Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Campus
A bayside botanical paradise showcasing rare orchids, a historic banyan grove, and an immersive children's rainforest garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Campus
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bayside botanical paradise showcasing rare orchids, a historic banyan grove, and an immersive children's rainforest garden.
"One of the most beautiful botanical gardens I've been to in Florida, I had a wonderful time."
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Visit in the morning or during special evening events like 'Lights in Bloom' for a better experience.
Kid-Friendly Fun
The Children's Rainforest Garden with its banyan tree, waterfall, and canopy walk is a hit with little ones.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Banyan Grove
Downtown Campus
A nearly century-old banyan tree with a canopy walk and rope bridge, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Children's Rainforest Garden
Downtown Campus
An immersive rainforest experience with a waterfall, canopy walk, and rock canyon, inspired by nature.
Orchid Displays
Downtown Campus
The world's only botanical garden dedicated to epiphytic orchids, bromeliads, and more.
Lights in Bloom
Downtown Campus
A dazzling holiday light display transforming the gardens into a magical wonderland.
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Planning Your Visit
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Visit in the morning or during special evening events like 'Lights in Bloom' for a better experience.
Kid-Friendly Fun
The Children's Rainforest Garden with its banyan tree, waterfall, and canopy walk is a hit with little ones.
Orchid Lover's Paradise
Explore the world-renowned orchid collection, a unique feature of this botanical garden.
Holiday Magic
Don't miss 'Lights in Bloom' for a spectacular holiday light show, ranked among the best in the country. 
Tips
from all over the internet
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Visit in the morning or during special evening events like 'Lights in Bloom' for a better experience.
Kid-Friendly Fun
The Children's Rainforest Garden with its banyan tree, waterfall, and canopy walk is a hit with little ones.
Orchid Lover's Paradise
Explore the world-renowned orchid collection, a unique feature of this botanical garden.
Holiday Magic
Don't miss 'Lights in Bloom' for a spectacular holiday light show, ranked among the best in the country.
Bayfront Views
Enjoy the beautiful Sarasota Bay views from various points within the gardens.
Dining Delights
The on-site cafe and restaurant offer delicious options, from flatbreads to full dinners.
Easy Parking
Convenient parking is available, with a small gift shop located below the garage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Marie Selby Botanical Gardens for its stunning beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and unique collections, especially the orchids and the children's rainforest garden. The convenient location on Sarasota Bay and the quality of the on-site dining are also frequently highlighted as significant positives. While some areas may undergo occasional construction, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a highly recommended destination.
"Beautiful place to be. The parking is easy to navigate and there is a small gift shop below the garage. I explored the gardens and there were many butterflies out. There was a little cafe on the property and the women working the counter was very kind. There is a beautiful banyan tree with bridges and things for children to play with like musical instruments. There is a lovely gazebo where it looks as though wedding as held inside with stained glass above which was very pretty. A peaceful place to walk 🌺."
Kandace Ashley
"This was one of the most beautiful botanical gardens I've been to in Florida, I had a wonderful time. There's a greenhouse with plants at the front, and it leads to an outdoor area with more plants and a cafe. The cafe was wonderful, they have flatbread, salads, tea, and more. They have some huge trees near the cafe that I personally thought were really cool. At the time I went, there was a George Harrison event that was themed like his album All Things Must Pass, and it was wonderful. There's a museum in the garden, and they had an exhibit all about Harrison and really beautiful photography. If you follow the path, there's a restaurant at the end. It has a very nice vibe and good service. Overall a wonderful experience, and I would come again."
Mr. Guy
"Was great garden for everyone to see, even stuff for the little ones. Wish I could have brought my grandson. He would have loved it. Had my husband with me, he enjoyed it also. Thank you for letting us view this place. Just beautiful. We are out of Tampa, FL. WAS DEFINITELY LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS OPPORTUNITY TO SEE IT."
Kimi Lufriu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Downtown Sarasota Campus is located at 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. It's easily accessible by car, with convenient parking available.
Yes, there is easy and convenient parking available at the Downtown Campus, with a gift shop located below the garage.
Ride-sharing services are a great option for reaching the gardens, offering a hassle-free way to arrive and depart.
While specific public transport routes can vary, checking local Sarasota transit schedules is recommended for the most up-to-date information.
The gardens have winding paths that lead you through various sections. Following the main paths will guide you to key attractions like the banyan grove and children's garden.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $23 USD. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Operating hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check the official Marie Selby Botanical Gardens website for the most accurate daily hours.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular events like 'Lights in Bloom,' to secure your spot.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, or military personnel. Check the official website or inquire at the ticket counter for details.
