Situated on 83 sprawling acres of lush, colorful tropical gardens, rainforests and coastal habitat, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables is one of the premier botanic gardens in the country. With a mission to share the joy and beauty of tropical gardening, it was founded in 1938 by famed plant explorer Dr. David Fairchild. Today, these Florida gardens include more than 3,400 species, including tropical fruit, orchids, butterflies, and native and exotic plants throughout its Uplands and Lowlands ecosystems and exhibits.
Explore the Botanical Garden
Chilhuly-style Glass Sculpture
With so many ways to experience the gardens, a visit to Fairchild makes for a perfect outdoor adventure for families, a romantic date, or simply a sublime oasis for anyone who enjoys the beauty of the natural world. While guided tours and tram tours are currently suspended due to COVID-19 safety protocols, you can still mask up and meander through Fairchild’s gardens on a self-guided tour with their visitor map and information booklets. Start with the Allée and Overlook for a panoramic view of the garden’s Lowlands and lakes and then set out to discover other collections and exhibits like the Water Gardens and Aquatic Exhibits, the Arboretum, and Geiger Tropical Flower Garden, the Butterfly Garden, and the Children’s Garden. To cap off your visit, enjoy a breezy lunch at the onsite Glasshouse Café by Le Basque, set in a lovely limestone cottage with outdoor dining available.
Events and Activities
Fairchild hosts mango, chocolate, and orchid festivals, art exhibitions, concerts, and classes throughout the year. While this year may be a little different, Fairchild continues to organize virtual and onsite events including plant sales, art classes, pet-friendly dog dates, and early-bird walks through the gardens.
Be sure to check the calendar before your visit to see if anything special is scheduled. The gardens are also available for outdoor weddings.
Source: Miami and Beaches Tourism Board and Chihuly