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Jun 09
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Summer at Bonnet House

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Bonnet House is pleased to announce a vibrant lineup of summer programming that blends art, nature, music, and wellness against the backdrop of the lush 35-acre beachfront estate. We invite the community and visitors from all over to enjoy enriching workshops, hands-on classes, family-friendly events, and seasonal specials that celebrate the beauty and legacy of Bonnet House.

This Summer highlights include a Family Summer Special, Father’s Day free admission, a Fine Artist Opening Reception, and a sneak peek at the beloved Holiday Magic celebration, returning December 5, 6, 10, 11, and 12—perfect to mark on your calendars early.

At Bonnet House, visitors are transported back in time to experience life on a 1930s–1940s seaside estate, complete with a whimsical collection of art, architecture, and tranquil nature trails. Self-guided and guided tours offer immersive access to the estate, while a robust calendar of classes, wellness events, and cultural programming adds new reasons to return throughout the year.

Guests can also become Bonnet House Members for just $65, enjoying year-round admission plus discounts on workshops, special events, and more.

To explore the full calendar or register for events, visit www.bonnethouse.org/events.

SUMMER 2025 ONGOING EVENTS AT BONNET HOUSE:

Fine Artist Member Rotating Art Exhibitions
Ongoing with Artists Opening Receptions: Wednesdays, July 9, September 10, November 5, January 7 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Discover the magic of Bonnet House’s quarterly rotating exhibits in the central room of the Gallery! Featuring stunning artwork by talented Bonnet House Fine Artists, each piece is available for purchase. Included with General Admission. More information here.

Family Summer Special
Tuesday, May 27 – Sunday, August 31
Enjoy summer savings! Adults pay $25, and all guests 17 and under enter free.
Cost: $25 for adults, free for 17 and under. More information available by clicking here.

SUMMER 2025 WORKSHOPS, CLASSES AND OTHER EVENTS AT BONNET HOUSE:

Yoga on the Veranda
Friday, July 18 | 9 AM – 10:30 AM
Class led by Lisa Pumper, E-RYT 500, YACEP, a Bonnet House resident teacher, community activator, and founder of Yoga cOMmUNITY of Florida. Immerse yourself in a tropical oasis, surrounded by the healing splendor of nature, while indulging in a Hatha Yoga Flow session accompanied by a blend of global melodies & sound healing on the Veranda of the Bonnet House Museum. During this class, yoga poses will seamlessly blend with breathing exercises in a flow of peaceful and rejuvenating harmony.
Cost: $ 25 advanced / $ 30 at the door (Members: $ 20 advance / $ 25 at the door) Registration recommended.
More information by clicking here.

Father’s Day Special
Sunday, June 15 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Free for Dads; regular admission of $25 applies for others.

Fine Artists Opening Receptions
Wednesdays, July 9, September 10, November 5, January 7 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Step into a vibrant celebration of local creativity in the Gallery’s middle room, where the Bonnet House Fine Artists’ Exhibits showcase a rotating collection of works by talented regional artists. During the opening reception, guests will enjoy a sparkling wine welcome, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar offering beer, wine, and soda. The reception offers a relaxed and inviting setting—perfect for connecting with the artists and fellow art enthusiasts.
Cost: $5 Members, $10 Non-Members Advanced
Pre-registration is required. For more information, click here.

Orchid Care Classes
Tuesday, August 5 (Orchid Basics) and Tuesday, August 12 (Repotting & Mounting and Combatting Pests & Diseases) | 9:30 AM – 11:30 PM
In the air-conditioned Island Theater. Includes tours of the Orchid Display House and Orchid Greenhouse.
Cost: $30 members / $35 non-members
Click here to register for Orchid Care Classes.

SPECIAL: UPCOMING HOLIDAY MAGIC DATES

Celebrate five nights of Holiday Magic at Bonnet House in December. All of the trees, wreaths and centerpieces throughout the house will be lit, designed to delight, and for sale.

HOLIDAY JINGLE & MINGLE – VIP OPENING RECEPTION
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM
The Holiday Magic 5-day celebration kicks off with a VIP Opening Reception.

WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 | 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Wonderland of interactive activities for the entire family including live entertainment, story time and a visit from Santa Claus.

EVENING EXPERIENCES
DECEMBER 10, 11 & 12 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Bonnet House will be open for self-guided evening tours featuring something festive and exciting happening every night.

