OVERVIEW
Known for its sweeping, tree-lined streets, Mediterranean-style buildings and home to the University of Miami, Coral Gables is a city found Southwest of Downtown Miami.
LANDMARKS
One of the first originally conceived planned communities, Coral Gables is now a pedestrian-friendly city known as “City Beautiful.”
The neighborhood’s landmarks, all built following the Mediterranean Revival architectural style, include the Venetian Pool, a National Register of Historic Places entry that was completed back in 1924 in an effort to develop the city.
The Douglas Entrance, a site that was also completed in 1924 also belongs on the National Register of Historical Places, as well as the Miami Biltmore hotel, a luxury destination deemed a landmark in 1996 and portrayed in many popular films.
ASTORIA
ARTE
Cultural destinations include the Old Fire House & Police Station, which is now part of the Coral Gables Museum, dedicated to the district’s history, architecture, and culture; the Hotel Place St. Michel, built back in 1926 and now a favorite of European design aficionados; the Actors’ Playhouse, a not-for-profit theater that puts on shows for children and adults alike; and the Vizcaya Museum &Gardens, an Italian Renaissance-like villa on Biscayne Bay.
SHOPPING
Miracle Mile is the city’s major shopping zone, home to a variety of chains and some local standouts, like Books & Books, Miami’s most prominent independent bookstore.
DINING
Once offering dining options catering to the business-like crowd residing in the city, Coral Gables’ gastronomic world has recently undergone a metamorphosis, heralding in an era of funky cocktails and eclectic cuisine selections.
Izakaya Japanese Restaurant serves unusually creative sushi and entrees in a casual environment while Ortanique Restaurant opts for tropical-themed décor and food. Also stop by Restaurante Xixón for some truly remarkable Spanish cuisine.
TRANSPORTATION
The city is served by both the Metrobus and the Miami Metrorail.