Venetian Pool
Attractions
Take a Dip in the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables
A beautiful oasis inspired by Mediterranean architecture, the Venetian Pool offers swaying palm trees, coral rock formations, whimsical waterfalls and interesting caves to explore. A unique part of Greater Miami & Miami Beach’s history, this former rock quarry was turned into the Venetian Pool in 1924. The pool – large enough to hold 820,000 gallons of fresh water from an underground aquifer – draws water from artesian wells in the summer. It’s the perfect place to cool off and go for a swim.
General Visitor Information
The Venetian Pool is located at 2701 De Soto Blvd., Coral Gables, FL 33134. Non-resident daily admission rates between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day are $21 per adult and $16 for children ages 3 to 12. Admission costs are reduced between Labor Day and the end of November to $16 for adults and $11 for children 12 and under. Children must be at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall to enter the facility. Annual rates are also available. Hours of admission vary depending on the day and season, so visit the pool’s page on the city’s website for more information. At this time, it is expected that the Venetian Pool will be closed in December and January. In general, the Venetian Pool is closed on major holidays.
The pool is available for special events, like birthday parties, weddings and corporate functions.
Programs and Classes
The Venetian Pool offers programs and swim classes for locals and visitors. Half- and full-day summer camps are also available. See the city’s website for current programs and schedules.
History of the Venetian Pool
Pioneering real estate developer George Merrick designed and built the city of Coral Gables. He was inspired by the Mediterranean and envisioned towering trees enveloping an idyllic neighborhood with a small-town vibe. Part of his master plan, the Venetian Pool was meant to be a locals' hangout where residents could gather and mingle.
The location of the Venetian Pool was originally a limestone rock quarry, but Merrick transformed it into the Venetian Casino in 1924. Designed by artist Denman Fink and architect Phineas Paist, it was a popular destination for A-list visitors and celebrities. Movie and aquatic stars Johnny Weismuller and Esther Williams appeared there, and the pool was sometimes drained so orchestra concerts could be performed on its floor.
Today, visitors to the pool can soak up its history through a series of pictures hanging at the entryway. Adding to its allure, the Venetian Pool has since earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, making it the only swimming pool in the nation with such an esteemed and iconic reputation.
By: Kara Franker | September 19, 2023
