Botanical Staycation: A South Florida Escape

Staycations are often seen as brief getaways within our own city or region, but for us, living in a place where others come to vacation, day trips are a common and cherished way to explore. With the rising costs of travel, staycations have become a vital part of how my husband and I enjoy quality time together outside our home. South Florida, with its beautiful botanical gardens, offers a perfect backdrop for these mini-adventures.

Botanical gardens are not just a place to enjoy the outdoors; they offer a blend of education, art, and relaxation. These gardens often host site-specific shows and festivals, art installations and markets making them ideal for a rejuvenating afternoon. While entry fees typically support the maintenance of these privately owned facilities, the investment is well worth it. 

Supporting Local Shops

While most of the events they host are populated with local vendors its easy to buy goods you will love and also supports small businesses. I usually find something either delicious or beautiful, sometimes both! But in case I don't see something beautiful I can take home with me because obviously I wish I could pick flowers but alas someone else wouldnt get to enjoy them…I always make it a point to visit the gift shops within the botanical gardens. They often feature unique items like books on local flora (I recently picked up a fascinating book on mushroom foraging)LINK HERE, locally made candies and snacks, and prints or images of the art featured in the park. These shops provide a great opportunity to pick up thoughtful gifts for upcoming holidays or to treat yourself to something special.

Enjoying Festivals/hosted events 

Botanical gardens frequently host festivals, farmers markets, art installation unveilings, and even educational programs like orchid care classes, which may have different entry fees on event days. It's always a good idea to check their announcements in advance to stay informed about special events and their costs. These events are wonderful ways to spend time with loved ones or meet new friends with shared interests. 

We are lucky to live in a place where other people vacation. Giving us the unique opportunity to have staycations regularly, especially those involving local gems like botanical gardens, offers a wonderful escape from routine. They provide a refreshing blend of nature, culture, and personal connection without extensive travel.