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The Venetian Pool in Florida: America’s Largest Freshwater Pool

In 1921, America’s largest freshwater swimming pool was just an abandoned rock quarry. In 1923 developers reconfigured this 4-acre quarry into what is now the only pool on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Venetian Pool, Coral Gables
Credit: The Venetian Pool, Coral Gables by wikimedia.org

The Venetian Pool holds about 820,000 gallons of crystal clear freshwater, pumped in from artesian wells. It is adorned with a grand waterfall, a grotto filled with natural water, and ornamental coral.

The Venetian Pool, Coral Gables
Credit: The Venetian Pool, Coral Gables by wikimedia.org

The pool is drained and refilled daily, and the water is recycled back into the aquifer using natural ground filtration. This is how the water stays so clean and crystal clear. Early in its history, on special occasions, the pool was drained completely to make room for a performance by the Miami Symphony. The quarry’s natural acoustics made this a remarkable experience.

Venetian Pool
Credit: Venetian Pool by Mauricio Lima

It is one of the top places to cool off in freshwater in the Coral Gables/Miami area, and was awarded a TripAdvisor certificate of Excellence.

The Venetian Pool
Credit: The Venetian Pool by wikimedia.org

Bare in mind, children under 3 aren’t allowed at the Venetian Pool, and according to their website, you’ll have to provide “proof of age” for your toddlers who are old enough to visit the park. Admission rates are seasonal and range from $15-$20 depending on age, time of year and discounts.

Visit the website for more info!

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