Learn More About Coral Gables, Florida
About Coral Gables:
Coral Gables is a charming mid-sized city in Miami-Dade County, Florida in the metropolitan Miami area. Located just southwest of downtown Miami, Coral Gables spans just over 37 square miles with a population of approximately 50,000. The city’s unique European and Mediterranean influences can be traced back to its founder George Merrick, who designed the city in the 1920’s. Merrick wanted the city to have a European flavor to it and that is evidenced in the architecture and landmarks that still stand today. Coral Gables goes by the nickname “The City Beautiful.”
As part of the greater Miami area, Coral Gables Miami has a tropical monsoon climate which features a drier winter season. It has an average temperature of just under 70° in the winter and in the mid to high 80s in the warmer months.
Coral Gables offers some of the most impressive public parks and recreation facilities found anywhere and the crown jewel is the Venetian Pool which serves as both recreational facility and architectural wonder. First opened in 1923, the pool was created from a coral rock quarry, where much of the original coral rock was used to border and further accentuate the pool. The 820,000-gallon pool is fed with spring water from an underground aquifer giving it a unique all-natural experience. The facility features two large historic lookout towers, two waterfalls, and a cave-like grottos which provide a fun experience for swimmers.
Coral Gables is world renowned as being one of Florida’s premier shopping destinations. Two of the more popular shopping areas are the Miracle Mile which offers some of the most exclusive brand name boutiques along a scenic downtown stretch and the Shops at Merrick Park, which is a shopping and dining destination that offers a vibrant mix of cultural and entertainment attractions. The Shops at Merrick Park was first opened in 2002 and features three-level open air shopping and dining experience, and includes a variety of luxury retailers and high-end finishes within a tropical setting.
Getting around Coral Gables is part of the enjoyment that comes with exploring the City Beautiful. Their iconic trolley system provides free transportation through the downtown core on weekdays. Jump on the trolley to visit the first class shops, boutiques and restaurants downtown or simply go for a sightseeing tour. The trolley also connects you with the Miami Metro Rail system.
The trolley is a popular means of getting around to see the many arts and culture destinations found in Coral Gables. One of the more popular is the Actors' Playhouse, Miami-Dade County’s award-winning professional theatre company. The Playhouse is considered the largest self-producer of critically acclaimed dramatic and musical theatres in South Florida and boosts top quality programming year-round.
Schools in Coral Gables are administered by the Miami Dade County Public School system, the largest school district in the state of Florida and the fourth largest in the United States. Amongst the highest rated schools in the city are: George Washington Carver Middle School, International Studies Preparatory Academy, Somerset Gables Academy, and Coral Gables Preparatory Academy. The University of Miami plays a large role in bringing the residents of South Florida together, this 10,000 student university is known for their football team, “The Hurricanes”, as well as their highly rated medical and law schools.
Coral Gables is a very livable city with its pedestrian-friendly reputation, top flight dining establishments and gourmet shops, and many notable international retailers. Conveniently located just four miles from Miami International Airport, Coral Gables is easy to get to and travel from making it a desirable place to live for just about anyone.
