The Great Outdoors
If your friends and family love sun, sand, and water, they’re in the right place. Coral Gables has a great mix of South Florida fun and a totally unique ecological experience. In the days leading up to your wedding, guests can go on a variety of naturalist-led eco-adventures in the area surrounding the Coral Gables Waterway.
For guests compelled to hit the links while in Coral Gables, there’s world-class golfing at the landmark Biltmore Hotel. A more leisurely way to take in the scenery of Miami is on a stroll through Matheson Hammock County Park -- since the tranquil waters are bordered by Key Biscayne, it’s ideal for families with young swimmers.
Posh Ways to Unwind
For the ultimate in relaxation, Coral Gables has a bunch of blissful options. At the Biltmore Hotel, guests can enjoy a full range of services at the seventh-floor spa (which has the added bonus of great views of the golf course).
The Westin Colonnade also offers lavish options for guests looking to chill out before the wedding day, including a heated rooftop pool and complimentary yoga classes. And if you have a guest who just can't leave home without their beloved pooch, this hotel has another upside: The Westin offers "Heavenly" dog beds and even a doggie welcome kit.
Coral Gables is also home to the world-renowned Elemis Day Spa, which has a 7,000-square-foot location in the Village of Merrick Park. There, guests can be pampered and prepped for your wedding with services like facials, aromatherapy, and acupuncture.
Something for Everyone
In Coral Gables, your guests really can find whatever they're looking for. Whether it's relaxing by the beach, playing tennis, or fishing in the Biscayne Bay area, there's never a shortage of activities for every temperament.
If you’re interested in seeing the more academic side of the town, take a tour of the University of Miami and stop off at the Lowe Art Museum, which has a huge collection of Renaissance, Native American, and Asian art. Also worth checking out is the new Palley Pavilion, a unique gallery with contemporary glass and studio art pieces.
Guests looking to experience old Florida can stop by the historic Venetian Pool, which was formed from a coral rock quarry in 1923. Today, the pool has expansive loggias, porticos, tons of palm trees, and even a cobblestoned bridge. For a guided nature experience, there's also the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, which is home to flowering trees, exotic plants, and even a variety of endangered species.
No matter what your guests are looking for, they're sure to find entertainment, relaxation, and plenty of natural Florida beauty while staying in Coral Gables.