I have been a joyful inhabitant of Hialeah, Florida for the past twenty years. A transplanted snow bird, I fled the cold and snowy northern climate of New York for the sunshine state. I chose to settle in Hialeah for so much more than the weather, although, I must admit, I do not miss the snow very much. Hialeah, Florida is home to big business, such as the corporate offices of The Home Depot, Starbucks, K Mart, Lowes, Wal-Mart, and Target. Yet, my town was rated the most boring community in 2009 by Forbes magazine. I perceived boring to mean safe. As my hometown is in close proximity to the major metropolises of Miami and Ft. Lauderdale, safe is a desirable way to feel.
The name Hialeah was from the Seminole words for high prairie. Indeed, it was the location the Indian population displayed their crafts and wares for sale to the early visitors to Miami. Over the past decade, immigrants from Cuba have claimed the city as an ethnic destination for refuges. The rich Hispanic influence has created an environment rich in culture, flavors, music, art, and emotions not found anywhere else in the continental United States. The driven work ethic of this previously oppressed population provides for a cohesive community of progress oriented enterprise. My neighbors work hard, maintain their cultural values and are happy to be able to live freely. Telemundo is the second largest Spanish television network in the United States. Its corporate offices are also located in Hialeah.
One of my favorite places is the Westland mall. Here there are over 100 stores and many restaurants. In addition, Hialeah Park is not only a professional racetrack, but is also an Audubon bird sanctuary. There is so much more to discover. Hialeah, Florida truly provides the good life.
Hialeah is a great place to stay when visiting Miami, Florida. The reason I love it is because it is a much cheaper alternative to staying in Miami. A positive is that while Hialeah is cheaper to stay in than Miami it is still very close in driving distance which means you won't be paying an arm and a leg for gas. The drive takes me about 20-25 minutes door to door from Hialeah to Miami.
You won't find the intersting attractions or high end restaurants in Hialeah like you would in other larger cities. But Hialeah still does offer a handful of fun things to do and see. A few attractions that come to mind are the Amelia Earhart Park which offers bike trails, walking paths and even a petting zoo. For the more adventurous travelers, you can visit the Hialeah Racetrack which is beautifully maintained and always fun!
Another great thing about staying in Hialeah is that you don't even have to drive if you don't want to. You can take the metrorail into Miami. Although Hialeah most likey is not your true destination, it is a great place to stay if your true destination is Miami. It is a hop and a skip to Miami Beach from Hialeah. Besides, who cares where you are staying as long as you are getting where you want to go?