Photo: Sadia Arfin
Photo: Melissa Goldblatt
Photo: Ashley Naroznik
Nancy Forrester's Secret Garden
★4.5(429 reviews)$Activity
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. Younger elementary-aged children especially enjoy spotting colorful birds and discovering hidden pathways, while the peaceful atmosphere may be less engaging for very active toddlers who need more room to run.🧡 Saved by 20 families
About
Nancy Forrester's Secret Garden is a magical hidden oasis in the heart of Key West where kids can explore a lush rainforest environment just steps from downtown. This intimate botanical garden features winding paths through towering palms, cascading waterfalls, and friendly parrots, offering children a true jungle adventure without leaving the city.
Highlights
- ✓Resident parrots and exotic birds that kids can observe up close
- ✓Peaceful waterfalls and koi ponds creating a jungle atmosphere
- ✓Winding trails through towering palms and tropical plants that feel like a real rainforest
- ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including iguanas, butterflies, and colorful birds
- ✓Shaded canopy providing a cool escape from Key West's heat
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at opening (10 AM) for the coolest temperatures and best lighting for photos, plus you'll likely have the garden mostly to yourselves
- 2.Wear closed-toe shoes as paths can be uneven and natural, and bring bug spray during summer months
- 3.The garden is small but dense,encourage kids to slow down and look carefully to spot iguanas, birds, and other wildlife hiding in the foliage
- 4.Parking is limited on Elizabeth Street, so consider walking or biking from nearby Old Town locations
- 5.This is a quiet, contemplative space,best suited for children who can appreciate nature walks rather than active play
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings during fall or winter (November-March) when temperatures are cooler and humidity is lower, making the garden walk more comfortable for kids. The limited 10 AM-3 PM hours mean mornings are ideal before the afternoon heat peaks.
What to Know
Admission fees apply (check current pricing online). Street parking only, which can be challenging in downtown Key West. This is a self-guided experience with no food service, so plan bathroom breaks before arriving and bring water bottles.
Seasonal Notes
Year-round attraction, though summer months (June-September) can be hot and humid with more mosquitoes. Winter months offer the most comfortable visiting conditions and coincide with Key West's peak tourist season.
Nearby Eats
Blue Heaven (just a few blocks away on Thomas Street) offers family-friendly outdoor dining with roosters roaming the yard, or grab casual bites at the nearby Keys Krackers waterfront eatery on Margaret Street.
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