Last updated: 9/30/2021
Key West, Florida
Address
5210 College RoadKey West, FL 33040
phone: 305-296-1504
fax: 305-296-2242
e-mail: info@keywest.garden
web: www.keywestbotanicalgarden.org
contact form: www.kwbgs.org

Hours

Hours of Operation
Daily
10 AM - 4 PM
Closed Christmas and New Years Days

Admissions

KWBGS Members Free General Admission $7.00 per person Military Discount $5.00 Senior Citizen Discount $5.00 Children under 12 Free

General Admission: $7
Seniors (over 65): $5
Military (with ID): $5
Members: free
Children under 12: Free

Staff

Tammy Fox
phone: 305-849-8733
Emily Sipe
phone: 305-296-1504
Misha Mcrae
phone:
Description
Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden Information

The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is the only "frost-free" botanical garden in the continental United States and a conservation zone for many endangered and threatened flora and fauna native to the Keys, Cuba and western Caribbean. Its historic roots were set in 1936 as part of a WPA project to vitalize the island as a tourist destination. Today, it continues to be a refreshing, natural oasis for the visiting public. The Forest offers an unusual opportunity to experience native Keys’ biodiversity and learn more about its importance. For instance, the Forest has fresh water ponds, a rare asset that makes it a major migratory stopping point for neo-tropical birds from places as far as South America, as well as being home to many rare Florida Keys species. And sections are planted especially to attract and nurture a variety of butterflies. 8 self-guided tours, 2 wet land habitats and 2 butterfly gardens are available. A full calendar of programs and events make the Forest worth visiting any month of the year. Check the website for the latest offerings and bring your camera. Guided tours are available by appointment; portions of the Forest can also be reserved for private parties or meetings in a “green” setting. (www.kwbgs.org)

Mission
Key West Botanical Garden Society, Inc. Mission

The Purpose of this organization is to preserve, develop, expand and maintain the historic Key West Botanical Garden as an arboretum, botanical garden, wildlife refuge and education center. The garden will showcase flora that are native to South Florida, Cuba, and the Caribbean and shall emphasize cultivation of threatened and endangered species of the Florida Keys. This organization will encourage study of this collection and promote the benefits of native vegetation worldwide. The society will also provide educational programs for all age groups and various levels of interest geared to Keys residents, tourists, plant experts, and others.

History
Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden History

Key West Botanical Garden & Tropical Forest is 79 years old – and Still Growing! Key West was bankrupt in 1934 when Julius Stone arrived to revitalize it with “New Deal” funds and talents. His idea to develop Key West as a tourist destination, showcasing the Keys as America’s tropical isles, included creating a world-class botanical wonderland on Stock Island, where cows grazed and drank from fresh water ponds. The Key West Botanical Garden was a thriving success from its opening in February1936, until WWII and growing military presence created a more pressing need for much of the land. Seventy-nine years later, the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden has reemerged as a “green” attraction. Reflecting the current views on ecology, the present-day Garden exemplifies preserving unique native flora and fauna -although a few towering, exotic trees from the first incarnation still stand, now official “Champions”. Hammock forest, rare fresh-water ponds, and butterfly leas are just 5 miles from Duval St, but a universe apart in atmosphere. Twice a year, migrating birds use the Garden as a welcome rest stop & diner. Celebrating its 80th year is the Garden’s theme for the 2015-2016 Season. As it continues to reclaim more of its original acreage, the Garden also expands in scope. Nature, with its own beauty and tales to tell, also serves as a backdrop for both Art and Culture As a venue for artwork, the Key West Art Garden exhibits local re-cycle and natural material art pieces throughout the grounds that complement or punctuate the outdoor vistas. April 15 – July 15, 2015. In February, Gardenfest Key West brings the best efforts of local and South Florida professional horticulturists for a lush garden and houseplant sale. These growers are joined by local craftspeople who create nature-themed art objects in many different genres. Any time of year, most of the Garden & Forest – an abundance of plants, birds & butterflies - can be enjoyed between the hours of 10am – 4pm from easy trails with a self-guided tour. Special docent-lead tours can be arranged in advance. September/October and April/May are peak times to see feathered travelers feeding on what the Garden offers. Portions of the Garden can be reserved for weddings and other private parties. For up-dated information, visit KWBGS.org or call 305-296-1504.

Facilities
Facilities

Bike Rack Nature Chapel Visitor Center Plant Nursery Garden Courtyard, stage and waterfall

Lecture Halls
Performance Areas
Services
Services

Community Service Programs Adult Education Middle School - High School Nature Programs Speaker Series (3rd Thursday each Month) Native Plant Sale (3rd Saturday each Month) Native Plant ID Workshop (March - April 2015)

Gift Shop
Online Gift Shop
Special Event Rental
Group Tours
ADA
Parking
Restrooms
Exhibitions
Museum Events
DISCLAIMER
This information, including business hours, addresses and contact information is provided for general reference purposes only. No representation is made or warranty is given as to its content or the reliability thereof. User assumes all risk of use. Stories USA, Inc. and its content suppliers assume no responsibility for any loss or delay resulting from such use. Please call ahead to verify the dates, the location and directions.

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