A visit to Central Florida is not complete without a visit to the renowned Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo. With over 15 curated gardens sat in 150 acres in busy Pinellas County, the Florida Botanical Gardens, Largo truly is a slice of paradise in a lush setting that instantly relaxes visitors of all ages.
Whether visiting for the first time or a local seeking a quick weekend escape for a few hours, there is always something new to explore with newly bloomed plants or watching for wildlife on the nature walks. And since admission is always free, visitors can return again and again to peaceful tranquility right in the heart of Largo.
Location of the Florida Botanical Gardens Largo
Located just 35 minutes from downtown Tampa in the suburb of Largo, the Florida Botanical Gardens Largo is an easy drive from most points in central Florida or the Gulf Coast.
There are two entrances to the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo. The main entrance is located in the northwest corner of the park closest to the visitor facilities at 12520 Ulmerton Road. There is a second entrance near the southeast corner located at 12211 Walsingham Road, ideal for parking near the entrance to the natural area trail loop.
Things to See and Do
With over 150 acres of curated plant exhibits and wild natural areas to explore, there is no shortage of things to see for visitors of all ages at the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo.
A sample itinerary for an afternoon visit could include arriving via the Ulmerton Road entrance before stopping at the visitor information station to get the latest news on what’s blooming during your visit. Close by is the herb, vegetable, and tropical fruit gardens. The colorful butterfly garden is especially popular with visitors looking to spot one of over 50 varieties of butterflies that pass through Central Florida on their migratory routes.
Take one of two scenic bridges crossing McKay Creek to visit the East Gardens area. From the bridges, there are many charming garden areas to take in nature. Discover exotic desert plants at the cactus and succulent gardens or relax in the shade of the palm gardens. From there, you can discover Florida’s renowned wetland environments by visiting the Wetlands Walkway and Wildlife Overlook. Eagle-eyed visitors might even spot an alligator or two lurking in the swamp below.
Visitors with more time might continue on to the Tropical Walk or the Natural Area Trails. These easy hikes provide an easy respite and is popular with families looking for a quick escape in a safe environment. Along the Natural Area trail loop, the Bat House is a must-see stop to learn how bats benefit the Florida ecosystem by spreading plant seeds and balancing the insect populations.
On the way back to the parking lot, don’t forget to visit the volunteer-operated gift shop to find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your visit to the Florida Botanical Gardens. The shop includes apparel, books, home accessories, and children’s items- all with a garden theme. All proceeds go right back into maintaining and expanding the gardens.
Staff and volunteers at the gardens are currently fundraising for an impressive 2.5 acre Children’s Discovery Garden. Once complete, this garden will be among the largest children’s garden in Florida. Slated amenities include a 600 sq. ft. outdoor classroom, potting areas, percussion instruments, a honeycombed-themed outdoor stage, play equipment, an old-fashioned hand water pump, and so much more.
As a bonus, the Florida Botanical Gardens Largo is co-located with Heritage Village, a collection of small cottages and historical exhibits detailing the rich and illustrious history of Pinellas County and the Central Gulf Coast. This site is open Wednesday-Saturday from 10AM-4PM and 1PM-4PM Sundays. Heritage Village is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and all County holidays.
Hours and Admission
Admission to the Florida Botanical Gardens, Largo is always free! It’s open from 7AM-5PM and is only closed on the Friday of Thanksgiving week and Christmas Day.
History of the Gardens
In the late 1990’s, local garden and plant enthusiasts were developing a concept for a verdant oasis, free from the hustle and bustle of the densely populated surrounding areas of Pinellas County.
That concept became the Florida Botanical Gardens, Largo and opened in 2000. Today, the gardens are operated jointly in a public/private partnership by the Pinellas County government and the non-profit Florida Botanical Garden Foundation. The non-profit helps provide community awareness and stages programming year round, including the popular “Holiday Lights in the Garden” event every December and educational programs for school field trips throughout the school year.
FAQ
Q. Can I bring my dog to the gardens?
A. Yes, friendly dogs that are on a leash can visit the gardens with you. Please pick up after the dog to keep the gardens beautiful.
Q. Do the gardens offer stroller or wheelchair rentals?
A. Unfortunately, no. There are no stroller or wheelchair rentals. However, the gardens are ADA wheelchair accessible in all areas.
Q. Can I bring in my own food for a picnic?
A. Of course! The garden is an ideal setting for a picnic with friends and family.
Q. Will kids enjoy the gardens?
A. Yes! Children of all ages are some of the garden’s biggest fans. Children especially love the nature walks to spot wildlife, the butterfly garden, and the majesty of the palm garden and pavilion. And, with the soon-to-be-opened Children’s Garden coming soon, kids will have the opportunity to explore and learn about plants and nature in a fun, kid-friendly space.
Summary
Time slows down at the Florida Botanical Gardens, Largo. There is always something new to see with changing seasons and exhibits, that even repeat visitors are excited to come back to see all the gardens have to offer throughout the year.
Consistently listed among Florida’s best botanical gardens, this attraction provides a safe, socially distant getaway for those seeking solitude or families wanting an easy way to connect with nature. And since admission is always free, the Florida Botanical Gardens will remain accessible to every type of visitor. There is no better way to learn about and explore Florida’s unique, rich, tropical plant life that helps contribute to Florida’s popularity as a vacation destination.
After a fun day out at the gardens, there’s nothing better than a chill evening of relaxing in a hot tub or swimming in your own private pool. Well, you can do all that and more at your own private oasis: The Eiko’s Beach House.
