Here at Bonnet House, we feel fortunate to be located in warm and sunny Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Not only does our city have a rich cultural history, our climate and location make it the perfect place to view and enjoy the natural plants on our barrier island habitat. Bonnet House offers guests the opportunity to view our gorgeous garden area, however there are so many other beautiful and historic gardens to explore in South Florida. We’ve taken some time to compile a list of the best Fort Lauderdale gardens you won’t want to miss on your next trip to South Florida.
Fort Lauderdale has a variety of public gardens that show off the astonishing variety of plants that have impressed generations of visitors. One of the most popular gardens in Fort Lauderdale is Flamingo Gardens , home of Florida’s largest collection of Florida’s native wildlife, including over 3000 species of plants and trees. Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is one of the oldest botanical gardens and attractions in South Florida and continuously aims to preserve the ecology and history of the Florida Everglades.
Butterfly World is also located in Fort Lauderdale and was the first butterfly house ever built in the United States. Butterfly World encompasses three acres of butterfly aviaries, two aviaries for tropical birds, botanical gardens and even a working butterfly farm and research center. Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens is also a popular destination in Fort Lauderdale. Visitors are often surprised to learn about the unique connection between Japan and South Florida. The original building is modeled after a Japanese villa and features a ring of exhibition rooms surrounding an open-air courtyard with a dry garden of gravel, pebbles and small boulders. Their gardens span sixteen acres and include strolling paths, a world-class bonsai collection and lakes teeming with koi and other wildlife.
If you’re looking for gardens closer to the Miami area, there are plenty of options to choose from. One of the most beautiful Miami gardens is the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden located in Coral Gables, Florida. This expansive 83-acre site never leaves guests disappointed with multiple educational buildings and large gardens that everyone is sure to enjoy. Also located in Miami is the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. This gorgeous home was completed in 1910 as James Deering’s winter home. Visit this enduring, inclusive, and innovative estate to experience what inspires people to embrace the cultural vitality and environmental sustainability of the world around us. Also, the Deering Estate is a beautiful cultural asset in the Miami area and is a historic site listed on the National Register of Historic places. As a 21st Century museum destination for tourists and local residents, a variety of signature events, programs, tours and classes are offered here throughout the year.
Thanks Monica, great article! I did not even know that we have such wonderful places. When I was looking for the best place to go with my family, I came across this article and immediately made my choice. Ideally, I need to visit them all!