How to spend an afternoon at Miami’s Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
A World War, a hurricane, and a heist…Is there anything this former estate can’t withstand? Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is one of Miami’s most historic and beautifully preserved landmarks, making it one of the top destinations to visit on your trip.
If you’re staying with us at Freehand Miami, get ready to add this European-inspired oasis to your bucket list…
What are the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens?
Time travel might be impossible, but visiting Vizcaya is the next best thing. Upon arrival, you’re transported to the coast of Italy – with a twist. Vizcaya was designed to adapt traditional Mediterranean architectural elements to the subtropical Miami climate.
Throughout the museum and gardens, you’ll find collections dating from the early 20th century back to Pompeii, from antiquity to the Renaissance and Baroque periods, as well as modern art.
Vizcaya is perhaps best known for its iconic gardens that showcase a stunning blend of lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and meticulously sculpted landscape. Trust us, there are plenty of great spots to snap a few Instagram-worthy pictures for your feed.
History of the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Vizcaya was originally a 1916 waterfront estate and winter home, dreamt up by businessman, James Deering. It was built into a reality by three key men: Paul Chalfin (the artistic director for the project), Francis Burrall Hoffman Jr (architect), and later, Diego Suarez (landscape architect).
After First World War setbacks, the gardens were completed in 1922. Then, just three years later, Deering passed away. Over the coming years, the Vizcaya estate was subject to not just one, but two (yes TWO) hurricanes in 1926 and 1935.
Following the hurricanes, it was then converted into the Dade-County Art Museum. But Vizcaya’s bad luck continued int 1971, when it was targeted for a heist job. This was all before being designated a National Historical Landmark in 1994. It’s safe to say, there’s a lot of history amongst these walls!
Where are they in Miami?
Vizcaya overlooks the waters of Biscayne Bay, tucked within northern Coconut Grove neighbourhood in Miami. The address is 3251 S Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33129.
What to expect when visiting the museum
One of the best things about Vizcaya? It has something for everyone! Check out their calendar that’s bursting with events, fun activities and temporary exhibitions.
Upcoming events
- Vizcaya Village Farmers Market – discover delicacies at the historic farm and village every Sunday from 9:00am – 2:00pm.
- Seersucker Social – 1920s-inspired game night in the gardens, Wednesday 26 July from 6:00pm – 9:00pm.
- Ecotopia by Pangea Kali Virga – free immersive events exploring the fusion of art and environmentalism (upcoming events are listed below):
- Open Mic Workshop, Sunday 29 July at 7:00pm
- Picnic and Cookbook, Saturday 30 July at 9:00am
- Finale Festival, Sunday 6 August at 9:00pm
Make sure to register online before visiting.
Tours
Eager to dive deeper into Vizcaya’s history? Check out the guided tours available for $5 per person. There are daily house tours at 11:30am, 12:30pm and 2:30pm. On Sunday’s, Village tours are available at 11:00am.
If you prefer learning at your own pace, you’re in luck. For a limited time, audio tours are free with your admission ticket.
Opening hours and admission information
Vizcaya opens at 9:30am Wednesday – Monday (including December 31 and January 1), with the last entry at 4:30pm. The Main House then remains open until 5:00pm and the Gardens until 5:30pm.
The museum and gardens are only closed on Tuesdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day (open on all other holidays that don’t fall on a Tuesday).
All visitors must reserve tickets online. See below for prices:
- Adults (13+) $25
- Child (6-12) $10
- Child (5 & Under) FREE
- Members FREE
Vizcaya also offers discounted tickets (free) for anyone who is:
- Disability protected under the ADA and one accompanying caregiver
- S military veterans and active duty US military personnel with ID
- Museums for all: SNAP EBT cardholders including up to 3 guests
How far is the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens from Freehand Miami?
Freehand Miami is just a 23 minutes drive away from Vizcaya. If you’re staying with us without a car, just ask the reception desk to call a cab. There are also public transport options that’ll get you there in just over an hour.