For more information on Holiday Magic, click here.

Jun 09
Love0

Creating a Welcoming Space for All

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Creating a Welcoming Space for All: Bonnet House’s Commitment to Inclusivity and Accessibility

In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens continues to honor the spirit of hospitality that Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett were so well known for — creating an inclusive, welcoming, and comfortable environment for all who visit. We’re proud to highlight the many thoughtful ways we support guests of all abilities, backgrounds, and sensitivities.

A Place Where Everyone Belongs

At Bonnet House, inclusivity isn’t just a philosophy, it’s a living practice. We welcome individuals and families of all backgrounds and identities, including those with physical or emotional disabilities and those facing disparities in education, social, or economic status.

Our team embraces and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to ensure every guest feels respected, safe, and supported from the moment they arrive.

Whether you’re exploring the historic main house, taking in the serenity of our lush subtropical gardens, or simply seeking a quiet moment of respite, you’ll find that Bonnet House is a space where everyone is encouraged to feel at home.

Making History Accessible to All

We’ve taken special care to ensure that our historic estate is accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, sensory sensitivities, and vision impairments. Some of our accommodations available on site include:

  • ADA-compliant parking and restrooms
  • Wheelchair-accessible paths and exhibit room access via ramps
  • Complimentary wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis
  • A wheelchair-accessible golf cart for grounds tours and transportation around the site
  • Front-door drop-off options for visitors with mobility impairments
  • Self-guided tours available in both audio and print formats and in multiple languages including English, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Russian, Mandarin, and Spanish.
  • A “touching tour” available with advance notice for guests with vision impairments
  • Closed captioning on our introductory video for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing

Our staff and volunteers are always available to assist and ensure guests have the support they need. We also encourage visitors to contact us in advance if they have specific accessibility needs so we can make their visits as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Supporting Sensory Friendly Travel

We understand that visiting a new space can be overwhelming for individuals with any sensitivity. That’s why we continue to explore ways to make Bonnet House more sensory friendly—offering peaceful spaces to rest, self-paced tours, and friendly staff ready to help answer questions or provide quiet support. Our grounds offer a tranquil, open-air experience where guests can explore at their own comfort level and pace.

Visit Us

As an accredited museum and historic landmark, Bonnet House is committed to preserving its past while creating a future that’s inclusive and accessible for all. We invite you to experience this special place and be part of a community that values hospitality, history, and heart.

To plan your visit or learn more about our accessibility offerings, please click here to go to our “Visit” page.

 

May 06
Love4
Mother's Day

Make This Mother’s Day Unforgettable

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

This Mother’s Day, treat the special women in your life to an unforgettable experience at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. On Sunday, May 11, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., moms receive complimentary admission with the purchase of a full-priced ticket. This allows mothers to immerse themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of this historic estate.

Nestled in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Bonnet House is not just a museum—it’s a journey back to the 1930s and 40s. This charming estate, once the winter retreat of artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his family, is brimming with personality and creativity. Visitors can stroll through beautifully preserved rooms filled with artwork, antique furnishings, and the Bartletts’ personal collections, offering an intimate glimpse into their vibrant lives.

But the experience doesn’t end at the front door. The grounds of Bonnet House are a lush oasis, featuring tropical gardens, winding nature trails, and even occasional visits from resident monkeys. Moms can relax beneath the swaying palms, admire colorful orchids, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance that only a place like Bonnet House can provide.

This Mother’s Day event is more than a day out—it’s a chance to create lasting memories with the women who matter most. Whether you’re spending the day with your mom, grandmother, or any mother figure, Bonnet House offers a beautiful setting for connection, appreciation, and reflection.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day in a setting that combines history, art, and nature. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Fort Lauderdale, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens offers a memorable experience for all.  Learn more here!

May 06
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Bonnet House’s Family Summer Special

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Looking for a fun, affordable, and educational way to keep the whole family entertained this summer? Look no further than the Family Summer Special at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, running from May 27 through August 31! This seasonal offer allows you to enjoy the beauty and history of one of Fort Lauderdale’s most beloved landmarks without breaking the bank.

From late May to the end of August, adult admission is just $25, and kids 17 and under get in free (with a paying adult). That means more family time, nature, history, and savings. With self-guided tours available through your mobile device, you can explore at your own pace and let curiosity lead the way.

