Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden opened in 1938 and is named after the plant explorer David Fairchild; it was established by his friend Robert H. Montgomery. Spread over 83 acres in Coral Gables, it makes an easy half-day escape from the city's beaches and traffic.

The collections are the reason to come. Fairchild is known for its rare palms, including the Montgomery Palmetum, and for cycads, and it also has orchid and bromeliad collections, a large tropical bamboo collection, more than 740 species of tropical flowering trees and a two-acre rainforest area. The layout mixes open lawns and lakes with shaded walks, so you can choose between a long loop and a shorter stroll. A free narrated tram tour gives a good overview and saves walking in the heat; times vary by day, so ask at the shop when you arrive.

The garden's hours and admission prices are listed on its Hours and Admission page, and tickets are sold online. Members get early access on Tuesdays from 7am. Come early in the day, especially from late spring to autumn, as Miami's heat and humidity build quickly by midday. Allow at least two to three hours, and more if you are keen on plants or photography. Bring sun protection and water.

Fairchild suits garden lovers, couples, families and anyone looking for a quieter day. The Glasshouse Cafe serves tropical-inspired food, and you are also allowed to bring your own picnic. The garden states that it is fully accessible, with wheelchairs available to borrow free of charge on a first-come basis, trams that accommodate wheelchairs and a shuttle service within the grounds.

The garden is at 10901 Old Cutler Road, and the simplest way to get there is by car or taxi; the garden provides disabled parking across its parking areas. You can combine a morning here with an afternoon swim at the Venetian Pool or a meal at Tinta y Café on Ponce de León Boulevard, both elsewhere in Coral Gables. The garden also runs a calendar of events, which is listed on its website and worth checking before you choose a date.