Based in the heart of Downtown Sarasota, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offers a peaceful retreat that complements the city’s sophisticated lifestyle and is a must on any list of things to do in Sarasota. The gardens provide an unmatched sanctuary that combines natural beauty with cultural significance.
Whether you’re visiting to explore the city’s art scene, beaches, or historical landmarks, a stop at Selby Gardens is a must.
This botanical gem offers a unique blend of scientific research, educational programs, and artistic exhibitions that make it an unforgettable addition to your Sarasota experience.
About the Gardens
Spanning 45 acres along Sarasota Bay, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offers a vibrant connection between nature, history, and community. The gardens consist of two distinct campuses: the 15-acre Downtown Sarasota campus and the 30-acre Historic Spanish Point campus located less than 10 miles to the south. The Downtown campus is renowned worldwide for being the only botanical garden dedicated to studying and displaying epiphytic orchids, bromeliads, gesneriaceae, and ferns. These plant families, which grow without soil, offer a stunning variety of colors and forms that captivate nature enthusiasts, botanists, and casual visitors alike. Marie Selby Gardens is one of the largest public preserves in the region, showcasing native Florida plants and offering an archaeological window into the past. Visitors can explore ancient shell middens, historical structures, and scenic bay views, making it a unique destination for those interested in both botany and archaeology. The campus highlights the gardens’ commitment to education, historic preservation, and environmental conservation. Visiting either campus will deepen your connection to the natural world and the region’s rich history.
The History of the Gardens
Founded in 1973 by Sarasota resident and passionate gardener Marie Selby, the gardens were born from her vision to share her love for plants and horticulture with the public. Selby and her husband, William, planted the now-iconic banyan grove on the grounds of their former home, which remains one of the garden’s most beloved features. Selby’s commitment to conservation and plant education was a driving force behind the creation of the gardens, and the original campus continues to reflect that mission. In 2020, the gardens expanded by acquiring the Historic Spanish Point campus, further enriching their educational offerings. Spanish Point was once the winter estate of Bertha Palmer, a Chicago-born philanthropist, and the property was donated by Palmer’s family. It is notable as the first site in Sarasota County to be added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Exhibitions & Events
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is more than just a garden; it’s an ever-evolving cultural destination that hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year. Guests staying in our rentals in Sarasota can enjoy these diverse offerings, which change with the seasons and often blend the worlds of art, culture, and nature. Special exhibitions frequently feature botanical illustrations, plant photography, and the work of contemporary artists who are inspired by the natural world. These rotating exhibits provide a perfect complement to the garden’s lush surroundings, enhancing the visitor experience with new perspectives and insights. The gardens also host a variety of events that appeal to both casual visitors and plant buffs. Seasonal workshops, horticulture classes, and conservation lectures are held regularly, providing opportunities for learning and engagement. One of the most anticipated events is Lights in Bloom, an annual holiday celebration where the gardens are transformed into a sparkling wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. This immersive experience is one of Sarasota’s signature holiday traditions and a must-see for anyone in town during the winter months. For those staying in our Sarasota condo rentals, attending these events offers an exciting way to connect with the local community and make your visit even more memorable.
Living Plant Collections
The heart of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is its extraordinary Living Plant Collections, a globally recognized resource that is unmatched in its scope of tropical epiphytes. With nearly 13,000 individual accessions, the collection is a scientific and educational treasure trove. It includes over 5,000 species from more than 200 plant families. The gardens have conducted more than 200 global expeditions to collect plant specimens, making it one of the most important collections of its kind in the world. Selby Gardens is known for its world-class research and conservation efforts, including programs focused on preserving rare and endangered species. Notably, it houses a remarkable number of historic orchids and bromeliads that were introduced in the 19th century, further enhancing its reputation in the botanical community. The gardens’ scientific programs support a commitment to biodiversity, with educational initiatives aimed at fostering a greater understanding of tropical plants and ecosystems. Whether you are a plant enthusiast or simply curious about nature, the Living Plant Collections are a must-see during your visit to Selby Gardens.
Plan Your Visit
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Stay with Rent Premier
A visit to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Sarasota’s natural landscape. For those seeking luxurious accommodations in the city, Rent Premier offers a range of premium vacation rentals in Sarasota. From stylish downtown condos with panoramic views of Sarasota Bay to spacious homes in quiet, upscale neighborhoods, Rent Premier ensures that your stay is as comfortable and refined as the gardens themselves. Whether you’re in town for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, our rental homes in Sarasota provide exceptional amenities and service, ensuring that your time in Sarasota is truly extraordinary. Imagine spending a day exploring the lush gardens and returning to a luxurious Sarasota condo rental that offers the ultimate in comfort and style. Rent Premier’s properties are designed to complement the high-end lifestyle that Sarasota is known for, and our team is dedicated to providing a seamless experience that allows you to relax and enjoy all the best that Sarasota has to offer. After a visit to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, you’ll find that returning to your vacation home is the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the wonders of nature.
