Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The basics

Vizcaya took over a decade to plan and build. Its landscaping and architecture were influenced by Veneto and Tuscan Italian Renaissance models and designed in the Mediterranean Revival architectural style. Today, the villa serves as a popular tourist attraction, as well as the site of international events (such as the Summit of the Americas) and Art Basel parties. Book a half-day guided tour to explore this National Historic Landmark and learn about its history.

Things to know before you go

• When visiting Vizcaya, some visitors notice a sulfur smell, which is produced by the mangrove shore ecosystem along the southeastern edge of the property.
• Because Vizcaya was built in the early 1900s, some areas have limited wheelchair accessibility; there are wheelchair-accessible parking spaces and a map indicating the location of ramps and elevators.
• Vizcaya does not offer bag check; luggage and large bags are not allowed in the main house.
• The property is located in laid-back Coconut Grove, which is worth visiting for the shopping on Cocowalk and Streets of Mayfair.

How to get there

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is located in Coconut Grove, just south of downtown Miami and the Rickenbacker Causeway. It’s about a 25-minute drive from South Beach and is also accessible via the Metrorail; take the Dadeland South line to Vizcaya station. A station for Miami’s bike-sharing system, CitiBike, is located at Vizcaya.

When to get there

Vizcaya is closed on Tuesdays and on Thanksgiving (the last Thursday in November) and Christmas (December 25). Classes and events including yoga sessions, horticulture and cocktail classes, and kid-friendly activities take place throughout the year. During the holiday season, Vizcaya features festive decorations that are displayed from early December until the new year.

Bayside Marketplace

A bit further down the waterfront, you'll find Bayside Marketplace, a waterfront mall that features plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Plus, since it’s right on the water, it’s the starting point for many boat tours, water taxis, and fishing charters. From the mall, you can book a sightseeing tour or a speedboat ride around Biscayne Bay to get views of the Miami skyline.

What is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens?

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens was once a private residence owned by industrialist James Deering. This large estate has a mansion with more than 70 rooms and a 10-acre (4-hectare) garden. It’s now owned by the city, open for tours, and sometimes used as a filming location for big-budget Hollywood movies.

Are guided tours available at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens?

Yes, there are two types of guided tours available at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, each with its own admission cost. House tours focus on either life in 1920s Miami from James Deering’s perspective or Vizcaya’s architecture. Village tours are on Sundays only and a part of the weekly Vizcaya Village Farmers’ Market.

Is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens accessible for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues?

Yes, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offers complimentary admission for guests with disabilities and their caretaker. Some portions of the house are only accessible by stairs, so guests with mobility issues may not be able to access those areas. Wheelchairs are available to borrow, but most terrain is uneven throughout the property.

What can visitors expect to see and experience at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens?

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens has an art and antique collection stretching from the main house into the gardens. Plus, the mansion has one of the best collections of Italian furniture in the country. In the gardens you’ll find 18th-century sculptures from Venice, Italy, and a living collection of historic plants.

Are there any special events or exhibitions held at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens throughout the year?

Yes, there’s a calendar of events on Vizcaya’s website that details all that happens at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and Vizcaya Village. Some of the events are weekly, like the farmers’ market and wellness classes, while others are 1-off cultural events like concerts, workshops, exhibits, and other types of performances.

Do you need to purchase tickets in advance for the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens?

No, you don’t need to purchase admission tickets in advance for Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Visitors who come during regular operating hours can buy a ticket as they enter. Any special tickets through discount programs must be purchased at the gate, but general admission tickets can also be prebooked online.

Ways to explore

While you can visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens independently, some visitors find it convenient to book a tour that includes admission and round-trip transportation from Miami, but allows for the freedom of a self-guided experience. If you’re interested in seeing other sights as well, Vizcaya is sometimes included on half-day sightseeing bus tours of Miami, as well as private art tours that showcase the city’s best art spots—and include it alongside Wynwood and famous Art Deco structures. Other options allow you to see the museum from afar, including sightseeing cruises or helicopter tours that offer magnificent views.

Accessibility

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is mostly accessible to wheelchair users, with wheelchair rental available, and parking spaces for people with disabilities.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, small bag, refillable water bottle

What to wear

Flat comfortable shoes, layered clothing

Not allowed

Smoking or vaping, drones, outside food and drink

Amenities

Restrooms, café, shop

Address 

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is located in Coconut Grove, just south of downtown Miami and the Rickenbacker Causeway. Visitors can arrive by car, Metrorail, or rideshare, or join guided Miami sightseeing tours that stop at the museum.

Driving

From downtown Miami, take the I-95S towards Coconut Grove, then turn onto South Miami Avenue and follow the signs for Vizcaya. There is free on-site parking but spots can fill quickly.

Public transportation

If traveling by Metrorail, take the Dadeland South line to Vizcaya station—it’s a 10-minute walk to the museum. You can also get the Coral Way Trolley or Metrobus route 17 to Vizcaya Metrorail Station.

Best times to visit

Aim to get there in the morning, close to opening time if possible, for a more peaceful exploration before the big crowds arrive.

Best days to visit

The museum is typically closed on Tuesdays, as well as Thanksgiving, and Christmas. It’s best to come on a Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday if you can.

Best months to visit

December through April are good months to visit the Miami area as the weather is warm, but without the peak summer crowds and humidity.

Special events

There are classes and events throughout the year, including farmers markets, yoga classes, and special holiday experiences.