Sunken Gardens
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Sunken Gardens (multiple locations)

4.5
·62 reviews·Napier, New Zealand

A 100-year-old tropical paradise 15 feet below street level, featuring flamingos, waterfalls, and lush flora.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more tranquility

CrowdLow
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Sunken Gardens

Sunken Gardens (multiple locations)

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more tranquility

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 100-year-old tropical paradise 15 feet below street level, featuring flamingos, waterfalls, and lush flora.

4.5
(62 reviews)

"Discover a hidden paradise below Florida, where flamingos roam among waterfalls."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Grab a Groupon Deal

Save money by looking for Groupon deals, making this tropical escape even more affordable!

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking through the lush gardens, so wear comfy shoes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Flamingo Encounters

Flamingo Encounters

Throughout the gardens

Wander among vibrant flamingos as they roam freely through this lush, tropical paradise.

Cascading Waterfalls

Cascading Waterfalls

Various points in the gardens

Listen to the soothing sounds of water features and discover hidden waterfalls amidst the greenery.

Ancient Tropical Flora

Ancient Tropical Flora

Throughout the gardens

Explore over 500 species of plants, including ancient tropical flora, creating a lush and vibrant landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Below-Street-Level Charm

Discover a tropical paradise 15 feet below street level! Built in a drained sinkhole, Sunken Gardens offers a unique escape with waterfalls and roaming flamingos. Plan for a tranquil experience away from the usual Florida hustle.

Budget-Friendly Tropical Escape

Looking for affordable fun? Consider a Groupon for tickets, making your visit even more budget-friendly. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon or a unique date idea without breaking the bank.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A supercut of this morning’s cardio. #UP #cinematic #videography #cinematography #exercise #filmtok #sunkengarden
@ginorobertocustoms
15.8K likes • 105.7K views

🎯 Grab a Groupon Deal

Save money by looking for Groupon deals, making this tropical escape even more affordable! TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking through the lush gardens, so wear comfy shoes! TikTok

Built inside a drained sinkhole in 1903, this 100-year-old tropical paradise sits 15 feet below street level in St. Petersburg. It’s called Sunken Gardens, one of Florida’s oldest attractions, where flamingos still roam among waterfalls. 📍 Sunken Gardens, St. Petersburg FL Would you visit this hidden paradise below Florida? 🌿✨ #hiddenflorida #fyp #floridatravel
@hidden_florida
5.3K likes • 65.3K views
Cheap Date Ideas in Tampa Bay l part 3 | 📍The Sunken Gardens 💰$15 pp normally but there is a Groupon for $18 for 2 people. Making the total $9 pp 😁 Enjoy an afternoon appreciating these beautiful historic gardens. #dateideas #thingstodointampa #tampadateideas
@daniellewal2468
2.6K likes • 63.7K views

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

Capture the beauty of the plants, waterfalls, and flamingos. Early morning light is ideal. TikTok

🧘‍♀️ Find Your Zen

This is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city. TikTok

If you need a little zen, #SunkenGardens is the spot to relax 🌸🌹🌺 #tampa #tampabay #tampabayfl #stpete #stpetefl #stpeteflorida
@10tampabay
2.1K likes • 58.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Grab a Groupon Deal

Save money by looking for Groupon deals, making this tropical escape even more affordable! TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking through the lush gardens, so wear comfy shoes! TikTok

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

Capture the beauty of the plants, waterfalls, and flamingos. Early morning light is ideal. TikTok

🧘‍♀️ Find Your Zen

This is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(62 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Sunken Gardens for its unexpected beauty and tranquility, describing it as a well-maintained tropical oasis hidden below street level. The presence of flamingos and the soothing sounds of waterfalls are frequent highlights, offering a peaceful escape.

"Beautiful gardens a great surprise to find along the beach from of Napier. Well kept with lots of vibrant colors and a beautiful old water wheel. Nice place to relax or end a day of exploring in Napier."

John Winter

"Lovely well maintaned gardens. Nice walk through"

leelee dixi

"Nice tranquil garden area secluded below the road and beach walkway. There are plenty of large round garden beds planted in a variety of flowers, succulents and other plants. There is an interesting sculpture in the central pond and a nice little waterwheel off to one corner. A lovely quiet spot to sit and escape the bustle of the city."

