RECREATION THE VENETIAN POOL
A Coral Gables landmark, included in the National Register of Historic Places, this 820,000 gallon swimming pool was built in 1923 from a coral rock quarry. The pool is fed with cool spring water, which is returned to the aquifer and changed every week, and is surrounded by two waterfalls, coral caves and grottos. Also bordering the Venetian Pool are buildings of Venetian-style architecture, designed by Denman Fink, uncle of George Merrick. The Venetian Pool is open every day except Mondays (seven days during the summer) and is available after closing for private parties, weddings, banquets and special events. Swimming, snorkeling, scuba and water aerobics are offered for those who want to pursue fitness in a spectacular setting. 2701 DeSoto Boulevard (305) 460-5356 • www.gablesrecreation.com
GRANADA GOLF COURSE
The City of Coral Gables operates Granada Golf Course, which was designed by the legendary Donald Ross, the oldest nine-hole course in Florida. Generous fairways, accessible greens, minimal bunkering and no water hazards make Granada extremely playable for golfers of all abilities. The course underwent a complete make-over in the Summer of 2015, and should be in tip-top shape for the busy Winter season. Granada is also an exceptional value: $15 to walk (for residents), $29.50 to ride weekends, and a twilight walking rate of only $12 ($16 for visitors). 2001 Granada Blvd. (305) 460-5367 • www.gablesrecreation.com
BILTMORE GOLF COURSE
Originally designed by Donald Ross in 1926, the Biltmore Golf course in recent years underwent a multi-million dollar facelift. The renovations have resulted in a world-class golfing experience for golfers of all abilities. Add the historic Biltmore Hotel as a backdrop
Connie Crowther
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THE CITY BEAUTIFUL 2016/2017
Coral Gables and you’ve got something truly unique. Green fees (including cart) start at $58 for Gables residents in the summer, and are slightly higher in the winter and for non-residents. Amenities include a fullystocked pro shop with club rental and repair, driving range, two putting greens, an extensive chipping area, and a restaurant. The Biltmore Golf Course is the site of the annual Junior Orange Bowl golf tournament. 1210 Anastasia Avenue (305) 460-5364 • www.biltmorehotel.com
CORAL GABLES WAR MEMORIAL YOUTH CENTER
The War Memorial Youth Center is both an after school playground and a sports mecca. The sports fields are home to organized (and not-so-organized) games of football, baseball, softball and soccer. The outdoor basketball courts also double as a roller hockey arena. The indoor facilities include a full-sized gymnasium, dance room, fitness center and gymnastics room. Specialized classrooms are available for the numerous programs in arts and crafts, ceramics, drama and cooking, to name just a few. The youth center isn’t just for the young: many classes are offered for adults and the center is the location for the Coral Gables Adult Activity Center, 50+ adults with a bi-monthly calendar of activities. Add indoor and outdoor toddler playgrounds, a concession stand, and the War Memorial Youth Center has the whole family covered. 405 University Drive (305) 460-5600 • For senior programs: (305) 460-5609 www.gablesrecreation.com
SALVADORE PARK AND THE WILLIAM KERDYK, SR. BILTMORE TENNIS CENTER
The city operates two outstanding public tennis facilities. The Salvadore Park Tennis Center has 13 lighted clay courts and the newly remodeled William Kerdyk Biltmore Tennis Center has 10
The Venetian Pool
www.coralgableschamber.org