Miami’s botanical gardens are a hidden gem. While many visitors only see the iconic palm tree and hotel lobby of the Brickell Village, those with a keen eye will discover dozens of privately owned garden spaces peppered throughout the area. Explore some of these secret gardens through our list of Miami’s best botanical gardens. From grand oases to intimate pockets, we’ve included everything from classic attractions to hidden gems that you might not have found yet.
The Greentree at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
The Greentree at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is one of Miami’s best hidden gardens. The Greentree features more than 20,000 square feet of tropical plants including bougainvillea and hibiscus. It also has a variety of palms and ferns that are not to be missed. This garden is located on the property of the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens which is currently closed for renovations until 2020.
Brickell City Center Botanical Garden
The Brickell City Center Botanical Garden is a lush park located on the grounds of Miami City Hall in downtown Miami. The garden offers visitors a tranquil refuge, perfect for enjoying a walk while admiring the diversity of flora and fauna. This garden is home to over 100 species of plants, including tropical fruits and vegetables that have been grown on site. The garden also boasts fascinating bonsai specimens, such as the miniature date palm tree and weeping fig tree, along with plenty of trees and palms to peruse.
Coral Reef Botanical Gardens
This garden is a hidden gem for those who are interested in marine life. Coral Reef Botanical Gardens was once the private estate of a local land baron and it features a botanic garden with nearly 300 palm trees and tropical plants. The grounds also boast an impressive collection of woven baskets, animal statuettes, and even a “tiki hut” sculpture from ancient Polynesia. The gardens are open to the public on Saturday mornings from 10am-1pm.
El Greco Garden at the El Adoringo Condominiums
El Greco Garden is a tranquil oasis tucked away inside an open courtyard at the El Adoringo Condominiums. The garden includes a waterfall, heated pool, and a Roman-inspired grotto that overlooks the lower level of the garden. The garden was built by real estate developer Paolo Pozzi in 1962 to create a peaceful retreat for his family members living in the building. Today, the lush tropical gardens are still maintained by Mr. Pozzo’s family and enjoyed by all who visit this hidden gem.
Forest Cove Gardens, A Hideaway in Coconut Grove
Forest Cove Gardens is a hidden gem in Coconut Grove. This quiet, private oasis offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The gardens are perfect for picnics, bird watching, or just exploring on your own. The best time to visit Forest Cove Gardens is early morning before the heat sets in. It’s also a great spot to escape the Florida humidity during the afternoon when there’s usually little breeze. If you want to really get lost, look for Ravenswood Drive and find the entrance next to an entrance to Trader Joe’s. This street leads into a parking lot with a small gate that opens onto the property of Forest Cove Gardens.
The Greymark Estate & Park – A Luxury Retreat in Coral Gables
The Greymark Estate & Park is a luxury retreat in Coral Gables. The estate features beautiful gardens, lawns and pools as well as a number of indoor amenities for guests to enjoy. – The estate includes a Mediterranean-style villa and mansion, which offers luxurious rooms and suites with an outdoor rooftop pool. – The historic mansion was built in 1924 by famed architect C.C. Martin – The estate also boasts two championship golf courses, complete with pro shops and practice facilities – Set amidst the most sought after location in Coral Gables, the Greymark Estate & Park is perfect for relaxing or hosting events
Haagen Dazs Botanical Garden – Ice Cream Inside a Garden? Yes Please!
The Haagen Dazs Botanical Garden is a tropical oasis with a surprising twist. This garden-like space is divided into three distinct areas of vegetation. There’s an orchid garden, a carnivorous plant garden, and a tropical rainforest-themed area. All these things are in the same place: the Haagen Dazs ice cream factory. While there’s plenty to enjoy outside of the ice cream, this lush space is perfect for an afternoon walk, family stroll, or even romantic date night.
Isla View Point Gardens – A Secret Paradise inudesociety.org
Isla View Point Gardens is a relaxing oasis hidden along the shore of Biscayne Bay. Hike through the winding paths and watch the waves crash against the ocean floor. These enchanting gardens are worth visiting for their tropical flora, whether you’re looking for an afternoon escape or a getaway for your vacation.
The Aruba Botanical Garden
The Aruba Botanical Garden is one of the most unique gardens in Miami. The garden is a private property and memberships are available for those who would like to visit the grounds. The garden’s lush greenery, lush vegetation, and old world charm make it an enjoyable destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat with a tropical twist.
Bicentennial Park
Bicentennial Park is definitely a hidden gem in Miami. It is bordered by Brickell Avenue to the north, Southwest 27th Avenue to the south, and SW 3rd Street to the east. The park’s diverse collection of plants and animals has attracted botanists and scientists from around the world. The gardens are open daily from dawn till dusk. Admission to the observatory is free but donations are accepted for maintenance of the plant collections. Although not many people know about this hidden gem, it is set in a prime location and worth your time exploring.
Carlos Africano Botanical Garden
Carlos Africano Botanical Garden is a lush oasis in the heart of Miami’s Brickell Village. This garden features a variety of exotic plants from around the world, and it also has an excellent café to enjoy your lunch or snack. This garden is a must-visit for anyone visiting Miami for business or pleasure.
English Garden of Cuba
The English Garden of Cuba is a lush oasis that’s perfect for the entire family. This garden is one of the most popular locations in Miami and is open all year round. With its lush greenery, this garden will have you dreaming of summertime. The English Garden of Cuba has been featured in the New York Times, The Washington Post, and the Los Angeles Times. This botanical garden can be found at 2450 SW 8th Street.
