Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami

Downtown North Miami plays host to this small, but mighty, Charles Gwathmey-designed museum completed in 1996. An earthy, angular structure lined dramatically with palm trees, the Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami bills itself as a museum on the cutting edge "where new art is discovered." The airy exhibition space houses off-beat videos and installations along with 8-10 exhibitions annually, featuring established contemporary artists like Ryan Trecartin and Danish sculptor Nina Beier. A must-see on Miami's arts scene, MOCA sponsors engaging art functions running the gamut from informative lectures to monthly jazz parties.