I, regrettably, had not been back to Vizcaya for many, many years--and was sad to see this grand old dame so abused by Hurricane Wilma. Very few of the fountains and water features worked. Some of the marble flooring was uneven and showing signs of wear and tear. Even the security staff seemed worn out. On then other hand, the new orchid garden was lovely. The gift shop staff was welcoming, and items for sale were inventive and unique. And the outdoor cafe was charming. Better go to Vizcaya before another storm beats the baloney out of her, because it doesn't look like much money is being put into bringing her back to life.

I visited Vizcaya with my husband and 21-year old daughter during a recent trip to Miami. It was easy to get to, there was plenty of parking and about a 5 minute walk from the parking area to the estate. It was a very pleasant way to spend a few hours. We did not do the guided tour which starts at 11:30 but the self-guided tour brochure was more than adequate. The mansion is so impressive with European art and architecture -- you feel as if you are in a castle in Italy. The home has been beautifully maintained and the gardens are equally impressive. Deering was the VP of International Harvester -- we wondered what the home of the president looked like! All in all, we spent a very nice morning exploring Vizcaya and I would happily go back again.

I first went to Vizcaya as a young child, then as a teenager and as an adult. My great-uncle worked there for 52 years and proudly displayed his retirement plaque on his wall. He started as a water-boy, and stayed in landscaping his entire career. Back then, the grounds were much bigger, too! It is an awesome sight, and well worth the visit. Also, on a visit with my brother and his girlfriend and visiting friend from New York, he proposed to her there!

We went with our architect friend who made this visit so much more interesting. The mansion is a showcase for Deering's art collection. This was the state of the art building for 1920's. The gardens are beautiful and I'm sure it you are there in nice weather, it would be even more enjoyable. The film in the 2nd story auditorium was not very interesting and just fluff. It could have given more information about the mansion. You can get $2 admission discount cards at hotel kiosks. Not all floors are handicap accessible.