Bonnet House is the perfect setting for a summer day out. Nestled on 35 acres of lush, tropical land, the estate is a peaceful retreat where history and ecology come to life. Step inside the historic house to discover the colorful world of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, who filled their home with art, stories, and a passion for creativity. Then wander through vibrant gardens, admire exotic plants, and watch for turtles, birds, and aquatic wildlife in the picturesque lakes and ponds.

Whether you’re a local or visiting South Florida, this is a unique chance to learn something new and share an enriching experience with your kids. You’ll leave with beautiful photos, fun facts, and memories that last far beyond summer.  Find more information on Bonnet House’s Family Summer Special here!

Apr 07
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Kick Off Spring With Bonnet House

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Few seasons make the Bonnet House’s beauty burst the way Spring does.  Home to five distinct ecosystems and three additional cultivated gardens, the flowering season at Bonnet House might remind visitors of a Van Gogh painting.  Blooming with vibrant colors and literally buzzing with life, you don’t want to miss an opportunity to attend one of our many events hosted this spring by naturalists, artists, and teachers.  Bonnet House has countless opportunities to inspire creativity, find peace with our morning yoga sessions, or learn about the plants and animals that give us the beautiful display of life Florida is known for.

Staying true to Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett’s memory, Bonnet House has remained a patron of the arts.  With inspiration all around us, it’s easy to discover your creativity in Bonnet House.  Our Spring art class,  Drawing With A Purpose, features expert art teacher Bonny Opie.  Bonny will guide you through the steps of creating compelling compositions.  In this class, artists of all levels can learn the intricacies of understanding composition, thumbnail sketches, and drawing from photographs.  If you’d like to unlock your inner artist, register today!

Yoga & Sound Healing combines a Hatha yoga flow with soothing sound healing on Bonnet House’s Veranda.  Hosted at least once a month on Friday, this soothing practice will connect your body and soul to the environment around you.  Don’t miss our next Yoga on The Veranda on April 11th.  If your goal is to connect with nature, Bonnet House has a different learning opportunity for you!  Bees In Our Bonnet is back this April with Joanna Diamond, our resident bee expert.  This exciting class will cover little-known bee facts, common misconceptions, proper pollinator care, and more.  Bees In Our Bonnet wraps up with a honey-tasting session, and raw wildflower honey will be available for purchase after class.  This immersive experience is definitely a spring specialty for the books, and you can register for it today before spots fill up.

Just like in nature, Bonnet House comes to life after the spring solstice, and we want you to join us!  Check out our events page to spot a class that resonates with you.  From documentary viewings to orchid care, spring at the Bonnet House house has something for everyone.  Happy Spring, and happier learning!

Mar 24
Love4
orchid festival

A Floral Paradise Awaits at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: 16th Annual International Orchid & Garden Festival

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Spring will bloom in all its glory during the 16th Annual International Orchid & Garden Festival, taking place April 5 and 6, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. This vibrant celebration of nature is a must-visit for orchid enthusiasts, gardening aficionados, and anyone captivated by the beauty of flora. Click here to learn more.

Celebrating nature, the International Orchid & Garden Festival is one of Bonnet House’s largest fundraisers, welcoming visitors from near and far to revel in a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances. More than 30 local and international vendors will showcase their diverse selection of orchids, tropical plants, herbs, fruit trees, bamboo, and butterfly garden plants. Whether you’re searching for that rare orchid to add to your collection or simply looking for gardening inspiration, the Festival offers a captivating experience tailored to plant lovers of all kinds.

The two-day event is set amidst the historic 35-acre Bonnet House estate, providing an idyllic backdrop of lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and towering palms. Guests can enjoy live music near the Dry Fountain at the end of the Allée, sip on a refreshing mimosa or Bloody Mary, and browse an array of garden art and orchid supplies.