Anthony Cross

What People Like

Beautiful tropical gardens
Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Roaming flamingos

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point in the Tampa Bay area. TikTok

Yes, it's a well-known attraction in St. Petersburg. It's situated 15 feet below street level, so keep an eye out for the entrance signs. TikTok

The gardens are designed for walking. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time to explore the winding paths and discover all the hidden nooks. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission is typically around $15 per person, but keep an eye out for deals! A Groupon for two people can bring the cost down to about $9 per person, making it a great budget-friendly option. TikTok

Yes, checking sites like Groupon can offer significant discounts on admission for individuals or pairs. It's worth looking into before your visit. TikTok

Operating hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Sunken Gardens website or their social media for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. TikTok

While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance, especially if you find a deal, can save you time and ensure entry, particularly during peak seasons or weekends. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Everywhere! The lush greenery, vibrant flowers, cascading waterfalls, and of course, the flamingos, offer endless photo opportunities. The early morning light can be particularly beautiful. TikTok+1

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed and encouraged! It's a fantastic place to capture stunning nature shots. TikTok

For professional shoots, including weddings or commercial photography, you'll likely need to inquire about permits and specific guidelines with the Sunken Gardens management. TikTok

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

You can explore a 100-year-old tropical paradise with six acres of plants, waterfalls, and resident flamingos. It's a peaceful place to wander and relax. TikTok+1

Yes, Sunken Gardens is home to a flock of flamingos that roam freely throughout the gardens, adding a unique charm to the experience. TikTok

Absolutely! It's often cited as a great spot for a cheap and romantic date, offering a beautiful and tranquil environment to enjoy together. TikTok

While specific picnic areas might not be designated, the tranquil atmosphere makes it a lovely place to enjoy a quiet moment. Check their policies regarding outside food. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sunken Gardens is a fantastic outing for families! Kids will be mesmerized by the roaming flamingos and the magical feel of a garden hidden below street level. The winding paths and waterfalls provide an element of discovery, making it an engaging experience for younger visitors. TikTok

It's a great place for a peaceful afternoon stroll where children can learn about different plants and animals in a safe and beautiful environment. Pack some snacks and enjoy a tranquil escape that's both educational and fun. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for little feet! TikTok

💸 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Sunken Gardens offers excellent value. The Groupon deals can significantly reduce the admission cost, making it an affordable way to experience a unique Florida attraction. TikTok

It's an ideal destination for a low-cost date or a relaxing solo outing. Pack your own water and perhaps a light snack to enjoy amidst the serene surroundings, further enhancing the budget-friendly experience. TikTok

❤️ Couples

Sunken Gardens provides a wonderfully romantic and tranquil setting for couples. Stroll hand-in-hand along the shaded paths, discover hidden waterfalls, and admire the vibrant flora together. TikTok

It's a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon date, offering a beautiful backdrop for conversation and connection away from the usual tourist crowds. The charming atmosphere makes it memorable for anniversaries or just a special day out. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Historic Tropical Oasis

Sunken Gardens is not just a beautiful botanical display; it's a piece of St. Petersburg history. Established in 1903 by George and Maud Turner, it was originally a private estate built within a drained sinkhole. This unique geological feature allowed for the creation of a lush, below-street-level paradise that has been captivating visitors for over a century. The gardens have been meticulously maintained, preserving their original charm while evolving to include more diverse plant species and resident wildlife. TikTok

Today, Sunken Gardens is recognized as one of Florida's oldest attractions. It spans six acres and features over 500 species of tropical plants, including rare and exotic varieties. The landscape is dotted with cascading waterfalls, meandering paths, and tranquil ponds, creating a serene atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling city above. It's a testament to the vision of its founders and the ongoing dedication to its preservation. TikTok

The presence of resident flamingos adds a whimsical touch to the gardens. These vibrant birds roam freely, interacting with the environment and delighting visitors. It’s this blend of historical significance, botanical diversity, and charming wildlife that makes Sunken Gardens a truly special destination. TikTok

Capturing the Beauty: Photography Tips

Sunken Gardens is a photographer's dream, offering a wealth of subjects from vibrant flora to the iconic flamingos. For the best shots, consider visiting during the early morning hours. The soft, diffused light is ideal for capturing the rich colors of the plants and flowers without harsh shadows. This also tends to be a quieter time, allowing you to compose your shots without crowds. TikTok+1

Don't forget to look for the waterfalls and unique architectural elements scattered throughout the gardens. These add depth and interest to your photos. When photographing the flamingos, be patient and try to capture them in natural poses. Their bright pink plumage stands out beautifully against the lush green backdrop. TikTok

For those interested in event photography, such as weddings, Sunken Gardens provides a stunning natural venue. However, it's crucial to contact the gardens' management in advance to understand their policies and any necessary permits for professional or commercial shoots. TikTok

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