Things To Do in Miami- Vizcaya

On the rare occasion it rains here in South Florida- yes we have to be honest- it does rain in the summer months, Miami offers many exciting things to do indoors.

Sure of course, one could spend there time in a  shopping mall or perhaps even the movies. But let us talk history, finery, culture... lets head off to Vizcaya.

Vizcaya is a stately home located in Coral Gables, a city just South of downtown Miami.  Coral Gables is easy to access, just head south on  Interstate 95, which becomes US 1.  If you happen to get lost or need instructions, just ask a local where you can find  "The Gables".

James Deering was the entrepreneur that built this Mediterranean Revival style city of Coral Gables, way back in the early 1900's. His home, Villa Vizcaya , was built in 1914. Located on a bay front site in Miami  this remained Deerings winter home from 1916 until his death in 1925 .

Authentic materials from Spain and Italy were incorporated in the estate-not an easy task in the early 20th century. Also shipped to our shores  included pieces of European castles, many tapestries, murals and actual ceilings. Many can be seen today in the estate now called "Vizcaya".

At the time of construction Miami's population was a mere 10,000. Workers on the project numbered 1,000  at one time or another on the "Viscaya Project". Many of these labourers and craftsmen came from Europe and the Caribbean.

At its inception, the complex included a working farm and livestock covering 180 acres on both sides of what is now US 1. Today, there are ten acres of formal gardens and a native "forest".

Vizcaya is a National Historic Landmark and accredited by the American Association of Museums.

Admission to the estate are:

• Adults                $15.00
• Children 6-12        6.00
• Children under 5  FREE
• Seniors                10.00

Hours of Operation:

• Daily -except Tuesdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas day from 9:30am- 4:40pm.

Vizcaya Estate, truely worth visiting while visiting us in Miami.