural evolution led to its development into one of Miami's most vibrant commercial, entertainment, and residential areas. Speak to those who grew up in Miami from the 1920's-1960's, and they'll fondly recall hamburgers and birch beer from Royal Castle, go-carting behind St. Mary's Cathedral, and movies at the Rosetta Theater. Having fallen into a decline after the development of Interstate 95 and the increased popularity of the shopping mall, this culturally diverse neighborhood, along with those that surround it (Little Haiti, West Little River, and the historic residential neighborhoods of El Portal and Palm Grove) is now experiencing another evolution - this time led by creative entrepreneurs.
Squad goals, indeed.
Originally established in 1929 under the name "Little River Mission Club", St. Mary's is Miami's only cathedral and serves as the mother church for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe Counties. Now led by Father Christopher Marino, St. Mary's offers three individual masses each Sunday - one each in English, Spanish, and Kreyòl - serving as a reflection of the diversity of the Little River neighborhood. For those looking to experience the church outside of services, St. Mary's also offers non-denominational programming such as its "Cathedral Arts Series".
