Coral Gables, Florida is a picturesque tourist and retirement area.

Coral Gables FL History

In 1914, James Deering built his estate, Villa Vizcaya in the Coral Gables area. He used only authentic materials from Italy and Spain including large pieces of European castles that were dismantled, shipped by boat and reassembled on site. Many of his large murals, ceilings and tapestries brought from Europe can still be seen today.

In the 1920’s, wealthy landowner George Merrick was inspired by Deering’s Villa Vizcaya to create Coral Gables as a unique suburb using Spanish architecture and designs. He hired master craftsmen, landscape artists and city planners to create a strong Mediterranean look for his new city of secluded residential enclaves and commercial areas. As a result, the city's architecture is almost entirely Mediterranean. Incorporated in 1925, Coral Gables became one of the nation's first fully planned communities. Also in 1925, the city was selected as home to the University of Miami, which was constructed that year on 240 acres of land. Miracle Mile, a brick-paved section of road with upscale boutiques and specialty stores, was developed in the 1950’s.

Coral Gables Florida – Popular Senior Tourist Destination

Today, Coral Gables Florida is pedestrian-friendly and has more than 140 dining establishments and gourmet shops, plus many high-end international retailers. It is a popular senior tourist destination located only four miles from Miami International Airport.