Biltmore Hotel

If you could take just one photo: Biltmore Hotel & Resort

Every once and in a while, I want to jump into a time-travel machine and be jolted to the past—where BlackBerries, iPhones, e-mail and such don't exist. While doing so is scientifically impossible, I know I can always pay a visit to The Biltmore and immediately turn back the clock to Miami’s Golden Era. That vast pool! Its Zen-like spa! Those swanky suites! That scrumptious Sunday brunch spread! The sprawling golf course! Did I mention its award-winning restaurant, Palm D'Or? The Biltmore Hotel is easily the Magic City’s most magical hotel. So when you crave some Old World enchantment, The Biltmore is where it’s at.

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By day, civilized travelers and locals enjoy afternoon tea or lounge by the gigantic pool while a bride-to-be poses for wedding photos in the romantic lobby of this striking 1920s Spanish-revival building. By night, however, the the Biltmore turns mysterious. Its dimly lit bar—complete with upholstered armchairs and swanky piano—offers jazz, wine, and classic cocktails. When you’ve finished your drink, ask if the famed Al Capone Suite is unoccupied. You just might get escorted to the infamous 13th floor, where the bellhop will show you bullet holes in the coral fireplace. Once a prohibition speakeasy popular with the mob, on a fateful night during "an illegal gambling party gone wrong," the Chicago gangster's right-hand man, Fats Walsh, was shot down--and the hotel's already notorious reputation was upgraded to "haunted." No worries, though. The ghost of Capone’s bodyguard will protect you.

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