8/8/2019 Venetian Pool - Historic Beauty in Historic Miami

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Venetian Pool: Historic Beauty in Historic Miami

To find the best attractions in historic Miami, one neednt look further than Coral Gables.While South Beachs Art Deco skyline is the iconic image most often associated with Miami,an exclusive section of the city known as Coral Gables holds an equally memorableattraction: the gorgeous Venetian Pool. It is perhaps the only public pool in America to belisted on the National Register of Historic Places.

Fed by underground Artesian wells, Venetian Pool looks like something out of a 1920smovie set. Its an improbable Mediterranean-style lagoon right in the heart of historicMiami: a luxe oasis replete with elegant porticos, vine-covered loggias, and a large Spanish-style fountain. It even has dramatic waterfalls that cascade into the lagoon. As if all that 

werent enough, Venetian Pool has its own coral rock caves and palm-shaded island. Youhonestly wont believe your eyes.

Well-hidden behind stucco walls and wrought iron gates, Venetian Pool is a formerlimestone quarry pit. It was transformed in 1924, when visionary developer GeorgeMerrick was shaping Coral Gables. Merrick envisioned a Mediterranean-style city of plazas,fountains and esplanades, an orderly and beautiful counterpart to the urban sprawl he sawoccurring in Dade County where he was also a commissioner.

This forward-thinking leader saw his dream become reality as Coral Gables echoed themost beautiful cities in Europe (a story not unlike the creation of famed Palm Beach). With

the help of Merricks artist uncle, and architect Phineas Paist, Venetian Pool became amagnet for luminaries like Esther Williams and Tarzans Johnny Weissmuller.

At the peak of its luminescence, Coral Gables famed lagoon served as the backdrop forelegant dances; visiting VIPs were taken there and treated to specially coordinated paradesof bathing beauties. While the pool was recently renovated, it fully retains its originaldesign and feel. The rich history that accompanies it is on display.

8/8/2019 Venetian Pool - Historic Beauty in Historic Miami

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The Coral Gables that was born in the 20s is very much intact today, rightfully protected bycity ordinances and known as one of the most exclusive and desirable communities withingreater Miami. Its only a short drive from Solara Surfside.

If youre going with your children, be advised that kids must be 3 years old and 38 high to

enter the pool. There is a snack bar, and the Venetian is only closed for 5 holidays a year.Pool hours vary from day to day and season to season but you can count on 10:30 - 4:00.Entrance fees also vary by age, season and membership, ranging from $3.95 to $11.00.

When you go, be sure to have your camera batteries charged. Youre sure to want to takephotos, if for no other reason than to make your friends back home jealous that you foundone of the best and most amazing Miami attractions.

Recommended Bluegreen Resort 

Solara Surfside 

Related Links/ArticlesCoral Gables Venetian Pool Cityscapes Experience Miami Travel Guide