Must see in Miami: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Miami has it all. Beach, skyline views, pastel colored streets, delicious food, a great nightlife and yes, also historic sights. Welcome to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a former villa owned by businessman James Deering. Stepping into this green oasis feels like taking a time machine back to the 16th century, however don’t be fooled by its Italian Renaissance inspired look. Vizcaya mansion is ‘only’ a hundred years old!
A little bit of history
In the early 20th century Miami wasn’t the vibrant city that we know today. That was about to change and James Deering knew that. Eager to preserve the natural swamp and tropical forest, he gave order to construct the mansion and create its fairytale gardens. In 1952 Vizcaya became a property of Miami-Dade County and one year later it opened as a museum. Fast-forward to 2018, and this one of Miami’s most photogenic spots. No wonder that Vizcaya is a desired location for photo shoots, movie scenes, weddings and official events. Yep, even world leaders love Vizcaya! And if it’s good enough for world leaders then it must be good enough for you, right?
American charm meets European luxury
As an European, it was a pleasant surprise to see a cultural place like this in the States. In fact, it felt like I had left Miami altogether! However, there is no denial that James Deering did an excellent job in adapting his European-style mansion to its tropical surroundings. Adding natural materials and native plants, he created the perfect mix of European design with wonderful American greens.
Extravagant mansion
Another thing that James Deering exceeded in was the historical impression. In order to achieve this classical look, James collected some fine pieces of art from all over Europe and America. This all was decorated and put together in a very extravagant yet classy manner. Bonus points for the frequent use of pink details and pastel colors!
Lush gardens
Although the mansion is a delight on its own, the garden is where the real photo magic happens. Think of mangroves, palm trees, labyrinths, waterfalls, fountains and a hill overlooking the mansion. O, and did I mention the huge Venetian-style barge right on the Biscayne Bay?
Good to know
The address of Vizcaya is 3251 South Miami Avenue. Vizcaya is closed on Tuesdays, on other days it is open between 9.30 AM and 4.30 PM.
Regular entrance fee is $18, for students it is $12 and for children aged between 6 and 12 it is $6. Children under the age of 6 get in for free.
Do you know more places like this in America?
Ayo! AR x
