South Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, but Miami’s particular flora also makes it famous for its beautiful gardens that are worth visiting. Some are free and open to the public, while larger ones charge admission.
Miami Beach Botanical Garden
Miami Beach Botanical Garden Flowers
It is an urban green space in the heart of South Beach. Its origins come from the Garden Center, an urban garden created in the early 60s that has been evolving and transformed in 2011 with a $1.2 million landscape renovation designed by landscape architect Raymond Selvas. The new landscape showcases native plants and trees, water gardens, fountains, mangroves, a pond with trees, plaza for events and welcome to visitors, walkways, coffee, and a large lawn area expanded for corporate and social events. Visiting it is a relaxing, didactic and ecological experience. You have the freedom to join the guided tours that are available or simply take advantage to walk, take a deep breath and admire the beauty of its plant species.
Fees: Admission is free.
- Timetable: Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Sunday.
- Address: 2000 Convention Center Drive. Miami Beach, FL. 33139.
- Tel. (305) 673-7256 www.mbgarden.org
Crandon Gardens
Peacock at Crandon Gardens
Crandon Gardens are tucked away in Key Biscayne’s Crandon Park, the former home of the MetroZoo has been reinvented as a wild garden. This area grew naturally after the zoo was moved, but has since been cared for and restored. It consists of more than 200 hectares of lush vegetation, fountains and lakes. A central pond that attracts dozens of species of birds, iguanas and the occasional crocodile. An ideal area for picnics, while cyclists and skaters stick to the trails. A paradise for birdwatchers. Home to exotic Hawaiian geese, guinea fowl, peacocks, black and white swans and a variety of ducks, birds, ibises, herons, and many more.
- Rates: Admission is free.
- Timetable: Open from 8 a.m. until sunset every day.
- Address: 4000 Crandon BoulevardKey Biscayne, FL. 33149.
- Tel. 305-361-5421
Pinecrest Gardens
Located on the former site of Parrot Jungle, Pinecrest Gardens boasts huge ficus trees and lush vegetation. Play areas include a large, shady playground, zoo, butterfly exhibit, and the Splash ‘n Play open water area for children ages 2 to 12. Many stone tables are located throughout the park where you can have a quiet picnic lunch.
Rates
- General admission: $5 (includes water park for children ages 2 to 12).
- Children under 2 years old are free.
- Senior admission: $3. (From 65 years old)
Timetable
Autumn and Winter:
- Monday to Friday: 10 a.m to 5 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Spring and Summer:
- Monday to Friday: 10 a.m to 6 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Address: 11000 Southwest 57th Avenue Pinecrest, FL.
- Tel. (305) 669-6942.
- www.pinecrest-fl.gov
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Fairchild has the world’s largest collection of palms. They work constantly to teach children and other visitors about these plants. This garden is dedicated to explaining and conserving the world of tropical plants. They also have an art and sculpture exhibit among other fascinating activities for the whole family and especially for children. Many events throughout the year, including the “Evening Tea”, and festivals.
Rates:
- General admission: $25
- Children under 5 are free.
- Children from 6 to 17 years old $17
- Senior admission: $18. (From 65 years old)
Timetable:
- Open daily from 7:30 a.m to 5:30 p.m. Except December 25.
- Address: 10901 Old Cutler Road Coral Gables, FL 33156.
- Tel. (305) 669-6942
- www.fairchildgarden.org.
Vizcaya Museum and Garden
The Vizcaya Gardens Museum, built by agricultural industrialist James Deering in 1916, features a main house, 10 acres of formal gardens, and a Rockland hammock. Its visitors sulene say they are admired by the large and beautiful of its exotic gardens.
Rates:
- General admission: $18
- Children under 5 are free.
- Children from 6 to 12 years old $6
- Students with ID. $10
- Senior admission: $12. (From 62 years old)
- People in wheelchairs $10
Timetable:
- Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Except Tuesdays.
- Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas December 25.
- Address: 3251 South Miami AvenueMiami, FL 33129
- Tel. (305) 250-9133
- www.vizcayamuseum.org