The Venetian Pool, Florida: America's Coolest Pool?

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

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Heatwave getting to you? Head to Florida and cool off in Coral Gable’s Venetian Pool. This 820,000-gallon pool is full of refreshing spring water (which comes from an underground source, meaning the water is always nicely chilled); and in peak seasons, the pool is filled and drained every day.

Swim around to the two waterfalls or hide out in one of the grottoes. Bring a snorkel mask to appreciate all the underwater details—the pool was built from a coral rock quarry.

Even if you’re not a swimmer, you can still come and admire the pool from one of the historic lookout towers, or by strolling across the bridge and under the palm trees.

Where Is it? Coral Gables, Florida. Fly to Miami International Airport (check prices).

Where to Stay? Continue the luxury theme with a stay at the Biltmore Hotel, which has quite a nice pool of its own.

What Else Should I Know? Admission is $11 for non-residents and $6.30 for kids ages three to 11.

Who’s it for? Swimmers, anyone who needs to cool off.

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(Photo: Thinkstock/Ivan Sgualdini)

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