The Enchanting Oasis of Coral Gables

Discover the charm of Coral Gables in Miami, Florida – a vibrant neighborhood known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, lush landscapes, and cultural attractions.

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Coral Gables

Coral Gables, often referred to as 'The City Beautiful,' is an enchanting oasis located in the heart of Miami, Florida. This historic neighborhood is known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, lush landscapes, and charming tree-lined streets. As you stroll through Coral Gables, you'll be captivated by the elegant mansions, picturesque plazas, and quaint boutiques that give this area its unique character. One of the highlights of Coral Gables is the iconic Venetian Pool, a historic public swimming pool carved out of a coral rock quarry. This tropical paradise features stunning waterfalls, grottos, and a beautiful beach area, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to cool off and unwind. Another gem is the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, a sprawling 83-acre garden that showcases a stunning collection of rare tropical plants, orchids, and butterflies. For those interested in culture and the arts, Coral Gables offers a variety of attractions, including the Coral Gables Museum and the historic Miracle Theatre. The neighborhood is also home to an array of fine dining options, from upscale restaurants to cozy cafes, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. Whether you're exploring the scenic Coral Way, shopping at the luxurious Merrick Park, or enjoying a leisurely bike ride along the Old Cutler Trail, Coral Gables promises a memorable experience for every visitor.

Local tips in Coral Gables

Visit the Venetian Pool early in the day to avoid crowds.
Rent a bike to explore the scenic Old Cutler Trail.
Don't miss the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for a peaceful retreat.
Check the schedule at the Miracle Theatre for live performances.
Explore the boutiques and dining options at Merrick Park.

File:Coral Gables FL Biltmore01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Coral Gables Miracle Mile 20100403.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Bailey Palm Glade (5752321428).jpg - Wikipedia

File:Museum Complex.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida image - Free stock photo - Public Domain photo - CC0 Images

File:Matheson Hammock Clouds.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Coral Gables City Hall at night.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Miracle Mile & Downtown Coral Gables

Explore Miracle Mile & Downtown Coral Gables: A hub of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in a picturesque Mediterranean setting.

Merrick Park

Discover the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Merrick Park, a stunning urban oasis in the heart of Coral Gables, Florida.

Coral Gables Museum

Explore the Coral Gables Museum, where history, art, and community converge in a vibrant cultural experience.

Coral Gables Merrick House

Explore the Coral Gables Merrick House, a historical museum showcasing the legacy of its founder and the architectural beauty of the early 20th century.

Alhambra Water Tower

Explore the Alhambra Water Tower in Coral Gables, a stunning historical landmark reflecting the city's rich architectural heritage and serene beauty.

Coral Gables City Hall

Discover the architectural beauty and civic pride of Coral Gables City Hall, a historic landmark reflecting the charm of this vibrant Florida community.

Coral Gables - Alhambra Entrance

Explore the Alhambra Entrance in Coral Gables, a stunning historical landmark showcasing Mediterranean architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Coral Gables Historic Resource

Discover the historical charm of Coral Gables at the Historic Resource, where architecture and culture converge in a picturesque setting.

Miami Historic Homes

Experience the architectural splendor and rich history of Miami's Historic Homes in Coral Gables, a true gem of cultural heritage.

The Ruins

Experience the beauty of nature and elegance at The Ruins, the premier event venue in Coral Gables, Florida, perfect for all occasions.

Unmissable attractions to see

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Explore the vibrant beauty of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables, where stunning flora and art meet for a tranquil escape in nature.

Peacock Park

Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant community spirit at Peacock Park in Coconut Grove, the perfect escape in Miami's urban heart.

The Barnacle Historic State Park

Discover the historic charm and natural beauty of The Barnacle Historic State Park, a serene oasis in Coconut Grove, Miami's vibrant heart.

Ingraham Park

Explore the serene landscapes and lush greenery of Ingraham Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Coral Gables, Florida.

Coral Gables Museum

Explore Coral Gables Museum: A hub of local history, art, and culture in sunny Florida, perfect for tourists seeking a deeper connection to the area's heritage.

R Hardy Matheson County Preserve

Explore R Hardy Matheson County Preserve: A serene escape into nature with stunning views and rich biodiversity near Coral Gables, Florida.

Coral Gables Merrick House

Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Coral Gables at the Merrick House, a historic museum celebrating the legacy of its founder.

