This chic boulevard is the perfect destination for a high-end retail therapy, fine dining and some of the best cultural attractions.
Located in the city of Coral Gables, the Miracle Mile is the place to head for if you want to indulge in the latest designer fashions. This area, located around 15 kilometres from downtown Miami in Coral Gables city, is also home to high-end restaurants and bars, as well as galleries and theatres.
This stretch was designed by George Merrick in 1922. This innovative planner and visionary’s aim was to create a commercial retail district centred around the main thoroughfare, with all shops no more than two blocks away. Essentially a “walking” neighbourhood, Miracle Mile is perfect for a leisurely stroll or for simply sitting under the palm trees and watching the world go by.
Along Miracle Mile, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, cafés and bars. Choose from Caribbean, French, Italian, Latin American and Japanese cuisine, as well as classic American steakhouses and seafood bars. For something lighter, there are plenty of sandwich bars and burger joints, or you can simply pick up a smoothie if you are feeling particularly healthy.
For evening entertainment, the Actor’s Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre offers a packed schedule of shows. This majestic building has undergone recent renovation, and is now counted as one of Florida’s eight major regional theatres.
Further afield in Coral Gables, otherwise known as “The City Beautiful”, you’ll find luxurious stately homes, as well as attractions such as parks, golf courses and botanic gardens. As you wander the city’s wide streets, you’ll see how the area is characterised by Mediterranean Revival-style architecture with its warm colours and barrel tile roofs.
Whatever season you choose for your visit, there are many events to look out for. For gourmets, try the Farmers Market and annual Artisan Food Fest held at the Coral Gables Museum, and for art lovers, all the galleries along Ponce de Leon Boulevard stay open late for Gallery Night, on the first Friday of the month.
The Metrorail and Metrobus link Coral Gables to downtown Miami. Once you’ve arrived, the vintage-style Coral Gables Trolley is a free service that makes it easy to explore the area without a car.
