When planning your vacation to Anna Maria Island, a serene barrier island on the Florida coast, choosing the perfect vacation rental is just the beginning of your unforgettable getaway. With its white sandy beaches and tranquil atmosphere, Anna Maria Island is the ultimate destination for a peaceful escape.
Be sure you don’t miss out on one of the area’s hidden gems: a trip to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens! With the beautiful surroundings and array of things to do on a day trip to Sarasota, a visit to these gardens is a must.
About the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens provides 45 acres of bayfront sanctuaries connecting people with air plants of the world, native nature, and regional history. The Gardens comprise the 15-acre Downtown Sarasota campus and the 30-acre Historic Spanish Point campus in the Osprey area of Sarasota County, Florida.
The Downtown Campus on Sarasota Bay is the only botanical garden in the world dedicated to the display and study of epiphytic orchids, bromeliads, gesneriads, ferns, and other tropical plants. With a significant focus on botany, horticulture, education, historical preservation, and the environment, the Gardens offer a rich and diverse experience for visitors. The Historic Spanish Point Campus, located less than 10 miles south along Little Sarasota Bay, celebrates an archaeological record that encompasses approximately 5,000 years of Florida history and is a significant showcase of native Florida plants.
History of the Marie Selby Botanical Garden
The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens were founded in 1973, with the original Downtown Sarasota campus featuring botanical highlights such as a captivating banyan grove planted nearly a century ago. In 2020, Selby Gardens adopted Historic Spanish Point as a second campus, adding to the cultural and historical significance of the institution. The Gardens showcase a diverse range of plants and provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the heritage of the region through its archaeological record and historic structures. As the only botanical garden in the world dedicated to the display and study of certain tropical plants, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has a unique and enriching history that continues to enthrall guests to this day.
Guided Tours at the Marie Selby Botanical Garden
Guided tours are available for those curious about the Gardens and eager to dive deeper into their history, research, and botanical collections. These 60-minute-long experiences can be scheduled between 10:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. It’s important to note that tours must be booked a minimum of two weeks in advance, and an 8-person minimum is required to schedule a guided tour. While a nonrefundable deposit is required for larger groups, the tour tickets include general admission, providing visitors with an enriching and holistic experience. More information can be found on the Gardens’ website.
Museum of Botany & the Arts
Visitors to the Museum of Botany & the Arts will have the opportunity to explore exhibitions that have featured esteemed artists such as Andy Warhol, Marc Chagall, and Paul Gauguin. These exhibits showcase the artists’ interpretations of nature, allowing visitors to see the beauty and intricacies of plants and flowers through the eyes of these masters. The museum’s setting within the Payne Mansion adds an extra layer of charm and history to the experience. The mansion, built in the 1930s, exudes an old-world elegance that perfectly complements the art on display. As visitors walk through the museum’s galleries, they can admire the grand architecture and immerse themselves in the rich history of the building.
Children’s Rainforest Garden
The Children’s Rainforest Garden at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a whimsical and educational space designed to ignite the imagination and curiosity of young visitors. As they enter this enchanting play space, children are instantly transported into a world that simulates the experience of traversing through the lush treetops of a tropical rainforest. The garden is adorned with swinging bridges that provide an exhilarating experience of crossing from one canopy area to another, encouraging children to engage their imaginations and develop a sense of adventure. The addition of a 12-foot waterfall not only creates a soothing ambient soundtrack but also infuses the air with a gentle mist, evoking a genuine rainforest atmosphere and enhancing the sensory experience for children. Through their interactions with the various elements within the garden, children gain valuable insights into the fascinating world of rainforest plants and ecosystems.
Selby House Café
Built in the early 1920s, this two-story, Spanish-style home was Marie and William Selby’s original residence. Today it houses the Selby House Café, which offers a variety of food and beverages and features several historic photos related to the Selbys and their home. Stepping into the Selby House Café is not only a dining experience but also a journey back in time, where guests can appreciate the beauty of the architecture and explore the rich history that permeates the space.
The café’s ambiance is infused with the essence of a bygone era, providing a unique backdrop for enjoying a meal or a refreshing beverage amidst the tranquil surroundings of the botanical gardens. The menu at the Selby House Café caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, offering a selection of delicious food and drinks to satisfy visitors after a day of exploration.
Fern Garden
The Fern Garden’s subtropical climate provides an ideal environment for an eclectic mix of ferns from around the world, including tropical species that would otherwise not be able to thrive in this part of the world. The garden’s vibrant and diverse botanical collection serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the world’s ecosystems and the beauty that nature has to offer. The circular walking trail that winds through the garden invites visitors to take a leisurely stroll and explore the diversity of ferns that grow in this peaceful oasis. The interplay between the different fern species and the surrounding natural environment creates a mesmerizing and soothing ambiance that invites visitors to rest and recharge.
Tropical Conservatory
As one of the eight greenhouses on the site, the conservatory has a variety of exotic plants that have been collected by Selby Gardens’ scientists during their expeditions to tropical regions around the world. Upon entering the Tropical Conservatory, visitors are immediately enveloped in a world of vibrant colors, towering greenery, and the soothing sounds of nature. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming orchids and bromeliads, creating an immersive experience that awakens the senses and ignites an appreciation for the botanical wonders of the world. The conservatory’s lush and diverse displays are ever-changing, transforming with the seasons and the blooming cycles of the plants.
Plan Your Next Visit!
Are you ready to explore the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens during your next vacation to Anna Maria Island? Browse our entire selection of Anna Maria Island vacation rentals and Holmes Beach vacation rentals and find the perfect match for your stay!
Book Your Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental with Lizzie Lu’s Island Retreat
As you plan your visit to the Marie Selby Botanical Garden during your Anna Maria Island vacation, consider booking one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals from Lizzie Lu’s Island Retreat. With an array of luxurious and comfortable accommodations to choose from, Lizzie Lu’s ensures that your stay is nothing short of perfection. Our luxury Anna Maria Island rentals are thoughtfully curated to provide a blend of comfort, style, and convenience, ensuring that you feel right at home during your vacation. Whether you prefer panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, private pools for a refreshing dip, fully equipped kitchens for preparing meals, or all of the above, Lizzie Lu’s amenities are designed to enhance your vacation experience. Start planning your dream vacation with Lizzie Lu’s Island Retreat today!
