Top 5: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Jacksonville's Botanical Gardens

Don't skip Jacksonville's spe­cial spring gardens. You'll see flowe­rs in full bloom with international flavor. Truly, not to be­ missed. Here is the list in no particular order.

1. Frederick and Ophelia Tate Ogier Gardens

Where to find it: 1 S U N F Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32224

Website:  Frederick and Ophelia Tate Ogier Gardens

The Ogier Gardens at UNF is an environmental program that promotes health and sustainability. They provide fresh food, offer volunteer opportunities, and educate students about nutrition and gardening. The gardens also address student food insecurity by distributing produce to the on-campus food pantry. Additionally, UNF has a Slow Food Chapter that hosts monthly potlucks at the gardens.

2. Tree Hill Nature Center

Where to find it: 7152 Lone Star Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32211

Website: Tree Hill Nature Center

Summary:
Tree Hill is an organization in Jacksonville, FL that promotes environmental stewardship through educational programs and access to natural spaces. They aim to become the leading resource for environmental education in the area and have expanded their mission to include conservation education and sustainable living practices.

Tree Hill is located in Arlington and features 50 acres of wildlife habitat, walking trails, a Natural History Museum, amphitheater, butterfly house, gardens, and exhibit animals. They offer field study classes for students and workshops for teachers and adults on various topics.

Key Points:
-Tree Hill promotes environmental stewardship through educational programs and access to natural spaces.
-They strive to become the leading resource for environmental education in Jacksonville.
-Tree Hill has 50 acres of wildlife habitat, walking trails, a Natural History Museum, and other features.
-They offer field study classes for students and workshops for teachers and adults.
-The organization was established in 1971 and has since expanded its mission to include conservation education and sustainable living practices.

3. Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens

Where to find it: 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218

Website: Jacksonville Zoo

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens offers a unique walking safari experience in Northeast Florida, focusing on interactive and educational encounters with wildlife. With a commitment to improvement, the zoo features a dedicated Animal Wellness team and operates a Manatee Critical Care Center, one of only seven such facilities. It boasts award-winning exhibits like the Land of the Tiger and African Forest. The zoo aims to connect communities with wildlife, aiming to inspire conservation and appreciation of nature through a vibrant connection that enriches lives.

With over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species, it caters to a wide audience. The zoo is recognized for its contributions to conservation and education and has been an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 1987, maintaining rigorous standards in various operational aspects.

4. Cummer Museum

Where to find it: 829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Website: Cummer Museum

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens in Jacksonville, Florida, has a mission to engage and inspire through the arts, gardens, and education. It aims to be a vital community partner with diverse and dynamic artistic offerings.

The museum is open various hours throughout the week, with free admission on certain days and discounts for various groups.

Photography for personal use is allowed, but professional shoots require permission.

The museum acknowledges the Timucua people, whose ancestral lands it occupies. It is dedicated to diversity, equity, access, and inclusion and ensures accessibility for all visitors.

5. Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Where to find it: 1445 Millcoe Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Website: Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is a beloved destination for a leisurely walk in the springtime. It offers picturesque hiking trails, charming picnic spots, and much more. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, encountering a variety of wildlife and vibrant spring flowers along the way. Each plant and animal species is carefully labeled, enhancing the experience of exploring the grounds.

-The Arboretum offers volunteer workdays on Wednesdays and the second Saturday of every month.
-Volunteers can assist with gardening tasks such as weeding, mulching, planting, and maintaining hardscaping.
-The Conservation Corps maintains the natural areas and trail system at the Arboretum on the third Saturday of every month.
-Yoga classes are offered at the Arboretum, and participants can access suggested yoga poses through QR codes located around the Lake Loop Trail.
-Walking at the Arboretum can help achieve the goal of taking 10,000 steps per day for improved health.

Jacksonville Scenic Real Estate Search

If you like having a private view of woods, lake, ocean, river, intracoastal or even the golf course then we can find it for you. Or if you just want a fenced backyard to start your own botanical garden then we can help with that also. Get started by searching what is available below: