The Biltmore opened in 1926 as the centerpiece of George Merrick's planned Mediterranean-revival city of Coral Gables and has been Miami's most architecturally significant hotel ever since. Al Capone, every president since FDR, Bing Crosby, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor have all stayed; the property became a National Historic Landmark in 1996. The 22,000 sq ft pool — the largest hotel pool in the United States — is the signature feature. Recent renovations have updated rooms while preserving the historic character. Coral Gables itself is the quietest, most architecturally beautiful neighborhood in greater Miami — Spanish-tile streets, banyan-tree canopies, and a 20-minute drive to the beach.
The Biltmore opened in 1926 as the centerpiece of George Merrick's planned Mediterranean-revival city of Coral Gables and has been Miami's most architecturally significant hotel ever since. Al Capone (suite 8), every president since FDR, Bing Crosby, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor have all stayed. It became a US Army Air Forces hospital during WWII, sat unused for years afterward, and was meticulously restored in 1992. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1996.
The signature feature is the 22,000 square foot Roman-pool — the largest hotel pool in the United States, with a depth that goes to 8 feet, surrounded by columns and palm trees. The 270-foot tower modeled after Seville's Giralda dominates the skyline of Coral Gables. The Donald Ross-designed golf course wraps around the property.
Recent renovations have updated rooms (now with modern bathrooms and AV) while preserving the historic character. The Cellar Club restaurant is excellent; the Sunday Brunch at the Fontana is a Miami institution.
Coral Gables itself is the quietest, most architecturally beautiful neighborhood in greater Miami — Spanish-tile streets, banyan-tree canopies, Venetian Pool (the public swimming pool, also a 1920s landmark), and a 15-20 minute drive to South Beach. Best for travelers who want quiet beauty rather than the South Beach scene, or for golfers, or for anyone who wants to experience the original 1920s Miami.
Why stay here
- ✓Largest hotel pool in US
- ✓Golf course (Donald Ross design)
- ✓Tennis
- ✓Spa
- ✓Multiple restaurants
- ✓Historic landmark tours
- ✓Pet-friendly
Good questions
How far is the Biltmore from the beach?+
15-20 minutes by car. Coral Gables is inland; the hotel doesn't have beach access but is a short drive from Key Biscayne or South Beach.
Can non-guests use the pool?+
No, the pool is for hotel guests only. The Venetian Pool, a separate 1920s landmark just a few blocks away, is open to the public.
What's the dress code at the restaurants?+
Smart casual generally; the Cellar Club and Sunday Brunch lean more formal. Beachwear isn't appropriate in any of the dining spaces.
Is the golf course open to the public?+
Yes — the 18-hole Donald Ross course is open to non-guests with tee-time reservations. Hotel guests get preferred booking windows.
