Florida, the Sunshine State, true to its nickname, is sunny, warm and green almost year round. So it's no wonder there are graceful traveler and queen palms, huge tropical elephant ears and showy hibiscus hedges almost anywhere you travel in this beautiful state. Even the median strips of Florida's highways, thick with sky-blue plumbago and red oleander bushes, gift travelers with bright color to cheer them on their way. When someone mentions Florida, probably the first things you think of are alligators and theme parks. But not far from Disney or Sea World sit these peaceful gardens, yours to explore and enjoy.
Created for the "education, enjoyment and enrichment of all," and located on the south side of Vero Beach, McKee Botanical Garden is an historic Florida landmark that was recognized in 2002 by the Florida Trust for "Outstanding Achievement in Landscape Architecture." McKee is home to a diverse collection of plants suitable for horticultural Zone 9B, thus promoting the important use of native plants and conservation in central Florida. The flowers and trees are not the entire attraction; several historic "architectural treasures" are there to enjoy as well.
McKee Botanical Garden
350 U.S. Highway 1
Vero Beach, FL 32962
772-794-0601
mckeegarden.org
Morikami offers six different authentic Japanese gardens, each representing a different historical period and style of Japanese garden. The staff invites you to stroll the park with an "open mind and relaxed senses, with an emphasis on feeling nature." You won't find any little horticultural signs on the plants, as the designers feel that would detract from the peace and beauty of the natural setting.
The Morikami Museum and Botanical Gardens
4000 Morikami Park Road
DelRay Beach, FL 33446
561-495-0233
morikami.org
The Harry P. Leu Gardens include one of the largest camellia collections in the United States. Among its many other attractions, the Leu Gardens boast Florida's largest formal rose garden, a tropical stream garden, a butterfly garden and a restored house built in the 1880s. Located in Orlando, this would be an easy garden to visit if you're in town to see Mickey, Snow White and the gang. Children's classes are available if you preregister.
Harry P. Leu Gardens
1920 North Forest Avenue
Orlando, FL 32803
407-246-2620
leugardens.org
