I’m gonna be honest with you — Florida was never on my travel bucket list. But fate (and a cruise ship that I will tell you all about soon) had other plans. My journey through the land of eternal sunshine began right here, in Fort Lauderdale, a place often called the Venice of America.
So, if you ever find yourself wandering through this sun-soaked city, I have the perfect recommendation for a lovely activity to enjoy with your family, friends, or even by yourself if you’re a solo traveler — Flamingo Gardens!
Sure, soaking up the sun like a lizard is fun for a while, but how about trading the beach for a stroll through a tropical paradise filled with towering trees, cascading orchids, and of course, luxurious palm trees?
Because Flamingo Gardens isn’t just a botanical garden, it’s a wildlife sanctuary, home to over 90 native species, from birds and butterflies to otters, bobcats, turtles, and even alligators. Many of these animals have been rescued and rehabilitated after injuries that prevent them from returning to the wild.
Between the Historic Wray Home Museum, the Arboretum, and the Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary, every path of this tropical paradise tells a different story. Make sure you leave enough time to explore each one, because the gardens stretch across over 60 acres! Don’t worry, the peacocks and ibises will keep you company along the way (they’re literally everywhere). And so are the iguanas, though they’re not quite as friendly.
But if you dont feel like walking, there is also a Narrated Tram Tour that runs every 30 minutes or every hour, depending on the time of the week or year.
Flamingo pond
Perhaps the most iconic part of the Flamingo Gardens is, unsurprisingly, the Flamingo Pond — and understandably so. Visiting this area feels like stepping inside a pink postcard.
Almost surreal in their grace, the flamingos move with a calm elegance, their reflections shimmering on the water. They share their space effortlessly with other birds… and even with the occasional iguana.
The Crocodilian Habitat
Now, here’s something I didn’t expect — the very first crocodile I ever saw in my life turned out to be quite the celebrity. His name? Elvis the Third.
Wondering how he got it? Apparently, the original Elvis was Sonny Crockett’s pet crocodile in the Miami Vice TV show, and he came from Flamingo Gardens! After his passing, the name lived on through this not-so-friendly but equally famous fellow.
River otter habitat
Must admit we spent quite a lot of time here, watching the otters playing around and being their goofy selves.
Butterfly conservatory
If you love butterflies (who doesnt?!?), you must visit this beautiful conservatory where Broward County-native butterflies are raised for release. Over 12 000 are expected to be released every year from here in order to help the now endangered butterfly population to grow again as they are such an important part of our ecosystem!
Free flight aviary
Here you will find one of the largest collection of wading birds in America.
Final thoughts and tips if you decide to go
📍 Location: 3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, Florida (just 20 minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale)
🕰 Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily
🎟 Tickets: Around $25 for adults (check their official website for updated prices)
📸 Tips for photographers: Visit early for the best light and fewer crowds. Bring a zoom lens for wildlife and a wide-angle for the beautiful trees you will find here, from banyan to oak. I only had my zoom lens and I could not capture the true beauty of these wonderful ancient trees.
🍸 End the day with a nice walk on the beach and a well-deserved meal and a margarita at this nice Mexican restaurant where my partner totally kicked my butt at the connect 4 game 🤡.
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