Bonnet House Museum & Gardens - a house with a pond in front of it
1 / 10

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

4.6
·2k reviews·Fort Lauderdale, United States

Step into a 1920s Florida estate, a vibrant blend of art, history, and lush tropical gardens with ocean views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or Late Afternoon

Avoid peak heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens - a house with a pond in front of it

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Best Time

Morning or Late Afternoon

Avoid peak heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a 1920s Florida estate, a vibrant blend of art, history, and lush tropical gardens with ocean views.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A truly one of a kind place, hopefully it will survive all the storms and never change."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Light Clothing

Fort Lauderdale can be hot and humid; dress for the weather. :womanintunic:

Stay Hydrated

Carry water, especially during warmer months. Plenty of shaded areas available. :droplet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Art-Filled Mansion

The Art-Filled Mansion

Main House

Step back in time with hand-painted murals and eclectic art in every room.

Instagram
Tropical Gardens

Tropical Gardens

Grounds

Explore lush, diverse flora, including orchids and native plants.

Instagram
Oceanfront Estate

Oceanfront Estate

Beachfront

Experience the unique beauty of this historic property with ocean views.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Fort Lauderdale summers are hot and humid. Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed experience. Instagram

Capture the Charm (with Limits)

While photos are encouraged throughout the grounds and most rooms, video and photos of the courtyard are restricted. Plan your shots accordingly to respect the site's guidelines. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning or Late Afternoon
Why
Avoid peak heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer visitors, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Step into Elegance at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens! 🌺🏛️ Explore the stunning Bonnet House Museum & Gardens in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This historic estate offers a blend of art, history, and nature, with lush gardens, beautiful orchids, and captivating artwork. Wander through the charming house, enjoy the scenic grounds, and soak in the serene ambiance. It’s a perfect getaway for history buffs ...
@adam.travel.blog
384 likes • 22K views

Wear Light Clothing

Fort Lauderdale can be hot and humid; dress for the weather. :womanintunic:

Stay Hydrated

Carry water, especially during warmer months. Plenty of shaded areas available. :droplet:

📍Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, FL #fortlauderdaleflorida #fortlauderdale #bonnethouse #
@victoriakashkin
71 likes • 2.7K views
Welcome to one of the gems in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens takes you back to early XX Century Florida. @visitlauderdale #fortlauderdale #bonnethouse #florida #history #historyvideo #visitflorida #visitfortlauderdale #museum #art #reels #igreels #tourguide #tourguides #tourguideslife
tour_with_liesner
63 likes • 947 views

Engage with Volunteers

Staff are knowledgeable and love sharing stories. Ask questions! :speech_balloon:

Photo Restrictions

No videos or photos in the courtyard, but rooms and gardens are fair game. :camerawithflash:

🏡 Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Step into a world of art, history, and tropical serenity at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens in Fort Lauderdale. 🌐 Plan your visit: greatlocations.com 📸 Garden moments: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens 👍 Dive into history: @bonnethouse . . . . #BonnetHouseFL #HistoricFortLauderdale #TropicalRetreatFL #FloridaHistory #FortLauderdaleMuseums #GardenLoversFL #GreatLocati...
greatlocationsmobileguide
0 likes • 326 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Light Clothing

Fort Lauderdale can be hot and humid; dress for the weather. :womanintunic:

Stay Hydrated

Carry water, especially during warmer months. Plenty of shaded areas available. :droplet:

Engage with Volunteers

Staff are knowledgeable and love sharing stories. Ask questions! :speech_balloon:

Photo Restrictions

No videos or photos in the courtyard, but rooms and gardens are fair game. :camerawithflash:

Spot the Iguanas!

Keep an eye out for the resident iguanas on the grounds. :lizard:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Bonnet House Museum & Gardens for its rich history, beautiful art-filled interiors, and stunning tropical gardens. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are frequently mentioned as enhancing the experience. While some note photo restrictions in the courtyard, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting it as a unique and educational destination.

