Today, Coral Gables remains one of Miami's most sought-after destinations. It's home to the first art museum in South Florida, along with Venetian Pool, Actors' Playhouse, and the iconic Biltmore Hotel. The city also boasts the flagship of South Florida's beloved bookseller, Books & Books, which features hundreds of author events throughout the year. As for dining, hundreds of eateries offer a range of cuisine and experiences, from fine dining to New American and fast-casual.
10. Shop and dine at the Shops at Merrick Park.
Every city needs a shopping center. But instead of the traditional strip malls found in most South Florida neighborhoods, Coral Gables boasts an open-air retail destination. The Shops at Merrick Park feature high-end brands from around the world, including Burberry, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, and Tiffany & Co. There are fitness spots too, such as the indoor boutique cycling studio SoulCycle and the full-service gym Equinox. Chef-driven eateries like Brasserie Central and Piripi, as well as popular chains such as Yard House and Teavana, round out the culinary offerings. The luxury center is Coral Gables' go-to spot for a workout, a new outfit, and a quick meal, all in one place. The only downside: This is one of the area's most expensive destinations. 9. Visit the Lowe Art Museum.
What began in three small classrooms in 1950 quickly grew into South Florida's first official art museum. Founded in 1952, the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami features more than 17,000 objects, with collections of Renaissance and Baroque pieces, plus American, Native American, and Asian art. The free-standing museum is used as a teaching resource for the university but encourages locals and tourists to explore its grounds as well. While you're at it, stop by the university bookstore to pick up some Canes gear. 8. Read at Books & Books.
Contrary to the popular belief that "print is dead," Books & Books brings
Journey under canopies of large, lush trees and through some of the most historic green areas of Coral Gables. The trail, which is mostly shaded, is perfect for an afternoon bike ride or
Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre produces both
5. Swim at Venetian Pool
Created in 1923 from a coral rock quarry, Venetian Pool draws thousands of tourists each year to its 820,000-gallon aqua-blue swimming hole. Its grottos and waterfalls, which reflect Mediterranean influence, were designed by real-estate developer George Merrick. Inside the pool, spring water is pumped in from an underground aquifer, making the water clear as day. The pool area, which is open to the public, also features two historic lookout towers. 4. Explore the Coral Gables Museum
Once used as the city's first court, the Coral Gables Museum has held multiple roles before it eventually opened to the public as a museum in 2011. The building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features 3,000 square feet of gallery space, along with a 5,000-square-foot plaza that hosts everything from street fairs to canine costume contests. With ongoing exhibits throughout the year, find guided tours every Sunday, as well as professional workshops and family days. 3. Eat and bar-hop on Miracle Mile.
Cool down with an ice-cold beer and a few plates of food along Miracle Mile. Downtown Coral Gables features dozens of restaurants offering a range of cuisines and ambiances, from gourmet to casual. Snag craft cocktails at Copper 29; pizza, pasta, and wine at Cibo; or Caribbean fusion at the local mainstay Ortanique on the Mile. 2. See a movie at the Coral Gables Art Cinema.
One of Miami's newest movie spaces, the Coral Gables Art Cinema is the city's destination for independent and international films, classic movies, and film festivals. Though the space has only one screen, the theater offers a bevy of flicks that often change nightly. The seating is comfortable, the screen is large, the sound is crisp, and the design is swank, so many local moviegoers consider this theater before other conventional or mainstream options. 1. Visit the Biltmore and stay for brunch.
The Biltmore is a Coral Gables icon. The 1926 landmark dates back to the days of Prohibition-era glamor, exuding luxury and opulence. In the early '20s and '30s, the Biltmore was frequented by celebrities, socialites, royalty, and even President Franklin D. Roosevelt. But glitz and glamor aside, the building has a spooky past thanks to the murder of gangster Thomas "Fatty" Walsh and the temporary repurposing of the Biltmore as a military hospital during World War II. Despite its rumored ghosts, the hotel is still one of the most sought-after destinations in South Florida. Every Sunday, the lavish courtyard hosts one of the finest brunches in town. But if creepy stories are more your thing, the Biltmore also offers walking tours that touch on its mysterious past.
