1. Biltmore Hotel
City: Coral Gables, FL
Category: Accommodations
Telephone: (305) 445-1926
Address: 1200 Anastasia Ave.
Description: Built in 1924, this Miami landmark was frequented by celebrities including Ginger Rogers and Al Capone. In addition to the grandiose hotel, the property boasts a mammoth swimming pool equipped with waterfalls (out of what was an 85-foot diving tower) as well as a premier golf course, which was opened in 1925 with 18 holes. After a glamorous history (balls, famous guests) and a rocky road (economic recession, war) the Biltmore underwent a $55 million renovation and reopened on New Year’s Eve, 1987. Free tours are given on Sunday afternoons at 1:30, 2:20, and 3:30 p.m.
2. Chateau Bleau Hotel
City: Coral Gables, FL
Category: Accommodations
Telephone: (305) 448-2634
Address: 1111 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Description: With rates under $100 per night, this hotel is a good one to know within the traditionally pricey landscape of Coral Gables accommodations. Free transfers to and from Miami International Airport and the Port of Miami are great perks. There is a restaurant on site, Mylos, which specializes in Greek appetizers, seafood, and dessert.
3. David William Hotel
City: Coral Gables, FL
Category: Accommodations
Telephone: (800) 757-8073
Address: 700 Biltmore Way
Description: With less than 40 rooms, it’s a nice treat to have complimentary washers and dryers on each floor as well as views of Coral Gables or Downtown Miami, balconies, and full kitchens in each room. Hotel amenities include a rooftop pool and sundeck, fitness center, golf course access, and free Wi-Fi. What’s more: There’s a free 24-hour shuttle to the Biltmore Hotel’s facilities including their health club, spa, 10 lit tennis courts, and 18-hole golf course.
4. Hotel St. Michel
City: Coral Gables, FL
Category: Accommodations
Telephone: (305) 444-1666
Address: 162 Alcazar Ave.
Description: Travel + Leisure magazine named it “Miami’s best boutique hotel” and with 28 rooms, it is just that. The European-style inn was built in 1926 as the Sevilla Hotel and still proudly embodies its history while offering modern comforts (Wi-Fi or flat-screen television, anyone?). There is a restaurant on-site and continental breakfast is included in the room rate.