"This was a really cool place to visit. A lot of history, making more history. A beautiful place inside the house and outside in the garden. A nice little stroll around the property and you’ll see all the different plants from different places. It’s awesome how he had 3 wives and I get it!!! lol The staff was great, but you cannot video or take pictures of the actual courtyard but you’re aloud to take them throughout the rooms. It’s really a one of a kind place and hopefully it will survive all the storms and never change."

J Howard

"Such a great experience! Educational. Every one who was in sections of the house were very knowledgeable and super kind. We asked a lot of questions and they answered them all! The grounds have been kept up and are so beautiful! After we did our tour we spoke with any individuals about the museum. This is Definitely a must see when here!"

Latita Burns

"A Dream Wedding Venue – Perfect for Any Size Celebration!

We recently celebrated our wedding at Bonnet House, and it was nothing short of magical. Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, this venue offers the perfect blend of charm, history, and natural beauty.

The gardens and grounds are breathtaking — a stunning backdrop that feels like a hidden tropical paradise. Our guests were in awe of the atmosphere, and our photos turned out absolutely gorgeous.

What truly made our experience exceptional was the staff. From the first tour to the final send-off, the team was warm, professional, and incredibly helpful. They were attentive to every detail and made us feel supported every step of the way.

Bonnet House is a gem — a place where weddings of any size feel special. We couldn’t have asked for a better location or a more wonderful team. Highly recommend!"

veronica outerbridge

What People Like

Historic art-filled mansion
Beautiful tropical gardens
Knowledgeable and friendly staff

What People Dislike

Courtyard photo restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is located at 900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available on-site. The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi also stops nearby at Stop 7, making it a convenient option for those exploring the waterways. Instagram

Yes, the Broward County Transit system serves the area. Additionally, the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is a popular and scenic way to reach the museum, especially if you're already exploring the intercostal waterways. Instagram

On-site parking is available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially during peak season or weekends, to secure a spot. Reddit

The Bonnet House is situated in a prime location in Fort Lauderdale, close to the beach and other attractions. It's a short distance from the Broward County Convention Center, making it a great option for a break during a conference. Instagram

Biking is a great way to explore Fort Lauderdale. There are bike racks available at Bonnet House, making it a convenient destination for cyclists. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is typically open Tuesday through Sunday. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally or for special events. Instagram

Admission fees apply for entry to Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Prices can vary for adults, seniors, and children. Check the official Bonnet House website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts. Instagram

While walk-in visitors are often welcome, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods or if you're planning a group visit. This can help ensure entry and potentially save time. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are a highlight of the Bonnet House experience. Knowledgeable docents lead tours through the historic house and gardens, offering insights into its history and art. Reddit

Photography is permitted in most areas of the grounds and within the house, but video recording and photography of the courtyard are prohibited. Be sure to respect these guidelines during your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lush gardens, with their diverse plant life and vibrant flowers, offer stunning photo opportunities. The eclectic architecture of the mansion itself, both exterior and interior (where permitted), also makes for beautiful shots. Don't miss the chance to capture the unique murals inside. Instagram+1

Professional photography and videography may require special permits or arrangements. It's best to contact Bonnet House directly to inquire about their policies for commercial shoots or extensive personal projects. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed in the rooms of the house, but video recording and photos of the courtyard are not permitted. Always be mindful of signage and docent instructions. Reddit

Bonnet House is ideal for nature photography, architectural photography, and capturing the ambiance of a historic estate. It's also a popular spot for wedding and engagement photos due to its picturesque setting. Reddit

The soft light of early morning or late afternoon can be ideal for capturing the beauty of the gardens and the house. Midday sun can be harsh, but the shaded areas offer opportunities. Instagram

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Visitors can explore the historic 1920s mansion filled with art and personal belongings, wander through the diverse tropical gardens, and enjoy the beachfront location. Guided tours offer in-depth insights into the history and art. Instagram+1

A typical visit can last anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the house tour, garden exploration, and any special exhibits. Reddit

