On Biscayne Bay in Miami, Florida is an estate built that used such unique architecture it became a museum known as the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens was originally designed as a winter residence for agriculture industrialist James Deering and was built using a Northern Italian sixteenth-century design. The whole property covers over 50 acres, 10 of which are dedicated to the beautiful botanical gardens. The museum itself is made up of 70 rooms and is decorated in most of the house’s original furniture as well as ancient artifacts. The furnishings and collections found within the estate date back to as early as the 15th century.
Vizcaya is a National Historic Landmark and is currently owned by Miami-Dade County. You can experience this breathtaking property everyday of the year except Christmas Day and take tours that are offered in 10 different languages. This museum holds a very extensive history since its birth in 1910. It has not only been a location used for many movies it is also the place where Ronald Reagan welcomed Pope John Paul II on his first visit to Miami which took place in September 1987. Some of the other prominent names to visit Vizcaya are Queen Elizabeth II, King Juan Carlos I, and Queen Sofia of Spain. Don’t be surprised if you see a wedding or two (or three) taking place on the grounds on weekends. This magnificent locale is famous for hosting weddings and parties for those looking to mingle the old world feel with the tropical Miami ambiance.
This awe-inspiring property offers subtropical forests and is surrounded by calming fountains, majestic statues and foliage. Vizcaya’s pipe organ can be heard throughout from Monday thru Friday from noon to midnight. You can also gaze at the extravagant Orchid Garden which offers an array of color and beauty sure to capture your interest. Admission to the museum and gardens is $15 for Adults, $6 for Children ages 6-12 and Seniors 62 and older with I.D. Other discounts are offered, please be sure to check the website: https://vizcaya.org/ for any further details on admission discounts.
If you work up an appetite during all of your exploring, please feel free to get a bite at the Vizcaya Café. For an extremely different and romantic tour of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, take advantage of the Moonlight Garden Tours which are offered so you can enjoy the gorgeous gardens under the serene light of the moon. Live music and refreshments will also be offered in the Courtyard of the Main House. Admission to this one-of-a-kind experience is $15 for adults and $10 for seniors, students and Vizcayan members. If you are visiting Miami, make sure to mark the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens on the map – you will not regret it.
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