The only swimming pool in Florida to be considered a historic place.
Hours:
Memorial Day-May 24: Tu. F 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sa.-Su. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. May 25-September 7: M-F 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Sa.-Su. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Feb.1-March 30: Tu.-Su. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Price:
Adults $11.50, Children (3-12) $6.60
Type:
Monuments & Historic Sites
Newcomers and visitors to South Florida won’t likely know the name George Merrick upon arrival but it’s almost a given that anyone who visits the town of Coral Gables, a suburb of Miami, will recognize it before they’ve left town. Responsible for much of the city’s architecture, there’s one gem of an attraction that has his name written all over it: The Coral Gables Venetian Pool.
Nestled into one of the city’s residential neighborhoods behind pastel stucco walls and ornate wrought-iron gates is the only Florida swimming pool to be included on the National Register of Historic Places. The vine-covered loggias, shady porticos, Spanish fountain, and cascading waterfalls make the tucked-away spot feel as if it has sprung from a bygone era when life was easy and time slowed down. Esther Williams and Johnny Weismuller of Tarzan fame swam the length of the pool, which is fed by a subterranean aquifer that flows beneath it. Children under three are not admitted and any child must be a minimum of 38 inches tall to swim, so take note if a day at the pool includes the young ones.