Yes, even with some construction, the gardens are still worth visiting. Key attractions remain accessible and offer a beautiful experience.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the historic Banyan Grove, the immersive Children's Rainforest Garden, the stunning orchid displays, and the beautiful Sarasota Bay views. +1
Absolutely! The Children's Rainforest Garden features a waterfall, canopy walk, and musical instruments, making it a fantastic spot for kids.
The gardens specialize in epiphytic orchids, bromeliads, gesneriads, and ferns, alongside a diverse collection of tropical plants and trees.
Selby Gardens frequently hosts special exhibits, such as the 'John Pirman: Diving into Nature' and the popular 'Lights in Bloom' holiday event.
Many of the paths are winding, but generally accessible. It's advisable to check with the gardens directly for specific accessibility information for all areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe on-site offering items like flatbreads and salads, and a restaurant at the end of a path with a nice vibe and good service.
The cafe offers a selection of light fare, including flatbreads and salads, perfect for a midday break.
The restaurant provides a full dining experience with good service, making it a great option for lunch or dinner, especially during evening events.
Typically, botanical gardens prefer visitors to dine at their designated cafes or restaurants. It's best to check their specific policy on outside food and beverages.
While specific menus can change, most cafes and restaurants offer a variety of options. Inquiring with the staff upon arrival is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the banyan tree, vibrant orchids, the Children's Rainforest Garden, and the serene Sarasota Bay.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed and encouraged. However, commercial photography may require special permits.
Tripods and professional equipment might have restrictions, especially during busy periods or special events. It's wise to check the garden's photography policy.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer beautiful soft light. Evening events like 'Lights in Bloom' provide unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is encouraged during 'Lights in Bloom,' allowing you to capture the magical illuminated displays.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The historic banyan tree is also a fantastic spot for exploration and play. Beyond the dedicated children's area, the interactive musical instruments scattered throughout the gardens offer additional fun. The peaceful bayfront setting provides a relaxing environment for everyone. Consider packing snacks or planning to dine at the on-site cafe for a convenient family meal.
🌸 Orchid Enthusiasts
You can expect to see an incredible diversity of these delicate and exotic plants. The gardens regularly host Orchid Shows, providing an even more immersive experience for enthusiasts to admire and learn about these unique species.
📸 Photography Buffs
+1 Capture the intricate details of the plants, the grandeur of the historic banyan tree, and the serene atmosphere of the grounds. For a truly unique photographic opportunity, consider visiting during the 'Lights in Bloom' holiday event, where the gardens are transformed by millions of twinkling lights.
+1 Remember to check the garden's photography policy regarding tripods and professional equipment. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Nature and Exploration
The gardens are globally recognized for their dedication to the study and display of epiphytic orchids, bromeliads, gesneriads, and ferns. This unique focus makes Selby Gardens a vital center for botanical research and conservation, attracting enthusiasts and scientists alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in these specialized collections, gaining a deeper appreciation for these fascinating plant families.
Beyond its scientific significance, the Downtown Campus offers a tranquil escape with stunning views of Sarasota Bay. The well-maintained grounds and winding paths invite visitors to slow down and connect with nature. Whether you're admiring the historic banyan grove or exploring the vibrant rainforest-inspired children's garden, Selby Gardens provides a peaceful and enriching experience for all.
Experiencing the Magic of 'Lights in Bloom'
The event features dazzling light installations that wind through the garden pathways, highlighting the natural beauty of the flora. Visitors can stroll through this illuminated wonderland, enjoying the festive ambiance. The Green Orchid restaurant by Michael's on East is often open for dinner service during 'Lights in Bloom,' offering a delightful culinary experience to complement the visual feast.
+1'Lights in Bloom' typically runs from early December through January 1st, with early entry options available. Due to its popularity, booking tickets well in advance is strongly recommended to ensure entry. This event is a perfect way to celebrate the holidays and experience the gardens in a unique and enchanting way.
A Haven for Families and Little Explorers
Beyond the dedicated children's garden, the entire campus offers engaging experiences for younger visitors. The musical instruments scattered throughout the gardens provide interactive fun, and the diverse plant life offers endless opportunities for discovery. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal place for families to spend quality time together outdoors.
Parents can also appreciate the convenience of on-site dining options and easy parking, making a family outing smoother. The gardens provide a wonderful educational experience, introducing children to the wonders of the natural world in a safe and beautiful environment.
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