You’ve probably noticed how enjoyable it feels to spend time outdoors, reveling in nature and green growing things, like the miracle of a single bloom bathed in sunlight. Time slows down when you spend a moment in the fresh air. Relax and unwind when you discover these four gorgeous gardens to visit in Fort Lauderdale.
Flamingo Gardens
Create lasting memories for the whole family at Flamingo Gardens, featuring a 60-acre tropical paradise complete with a wildlife sanctuary and the Wray home museum. Delight in 3,000 species of exotic tropical and rare native plants, including some of the tallest trees in Florida that live in the Flamingo Garden’s arboretum. A dedicated, seasonal area stocked with a variety of flowers attracts many types of charming butterflies and whimsical hummingbirds.
The sanctuary shelters Florida’s most extensive group of non-releasable native wildlife such as alligators, bears, panthers, eagles, and other varieties of birds. End your tour at the 1930s Wray Home, the oldest original residence west of University Drive, and get a glimpse of life in the south during the Great Depression.
Bonnet House Gardens
The historic home of renowned artist Frederic Clay Bartlett, Bonnet House Gardens offers a breathtaking view into one of Florida’s unique ecosystems. This native barrier island habitat features five distinct environments from beach and dunes to freshwater moving sloughs. The home site includes mangrove wetlands and a maritime forest.
The unique desert garden that graces the grounds is home to a variety of arid plants and a hibiscus garden, while the main courtyard is lush with tropical vegetation. The estate’s orchid display house showcases Mrs. Bartlett’s love of this exotic bloom. The gardens offer a haven for migratory birds, and manatees occasionally seek refuge in the home’s boathouse canal.
Butterfly World
Located just 28 minutes north of Fort Lauderdale, transport your family to a magical world filled with colorful butterflies. These gentle creatures come in an immense variety of species, sizes, patterns, and shapes. The inviting atrium houses thousands of live butterflies for up-close encounters every time you visit.
Acres and acres of flying delights await you at Butterfly World, from exotic butterflies to amazing birds, anticipate up to three hours to take in the whole experience — but feel free to stay all day. Tradewinds Park offers a nice playground for the kids right next door, and don’t forget to stop at the gift shop for nature-related souvenirs.
Miami Beach Botanical Garden
Take a drive down I-95 to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, just 43 minutes south of Fort Lauderdale. A relatively small garden, it’s free to enter and very family-friendly. Short trails that wind through the park are perfect for little feet, and it takes just 30 minutes to see most everything.
Miami Beach Botanical Garden offers a wondrous collection of foliage in an uncommonly tranquil setting, perfect to sit and relax or read a book. Take advantage of the self-guided audio tour from your smartphone to get the full experience of this captivating garden.
Explore the natural beauty of Fort Lauderdale when you visit one of our four favorite gorgeous gardens.
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