Blog Layout

Exploring Beautiful Coral Gables

October 10, 2024

Explore the Striking Beauty

Coral Gables, one of Miami’s most picturesque neighborhoods, offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, historic architecture, and cultural significance. Known for its tree-lined streets and Mediterranean-style buildings, this area exudes charm and sophistication, making it a must-see for anyone exploring Miami. At Miami Native Tours, we offer a unique and exciting tour of Coral Gables, taking visitors to some of the most iconic and beautiful spots in the area. Here’s a closer look at the highlights of our Coral Gables tour:


1. Biltmore Hotel
The legendary Biltmore Hotel stands as a grand example of Miami’s glamorous past. Built in 1926, this stunning property has hosted royalty, celebrities, and even U.S. presidents. With its Spanish-style architecture, majestic tower, and luxurious grounds, the Biltmore is more than just a hotel—it’s a piece of history. Guests can marvel at its grandeur while learning about its fascinating past, including its role as a military hospital during World War II. Whether you’re a history buff or just love luxury, the Biltmore never fails to impress.

Matheson Park

2. Venetian Pool
Imagine swimming in a beautiful lagoon, surrounded by waterfalls, coral rock formations, and Mediterranean architecture—this is what awaits you at the Venetian Pool. Built in 1923, this one-of-a-kind public pool was designed to look like a Venetian-style grotto, filled with spring water from an underground aquifer. It’s one of the most refreshing and unique swimming experiences you’ll find in Miami. Even if you don’t take a dip, the Venetian Pool’s stunning beauty makes it a great stop on our Coral Gables tour.


3. Chinese Village
The Chinese Village is an architectural gem and one of my personal favorites. This unique neighborhood was designed in the 1920s as part of George Merrick’s vision for Coral Gables, which included several international-style villages. Walking through the Chinese Village feels like stepping into another world, with its traditional Chinese architectural elements, including curved roofs, pagodas, and intricate details. It’s a hidden treasure in the heart of Coral Gables that most tourists miss—but not with Miami Native Tours!

Chinese Village in Coral Gables, FL

4. German, Italian, Dutch West Indies, and French Villages
Coral Gables is home to more than just the Chinese Village. Our tour also takes you through other international-style villages, each offering its own unique architectural charm:


  • German Village: Experience classic European-style architecture with quaint details and a cozy feel.
  • Italian Village: Enjoy a touch of Tuscany with beautiful stucco facades, wrought-iron balconies, and lush gardens.
  • Dutch West Indies Village: This village combines tropical elements with Dutch architectural features, creating a blend of two worlds.
  • French Village: With its mansard roofs and elegant stonework, the French Village will transport you to the streets of Paris, right here in Miami.


These villages are perfect examples of Coral Gables’ diverse and imaginative approach to urban planning, making this tour a visual treat for architecture lovers.

Chinese Village in Coral Gables, FL

5. Marjory Stoneman Douglas Home
One of Miami’s most iconic historical figures, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, was a fierce environmentalist and author who is credited with helping to preserve the Florida Everglades. Her home, now a national historic landmark, provides a window into her life and her tireless efforts to protect South Florida’s natural environment. Visiting her home is an inspiring stop, offering insight into one of the most significant figures in environmental history.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas Home

6. Matheson Hammock Park
For nature lovers, Matheson Hammock Park is an absolute gem. This park is a tranquil oasis with scenic views, lush tropical landscapes, and a man-made atoll pool that’s perfect for a peaceful swim. The park also offers some of the best views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, making it a prime spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you want to take a leisurely walk through its shaded paths or relax by the water, Matheson Hammock is the perfect escape from the city.


Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a nature lover, our Coral Gables tour offers something for everyone. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery, Coral Gables provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable Miami experience. At Miami Native Tours, we pride ourselves on giving visitors an insider’s perspective, ensuring you don’t miss the hidden gems that make this area so special. Join us for an unforgettable journey through one of Miami’s most beautiful neighborhoods!

A dock with palm trees on the side of it
Venetian Pool
Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, FL
Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, FL
A path in a park surrounded by trees and a gazebo.

You might also like

Experience Majestic Manatees with Miami Native Tours

October 22, 2024
Grace and Beauty If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing one of Florida’s most iconic and gentle creatures in its natural habitat, then a manatee tour with Miami Native Tours is the perfect opportunity. These majestic creatures, often referred to as “sea cows,” glide gracefully through the waters of South Florida, offering a peaceful sight to behold. From now through March or April, the manatees are in full view, and Miami Native Tours provides the best way to experience them up close. The History of Manatee Preservation in Southern Florida Manatee preservation efforts have come a long way in Florida, thanks to decades of advocacy and environmental protection. Once threatened by boat collisions and habitat destruction, the manatee population has benefited from extensive conservation measures . In 1973, the West Indian manatee was listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act , and in 1978, the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act was passed, designating Florida as a safe haven for these gentle giants. Over time, stricter boating regulations, awareness campaigns, and habitat restoration projects, such as the protection of seagrass beds (a primary food source for manatees), have allowed the population to stabilize. Though challenges remain, especially in other parts of Florida where manatees struggle with environmental changes, Southern Florida’s manatee population is thriving. In Miami, specifically, manatees continue to enjoy healthy conditions, with plentiful food sources and growing families. It’s a true success story for wildlife preservation.

Exploring Key Biscayne and Alternative Sites with Miami Native Tours

October 4, 2024
Hidden Gems At Miami Native Tours, we believe that your visit to Miami should be filled with more than just the usual sights. While the bustling streets of South Beach and the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Havana are certainly worth experiencing, there are other equally compelling stops that can add a unique and enriching layer to your visit. One of our favorite destinations is Key Biscayne, but we also offer alternative site options, each with its own guided tours to enhance your experience. Let us introduce you to these gems, all of which offer something special for every kind of traveler. Key Biscayne Lighthouse One of the highlights of the Key Biscayne area is the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, located within the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. This iconic lighthouse has been guiding sailors and explorers since 1825 and stands as Miami-Dade County's oldest standing structure. Guided tours are available daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., making it a must-see stop for history buffs and casual visitors alike. The tour provides an insightful look into the rich maritime history of Florida, including the lighthouse's role during the Seminole Wars and the Underground Railroad. For those who can handle a few stairs, the view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking, offering panoramic sights of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. It’s a stop we highly recommend for those who want to mix a bit of adventure with a history lesson.

Discover the Art Deco Wonders of South Beach: A Tour Through Time

September 27, 2024
Iconic Art Deco in South Florida South Beach, often celebrated as the “ Art Deco Capital of the World ,” is home to the largest concentration of Art Deco architecture anywhere on the planet. This unique architectural style, with its bold geometric shapes, pastel colors, and distinct ornamental features, captures the spirit of a bygone era. Walking through South Beach is like stepping back in time, offering visitors a glimpse of Miami’s glamorous past. However, the story of how South Beach became synonymous with Art Deco is as fascinating as the architecture itself.
More Posts

Book a Service Today

Share by: