11 Stunning Places In Miami That Don’t Feel Like Miami At All

Sure, Miami is known for many things: beautiful beaches, a rich arts and culture scene, incredible dining spots and much more. But it’s also home to extraordinary relics, structures and exhibits often hidden in plain sight. From an Italian Renaissance-style villa to an unexplained wonder made from coral rock, Miami has plenty of gems that don’t look or feel like they’re actually in the city. Here are several spots that will make you question if you’re even still in the 305:

1. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Italy or Coconut Grove? We can’t really tell. The former winter home of businessman James Deering, this Renaissance-style villa and gardens look straight out of Europe thanks to lush greenery, baroque statues and elaborate fountains. Vizcaya was built between 1914 and 1922, offering a stunning historic respite from the city’s buzzier side, all while overlooking beautiful Biscayne Bay.

Where: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129

If you’ve never heard of the Ancient Spanish Monastery, you might not ever believe that this Medieval gem is located in the city. But it is! This 12th-century monastery was built in the Spanish province of Segovia before being dismantled, packed in 11,000 crates and shipped to the U.S. It would eventually be reassembled in North Miami, becoming a popular attraction for visits, photoshoots and even weddings. Judging by its stone cloisters and Gothic structure, we’re not all that surprised. Plus, it’s considered one of the oldest buildings in the Western Hemisphere!

Where: 16711 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160

3. Deering Estate

Nestled on 444 acres along the waters of Biscayne Bay lies a marvelous estate that was once the home of Charles Deering, the brother of Vizcaya’s James Deering. He housed his vast art collection in a fortress-like Stone House, which can be visited today. The Deering Estate is currently a public museum and nature preserve, offering a range of tours and exhibits for those who want to dive into the city’s early history and the many diverse ecosystems on the property.

Interestingly, it sits atop a a geological formation known as the Miami Rock Ridge. Interesting karst features include sink holes, razor rocks and even caves, all of which can be accessible by guided nature tours.

Where: 16701 SW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33157

4. Coral Castle

Believe it or not, this curious “castle” in Homestead is the work of one man: Edward Leedskalnin. Made entirely out of coral rock, he was so heartbroken by his fiancée ending their engagement just before their wedding that he spent the next 28 years sculpting this otherworldly monument in her honor. The most bizarre fact about Coral Castle is that nobody really knows how Leedskalnin managed to quarry, transport and transform the 1,100 tons of coral rock that make up this sculpture garden. Some theories suggest magnetism or even the supernatural as to how he accomplished such a feat!

Where: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033

5. Venetian Pool

One of our favorite summer hangouts — though currently closed for renovations — is this beautiful swimming oasis in the heart of Coral Gables. Part of George Merrick’s vision for the city, it was created in 1924 from an old coral rock quarry to the Mediterranean-style paradise that it is today. More than just a pool, it features streaming waterfalls, underwater tunnels and towers with barrel-tile roofs. There’s even a cave-like grotto for swimmers to explore!

Where: 2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134

6. Patch of Heaven Sanctuary

If you’re looking to be surrounded by nature instead of the city life, Patch of Heaven is the place for you. This 20-acre protected forest in the Redland features a tranquil Zen garden, 5,000 sq. ft. butterfly house, koi ponds, historic buildings and the world’s first Mindful Pocket Park — designed to reconnect people with nature. In addition to hosting eco-wellness experiences, Patch is actively engaged in reforestation, conservation and mindful education.

Where: 21900 SW 157th Ave, Miami, FL 33170

7. The Kampong

Southeast Asia meets secret garden at The Kampong! This is a true tropical treasure of Coconut Grove, formerly home to Dr. David Fairchild’s personal collection. Named after the Malay word for a small village, you’ll discover plant varieties with fruits — including more than 50 types of mangos — and flowers from all over the tropical and subtropical world here.

Where: 4013 Douglas Rd, Miami, FL 33133

8. Stiltsville

Just off the coast of Key Biscayne, you’ll find a series of peculiar, wooden houses perched on stilts above the water. That’s Stiltsville, or at least what remains of it. These colorful structures once served as social clubs, hideaways and even gambling dens from the 1930s to 1960s. But the extensive damage done by hurricanes turned Stiltsville into a mere reflection of what it used to be. Preserved within Biscayne National Park, the only way to catch a glimpse of these buildings is by boat or during an excursion.

Where: Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

9. Curtiss Mansion

This distinctive Pueblo Revival estate looks straight from a different era… and that’s because it is! Built in 1925 by aviation pioneer Glenn Hammond Curtiss, this Miami Springs mansion has undergone multiple restorations throughout the decades, taking you back to the time of the Spanish missions in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Today, it serves as a popular venue for weddings, corporate meetings and special events.

Where: 500 Deer Run, Miami Springs, FL 33166

10. Greynolds Park

One of Miami-Dade’s earliest parks, Greynolds has quite the standout among its sprawling natural landscapes and towering oak trees. Of course, we’re talking about the 46-foot tall, castle-like observation tower that was once recognized as the highest point in the county! At the very top of the hill, park-goers can get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding lakes and forests.

Where: 17530 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160

Did you know South Florida holds a century-old connection with Japan? Not too far from Miami, nestled amid lush greenery in Delray Beach, is Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. This serene destination was once home to a colony of Japanese farmers seeking to revolutionize Florida’s agricultural techniques. Nowadays, the cultural oasis is home to a bamboo forest, traditional Japanese-style bridges, museum exhibits and cascading waterfalls that’ll make you feel like you’ve been transported to Japan!

Where: 4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446