Everything you need to know about visiting Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables).
One of south Florida’s natural jewels, this 83-acre garden, named after renowned botanist and Miami resident David Fairchild, is filled with tropical splendor: a lush rainforest with a stream, sunken garden, dramatic vistas, an enormous vine pergola and a museum of plant exploration. A must-see is the exquisite rare plant conservatory, a stunning showcase of palms, bromeliads, orchids and ferns. Narrated tram rides (given on the hour from 10am to 3pm) give visitors a close-up look at the resident flora. The Richard H Simons Rainforest, a two-acre site dominated by a gurgling 500-foot waterfall, opened in 2001. In addition to Fairchild’s annual events, among them July’s International Mango Festival,
Weddings and private events at Fairchild
You can have your wedding or private event held at one of numerous reception areas on Fairchild’s 83-acre property. Fairchild also offers its own team of event planners to help coordinate things. There are both indoor and outdoor spaces available to rent. To inquire about hosting a wedding or event at Fairchild call 305-667-1651, ext. 3358.
Fairchild’s conservation program
While Fairchild is essentially a stunningly beautiful garden, it was founded with serious intentions. Its main mission is the conservation and preservation of tropical plants. Fairchild shares its scientific process with everyone who walks through its doors and hosts field trips and camps for kids to learn everything they can about botany.
Fairchild’s rare and stinky flower
Every five years the garden is home to a rare plant phenomenon: the blooming of the amorphophallus titanum, a gigantic single bloom as large as a person, which emits the powerful stench of rotting flesh to attract insects for pollination. It might not sound luxurious but it's a rare opportunity to see a natural phenomenon few ever get to see. Ask the staff when the next bloom is taking place.
Our Miami editorial team is constantly updating and reviewing the best attractions, activities and venues across the city, so that you're always in the know, with the best of Miami at your fingertips. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden was most recently updated with new tips on June 29, 2017.