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Florida · Est. 1938
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Explore a living museum of tropical plants, where conservation meets breathtaking beauty in a vibrant South Florida oasis.
Founded
1938
Size
83 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 10b
Best Season
November to May, when the weather is cooler and drier, and many plants are in bloom.
About Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is an 83-acre botanical garden located in Coral Gables, Florida, dedicated to exploring, explaining, and conserving the world of tropical plants. Founded in 1938, it boasts extensive collections of rare tropical plants, including palms, cycads, flowering trees, and vines. The Garden serves as a vital center for conservation research, education, and a sanctuary for biodiversity, attracting visitors with its stunning landscapes and unique exhibits.
History & Heritage
Established in 1936 by Colonel Robert H. Montgomery, a passionate plant collector, the Garden was named in honor of his friend, renowned plant explorer David Fairchild. It officially opened to the public in 1938. William Lyman Phillips, a leading landscape designer, meticulously crafted the Garden's layout, emphasizing openness and a journey of discovery. Over the decades, Fairchild has grown to include numerous facilities and collections, continuously expanding its mission of plant conservation and education.
Signature Feature
Wings of the Tropics butterfly exhibit
The Wings of the Tropics is a 25,000 square foot conservatory where exotic butterflies, primarily from Central and South America and Southeast Asia, fly freely amidst lush tropical flora. Visitors can walk among these vibrant creatures, observing them up close as they feed and interact with their environment, offering an immersive and enchanting experience.
Bloom-planning note
Best Time to See Blooms at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
The strongest overall display is typically November to May, when the weather is cooler and drier, and many plants are in bloom.. That window combines the garden's major collections with the regional sequence of flowering trees, bulbs, perennials, and seasonal color.
In the broader Tropical & Subtropical season, warm climates provide meaningful color year-round. the most comfortable visit windows are generally the cooler, drier months, while summer intensifies tropical growth.
Timing changes with weather, elevation, and individual collection conditions. Confirm bloom progress directly with the garden before planning a special visit.
Photo Gallery
Lush tropical foliage at Fairchild
Vibrant butterfly in the Wings of the Tropics exhibit
Exotic palms reaching for the sky
Notable Collections
Palms and Cycads
One of the world's largest and most diverse collections of palms and cycads, featuring species from across the globe, meticulously documented and preserved.
Tropical Flowering Trees
A spectacular array of over 740 species of tropical flowering trees, showcasing vibrant blooms and unique forms, including the famous cannonball tree.
Tropical Fruit Collection
A significant collection of exotic tropical fruit plants, such as Durian, contributing to research and public education on diverse edible species.
Orchids and Bromeliads
Extensive collections of rare orchids and bromeliads, highlighting the beauty and diversity of these epiphytic plants, with ongoing conservation efforts.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily, except Christmas Day
Best seasonal window: November to May, when the weather is cooler and drier, and many plants are in bloom.
Parking & Arrival
Free parking is available in various areas, with additional disabled parking designated during some events.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
Fairchild is fully accessible with accessible pathways, exhibits, ADA-compliant restrooms, wheelchair-accommodating trams, and shuttle service for assistance.
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- USA Today 10Best Botanical Garden (multiple years)
- Miami New Times Best Outdoor Attraction
- Charity Navigator 4-Star Rating
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
November to May, when the weather is cooler and drier, and many plants are in bloom.
Address
10901 Old Cutler Rd, Miami, FL 33156
Phone
(305) 667-1651
Hours
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily, except Christmas Day
Admission
Adults: $24.95, Seniors (65+): $17.95, Children (3-11): $11.95, Children (0-2): Free
Parking
Free parking is available in various areas, with additional disabled parking designated during some events.
Accessibility
Fairchild is fully accessible with accessible pathways, exhibits, ADA-compliant restrooms, wheelchair-accommodating trams, and shuttle service for assistance.
Insider Tips
- 1Allow at least three hours to explore the entire Garden thoroughly.
- 2Dress comfortably and wear hats and sunscreen to protect against the Miami sun.
- 3Take advantage of the free, narrated tram tour for an overview of the Garden.
- 4Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning botanical displays and butterflies.
Nearby Attractions
- Matheson Hammock Park (adjacent)
- The Biltmore Hotel (approx. 3 miles)
- Venetian Pool (approx. 3 miles)
Stays near Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
For an overnight visit, compare options around the garden address and choose the route, accessibility features, and cancellation terms that fit your plans.