Florida's little slice of Italy, with plenty of stunning landmarks, Mediterranean elegance, and Italian fine dining, is easily the most underrated town in the state. You may think that this charming neighborhood is no secret, yet this is a place that many overlook when visiting the region in favor of bigger cities like Orlando and Miami.
While it is just twenty minutes from Miami, the vibe, style, and overall cultural experience are more similar to a vibrant European village than a bustling beachside destination in Florida. Sure, it may be a small area, but it certainly packs a punch, and this can be seen in the variety of excellent authentic Italian restaurants, traditional Venetian-style canals, and romantic promenades.
If you have always wanted to visit Italy, then you need to check out one of America's underrated destinations with Italy vibes, Coral Gables, which brings the spirit of Italy to the Sunshine State - and all without needing to spend a fortune on a plane ticket.
So, get ready for palm-lined avenues, cobbled stoned streets, and excellent boutique shopping all in this petite town with enchanting Italian vibes, just a stone's throw from downtown Miami.
If you haven't already heard about Coral Gables, then you are in for a treat - especially if you are a fan of Mediterranean architecture, Roman-era sculptures, and Renaissance paintings. This highly underrated and often overlooked neighborhood of Miami is as charming as Italy is, and truth be told, you will find it hard to believe you have not just stepped off a private jet in Italy.
Located just 20 minutes from bustling Miami, Coral Gables, home to some of America's coolest neighborhoods, is a treasure trove when it comes to encapsulating the grandeur of Italy, and the Venetian pool at Coral Gables is a Mediterranean paradise in its own right.
Designed in the 1920s, the idea behind this stunning area was in the creative mind of George Merrick, who envisioned a place that would transport visitors and residents to a Mediterranean paradise, and that is exactly what it does.
Those who are yet to visit Coral Gables can expect to be met with delightful terracotta rooftops, stucco facades, and streets lined with elegantly designed Mediterranean revival buildings.
The palm-tree-lined avenues together with the traditional Italian-style fountains instantly transport you across the Atlantic, so that the busy Miami streets feel more than a world away.
Attractions You Cannot Miss in Coral Gables
Some of the highlights in the 'Mini Italy of America' include the Coral Gables Museum and the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
As one might expect when visiting a destination that is known as 'The Mini Italy of America', there are plenty of exciting and intriguing things to see and do. But where to start?
The Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is certainly one of the biggest highlights of the neighborhood, which was inspired by the 18th-century Italian villas of Veneto. While strolling through the landscaped gardens, visitors should take a moment to imagine wondering themselves wandering through a Lake Como villa while soaking up views of the pristine Florida coastline.
Art lovers cannot miss the impressive collection of art throughout the museum,
including Renaissance paintings and Roman-era sculptures.
Take your time here, to ensure you don't overlook any hidden masterpieces.
The Coral Gables Museum is also worth a visit and delves into the subjects of civic arts of architecture, urban design, visual arts, and environmental design.
Here you can enjoy a variety of interesting exhibits depending on your interests and learn more about the founder of Coral Gables, George Merrick.
One of the key architectural landmarks is, of course, the stunning Venetian Pool, which was constructed in 1924 and was historically a public swimming pool. However, this is no ordinary swimming pool.
Here you will find waterfalls, grottoes, and Venetian bridges throughout this coral-carved pool, reminding you once again that this truly is a mini Italy.
The Gables Art Gallery is also a great place to venture into, since it often features pieces by Italian artists, which solidify the connection to Italy's culture and legacy that bit more.
Originally opened in 1926, the Biltmore Hotel is an opulent and grand landmark
that also stands out within the neighborhood.
The upscale hotel features Mediterranean revival architecture and has
attracted many visitors over the years, for both business and pleasure,
firmly cementing its reputation as one of the most luxurious places to stay in
Coral Gables.
Italian Cuisine & Culinary Influence In Coral Gables, Florida
Coral Gables is more than just art, stunning architecture, and Italian vibes; the food is also sensational
As you might have guessed, no 'Mini Italy' could be complete without exceptional food,
and that is certainly what awaits you in this charming Italian-style neighborhood.
Whether you fancy a delicious cup of Italian coffee, a mouthwatering pasta dish,
or a limoncello to wash it all down, then Coral Gables has a few excellent options
for food lovers.
