5 Beautiful Historic Mansions You Can Tour in Florida
It's fun to dream, right? Step inside some of Florida's most beautiful historic mansions and imagine what life was like decades ago. From Key West to Central Florida, these five impressive estates are filled with fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and stories about the people who once called them home.
1. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami
Explore Vizcaya Museum & Gardens on the shores of Biscayne Bay during your next trip to Greater Miami and Miami Beach. The sprawling estate is just a few minutes from downtown, but you'll feel a world away as you wander through the European-inspired gardens and Mediterranean-style Vizcaya Main House. Built between 1914 and 1922 by more than 1,000 workers, the estate is one of Florida's most impressive historic homes. Tour 34 rooms inside the mansion, then make time for the Theater Garden, Maze Garden, and Garden Mound outside.
2. Bonnet House Museum & Gardens in Fort Lauderdale
Step inside a whimsical estate at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Built in 1920 by artist Frederic Clay Bartlett, the home is filled with paintings, colorful decor, and personal collections that make every room feel unique. Today, the 35-acre estate is dedicated to preserving both its history and the surrounding environment. After touring the house, stroll the grounds where you'll find five distinct ecosystems, lush gardens, and plenty of wildlife.
3. Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West
Walk through the 1930s home of literary legend Ernest Hemingway and learn why he loved spending time in Key West at the Hemmingway Home & Museum. A 30-minute guided tour is included with admission and shares stories about his life, writing career, and years on the island. You'll also get to see the legendary six-toed cats that are descendants of Hemingway's original pets wandering the property. Afterward, take your time exploring the beautiful grounds and snapping plenty of photos.
4. The Howey Mansion in Howey-in-the-Hills
Howey-in-the-Hills is a charming small town on the shores of Little Lake Harris. While you're there, be sure to tour The Howey Mansion, built in the 1920s by town founder and citrus grower William J. Howey. After sitting vacant for nearly a decade, the property was carefully restored and is now one of Central Florida's most sought-after wedding and event venues. The guided tour lasts just over an hour and takes you through all 24 rooms while sharing the story of the mansion's restoration and its original owner.
5. El Retiro at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales
Bok Tower Gardens is known for its Singing Tower, but a trip here isn't complete without visiting El Retiro, a 20-room Mediterranean Revival-style mansion. Small groups enter the home one at a time so you can hear from docents stationed throughout the mansion. As you move from room to room, you'll learn about the family who lived here and the thoughtful details built into the home's design. Lucy's Bedroom was one of our favorite rooms because of its beautiful location and intricate details.