Alhambra Water Tower

Explore the Alhambra Water Tower, a stunning historical landmark in Coral Gables rich in architectural beauty and community heritage.

Chinese Village

Experience the tranquility and beauty of Chinese Village, a unique cultural gem in Coral Gables offering stunning architecture and serene gardens.

Coral Gables - Alhambra Entrance

Explore the stunning Alhambra Entrance, a historical landmark in Coral Gables, offering unique architecture and lush gardens for an unforgettable experience.

Essential places to dine

Bulla Gastrobar

Discover authentic Spanish cuisine at Bulla Gastrobar in Coral Gables—where every dish tells a story and every drink delights the senses.

Seasons 52

Discover the essence of New American cuisine at Seasons 52 in Coral Gables—where seasonal flavors meet fine dining elegance.

CRAFT Coral Gables

Discover exquisite breakfast and brunch at CRAFT Coral Gables - where New American cuisine meets local charm.

Graziano's Restaurant Coral Gables

Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at Graziano's Restaurant in Coral Gables - where every dish tells a story.

Zucca

Experience authentic Italian cuisine and creative cocktails at Zucca in Coral Gables - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

Caffe Abbracci

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Caffe Abbracci in Coral Gables - where every dish tells a story of Italy's rich culinary heritage.

Eating House Miami

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Eating House Miami - where comfort food meets innovation in Coral Gables.

Portosole

Experience exquisite Italian and seafood dining at Portosole in Coral Gables - where culinary artistry meets elegance.

TUR Kitchen

Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at TUR Kitchen in Coral Gables - where tradition meets contemporary flair.

Lion & The Rambler

Discover culinary excellence at Lion & The Rambler in Coral Gables - where innovative dishes meet exquisite wines in a charming atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Shops at Merrick Park

Discover luxury shopping and delightful dining at the Shops at Merrick Park in Coral Gables, a premier destination for discerning visitors.

Miracle Mile & Downtown Coral Gables

Discover the lively shopping, dining, and cultural experiences at Miracle Mile & Downtown Coral Gables, a must-visit destination in Florida.

University Shopping Center

Explore the dynamic University Shopping Center in Coral Gables, where shopping, dining, and local culture come together for an unforgettable experience.

Stem Boutique Coral Gables

Discover exclusive fashion pieces at Stem Boutique in Coral Gables, where style meets local artistry in a chic shopping environment.

Essence Boutique

Discover unique women's fashion at Essence Boutique in Coral Gables, where style meets sophistication in a charming shopping experience.

Bloom Boutique

Discover unique women's fashion and accessories at Bloom Boutique in Coral Gables, where style meets individuality in a charming atmosphere.

Kalo Boutique

Explore Kalo Boutique in Coral Gables for unique fashion finds and personalized shopping experiences that stand out.

I'm Fuchsia

Explore 'I'm Fuchsia', a delightful gift shop in Coral Gables offering unique treasures and local artistry for the perfect Florida souvenir.

Casa Maria

Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Casa Maria in Coral Gables, where art and culture blend to create unforgettable memories.

Ben & Giules Concept Store

Explore Ben & Giules Concept Store in Coral Gables for unique gifts and boutique treasures that celebrate local artistry and creativity.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bulla Gastrobar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain at Bulla Gastrobar in Coral Gables, where tapas and cocktails come together in an inviting atmosphere.

Yard House

Experience the best of New American cuisine and craft beer at Yard House in Coral Gables, a perfect spot for food lovers and sports fans alike.

Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar - Coral Gables

Discover Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar in Coral Gables – where innovative cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for any dining occasion.

Copper 29 Bar

Discover the lively Copper 29 Bar, where delicious American cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in Coral Gables, Florida.

John Martin's Irish Pub & Restaurant

Discover the lively spirit of John Martin's Irish Pub & Restaurant, where Irish charm meets American flavors in Coral Gables.

The Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Coral Gables at The Bar, where eclectic drinks meet a lively atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.

The Globe

Experience the vibrant flavors and live jazz at The Globe, Coral Gables' premier grill and bar for an unforgettable dining adventure.

Cebada Rooftop

Experience the vibrant Spanish cuisine and stunning skyline views at Cebada Rooftop, a premier dining destination in Coral Gables.

Vinya Table

Experience the essence of New American cuisine and exceptional wines at Vinya Table in Coral Gables, a must-visit culinary gem.

