Key West's Tropical Garden Escape: Beautiful Botanical Hike in the Florida Keys
- nancy9487
- 15 hours ago
- 2 min read
Looking for a shady, peaceful walk? Don't miss this hidden gem - Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden!
Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden Hike
If you're craving a peaceful recharge and an opportunity to connect with nature, strolling through Key West's botanical garden is the answer! I frequently visit this serene sanctuary to escape the sun and enjoy a shady hike among the lush foliage.
The tropical forest & botanical garden is tucked away on Stock Island, just past the Cow Key Bridge and four miles away from downtown. This 15-acre paradise is home to native flora, fauna and wildlife from the Florida Keys and the Caribbean.
In typical Key West style, these gardens celebrate the quirky vibe of the Florida Keys. As you explore the many magical paths, you'll encounter whimsical and playful art displays throughout.
Address: 5210 College Road, Key West, FL 33040.
Visiting Hours: Daily 10am - 4pm.
Entrance Fee: $15 per adult, $10 per senior.
What Will You See During Your Visit to This Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden?
This green space offers a variety of lovely trails, beautiful native plants, two ponds, butterfly gardens, and a fascinating Cuban Chug exhibit. Be sure to notice the narrow mulched paths that branch off from the boardwalks. I try to explore each of these paths whenever I visit, but I'm still not sure if I've discovered them all.
Large Pond & Desbien's Pond
As you walk from the parking area to the garden's entrance, you'll come across a large pond. This pond is filled with adorable turtles. If you stand at the water's edge, the turtles will rush over to greet you. They are used to being fed by visitors, so they are quick to make your acquaintance.
Make sure you don't miss Desbien's Pond! The pond's rust-colored water and twisted tree branches that stretch over it give the place an enchanting and mysterious vibe. The unique hue of the water is believed to result from tannins released by decaying leaves and pine needles.
Cuban Chug Exhibit
An unexpected addition to this beautiful forest is the Cuban Chug Exhibit. The garden acquired over a dozen authentic Cuban chugs from 2009 to 2022. This exhibit pays tribute to the resourceful and resolute Cuban migrants who built and sailed these chugs from Cuba to the Florida Keys in search of freedom.
The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden Map
Below is a detailed map of the grounds, and you can find a paper version at the entrance to the garden. To access a free audio tour, simply scan the QR code found at the bottom of this map.
I hope you enjoy this hidden gem in Key West. For those who love being in nature and appreciate native plants and trees, this walk is essential!