Though Miami is one of the most popular spring break spots for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife, it can feel rowdy this time of year. So if you’re an adult—because grown-ups also deserve time off from the daily grind—who wants to visit The Magic City, but don’t want to be in the thick of things, consider Coral Gables.
Just seven miles from downtown Miami, Coral Gables is a postcard-perfect city—no wonder it’s nicknamed the “City Beautiful”—that’s adored for its stunning Mediterranean architecture, charming tree-lined streets, and upscale lifestyle. Enticing restaurants abound: Newcomer Sra. Martinez by James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein and her husband David Martinez sends out out Spanish- and Mediterranean-influenced fare (think: oxtail paella, mushroom shawarma, harissa-rubbed prawns) in a swanky dining room filled with live music. Coral Gables is also home to high-end shopping and wellness. (Be sure to try one of Toska Spa & Facial Bar’s celebrity-loved facials.)
As for where to stay in town, the answer is obvious. Opened in 1926, The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables is a local legend that’s famed for its storied history—it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986—distinguished guests from Judy Garland to Franklin D. Roosevelt, and elevated but laid-back experience. Nearly a century later, The biltmore still holds court as one of Miami’s best hotels.
For starters: the design is spectacular. A striking example of Mediterranean Revival architecture, the 315-foot-tall property stretched across 150-plus acres commands your attention long before you’ve pulled up. Inside, the lobby continues to impress with hand-painted barrel-vaulted ceilings, towering marble columns, and handsome mahogany furnishings. Instead of a bland playlist, you ears will pick up on the cheerful chirps of finches from their nine-foot-tall birdcages.
Thanks to a $25 million renovation that wrapped in 2018, the 271 guest rooms and suites are spacious retreats, boldly accented with shades of deep amethyst, robin egg blue, and gold, and classically done up with the essentials for a good night’s sleep. Even better? All of the accommodations offer breathtaking views, whether you’re overlooking the 18-hole championship golf course or taking in the city skyline.
Since The Biltmore is a full-service resort, you might not want to leave after you’ve checked in. The massive outdoor pool is among the country’s largest—and best enjoyed with a private cabana—while golf and tennis fanatics will flip for the Donald Ross-designed championship course, Jim McLean Golf School, and nine hard courts. When it’s time to unwind, head to The Biltmore Spa, a 12,000-square-sanctuary for massages—the Deep Vine Theraputic Massage is ideal after a long day out—and facials delivered with expert care.
Though the Biltmore’s signature restaurant Fontana is open all day and has a stunning fountain-adorned courtyard—which provides a pretty backdrop when the weather is nice—dinner stands out with craveable handmade pastas like the Aragosta Fra Diavolo (spicy lobster linguine) and perfectly grilled meats. And on Sundays, Fontana comes alive for its legendary Sunday Brunch, an extravagant all-you-can-eat affair of caviar, sushi, carved meats, and bottomless sparkling wine.
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