Gramps in Wynwood announces January closure
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I think this is from one of the Taylor Swift Dance Parties, because Gramps had range! Photo: Sommer Brugal/Axios
One of the first places I went when I moved back to Miami almost four years ago was Gramps in Wynwood — for a Soccer Mommy show.
- I knew I'd found one of my go-to spots in a city and lifestyle I felt disconnected from — a no-frills, laid-back venue that welcomed a range of shows and offered good, affordable drinks (and pizza!).
- As I often say, "The only time you'll see me in Wynwood is when I'm at Gramps."
Why it matters: After 13 years, the beloved bar and venue that helped shape Miami's music scene announced Thursday that it is closing in January.
- "We're leaving on our terms; it's our choice. We're not being thrown out," owner Adam Gersten announced on Instagram. "All I have to do is thank you all for the support."
- Gramps Getaway, the bar's Key Biscayne location, remains open.
Zoom in: Gramps showcased local and touring bands across genres while also serving as a gathering place and safe haven for the community, hosting drag shows, comedy events, poetry performances and more.
The big picture: The announcement, which comes after a string of industry closures this year, many citing neighborhood changes and rising costs, underscores the effect new development often has on OG establishments.
- In recent years, Wynwood has undergone drastic changes, with luxury condo towers popping up on nearly every corner, often with pricey restaurants on the ground floor.
- Major tech companies like Amazon have signed office leases in the area.
While bars like J. Wakefield Brewing, Wynwood Brewing Co. and Dogfish Head closed in recent years, it seemed like Gramps had withstood the changing environment.
What they're saying: Fans were quick to flood the comments, many thanking the venue for what it has offered and others lamenting what the closure will mean for the neighborhood.
- "Thank you for being a lynchpin to Wynwood for so long. Staying true to the end is the best way to go."
- "End of an era. Thanks for keeping Wynwood true to its roots for as long as possible."
- Many commenters simply wrote something along the lines of: "Noooooooo."
While I spent countless Saturday nights dancing, enjoying happy hours with friends, celebrating birthdays, and attending concerts at Gramps, I haven't been in a few months — and maybe that's the problem.
- In his video announcement, Gersten told viewers, almost as an afterthought, "You should've come here more."
The bottom line: Despite the signs, I assumed Gramps would always be there, that it wouldn't succumb to Miami's ever-changing landscape.
- But as Miami continues to change, that assumption is less and less comforting.
So, while we still can, I'll be taking Gersten up on his parting offer: "Don't sleep on the opportunity to come by here and hang out here and say goodbye."