Coral Gables Museum
Coral Gables Museum
Coral Gables Museum: Discovering the Architectural Gems of the City Beautiful
Welcome to the Coral Gables Museum, a captivating destination that celebrates the rich history and architectural marvels of the 1920s-planned community of Coral Gables, Florida. Nestled at 285 Aragon Avenue, this non-profit organization is dedicated to exploring the built environment through exhibits, programs, and educational offerings. Whether you’re a tourist visiting Miami or a local searching for a unique experience in your hometown, the Coral Gables Museum is a must-visit destination. Let’s delve into the fascinating details of this cultural gem.
Unveiling the Mission: Celebrating Beauty and Preservation
The mission of the Coral Gables Museum is multifaceted. Its primary goal is to celebrate, investigate, and explore the civic arts of architecture, urban and environmental design, and the visual arts. By fostering an appreciation for the history, vision, and cultural landscape of Coral Gables, the museum aims to promote beauty, planning, and historic preservation for a broad audience. This includes children, families, community members, as well as visitors from all over the world. Through partnerships, exhibitions, educational offerings, lectures, tours, publications, and special events, the museum brings its mission to life.
Coral Gables Museum
Telephone:
305-603-8067
Address:
285 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134
Hours of Operation:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Friday: 11:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am-5:00 pm
Cost of Admission:
Members: Free
Adults: $12
Students/Seniors: $8
Children (7-12): $5
Children 6 And Under: Free
Military Families: Free
Parking:
There is a city garage conveniently located across from the Museum.
Website:
coralgablesmuseum.org
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Tracing the Roots: A Journey through History
In 2003, the Coral Gables Museum Corp. was established by the City of Coral Gables with the purpose of operating a museum in the Old Police and Fire Station. The restoration, renovation, and expansion of the iconic 1939 WPA building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, began in 2008. Under the guidance of architect Jorge Hernandez and Dooley Mack Constructors, this historic preservation project transformed the building into the beautiful structure we see today.
On October 10, 2010 (10-10-10), the Coral Gables Museum opened its doors to the public. Since then, it has continued to evolve, unveiling its inaugural exhibits in November 2011. A significant milestone was reached in 2013 when the museum became the Official Visitor Center for the City Beautiful. The Coral Gables Museum stands as a true testament to the collaborative efforts between the City of Coral Gables and the Coral Gables Museum Corp., showcasing the power of public and private partnerships.
Exploring the Museum Complex: Where History and Art Converge
The Coral Gables Museum’s facility is a blend of history and contemporary additions. At its core lies the Old Police and Fire Station, which offers a glimpse into the building’s storied past. Step inside to find yourself surrounded by the captivating photography exhibit in the lobby area. To enhance your visit, consider scheduling a guided tour to explore the former jail cells, courtroom, and apparatus bay/fire engine room.
As you venture outside, you’ll discover the enchanting Carole A. Fewell Gallery, spanning 3,000 square feet. This space serves as a canvas for various exhibits, providing visitors with an immersive experience. Adjacent to the gallery is the Museum Plaza and Courtyard, a sprawling 5,000-square-foot outdoor area where you can relax and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
One of the notable features of the Coral Gables Museum is its LEED certification. This prestigious recognition, achieved through the utilization of environmentally-friendly practices and materials, showcases the museum’s commitment to sustainability and responsible construction.
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Embarking on Guided Tours: Immerse Yourself in the City’s Splendor
As the official Visitor Center for the City of Coral Gables, the Coral Gables Museum offers a range of captivating guided tours. Whether you prefer exhibit tours, walking tours, cycling tours, or even canoe tours, there is something to suit every interest. For a self-guided experience, take advantage of the cell phone audio tour, available in both English and Spanish. To book a group tour of the exhibits or the city, simply call 305.603.8067 and embark on a memorable journey through Coral Gables’ architectural wonders.
Practical Information: Plan Your Visit
Address: 285 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134
Telephone: (305) 603-8067
Museum Hours of Operation:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fees:
Members: Free
Adults: $12
Students/Seniors: $8
Children (7-12): $5
Children 6 And Under: Free
Military Families: Free
Parking: Conveniently located across from the museum, you’ll find a city garage at 220 Aragon Ave. Additionally, an additional metered parking lot awaits on the opposite side of the museum entrance, at 338 Giralda Ave. If you prefer street parking, metered spots are available along Aragon Avenue and Giralda Avenue.
Etiquette and Considerations: To ensure the preservation of the artwork on display, please refrain from touching any exhibits. Food and drinks are welcome in the designated lobby area; however, please refrain from carrying them into the galleries or other sections of the museum. This ensures the preservation and protection of the artwork and exhibits. If you wish to smoke, designated areas are available for your convenience. Baby strollers are permitted, although storage facilities are not available during your visit.
Embrace the Enchantment of Coral Gables
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Coral Gables Museum, where history, architecture, and art converge. As you wander through the carefully restored spaces, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and planning that shaped the City Beautiful. From fascinating exhibits to engaging tours, this cultural institution offers an experience like no other. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, be sure to carve out time to explore the wonders of the Coral Gables Museum, a true gem nestled in the heart of Miami’s vibrant landscape.