About The Biltmore
Since first opening its doors, The Biltmore Hotel has long been a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Its Mediterranean architecture, spectacular landscapes and sense of style offer an experience that is unsurpassed in South Florida. Located in upscale Coral Gables, the Registered Historic Landmark offers a blend of timeless elegance combined with modern amenities and conveniences. The Biltmore is also home to the legendary Biltmore Golf Course – an 18-hole, par-71 championship course, originally designed in 1925 by architect Donald Ross.
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Building a Dream
1924 - 1925
George E. Merrick was the man behind the creation of Coral Gables. But he wanted more. He wanted to create a hotel in Miami’s latest hotspot – one that was a center for sports, fashion, and grand living. Merrick joined forces with hotel magnate John McEntee Bowman during the Florida land boom, and they set their sights on building South Florida’s preeminent hotel. The Biltmore is the centerpiece of George Merrick’s vision of Coral Gables as an elegant, stately suburb, which he called The City Beautiful. The 10-million-dollar project was announced on November 25, 1924, and in less than 14 months, The Biltmore was unveiled to the public amid great fanfare in January of 1926. One might say he was building a dream, a dream that came true when the masterpiece of the Biltmore at the city’s epicenter was completed in 1926.
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The Jazz Age
1926 - 1942
With the Jazz Age in full swing, the elegant Biltmore attracted royalty of both the European and Hollywood variety. Guests enjoyed fashion shows, gala balls, and aquatic shows in the grand pool. It hosted world-class golf tournaments. Big Bands entertained wealthy visitors to this American Riviera resort.
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The War Years
1942 -1968
The ‘War Years’ saw the Biltmore serve as an Army Air Forces hospital, and the early site of the University of Miami’s School of Medicine. The hotel remained a Veterans Administration hospital until 1968 when it finally closed its doors.
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The Next Step
1983 - 1990
In 1973, the City of Coral Gables was granted ownership of the hotel under the Historic Monuments Act and Legacy of Parks program, but the hotel continued to remain unoccupied for years to come. Finally, in 1983, the city initiated a full restoration to return The Biltmore to its former glory as a grand hotel and it reopened in 1987 as a four-star hotel and resort. However, after three years, in 1990, The Biltmore closed amid the country’s economic downturn.
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A New Era Begins
1992 - Present
A new era began in 1992, when Seaway Hotels Group, chaired by Gene Prescott and his son Tom Prescott, became the operator of the resort and golf course. They embarked on a 10-year, $40 million renovation project to renovate the public spaces and guest rooms. A state-of-the-art fitness center and spa were added. The golf course was restored to its original Donald Ross design. And the Biltmore’s landmark pool was refurbished, adding a tropical waterfall and private cabanas. Today, the Landmark is indeed as elegant as the day she opened. The Biltmore’s rich history makes it Coral Gables’ most preeminent historic landmark.
Getting Here
By Air: MIA is a short 4.8 miles from the property and easily accessed by taxi or you favorite ride share.
By Land: Convenient access from both 95 and the Florida turnpike.
The Biltmore Hotel
1200 Anastasia Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33138
Directions
Self-parking is available in the West Parking Lot and Valet Parking is available for daily visitors. Valet services are $25 daily for visitors and $42 per day for overnight guests. Rates are subject to change.
Transportation
The Biltmore Hotel is a National Historic Landmark located at 1200 Anastasia Ave, Coral Gables, Florida 33134.
Les Clefs d’Or Concierge
With Les Clef d’Or Concierges, anything is possible. Few know more or can do more than The Biltmore’s Les Clefs d’Or concierges. They are available to assist with the simplest, to the most complex requests and offer information and insider information on area dining, shopping, tours, attractions, and transportation.
As an avid enthusiast and expert in the realm of historic landmarks and luxury hotels, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge that extends beyond mere appreciation. My passion for the subject has driven me to delve deep into the intricacies of renowned establishments, and I have explored firsthand the details that make them not just structures but living testaments to history, elegance, and cultural significance.
Now, turning our attention to the article about The Biltmore, I can attest to the unparalleled charm and historical significance embedded in this iconic establishment. The Biltmore Hotel, situated in Coral Gables, South Florida, has long been a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Its Mediterranean architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and unwavering commitment to style make it a truly unparalleled experience.
Let's dissect the key concepts presented in the article:
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The Biltmore's Inception (1924 - 1925):
- George E. Merrick's Vision: The Biltmore was conceived as part of George Merrick's vision for Coral Gables as an elegant suburb, referred to as "The City Beautiful."
- Partnership with John McEntee Bowman: During the Florida land boom, George Merrick joined forces with hotel magnate John McEntee Bowman to create South Florida's preeminent hotel.
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The Jazz Age (1926 - 1942):
- Cultural Significance: During the Jazz Age, The Biltmore became a hub for royalty and Hollywood elite, hosting fashion shows, gala balls, aquatic shows, and world-class golf tournaments.
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The War Years (1942 - 1968):
- Adaptation During World War II: The Biltmore served as an Army Air Forces hospital and the early site of the University of Miami's School of Medicine.
- Veterans Administration Hospital: Post-war, it remained a Veterans Administration hospital until 1968.
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The Next Step (1983 - 1990):
- City of Coral Gables Ownership: In 1973, the City of Coral Gables gained ownership under the Historic Monuments Act and Legacy of Parks program.
- Restoration Efforts: A full restoration initiated in 1983 aimed to return The Biltmore to its former grandeur, reopening as a four-star hotel and resort in 1987.
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A New Era Begins (1992 - Present):
- Seaway Hotels Group's Stewardship: In 1992, Seaway Hotels Group took over operations, embarking on a $40 million renovation project over 10 years.
- Renovation Highlights: The restoration included public spaces, guest rooms, a fitness center, spa, and the restoration of the golf course and landmark pool.
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Getting Here:
- Location and Accessibility: The Biltmore is conveniently located in Coral Gables, with easy access by air or land, making it an accessible destination.
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Les Clefs d’Or Concierge:
- Exceptional Concierge Services: The article highlights the presence of Les Clefs d’Or concierges at The Biltmore, emphasizing their capability to assist with a wide range of requests and provide insider information.
In conclusion, The Biltmore stands as a testament to time, evolving through eras while retaining its elegance and historic significance. The article provides a captivating narrative of its journey, from inception to its present-day status as Coral Gables’ most preeminent historic landmark.
