Miami Empty / Miami New Times

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen across the country, Miami residents began to practice social distancing - a preventative measure suggested by local authorities, but not yet formally ordered like it has been other heavily affected states like New York and California. Most open public spaces in Miami — including Wynwood, the Design District, downtown Miami, Brickell, and Lincoln Road — were almost entirely empty by Sunday, March 22, except for small groups of wandering tourists and individuals exercising or walking their dogs. Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, retail and other “non-essential” businesses have been ordered to close, and curtail any food services to pickup and delivery only. Shot for Miami New Times.

Varying Degrees of Social Distancing / Miami New Times

On Tuesday, March 17, after orders from Gov. Ron DeSantis for all Florida bars and nightclubs to close from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., South Beach observed varying degrees of social distancing. Washington Avenue and Ocean Drive were scattered with groups of spring break tourists who didn't seem bothered by the threat of a global pandemic. Miami Beach Police posted in squads along the barricades blocking Lummus Park, ignoring groups of tourists. Española Way maintained moderate crowds enjoying a late dinner, and the walk-up window at Sunny's on Collins Avenue was packed. Lincoln Road, however, was almost completely empty and eerily quiet with outside cafés stacked and restaurants closed up. Shot for Miami New Times.