Art Deco Style

I remember standing on the rooftop of a hotel in Miami, the sun dipping low over the horizon, casting a golden hue across the art deco skyline. It was the first time I had ever seen the style in such abundance, and it struck me how effortlessly it blended geometry, symmetry, and a touch of glamour. Art deco style is more than just a design movement—it's an experience that feels alive, especially when you're traveling through places where it's been preserved and celebrated. (1445, ttabvue.uspto.gov)^[1]

My journey through art deco began in the 1930s, not in a museum. In the streets of New York, where the Chrysler Building and Rockefeller Center stood as testaments to the era's ambition and elegance. It’s a style that speaks through its details: sunburst motifs, streamlined curves, and an almost theatrical use of color. The more I explored, the more I realized that art deco is not just a visual style—it’s a way of seeing the world with a touch of sophistication and a dash of modernity.

What makes art deco style so compelling for travelers is its presence in cities around the globe. From the grand hotels of Miami to the Art Deco Quarter in Tel Aviv, there’s a kind of timelessness to it that invites you to pause, look closely, and appreciate the craftsmanship. When you travel with an eye for art deco, you're not just moving through places—you're immersing yourself in a design philosophy that has stood the test of time.

What is Art Deco Style, and Where Can You See It?

As of October 2026, Art deco style is a celebration of the 1920s and 1930s, a time when innovation and opulence went hand in hand. It’s a design language that uses symmetry, streamlined forms, and a love for detail. When I walked through the Art Deco District in Miami, I saw how the style was used in everything from hotel facades to streetlights, creating a cohesive and eye-catching visual identity.

Beyond Miami, art deco can be found in places like Tel Aviv’s White City, where thousands of buildings from the 1930s are still standing. In New York, the Chrysler Building’s iconic spire and the Rockefeller Center’s elegant curves are prime examples of the style’s influence. Each city tells its own story through art deco, making it a rich and varied experience for travelers.

One of the best ways to see art deco style is by walking through neighborhoods that have preserved the era’s architecture. In Miami, the Art Deco Historic District has over 800 buildings, each with its own unique take on the style. It’s a place where history feels tangible and the design is still alive.^[2]

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How to Spot Art Deco Style on the Streets

One of the easiest ways to spot art deco style is by looking for sunburst motifs. These are often found on door handles, elevator buttons, and even in the windows of historic buildings. When I visited Miami, I noticed how the sunburst motif was used in both large and small details, creating a cohesive look across the entire district.

Another key feature is the use of geometric shapes. Art deco buildings often use sharp angles and clean lines, which give them a sense of modernity even though they were built in the past. This is especially visible in the facades of the Art Deco District, where the symmetry and clean lines make the buildings look almost futuristic.

Materials are another important part of the style. Many art deco buildings use chrome, glass, and polished stone, which add a touch of glamour. In New York, I saw how the Chrysler Building used chrome in its spire, making it one of the most iconic examples of the style.

Sunbursts, symmetry, and shimmer—art deco is a visual language that speaks for itself.

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Staying in Art Deco Style: A Traveler’s Guide

Staying in an art deco hotel is like stepping back in time, but with all the modern comforts. In Miami, the Hotel Royal is a prime example. It was built in 1938 and has been lovingly restored to preserve its original design. Every detail, from the brass fixtures to the marble floors, reflects the style of the era.

Other cities also offer art deco accommodations. In Tel Aviv, the Dan Tel Aviv Hotel was built in the 1930s and still retains its original art deco features. The combination of historical architecture and modern amenities makes it a unique place to stay.

For those who want to fully immerse themselves in art deco, staying in a restored hotel is a must. It’s not just about the design—it’s about the experience of living in a place that has been preserved for generations.

“I remember standing on the rooftop of a hotel in Miami, the sun dipping low over the horizon, casting a golden hue across the art…”— Arts and Culture Travel editors

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Art Deco Style in Everyday Life

Even in the most modern cities, art deco style can be found in everyday life. In Miami, I saw vintage art deco cars parked outside of hotels, complete with chrome bumpers and streamlined designs. These cars are a perfect reflection of the style’s influence on transportation.

Furniture is another area where art deco style is still visible. Many homes and hotels still use furniture with geometric shapes and bold colors. When I visited a restored art deco apartment, I saw how the furniture was designed to match the building’s original aesthetic.

From vehicles to furniture, art deco style has left a lasting impact. These details may not be as obvious as the buildings, but they add to the overall experience of being in a place that still embraces the style.

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The Best Cities to Explore Art Deco Style

Miami is perhaps the most famous for its art deco style. The Art Deco Historic District in the city has over 800 buildings, making it one of the largest preserved collections of art deco architecture in the world. Walking through the district is like stepping into a museum of design.^[3]

Tel Aviv is another city that has embraced art deco style. The White City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to thousands of art deco buildings, many of which date back to the 1930s. It’s a city where art deco is still a part of daily life.

New York is also a hub for art deco. The Chrysler Building and the Rockefeller Center are two of the most famous examples of the style. These landmarks are not only visually stunning but also represent the era’s influence on American architecture.

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Why Art Deco Style Resonates With Travelers

What makes art deco style so appealing to travelers is its ability to connect the past with the present. It’s a style that feels both nostalgic and contemporary, making it a great choice for those who want to explore history but still enjoy modern comforts.

Art deco style is also visually striking, which makes it a great choice for photography and exploration. Whether it’s the intricate details of a building or the bold colors of a hotel, there’s always something to capture.

For travelers, art deco style is more than just a visual experience—it’s a way to engage with history in a meaningful way. It’s a style that invites you to look closely, take your time, and appreciate the craftsmanship of the era.

Art deco is a style that invites you to slow down and really see the world.

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How to Incorporate Art Deco Style Into Your Travel

If you're planning a trip focused on art deco style, the first step is to choose a destination that has a strong presence of the style. Cities like Miami and Tel Aviv are great options, as they offer a wide range of art deco buildings and accommodations.

Once you're in a city with a strong art deco influence, take time to explore the neighborhoods where the style is most visible. In Miami, the Art Deco Historic District is a must-see, while in Tel Aviv, the White City offers a similar experience.

Incorporating art deco style into your travel is about more than just seeing it—it’s about immersing yourself in it. Whether it’s staying in a restored hotel or simply walking through a neighborhood, the experience is one that stays with you.

Art Deco Style