Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden
A magical sanctuary for rescued parrots in Old Key West, offering a peaceful escape, art, and a chance to connect with nature.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Birds are most active
Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden
Best Time
Birds are most active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical sanctuary for rescued parrots in Old Key West, offering a peaceful escape, art, and a chance to connect with nature.
"A truly magical experience that touches your heart and leaves a lasting bond with feathered friends."
💖 Support the Cause
Donations are crucial for the parrots' care. Consider contributing to this wonderful sanctuary!
🦜 Learn About Parrots
Engage with volunteers to learn fascinating facts about each bird's story and personality.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rescued Parrot Encounters
Throughout the garden
Meet and learn about a variety of rescued parrots, each with a unique story and personality. A truly heartwarming experience.

Tranquil Garden Oasis
The garden grounds
Relax under the shade of tall trees in this quaint, natural sanctuary. A peaceful respite from the bustling town.

Artistic Expressions
Various spots in the garden
Discover vibrant murals and art installations, often inspired by the garden's avian residents and tropical setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Sanctuary of Feathered Friends
Embrace the Old Town Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💖 Support the Cause
Donations are crucial for the parrots' care. Consider contributing to this wonderful sanctuary!
🦜 Learn About Parrots
Engage with volunteers to learn fascinating facts about each bird's story and personality.
🎶 Bring Your Music
Visitors are encouraged to play music, which the parrots seem to enjoy!
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the lush greenery and feathered friends.
Tips
from all over the internet
💖 Support the Cause
Donations are crucial for the parrots' care. Consider contributing to this wonderful sanctuary!
🦜 Learn About Parrots
Engage with volunteers to learn fascinating facts about each bird's story and personality.
🎶 Bring Your Music
Visitors are encouraged to play music, which the parrots seem to enjoy!
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the lush greenery and feathered friends.
📸 Capture the Moments
The vibrant colors and unique inhabitants make for fantastic photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nancy Forrester's Secret Garden as a magical and heartwarming sanctuary for rescued parrots. The genuine care from volunteers, the educational insights into avian rehabilitation, and the tranquil garden setting are frequently highlighted as major draws. It's often described as a must-visit for its unique charm and the opportunity to support a worthy cause.
"This is a must when in town! You can tell that Nancy and the volunteers genuinely love the birds and care about their future! Learned a lot about some different species of parrots and the town! My son, Connor, and I loved it and can’t wait to visit more when we are all moved in!"
Lauren Connolly
"Very small, quaint oasis. Tall shade trees and birds. It's largely a volunteer effort to provide rare birds a safe place. Please go and relax. All contributing helps a great cause. And it's nice and relaxing respite for travelers."
George Borrelli
"More places like Nancy Forrester's need to exist in this world. All of the parrots here are rescues that either live here full time or are hoping to get adopted out someday. Definitely recommend visiting this place and getting tons of information on parrots."
Emma Beeman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located in the heart of Old Key West. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in the area, or a short drive/taxi ride. Parking in Old Town can be challenging, so consider walking or using ride-sharing services.
Yes, the garden is designed for leisurely strolls. The paths are generally well-maintained, allowing you to explore and admire the plants and birds.
It's situated in Old Town Key West, making it close to many historic sites and attractions. Ask locals for directions, and they'll point you in the right direction!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, and Nancy has intentionally kept the price low to be accessible. Donations are highly encouraged and greatly appreciated to support the parrots' care.
The garden is generally open during daylight hours, but it's best to check for any specific seasonal hours or events. It's a place to relax, so there's no strict rush to enter or exit.
Advance booking is typically not required. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for any special events, it's wise to check their website or social media.
It's described as a 'very small, quaint oasis,' so it's not a sprawling complex but rather an intimate and charming space.
🎫 🦜 Onsite Experience
You can relax under shade trees, interact with rescued parrots, learn about avian rehabilitation, enjoy a picnic, and even play music for the birds. It's a peaceful and educational experience.
Yes, interaction is a key part of the experience! Volunteers will guide you and share insights into each bird's personality. Some parrots may even engage with you directly.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic spot for bird watching, especially if you're interested in parrots. You'll see a variety of species, many of whom are rescues.
While the garden is a peaceful sanctuary, there might be occasional events. It's worth checking their social media or website for updates, especially if you're interested in art or music related activities.
The atmosphere is described as magical, tranquil, and heartwarming. It's a place where you can feel a deep connection with nature and the animals.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally welcomed. The vibrant colors of the parrots and the lush garden provide many beautiful photo opportunities.
Look for areas with good natural light and colorful backdrops. The parrots themselves are often the stars of the show, so be ready to capture their expressions.
While generally allowed, always be respectful of the birds and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography directly at the birds, as it can startle them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your kids to listen to the stories behind each parrot and perhaps even bring a small picnic to enjoy in the garden. The relaxed atmosphere allows children to be themselves while learning valuable lessons about compassion and conservation. It's a memorable experience that fosters a love for animals and nature.
❤️ Couples & Art Lovers
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the colorful murals and creative expressions found throughout the garden, often inspired by its feathered inhabitants. It’s a place to relax, connect, and appreciate the beauty of nature and art in a truly special setting. The intimate nature of the garden makes it ideal for quiet conversation and shared moments.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Budget Travelers
It offers a peaceful respite from the typical tourist hustle, allowing you to experience a different side of Key West. The educational aspect, combined with the unique interaction with rescued parrots, provides a rich and rewarding experience that’s both memorable and economical. It’s a chance to support a good cause while enjoying a beautiful, serene environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the Sanctuary: Rescued Parrots
Each parrot has a unique story, and the knowledgeable staff are eager to share these narratives with visitors. This personal connection makes the experience incredibly moving and educational. You'll learn about different parrot species, their behaviors, and the challenges they face. It's a place that truly touches the heart and fosters a deeper appreciation for these magnificent birds.
Whether a parrot is a permanent resident or awaiting adoption, the garden ensures they receive the best possible care. The atmosphere is one of peace and recovery, allowing the birds to thrive. It’s a testament to the power of compassion and the impact one dedicated individual and a supportive community can have on the lives of animals.
A Tropical Escape in Old Key West
The garden is not just about the birds; it's also a space for creativity and relaxation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own music to play, as the parrots seem to enjoy the melodies. Many also choose to have picnics amidst the greenery, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. The presence of art, like murals inspired by the parrots, further enhances the garden's unique and whimsical character.
This intimate oasis is a testament to the vision of creating a space that benefits both animals and people. It’s a place where you can unwind, connect with nature, and experience a slice of Key West's unique spirit. The blend of natural beauty, avian life, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a truly memorable destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit