Coral Gables, Miami Travel Guide

Coral Gables Summary

What It's Like

Initially developed in the 1920s to emulate the beauty of the Mediterranean -- still apparent in the gorgeous Venetian Pool, a former coral rock quarry fed by 820,000 gallons of natural spring water -- the meticulously manicured neighborhood of Coral Gables is far from a beach, but it's just a short drive from the University of Miami, the airport, the port of Miami, and downtown Miami's corporate towers.

Where to Stay

The iconic Biltmore Hotel, a national landmark, is a neighborhood attraction in its own right; guests and non-hotel guests alike come to play at its championship golf course or nosh at its afternoon tea. For something closer to the neighborhood's (somewhat limited) action, the Hyatt Regency and Westin Colonade are just off the Miracle Mile, Coral Gables' stretch of upscale shops, restaurants, and bars.