Key West, Florida, is a little slice of paradise where you can soak up the sun, and enjoy the coastal breeze and natural beauty surrounding you. While there are plenty of attractions and activities in this charming island town, one of the best ways to truly connect with nature is by exploring the stunning gardens that Key West has to offer. Key West has several beautiful gardens, each with its unique charm. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind or want to learn more about the local flora and fauna, there’s something here for everyone.
Here are some of our favorite garden spots in Key West. Get swept away by the greenery, flowers, and ongoing landscapes that await you!
Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden
Looking for unique things to do in Key West, Florida? This historic and rare botanical garden spans over 15 acres, providing a spacious outdoor refuge for nature and plant lovers. As you walk through the winding paths of the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, you’ll be surrounded by a breathtaking array of rare and exotic plants from all around the world. With over 500 species of plants, including many endangered plants, it’s a one-of-a-kind botanical experience. The beautiful colors of blooming orchids and the towering canopy of ancient trees create a gorgeous backdrop, so be sure to bring your camera!
With its vast expanse, abundant flora and fauna, and dedication to preserving this natural treasure, the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is a spot for those seeking solace and connection with the outdoors. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely walk with your furry friend or simply seeking fresh air under the open sky, this botanical destination offers you a much-needed escape. Experience the beauty and serenity of Key West’s botanical gardens, starting with the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, is a magical place that will entice and inspire everyone who enters. Step inside the enclosed glass conservatory and be transported to a world of fluttering wings and delicate beauty as hundreds of unique butterflies flutter around you.
Walk into paradise at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, a sanctuary for endangered and threatened butterfly species. You’ll have the opportunity to witness the entire life cycle of these magnificent creatures as you explore the various stages of their development, from eggs to caterpillars to fully-formed butterflies. For those looking to learn more, the Learning Center is the perfect place to start with informative exhibits and even a 15-minute film that describes the life cycle and basic facts of interest about butterflies. The Learning Center also explores all aspects of the butterfly world with a wall-size mural map depicting butterfly identification by country of origin, as well as illustrated information on butterfly anatomy and physiology and a look at the incredible Monarch migration. Be sure to check out the live caterpillars feeding and developing on their host plants, too!
The conservatory is also home to tropical gardens, beautiful waterfall displays, and a charming koi pond. Take a walk through the garden, breathe in the sweet scent of flowers, and let the serenity of this place wash over you. And be sure to look out for the colorful birds, including a pair of flamingos, that also call the conservatory home. Every visit to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is complete with a stop at the gift shop. This butterfly and nature lover’s dream is filled with unique and beautiful items from around the world that capture the beauty of butterflies and their natural habitats. For those looking for an actual work of art, the Wings of Imagination art gallery offers stunningly crafted displays of butterflies. Artist Sam Trophia created this work to show the movement of butterflies. His muli-piece artwork transforms the movement of butterflies in flight into a kaleidoscopic spectacle of natural color and beauty.
West Martello Tower and Key West Garden Club
West Martello Tower and Key West Garden Club, our last garden stop that perfectly captures the essence of Key West’s rich history and botanical beauty. Not only is this garden club a former Civil War fort, but it’s also steps away from the beach, giving you panoramic views of the Atlantic.
As you explore the garden of the Key West Garden Club, you’ll discover a stunning collection of native and tropical plants that will take your breath away. To learn more about the gardens, you can book a guided tour on Mondays between 9:30 and 11:30 am to learn more about this enchanting spot’s fascinating flora and fauna! With a variety of gardens to choose from, make sure you check out the following gardens; the butterfly garden, the waterfall garden, the prehistoric garden, the native garden, the orchid areas, the perfume garden, the garden by the sea, and the cactus garden.
Keep your eyes peeled for the local iguanas, who sunbathe in this paradise, adding a hint of wildlife to your journey. Relax on one of the benches overlooking the ocean and let the gentle sounds of the waves wash away your worries. Whether you’re a botanical enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, the West Martello Tower and Key West Garden Club will surely leave you refreshed and renewed.
Plan Your Visit
Key West offers many experiences, and the botanical gardens are just the beginning of a truly memorable journey. With rentals in Key West conveniently available through Historic Hideaways, book your stay today!
Book Your Key West House Rentals with Historic Hideaways
After a day of taking in the natural beauty of Key West enchanted gardens, it’s time to find the perfect place to relax and unwind. Look no further than Historic Hideaways for your perfect Key West vacation rental. With a wide range of historic properties, you’ll find the ideal home away from home in this tropical paradise. Situated in prime locations, our vacation rentals offer easy access to all the Key West attractions and activities this island offers. Whether you’re looking for a cozy vacation rental for a romantic getaway or a spacious vacation home for a family reunion, our knowledgeable and friendly staff will help you find the perfect weekly rental to suit your needs. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to reconnect with nature at these beautiful Key West gardens. With rentals in Key West conveniently available through Historic Hideaways, your island adventure awaits! Key West offers many experiences, and the botanical gardens are just the beginning of a truly memorable journey.