The Cellar Club Bar

Experience upscale brunch and refined cocktails at The Cellar Club Bar, a hidden gem in Coral Gables' historic Biltmore Hotel.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Coral Gables

Discover Coral Gables with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHey
  [Hey]
- GoodbyeBye
  [Bye]
- YesYeah
  [Yeah]
- NoNope
  [Nope]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [Please/No worries]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [Excuse me/My bad]
- How are you?How are you?
  [How are you?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. You?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Do you speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [Let me see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI want to pay, please
  [I want to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just browsing
  [I'm just browsing]
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [How much does it cost?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [That's too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you drop the price?
  [Can you drop the price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [Ten thirty]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Coral Gables

Coral Gables was established in the 1920s by developer George Merrick, who envisioned a Mediterranean-style community in the lush landscapes of South Florida. Merrick's vision included wide boulevards, intricate architecture, and an abundance of greenery, setting the groundwork for what would become one of Miami's most picturesque neighborhoods.
The architectural style of Coral Gables is heavily influenced by the Mediterranean Revival movement, which was prevalent in the early 20th century. Notable structures include the Coral Gables City Hall, designed in 1928, and the Biltmore Hotel, which opened in 1926. These buildings exhibit the ornate details, stucco facades, and red-tiled roofs characteristic of this architectural trend.
During the 1920s, Coral Gables experienced rapid growth, often referred to as the 'Coral Gables Miracle.' This period saw the completion of major infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Venetian Pool in 1924, sourced from a coral rock quarry. The community attracted affluent residents and became a hub of artistic and social activities, contributing to Miami's cultural fabric.
The 1926 hurricane devastated Miami and Coral Gables, leading to significant economic challenges. Many of the developments stalled, and the area took years to recover. However, this catastrophe also prompted city planners and developers to implement stricter building codes and enhance urban planning, laying the groundwork for Coral Gables' future resilience.
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Coral Gables became increasingly diverse, reflecting the broader changes in Miami's demographics. The area saw an influx of Cuban immigrants following the Cuban Revolution in 1959, which enriched the cultural landscape. Today, Coral Gables is known for its vibrant arts scene, including galleries, theaters, and the renowned Coral Gables Art Cinema.
Coral Gables has made significant strides in environmental preservation, particularly with the establishment of the Coral Gables Green Committee. The committee focuses on sustainability initiatives, urban forestry, and enhancing green spaces, aligning with Miami's broader efforts to combat climate change and protect the unique ecosystems of South Florida.

Coral Gables Essentials

Coral Gables is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Miami. From Miami International Airport, it is a quick 15-minute drive via the LeJeune Road (NW 42nd Avenue). If using public transport, the Metrorail's Coral Gables station on the Green Line connects to downtown Miami and other neighborhoods. Buses also run frequently, with routes 11, 24, and 40 providing service to the area.
Coral Gables is a walkable neighborhood, especially around the Miracle Mile area, which features shops and restaurants. For those wishing to explore further, the Miami-Dade Transit system offers reliable bus service. The Metrorail provides easy access to nearby areas. Biking is popular, and the city has designated bike lanes. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
Coral Gables is considered a safe neighborhood for tourists, but it is always wise to stay vigilant. Areas with higher crime rates in Miami include parts of Little Havana and Overtown, so it is advisable to avoid these neighborhoods after dark if you are unfamiliar with them. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Coral Gables has several hospitals and urgent care facilities, including the Coral Gables Hospital. Always ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Local police stations are nearby, and pharmacies are available for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do wear light and breathable clothing due to the warm climate, but avoid overly casual attire when dining out. Religion: Do respect local customs, as Coral Gables features several religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous on public transport and give up your seat for the elderly. Don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile; handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Cuban cuisine and enjoy outdoor dining. Don’t drink alcohol in public spaces outside designated areas.
To experience Coral Gables like a local, take a stroll through the Venetian Pool, a historic public swimming pool. Visit the Coral Gables Farmers Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local goods. Explore the various art galleries and enjoy the architecture along Miracle Mile. Engage with locals—many are eager to share their knowledge of the area. For a coffee break, head to one of the local cafes and enjoy a cortadito, a traditional Cuban coffee.

The Enchanting Oasis of Coral Gables

Local tips in Coral Gables