Palmetto Bay Tutors

About Palmetto Bay

Deering Estate

Just a few miles east of Palmetto Estates, Florida, there is a magical place that visitors and residents alike should not miss: the Deering Estate. Located along the edge of Biscayne Bay, the estate was the home of Charles Deering, chairman of the board of International Harvester Company. After his death in 1927, Deering’s family owned the property until 1985, when the State of Florida and Miami-Dade County purchased it. Deering was a patron of the arts community and keenly interested in agriculture and the natural sciences. Now an educational and cultural center and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 444-acre estate has something to offer visitors whose interests align with one of the following categories:

Ecology
The Deering Estate contains seven eco systems, including a large global endangered pine rockland habitat. The property serves as an outdoor classroom or lab for scientists and students alike.

Archeology
Archaeologists have found fossils on the property dating back 50,000 years. The estate is the home of the Cutler Burial Mound, which contains prehistoric artifacts and the remains of Native American burials.

Recreation
Nature trails abound, offering exquisite bay views, birdwatching, and many photographic opportunities. Water recreationists can take a canoe trip to Chicken Key, a seven-acre mangrove island and bird rookery located a mile offshore.

Art
A gifted artist, Deering enjoyed sketching and painting, but most of his interest in art was applied to art collecting, primarily Spanish art. At one point he owned more than 4,000 works of art. After his death, much of his collection was donated to the Art Institute of Chicago, but a good portion is still housed at the Deering Estate. The estate sponsors an artist-in-residence program that provides no-cost onsite or non-studio residencies to visual, literary, performing, and multi-disciplinary artists who can pursue their discipline while interacting with other artists in the estate’s serene environment. The estate also hosts art exhibits, concerts, outdoor painting events, and culinary and wine events.

History
The estate offers tours of two historical buildings, the Stone House and Richmond Cottage. The Richmond Cottage served as southern Florida’s first hostel, while Stone House was built to honor Deering’s love of Barcelona and house his collection of works of the Spanish masters.

Classes and Special Events
Visitors to the Deering Estate can bring a picnic lunch and make a day of it. Families can attend a play, watch a film, view an art collection, take a guided nature or kayak tour, attend an archeology day, or enjoy a brunch or cruise. Kids can enroll in field trips and camps that give them an appreciation for ecology, art, and outdoor recreation. The site may also be rented for special events such as weddings and corporate events.

The Deering Estate is a southern Florida gem and well worth a visit for anyone who appreciates tranquil natural beauty and enriching cultural events, all wrapped up in one picturesque package.