Beyond its dazzling botanical displays, the Festival offers a plethora of activities:

  • Tropical Luau Lunch: Indulge in a catered buffet lunch with Mai Tais, wine & beer, and featuring live Tahitian music and hula dancers on the scenic Waterfront Veranda. Tickets for this experience are $100 each and include Festival admission and a house tour.
  • Interactive Lectures: Experts will provide tips and tricks for orchid care and general gardening throughout the weekend.
  • Edible Delights: Food vendors scattered across the property will serve delicious bites, complemented by wine, beer, and tropical libations.
  • Forest Forms: Looking for a unique way to immerse your family in art and nature? The Forest Forms outdoor art exhibition is taking place during this year’s Orchid Festival and offers an unforgettable experience that you and your family can stroll through and marvel at 18 larger-than-life animal and plant sculptures by acclaimed artist Huelani Mei. (Included with the price of admission)

In the past, vendors have come from Florida and all over the world, including Hawaii, Southeast Asia, Thailand, Ecuador, and Costa Rica, to offer various plants, orchids, and all the supplies needed to plant and grow healthy orchids. Click here to see a complete list of this year’s vendors.

Bonnet House, a historic winter retreat once owned by artists Evelyn and Frederic Bartlett, holds a special connection to orchids. Evelyn’s passion for cultivating orchids is evident in the museum’s collection, which includes plants she personally nurtured. Her legacy blooms on in the Orchid Display House, part of the Shell Museum Complex, where visitors can admire her contributions and learn how these stunning plants can thrive for decades.

Guests are encouraged to explore the self-guided tours of the house and grounds, marvel at the Bartletts’ various pieces of artwork, statues and sculptures throughout the home, and immerse themselves in the estate’s timeless charm.

For families, children 12 and under enjoy free admission, making it a perfect outing for all ages. Admission is $25 for one day or $40 for both days, with no discounts or group rates available. Free parking makes access convenient, and shaded rest areas ensure comfort during your visit. Click here for parking details and other frequently asked questions.

Rain or shine, the International Orchid & Garden Festival will be an unforgettable experience that celebrates the beauty of nature and the storied history of Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Mark your calendar for this spectacular event and prepare to be enchanted by a floral wonderland unlike any other. Click here to purchase tickets.

Mar 04
Love4

Forest Forms and Xavier Riddle at Bonnet House

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If you’re looking for a way to get out of the house with the little ones this weekend, look no further than the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Bonnet House is one of the last examples of a native South Florida barrier island habitat and is home to five distinct ecosystems and three curated gardens. With so much to explore and uncover, the gardens promise a full day of fresh air at the center of Fort Lauderdale, but Bonnet House offers even more.

Running now through April 27th, Bonnet House boasts its first-ever outdoor sculpture exhibit: Forest Forms by Huelani Mei. Placed along the ground’s nature trails, the towering line-work style sculptures accompany you on your stroll, inspired by the nature around you. Adults will love taking in the stunning exhibit that includes sculptures of foxes, flowers, snakes, and much more.

While the adults enjoy taking in the breathtaking Florida habitat and art installation, children can test their knowledge by participating in the Xavier Riddle and the Barefoot Mailman Scavenger Hunt, in partnership with the Museum of Discovery and Science. Kids will walk some of the very same paths as the Barefoot Mailman as he hiked and rowed along the coast of Florida to deliver early settlers their mail. Along the way, they can learn about indigenous animals, plants, and the historical significance of the land we live on. An educational challenge that can engage the whole family, the Barefoot Mailman scavenger hunt is the perfect opportunity to foster an appreciation for Florida’s history and habitat.

After you finish exploring, stop by The Little Gift Shop for snacks and drinks, and find us featured in the Ft. Lauderdale Monopoly game also sold there. Get lost in the past with the historical architecture, and art through the ages, learn more about Xavier Riddle’s scavenger hunt, and Huelani Mei’s Forest Forms exhibition. Don’t let another beautiful weekend pass you by; Bonnet House is here for the full family experience.

Mar 04
Love4

Another Family Fun Day At Bonnet House

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Join Bonnet House for a day of family-focused fun.  On March 15th, Bonnet House opens its historical doors once again, welcoming community and family to spend a day back in time in sunny South Florida.

Family Day at Bonnet House isn’t just for the kids!  Parents and children alike will enjoy our larger-than-life Forest Forms exhibit, the Gold Coast Youth Orchestra’s performance in the courtyard, and the classic American foods provided by Karts Of All Kinds, like Hamburgers, hotdogs, and slushies.  For the adults, The Little Gift Shop will be selling beer, wine, and snacks.  Family Day means fun for all, and all the cherished memories that go with it, so feel free to take photos as you and your family explore the grounds, and discover our picture-perfect garden backdrops.

