Cabaret «Tropicana»

Famous throughout Cuba (and beyond), Havana's cabaret «Tropicana» opened back in 1939 on the grounds of Villa Mina estate and was initially called Beau Site — «Beautiful Place». In 1940 the cabaret was renamed «Tropicana» after a very popular song of that time. «Tropicana» became especially popular in the 1950s, when the country saw an influx of American tourists and, accordingly, American money. At that time various gambling games were legalized in the cabaret — slot machines, roulette, dice games, etc. The cabaret premises were then divided into two parts: Arcos de cristal («Glass Arches») for musical performances and shows, and Bajo las estrellas («Under the Stars») outdoors. Every night visitors were shown two shows: at 11:30 p.m. and at 1:30 a.m. The cabaret was never empty: in summer on average about 500 people visited it every evening, while in winter «Tropicana» was almost always filled to capacity.

Now «Tropicana» has the status of one of Havana's main tourist attractions, very popular among most visitors to Havana. Palm trees and various tropical trees are planted around the cabaret grounds, and the number of show participants reaches 200 people — singers, dancers, and musicians. In the cabaret's restaurant one can taste many delicious dishes of both Cuban national cuisine and other cuisines. Naturally, no Cuban cabaret is complete without rum, various exotic cocktails, and crazy bright dances. It should be remembered that the cabaret has a dress code: jeans, sneakers, sleeveless shirts often do not match the level of «Tropicana».

You must have your passport with you. Entry is allowed for persons over 16 years old.

The more democratic and less expensive show Parisien takes place every day at the Nacional Hotel.