Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Vizcaya was home to James Deering and a large staff that managed the estate. Deering occupied Vizcaya only in the winter months, from 1916–1925, when he died. Below, you can learn a bit about the creative spirit behind Vizcaya and how it became a public museum for your enjoyment today.

Creating Vizcaya
Vizcaya was the winter residence of American industrialist James Deering from Christmas 1916 until his death in 1925.  Deering was a Vice President of the International Harvester Company, which produced agricultural equipment for a worldwide market.  He chose a bayfront site in Miami for his tropical winter home because of the location’s temperate winter climate and his appreciation of the native hardwood hammock.  In addition, his father, William, had already settled in Coconut Grove and his half brother, Charles Deering, would soon develop an estate at Cutler, in what is now south Miami-Dade County. The latter is now operated as The Deering Estate at Cutler.  

At the time of Vizcaya’s construction, Miami’s population was around 10,000.  More than 1,000 workers were employed in the Vizcaya project, including laborers and craftsmen from the Caribbean and Europe.  In addition to the house and gardens, the complex included a farm, livestock, and a variety of other service facilities covering 180 acres on both sides of South Miami Avenue.

A visit to Vizcaya will arouse your senses! First, you'll pass through Vizcaya’s lush subtropical forest and approach the Main House along a walkway lined with fountains and foliage. The inside of the house is filled with treasures from around the world. Hear Vizcaya's 1917 pipe organ played Monday through Friday from 4:00 to 4:30 p.m. Outside, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Biscayne Bay, colorful orchids in the David A. Klein Orchidarium, and our serene gardens and the statues that inhabit them.

Touring Vizcaya

You are welcome to experience Vizcaya either on your own or by accompanying one of our Vizcaya Volunteer Guides on a guided tour.* Additionally, Vizcaya offers a new way to explore this historic estate – through audio tours.

Vizcaya has just launched their first-everDiscover Vizcaya Audio Tour! This 90 minute experience in English allows you to explore this historic estate at your own pace. The Spanish Audio Tour will be available in November 2010.

Guided Tours
Check the daily guided tour schedule when you arrive on the day of your visit. 
Spanish language tours are scheduled every Saturday at 2:00 p.m. Subject to Guide availability.

Admission