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Coral Castle

Florida

A mysterious rock garden of huge coral carvings, built alone by a tiny Latvian immigrant for his lost love, with no one watching.

Photo: Christina Rutz · CC BY 2.0

Edward Leedskalnin built this between 1923 and 1951, moving many tons of limestone with simple tools at night. How he did it remains unexplained.

Look for the nine-ton swinging gate and the rocking chairs.

Best Time
November to April
Time Needed
1.5 hours
Cost Level
$$$$
Open
Every day; check the website
Getting There
In Homestead, on US 1, about 45 minutes south of Miami.

What to See

0 of 3 are free
15 minutes

Nine-ton gate

Once moved with the push of a finger.

15 minutes

Polaris telescope

A 25-ton sighting tower aimed at the North Star.

1 hour

Guided tour

Included with admission.

Know Before You Go

  • It's small, but pleasantly strange.
  • Bring sun protection.
  • Check the opening hours in advance.

Where to Stay

Stay in Miami or the Keys.

Where to Eat

Our picks are on the way.

Editor's picks. Nobody paid to be on this list.

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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Florida list.