9 Beautiful Gardens in Florida to Visit This Spring
Before the heat and humidity take over, here are nine Florida gardens to check out across North Florida, Central Florida, Tampa Bay, and South Florida. You’ll find something to love at each spot, from a singing tower in Central Florida to flamingos in St. Pete and waterfront views in Miami.
Bok Tower Gardens (Lake Wales)
Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, about 90 minutes south of Orlando, is one of Central Florida’s most well-known garden destinations. Walk the winding paths, tour the Mediterranean-style mansion El Retiro, and plan your visit around a carillon concert at the Singing Tower. Concerts take place at 1 pm and 3 pm, with shorter selections throughout the day.
Sunken Gardens (St. Petersburg)
Sunken Gardens is one of St. Pete’s most recognizable attractions, dating back more than 100 years. The space is home to more than 50,000 tropical plants, including some of the oldest in the region. You’ll also see a group of Chilean flamingos that have become a signature part of the experience.
Florida Botanical Gardens (Largo)
Located in Largo, about 25 minutes from Clearwater Beach, Florida Botanical Gardens is a 100-acre space with free admission. Walk peaceful paths lined with native plants, gardens, and water features, and keep an eye out for turtles, wood ducks, and herons. Don’t miss the Majeed Discovery Garden, a hands-on area designed for kids to connect with nature.
Address: 12520 Ulmerton Rd, Largo, FL 33774
Eureka Springs Park (Tampa)
Just 15 minutes from downtown Tampa, Eureka Springs Park is a quieter, 31-acre escape. Walk shaded trails, explore the boardwalk through a floodplain forest, and stop by the rose garden and orchid room. The park is also known for having the largest publicly owned fern collection in Florida.
Naples Botanical Garden (Naples)
Naples Botanical Garden spans 170 acres and features plants from around the world. You’ll find orchids, bromeliads, tropical fruit trees, and aquatic plants throughout the property. The Asian Garden and Brazilian Garden are two standout areas worth prioritizing.
Address: 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL 34112
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens (Miami)
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens offers a look at Miami’s Gilded Age history. Built in 1916 as James Deering’s winter estate, the gardens are some of the most elaborate in the country. Make time for the Theater Garden, Maze Garden, and views along Biscayne Bay.
Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (Coral Gables)
About 30 minutes from downtown Miami, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is known for its research collections and immersive exhibits. The Wings of the Tropics exhibit inside the Clinton Family Conservatory features hundreds of butterflies year-round.
Wonder Gardens (Bonita Springs)
Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs blends a botanical garden with a wildlife sanctuary. Non-releasable birds and reptiles live along the Imperial River, and the property has welcomed visitors since 1936. Some of the most photogenic spots include the Ornamental Duck Pavilion, Lorikeet Pavilion, and Tea House.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens (Gainesville)
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville spans 68 acres and is known for its diverse plant collections. Walk through bamboo gardens and shaded trails throughout the property. While spring is a great time to visit with cooler temperatures, a summer visit should also be on your radar, especially when the iconic Giant Victoria water lilies are in bloom.
