By Vince Lago, Mayor of Coral Gables
One hundred years ago on Tuesday, the city of Coral Gables was incorporated. I am deeply honored to serve as mayor during this historic milestone and hope everyone in South Florida will join us in celebrating a remarkable century — one in which George Merrick’s ambitious vision has evolved into a vibrant, diverse and international city.
Today, Coral Gables is a global hub for trade and commerce, home to more than 8,000 businesses. Our corporate landscape continues to grow, welcoming major players such as Ryder System, Apple and City National Bank, which is relocating its headquarters to LeJeune Road. FIFA also recently moved some operations here, an exciting development ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Coral Gables remains a prime locale for entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses. Professional services, hospitality, technology and luxury retail all thrive, supported by our strategic location and nationally recognized Smart City infrastructure, which enhances operations and efficiency for businesses of all sizes.
Merrick would be proud to see Coral Gables today. While the city has transformed significantly, much of its original charm remains — elegant homes on lush, tree-lined streets; specialty shops and fine restaurants along Miracle Mile; and parks adorned with gardens and stately fountains.
At 100 years, Coral Gables truly lives up to its nickname: the City Beautiful.
Of course, the city has changed in other ways. The growth of downtown, with modern high-rises and dynamic businesses, has brought new energy. Merrick would be thrilled to see Miracle Mile and Giralda Plaza bustling with people of all ages, residents and visitors alike. He would surely admire our international character, with more than 20 foreign consulates, 140 multinational corporations and a community rich in languages and cultures.
As a founder of the University of Miami, he would be gratified that his dream for higher learning has flourished. Today, UM is a leading institution for education and research, attracting scholars from around the world.
This year, many of our most iconic organizations are also marking their centennials. The University of Miami recently hosted a campus-wide celebration featuring notable alumni like singers Bruce Hornsby and Jon Secada.
The iconic Biltmore Hotel, often called the crown jewel of our city, commemorated the centennial of its groundbreaking with a special time capsule ceremony.
At 100 years old, the Biltmore has lost none of its grandeur. The Coral Gables Garden Club, founded in February 1925, marked its centennial by commissioning a new sculpture by eco-artist Xavier Cortada, honoring its long-standing dedication to preserving the city’s natural beauty.
As mayor, I am especially proud of a long-overdue initiative that acknowledges the foundational roots of our city.
Earlier this year, a historic marker was unveiled at U.S. 1 and Grand Avenue recognizing the MacFarlane Homestead and Golden Gate neighborhoods, established by Bahamian and Black American pioneers who helped build the 1920s-era homes and infrastructure that still define Coral Gables.
To further honor their legacy, the city commission has commissioned a public sculpture to be installed at Merrick Park, across from City Hall.
I warmly invite all South Floridians to join our celebration. Many events, including the Fourth of July Extravaganza, are open to the public. Our centennial festivities will culminate in December with a concert at the Venetian Pool — the perfect setting at one of our most beloved landmarks.
To view the full calendar of events and learn more about Coral Gables’s history, visit www.100coralgables.com. You can also explore our online collection of oral histories from the men and women who helped build this extraordinary city.
Merrick’s vision of a Mediterranean-style community blending beauty, culture and economic vitality has been realized. As we celebrate this centennial milestone, we are reminded of how far we’ve come — and of the promise that lies ahead.
Coral Gables is a city built on vision, and we remain committed to preserving our heritage while embracing progress for the next hundred years and beyond.
Vince Lago is the newly-reelected mayor of Coral Gables.
