This gorgeous garden was founded in 1973 after Marie Selby bequeathed her home and property “for the enjoyment of the general public.” The experience begins even before you step inside with beautiful, multi-colored displays along the walkway and at the entrance.
Once inside, the 15-acre garden includes a banyan grove, bromeliads, ferns, and a bamboo garden.
I had a couple of favorite areas in the gardens. One of them was the koi pond – something about rippling water, overhanging ferns, colorful fish and quiet.
You’re also right by the bay and there are tantalizing glimpses of the water, some in areas of the park where they’ve placed benches so you can relax and take in the view.
Every curve of the path takes you to another stunning scene: countless beds brimming with colorful flowers, a glass mosaic, and a tiffany-esque gazebo with a bubbling fountain.
Right before you enter the orchid enclosure, there is a fantastic bonsai display. I have zero artistic ability to “see” what my bonsai wants to be and then snip away the branches that don’t belong, so I leave that to the experts, but I’m endlessly fascinated by their beauty.
And then if you save the orchids for last, as I did, you’ll be amazed by the color and diversity. It was by far my favorite spot.
Marie Selby Gardens has two locations. This was the downtown location. I haven’t been to the Historic Spanish Point location, but you can bet I’ll be going. That location has a butterfly house that appeals to me. In the meantime, here is the information on both locations, both wheelchair accessible:
- Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
- 1534 Mound St., Sarasota, Fl.
- 941-366-5731
- $26 and open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Right now, there is valet parking only (free) but they’re building a parking structure right next to it
- Historic Spanish Point location is 401 North Tamiami Trail in Osprey, Florida and it’s $16 for adults (same phone number)
Lisa Browder 
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