Select one of the many Sarasota house rentals with pools, book the stay, and plan for an epic getaway. It only takes three steps to see Sarasota FL for yourself and enjoy its natural beauty.
In few places is this better represented than at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. We cover the garden’s history, what you can expect when visiting, and what makes it such an utterly spectacular place.
History of the Gardens
The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a defining landmark- 45 glorious and sprawling acres of trailways, ponds, mangroves, and rainforest along the Sarasota Bay. It is a beautiful sight to see!
But it didn’t just materialize out of nowhere. The gardens have been curated and maintained since 1973. It began with Marie Selby, who developed the garden to inspire the public.
In 2020, the Selby Gardens Sarasota expanded to a second site- the Historic Spanish Point. The sight encompasses an archeological record spanning 5,000 years. Still, it is also the home to rare orchids, bromeliads, and other hard-to-see and harder-to-care-for plant species.
Currently, the original botanical gardens Sarasota, FL site remains the only location to feature the display and study of epiphytic orchids and bromeliads and gesneriads ferns, and other assorted tropical plants.
Tours
Sarasota Botanical Gardens tours are offered throughout the entire year. The beautiful year-round weather in Sarasota makes it all possible!
You can also visit the gardens during opening hours and explore at your own pace. Yet, tours offer a unique guided experience.
Guided tours are available with groups of about 10. You don’t need to have a party of 10, as you will be fitted with others. Pre-reservation is required at this time and must be booked at least two weeks in advance.
Tours begin at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and will be about 90 minutes in length. We suggest you wear comfortable attire and bring some water in a reusable container.
Tours are $25 per person. You get to experience an informative side to your visit, learning about the garden’s history, the creation of the various gardens, the local flora and fauna, and how it has all flourished for generations.
Popular Gardens
The gardens are sprawling. Fortunately, it is divided into different areas for you to explore. We cover just a few of the top garden exhibits.
Steinwachs Family Foundation Mangrove Walkway
On this elevated walkway, you can see the mangroves’ intricate and overwhelming root and stem systems.
Fern Garden
Romantic and elegant, the fern garden is a delightful spot for seeing large lizards. Australian tree ferns loom large over the garden.
Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden
Experience travel through the treetops in this elevated garden experience. It includes a 12-foot waterfall and soft ambient music.
Bamboo Garden
See Giant Bamboo, the largest of its kind, alongside roughly 12 other bamboo types.
Butterfly Garden
The Butterfly Garden is a top spot for photographers. This garden is established to help rebuild endangered local butterfly populations.
You can visit the gardens multiple days a week from the neighboring Sarasota vacation rentals. Don’t miss any of these radiant sights.
Hours and Pricing
The gardens are at 1534 Mound St in Sarasota, Florida. You will find its doors open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, including weekends. Tickets are available for pre-purchase online. It’s $20 for adults, $10 for ages 5 to 17, and free for children ages 0 to 4.
Review the available monthly rentals in Sarasota, FL, and secure your much-deserved vacation.
