Are you sick and tired of Miami’s overcrowded beach scene? Check out the magnificent Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami, Florida.
About Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Located in the artsy Coconut Grove district is Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This waterfront estate was once the winter home of conservationist millionaire James Deering. The museum complex has a main house, ten acres of gardens, a hardwood hammock, and a historic village. Today, it serves as a museum with a wide variety of art and furnishings from the 15th to the 19th century.
Deering’s home – turned museum – became a National Historic Landmark in 1994. Why? Because it holds historical significance. Also, it is one of the most intact examples from the 20th century. Vizcaya opened to the public in 1953; and it currently welcomes about 300,000 annual visitors.
The old world aesthetic and atmosphere attracts visitors from all over the world. Vizcaya opened to the public in 1953; and it currently welcomes about 300,000 annual visitors.
Deering’s home – turned museum – is a National Historic Landmark sited on Biscayne Bay. The estate’s complex includes a main house, 10 acres gardens, a rockland hammock (native forest), mangrove shore, and a historic village.
Visitors from all over the world come here to get a glimpse of the old-world aesthetic, architecture styles, art and artifacts. Vizcaya has been opened to the public since 1953; it currently welcomes about 300,000 visitors annually.
Bad Boys II; Iron Man 3; Any Given Sunday; Ace Ventura: Pet Detective; and The Money Pit all filmed on the grounds. Pitbull also recorded part of his music video for “Wild Love” in the mansion. And Ronald Reagan strolled in its gardens with Pope John Paul II in 1987. How awesome is that?
The estate’s style and origins
Deering took a liking for 15th to early-19th century European splendor. So for that reason, he spent a huge chunk of money on lavish furnishings and artifacts from those periods.
Vizcaya’s landscape and architecture influences come from Veneto and Tuscan Italian Renaissance models. Furthermore, it design was of Mediterranean Revival architecture style, with Baroque elements.
The second floor includes Deering’s private quarters, guest bedrooms, kitchen and breakfast room.
The living room was largest room in the house. It is sometimes nicknamed ‘the Renaissance Hall’ for its 14th to the 17th century work of arts.
Need a break?
Small bites and souvenirs are available at the mini cafe and gift shop below the main house. The sales support the non-profit foundation that maintains the grounds.
Helpful Tips
- Location: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129.
- Museum Hours: The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. But is closed on Tuesdays.
- Plan to arrive early. You may spend anywhere between two to four hours exploring the grounds.
- Tours available. Both self guided and guided tours are available daily. They are available for sale onsite.
- Individuals such as art and history lovers, nature enthusiasts will love it here. Also Instagrammers as there are countless photo opportunities.
In Summary
The old world aesthetic of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens will transport you back in time. To sum up, be sure to check out Vizcaya Museum and Gardens on your next Miami visit.
