The Atlas Obscura Guide To Havana

21 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Havana, Cuba

Updated October 5, 2023

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Unusual Attractions in Havana

Outside José Fuster's studio.

Havana, Cuba

Fusterlandia

A Cuban artist reclaimed his impoverished neighborhood as a dreamy folk art kingdom.

Mausoleum and monuments

Havana, Cuba

Colón Cemetery

In terms of history and architecture, this is one of the most remarkable cemeteries in the world.

Callejon de Hamel.

Havana, Cuba

Callejon de Hamel

A colorful narrow alley in Cuba is full of street art and sculptures made of found objects.

Coppelia.

Havana, Cuba

Coppelia

Castro's communist ice cream mothership has been serving five-scoop "salads" for over 50 years.

Nature attempts to reclaim what's left of the Tropical Garden's structures.

Havana, Cuba

Los Jardines de la Tropical

A Spanish-style estate that has traded black ties for rock concerts.

Ministry of Interior building, adorned with a steel sculpture of Che Guevara

Havana, Cuba

La Plaza de la Revolución

A focal point of the Cuban government, this city square features one of the most iconic images in the country.

Hotel Nacional at dusk.

Havana, Cuba

Hotel Nacional de Cuba

Once a favorite playground for the world's most illustrious guests, Hotel Nacional's secret weapons and bunkers reveal a more menacing side to its golden history.

Colina Lenin monument

Havana, Cuba

Colina Lenin

A bronze sculpture of Lenin’s likeness outside Havana surrounded by 12 human figures in solidarity with the Bolshevik Revolution.

See All 21 Things To Do in Havana

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Havana

Coppelia.

Havana, Cuba

Coppelia

Castro's communist ice cream mothership has been serving five-scoop "salads" for over 50 years.

A prominent feature of the Havana skyline

Havana, Cuba

Bacardi Building

After the Cuban Revolution, the famous rum company had to leave their swanky headquarters behind.

The dimly lit bar is an homage to tiki culture.

Havana, Cuba

El Polinesio

When the Cuban government seized a Trader Vic's franchise, they unknowingly led to its preservation.

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Stories About Havana

Castro never said no to ice cream.

To Defy the United States, Fidel Castro Built the World's Greatest Ice Cream Parlor

The socialist establishment, which is still slinging scoops, seated 1,000 customers.

by Alex Mayyasi

November 8, 2019

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