The Barnacle Historic State Park preserves the 1891 home of Ralph Middleton Munroe in Coconut Grove, on the shore of Biscayne Bay. The five-acre grounds pair a shaded path through tropical hardwood trees with open lawns, waterfront views and the remains of a boat launch. Take a ranger-guided tour of the house to learn about Munroe and early Coconut Grove, then walk down to the bayfront. It’s a quiet place to mix local history with a picnic or an unhurried stroll.
The home and its first owner
The Barnacle was built in 1891 as the home of Ralph Middleton Munroe, a pioneer of Coconut Grove and a designer of sailing boats. The property preserves a piece of the area’s early history, when travel to Miami was by boat. The house is noted as the oldest home in Miami-Dade County that remains in its original location.
A ranger-guided tour gives visitors a closer look at the house and Munroe’s life. The property also reflects his interest in protecting the landscape: large, old trees remain on the grounds.
A path to the bay
A shaded walkway leads from the entrance toward the house, passing through a stand of tropical hardwood trees. Information boards along the route introduce the forest. Near the house, the grounds open up around the historic buildings, with views toward Biscayne Bay.
The former boatbuilding area adds another link to Munroe’s sailing work. Remains of the boat-launch rails can still be seen near the water. The lawns and picnic tables give visitors space to pause after exploring the house and shoreline.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is The Barnacle Historic State Park?
It is at 3485 Main Highway in Coconut Grove, Miami, on Biscayne Bay.
How long should I spend at The Barnacle?
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for the house and grounds.
Can you tour the historic house?
Yes. Ranger-guided home tours are available at set times, and advance reservations are advised.
What does admission cost?
The supplied visitor information gives regular admission as $2 per person, with an additional $3 per person for the ranger-guided home tour. Confirm current fees before visiting.
