Coral Gables sits just southwest of downtown Miami, planned in the 1920s by developer George Merrick around Mediterranean Revival architecture and lush tropical landscaping. The historic Biltmore Hotel anchors the city’s grand-era charm, while the 1920s Venetian Pool, carved from a former coral rock quarry, remains a beloved spot to swim.
The 83-acre Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden showcases more than 3,000 plant and animal species, and the Lowe Art Museum offers a diverse collection spanning cultures and centuries. Miracle Mile and Merrick Park give shoppers a mix of boutiques and luxury retailers, while Matheson Hammock Park offers a man-made atoll pool with skyline views.
The Coral Gables Museum and the Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theater round out the arts scene. December through April brings the mildest, most pleasant weather, with a seasonal outdoor market running January through March.
