Vizcaya Vistas
Recently, my husband and I tasted a bit of Italy in Miami. There surrounded by cosmopolitan city life, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offers a departure into the elegance of an Italian Renaissance estate. Built by International Harvester magnate James Deering in 1916, his elegant summer residence is now open for visitors to enjoy.
- Weather vane and Sundial
The 34-room villa is open for tours, but its curators prohibit photography. Outside, however are breathtaking visas of the Biscayne Bay harbor and 10 acres of formal gardens.
- Great Stone Barge
The large limestone barge serves as a breakwater to protect the villa and grounds from sea-born storms.
- Barge in the Mist
After cooling off in a tropical rain shower, we crossed a footbridge and enjoyed the view of Biscayne Bay from Vizcaya’s gazebo.
- Gazebo and Footbridge
Just behind the gazebo lies the Secret Garden.
- Secret Garden Entry
- Welcome to the Secret Garden
- Secret Garden Lady
Coming out of the Secret Garden, gentle Baroque curves present a relaxing but formal atmosphere.
- Sculpted Shrubs
- Baroque Garden
- Garden Patio
Greek and Italian sculpture fills the gardens.
- Stone Vigil
- Garden Wall
Steps lead from the garden to an elevated overlook.
- Garden Lady with Goose
Tucked behind the gardens a canal dock awaits seafaring visitors.
- Canal Dock
A Google search reveals multiple pages of information on Vizcaya, but Memorable Moments on Biscayne Bay by Pamela Ann Campbell (be sure to check out the Miami Treasures Photo Collection) and John Singer Sargent’s Virtual Gallery shouldn’t be missed. Better yet, mark this travel destination as a must-see for your next trip to South Florida.
Morningjoy's Weblog 
I love Viscaya! I enjoyed how your photos took me on a virtual tour of this beautiful spot. I enjoyed my visit. Thank you for sharing and so glad you guys are taking time to sightsee!
Oh! You’ve brought back some wonderful memories–pushing a double stroller through those gardens and the twins were only 6 mos. old! Out of the whole time we were in the beach house we never did make it back to Viscaya–wish we had! You captured some beautiful images!
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