Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is one of Miami’s most notable historic landmarks. Built in the early 1900s as the winter residence of industrialist James Deering, the property combines European architectural styles with local materials and tropical landscaping. Today, it serves as a museum open to the public, offering insight into Miami’s past while preserving both the building and its extensive grounds.

The centerpiece of Vizcaya is its Main House, designed to resemble a European estate. The interiors feature a mix of architectural styles, with rooms decorated using antiques, art, and furnishings collected from around the world. Walking through the house, you’ll find formal reception areas, bedrooms, a library, and spaces that showcase the lifestyle of Miami’s wealthy elite in the early 20th century.

Many of the objects inside were imported from Europe, while others were custom-made for the villa. Together, they create a detailed picture of how the home was originally used, blending old-world design with Miami’s tropical setting.

Outside the Main House, the gardens are laid out in a series of formal designs inspired by Italian and French landscapes. They include geometric hedges, fountains, sculptures, and shaded walkways. Unlike the European gardens that influenced them, Vizcaya’s grounds also incorporate tropical plants that reflect the South Florida environment.

The gardens are divided into several sections, each with its own layout and features. Some areas are open and symmetrical, while others are more shaded and intimate. The combination makes the gardens one of the highlights of the visit.

Vizcaya is located directly on Biscayne Bay, and the waterfront plays an important role in the estate’s design. A large stone barge sits just offshore, built as both a breakwater and a decorative feature. From the house and gardens, visitors can look out over the water, connecting the property to Miami’s natural landscape.

In addition to the permanent displays, Vizcaya hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events throughout the year. These activities are designed to highlight the estate’s history while connecting it to broader conversations about art, design, and the environment.

Vizcaya is open Wednesday to Monday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
The entrance cost $25 for adults.