Rounding off Bonnet House’s Family Day is the Xavier Riddle and the Barefoot Mailman Scavenger Hunt and Ft. Lauderdale Policemen happy to engage with the community they protect.  The Xavier Riddle Scavenger Hunt is a county-wide scavenger hunt sponsored by the Museum of Science and Discovery where children can learn about the path walked by the Barefoot Mailman as he delivered mail to the early settlers of South Florida.  Similarly to the Barefoot Mailman, today Officer Timothy Ryan and his K9 companion, and Officers Figone and Lau along with their mounted police horses protect modern-day Ft. Lauderdale.  Feel free to take photos with them and their furry companions throughout the day!

Family Day is $12 for children and adults 14 and older, half the price of our usual admissions, and free for children 13 years and under.  Don’t miss this community event, filled to the brim with fun, food, and flowers on Saturday, March 15.  Tickets can be bought at the door and more information is available on our calendar page.  We hope to see you there!

Mar 04
Love4

Bonnet House Makes Event Planning Easy

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Weddings have always been an important part of Bonnet House’s history. From the moment the property was bestowed as a wedding gift to Helen Birch and her husband Frederic Clay Bartlett, to the numerous ceremonies held today, we are privileged to be part of so many couples’ love stories. Our hosting capabilities, however, extend beyond weddings. Bonnet House is pleased to serve as the setting for any significant occasion, including graduations, corporate Christmas parties, and more. We are dedicated to catering to your every event need.

Estate and space rentals at Bonnet House include exclusive access to several exquisite areas: the waterfront veranda, the hibiscus garden, and a private beach. By partnering with one of Bonnet House’s approved caterers, you can ensure your guests enjoy a delightful dining experience, assured by our carefully vetted selection. The outdoor garden setting provides an ideal location for any event, enhanced by the refreshing ocean breeze from the coast, guaranteeing a pleasant beach-side experience for your guests.

Event planners will find Bonnet House to be an exemplary venue. Our gardens feature permanent floral arrangements that are perfect for photo opportunities, and the natural beauty of this historic space, combined with the timeless tastes of Evelyn Bartlett, enhances any decorations. Bonnet House also offers a comprehensive list of preferred vendors, covering everything from catering to makeup artists to transportation. We understand that event planners must juggle numerous responsibilities while ensuring their clients are satisfied. With our list of trusted vendors, Bonnet House collaborates with planners to make every aspect of the process as seamless as possible.

Whether it is a wedding, a cocktail party, or a private affair, Bonnet House can accommodate and elevate any event you envision. Our historic house and gardens have been the setting for many cherished memories, and we look forward to helping create many more. Explore our list of preferred vendors or check available dates here. Why delay in creating memories when Bonnet House makes it so effortless?

 

Feb 03
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Helen’s Square Steinway

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By John Lucas

The centerpiece of Helen’s Music Room is the 1872 Steinway piano. Guests frequently recognize that the piano shape is nearly “square” and that the keyboard is shorter than modern pianos. In the 19th century, the square piano was the entertainment heart of many affluent homes. Families and friends would surround the piano spending their evenings singing or listening to compositions. Piano lessons for children was often part of their upbringing with the expectation of family performance.

The piano’s small size, construction, and shape did not allow a large sound but was suitable for family gatherings. In the late 19th century, composers wanted more composition versatility, and the keyboard was expanded from the standard 84 up to 88 black and white keys. The keyboard expansion required a piano that was no longer box-shaped but was like a prone harp. The grand piano has a larger soundboard to accommodate more and longer steel piano wire with pedals to dampen or free the sound. These changes provided a louder and richer sound that can fill an auditorium.

When Steinway encouraged trading in the squares for a new grand piano, the square was condemned to history. After upgrading, Steinway had too many squares and publicly burned them in 1904 at Atlantic City; a blaze that could be seen in Manhattan.

Thanks to Helen, Bonnet House is fortunate to have a square piano that is still playable though admittedly it needs tuning.

Helen Birch Bartlett (1883-1925)

Helen was Frederic’s second wife. She was a published poet and composer. A friend of Frederic and Dora Bartlett, she consoled Frederic when Dora unexpectedly died in 1917. Two years later, at the age of 37, Helen married Frederic. As a wedding present, Helen’s father gave her 35 oceanside acres that became the Bonnet House. In 1925 Helen died of bilateral breast cancer.

 

 

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