Bonnet House often hosts special events, art exhibitions, and seasonal activities. It's advisable to check their official calendar of events for the most current information. Instagram

While children can enjoy the gardens and spotting iguanas, the historical nature of the house tour might be more engaging for older children and adults. The grounds offer space to explore. Instagram

Restrooms are available. There are also shaded areas throughout the gardens, which are great for taking a break. Food and drink options are limited on-site, so consider bringing your own water. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens does not typically have on-site dining facilities. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Reddit

The Bonnet House is located in a vibrant area of Fort Lauderdale with numerous dining options nearby, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The Las Olas Boulevard area is a short drive away and offers a wide variety of culinary choices. Instagram

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in designated areas or while exploring the grounds. Staying hydrated is important, especially in the Florida heat. Reddit

While there may not be designated picnic tables, the expansive gardens offer many beautiful and shaded spots where you can relax and enjoy a picnic. Reddit

The Fort Lauderdale area offers a diverse culinary scene, including fresh seafood, international flavors, and classic American fare. You'll find options to suit every taste and budget. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens offers a unique outing for families, blending history with natural exploration. While the detailed house tours might be best suited for older children, the expansive gardens provide plenty of space for younger ones to explore and discover. Keep an eye out for the resident iguanas that often make an appearance, which can be a highlight for kids! Instagram Remember to bring plenty of water and dress for the Florida heat, as the gardens can be quite warm. The opportunity to see a historic estate and its beautiful grounds offers a different kind of educational experience beyond typical theme parks.

💍 Couples and Wedding Planners

Bonnet House is frequently lauded as a dream wedding venue, offering a magical blend of history, art, and natural beauty. Reddit The breathtaking gardens and oceanfront setting provide a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and receptions of any size. Couples often praise the attentive and professional staff who ensure every detail is handled with care, making the planning process smoother and the event unforgettable. Even if you're not planning a wedding, the romantic ambiance of the estate makes it a lovely spot for a date or a leisurely stroll.

🎨 Art and History Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate art and history, Bonnet House is a must-visit. The eclectic collection of art, including numerous hand-painted murals by the resident artists, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and creative pursuits of the Bartlett family. Instagram The historic 1920s architecture and the stories behind the estate's previous owners are captivating. Guided tours are highly recommended, as the docents provide rich historical context and insights into the artistic significance of the house and its contents. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Legacy of Art and Nature

The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is more than just a historic house; it's a testament to the artistic vision and love for nature of the Bartlett family. Built in the 1920s, this sprawling estate was the winter residence of artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Evelyn. The house itself is a canvas, adorned with hand-painted murals in nearly every room, showcasing the couple's artistic flair and eclectic tastes. Instagram Visitors often remark on the unique atmosphere, feeling as though they've stepped back in time to an era of creativity and elegance. Reddit

The grounds are equally captivating, featuring over 35 acres of diverse tropical gardens. These meticulously maintained gardens are a sanctuary for a wide variety of plant species, including a notable collection of orchids. Instagram+1 The estate's location also offers a unique oceanfront perspective, blending the tranquility of nature with the beauty of the Atlantic coastline. It's this harmonious integration of art, history, and natural splendor that makes Bonnet House a truly special destination. Instagram

Navigating Your Visit: Tips from the Community

Planning your visit to Bonnet House Museum & Gardens can be made smoother with insights from fellow travelers. Many visitors emphasize the importance of dressing lightly and staying hydrated, especially during the warm Florida months. Reddit The estate offers shaded areas, but the humidity can still be a factor. Weekday visits are often recommended to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Instagram

When it comes to capturing memories, remember that while photography is encouraged throughout the grounds and most interior rooms, there are restrictions on video and photos of the courtyard. Reddit This is a detail that can catch some visitors by surprise, so be mindful of the signage and guidelines provided by the staff. Speaking of staff, many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly volunteers who lead tours and are happy to answer questions, significantly enhancing the visitor experience. Reddit Don't hesitate to engage with them; their stories bring the history of the house and its inhabitants to life. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2