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Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo
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The Parks in Pinellas County Florida
Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg 100 Parks in 100 Weeks! Florida Botanical Gardens 12520 Ulmerton Rd. Largo In a search for what might be called the crown jewel of Parks in the much bejeweled crown that is Pinellas County, it would be hard to find one more deserving of that title than Florida Botanical Gardens. |
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Entering this 100-acre oasis of tranquil beauty will transport you along trails that will engage all of your senses. The sights and smells are ever changing and always engaging. And it all is different next month when other plants show off their budding beauty.
Ample parking is normally available and admission is free though they do accept and appreciate donations that will help keep things going and growing. It shares the parking lot with an entrance to Heritage Village (#23 on our list) as well. It is possible to see both in one day but we wouldn’t recommend it because both need ample time to fully learn about and appreciate them. The Gardens are handicapped-accessible. On a visit we normally begin a circular route after visiting the Butterfly Garden (a great place to sit on a bench and watch/photograph the many types of butterflies.) Then a visit to the gift shop is always interesting. As you walk the trails watch closely for you never know what you may find. Depending on the time of year you might see bananas growing on the trees in the Tropical Fruit Garden. Perhaps you will see a gator as you cross one of the bridges over McKay Creek. Not to worry - they won’t bother you if you don’t bother them. Just don’t get too close. If you get the feeling that someone is watching you, well, did you know trees can have faces? Some really do! You will find them near the Wildlife Overlook! One of our favorite spots is the Vinery when the Confederate Jasmine is in bloom. Talk about an intoxicating feast for the eyes and the nose! The McKay Creek Plaza has seen many wedding parties over the years, and you will certainly see why when you visit. The romantic, rose garden backdrops are plentiful and perfect for a bride and groom to capture forever photographic memories. The list of what to see goes on and on and you really must see them for yourself and make your own memories. Different flowering plants bloom almost weekly and provide a different show each time you visit. Most are tagged with their names. If you take photos, we suggest that you make notes as you go because once home you will not remember all the names - and people will ask. Finally we cannot fail to mention that the grounds really, really light up for the Holidays. Beginning the day after Thanksgiving through the day after New Year’s you will be able to witness an extravaganza of over one-million colorful LED bulbs dressing the grounds, bushes and trees with what will become a Holiday tradition to visit with family and friends. The lights are on from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Cost is a suggested donation of $10 per person (subject to change) over age 13. Credit cards and cash are accepted. There is usually food and hot drinks available for purchase and often musical entertainment. |
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| For hours, maps, brochures and self-guided tours and the “Taleblazer App” for your phone To learn about the Gardens, upcoming events and the new plans for the Majeed Discovery Garden, be sure to visit The Foundation’s page Google Satellite Map (Enlarge (+) for a birds-eye view or decrease (-) to plot your route) |
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Comments or questions contact Niki & Jack at abcadventuretime@gmail.com Custom framable prints, mats and gallery wraps are available. |
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