
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
A serene oasis in South Florida, offering meticulously designed Japanese gardens, art exhibits, and cultural experiences.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene oasis in South Florida, offering meticulously designed Japanese gardens, art exhibits, and cultural experiences.
"A beautiful and peaceful experience that feels like a little escape to Japan."

💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own water bottle! There are refill stations available.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The Florida sun is strong!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Six Distinct Japanese Gardens
Throughout the grounds
Wander through meticulously designed gardens, each representing a different style and era of Japanese landscape art.

Bonsai Collection
Bonsai Exhibit
Marvel at the intricate art of bonsai, showcasing miniature trees meticulously shaped over years.

Museum Galleries
Museum Building
Explore rotating exhibits of Japanese art and artifacts, offering a deeper understanding of the culture.

Cornell Cafe
Near the museum
Enjoy Pan-Asian inspired cuisine with garden views, a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own water bottle! There are refill stations available.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The Florida sun is strong!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on beautiful, but sometimes uneven, paths.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens are incredibly photogenic, especially during the golden hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own water bottle! There are refill stations available.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The Florida sun is strong!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on beautiful, but sometimes uneven, paths.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens are incredibly photogenic, especially during the golden hours.
🦟 Bug Spray Recommended
Especially during warmer months, mosquitoes and gnats can be present.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens for its stunning beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and cultural richness. Many highlight the meticulously maintained gardens, the variety of wildlife, and the enriching museum exhibits. While the heat can be a challenge, especially in summer, the overall experience is described as a serene and beautiful escape.
"Decide to pay a 1st visit to this place after church today! It was hot!🥵 Anyhoo, I enjoyed the visit. Due to a special event, the place was crowded. I had lunch at Cornell cafe there. They had prepared meals. I had the salmon teriyaki. It came with rice, vegetable medley, an egg roll, two dumplings🥟, & two sesame balls (no clue what it was) for )$19. The food was not bad. The drinks though are pricey. $6 for a Japanese soda. After I briefly visited the museum. I walked the beautiful gardens, visited about 5 of them. Gorgeous grounds, just wish there were more flowers. I like that you are allowed to bring your own water bottles to refill at their water fountains & the 🆓 parking. I will revisit to explore the museums & the other gardens when it’s a tad bit cooler."
Martie Parfait
"Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a peaceful and gorgeous place to stroll and take in nature. We visited on a Saturday, and while there were plenty of other visitors, it didn’t feel overcrowded.
The gardens are filled with photo-worthy scenery, including waterfalls, Bonsai trees, bridges, and the original museum building from 1977. We also saw a surprising amount of wildlife—lizards (including iguanas and Cuban Anoles), herons, turtles, blue jays, and cardinals. Although signs warn of alligators, we didn’t see any.
Be sure to check out the museum and the nearby gift shop, which offers unique items. The short films and historical exhibits are especially moving and add real depth to the visit.
Plan ahead—special events such as weddings can affect the schedule. Tickets are sold at the door; adult admission is $16, with discounts for seniors, students, military, and groups of 15+ (check their website for current pricing).
Parking is free, and there's a café and an ice cream cart on-site. We didn’t eat there as it didn’t appear to have indoor seating, and we wanted to get out of the brutal June heat and into some A/C.
The main downside is the heat—the gardens are only open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., which is the hottest time of day. Bring water (they have a water cooler where visitors can refill water bottles), sunscreen, and bug spray—gnats and mosquitoes were definitely around.
Overall, it’s a beautiful and enriching experience, but summer visitors should come prepared for the South Florida heat."
Stevie Marie
"Visited the gardens yesterday for the first time and it was an absolutely beautiful and more importantly peaceful experience. The staff were so kind and knowledgeable. It’s a wonderful place to be in nature.
Note: if you struggle with walking there are wheelchair paths."
Lizbeth DelVecchio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is about an hour's drive north of Miami. You can reach it via I-95 North.
Many visitors find driving to be the most convenient option. Parking is free.While direct public transport options are limited, you can explore routes via Palm Tran, the local bus service in Palm Beach County. It's advisable to check their schedules for the most up-to-date information.
From I-95 North, take Exit 50 for Linton Boulevard and head east. Turn left onto Morikami Park Road, and the museum will be on your right.
Yes, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is conveniently located between Delray Beach and Boca Raton, often considered a local gem for both areas.
Driving is generally the most recommended method for a day trip to Morikami, offering flexibility and ease of access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult admission is typically $16. Discounts are available for seniors, students, military, and groups. Children aged 6-17 have a lower fee, and children under 5 are free. Check their website for the most current pricing.
The museum and gardens are usually open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. They are closed on Mondays.
Yes, tickets are sold at the door. However, for special events or during peak times, it's wise to check if advance booking is recommended.
Yes, discounts are often available for seniors, students, military personnel, and groups of 15 or more.
While tickets are available at the door, booking in advance is a good idea for special events or if you want to guarantee entry during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore six distinct Japanese gardens, a bonsai exhibit, museum galleries with rotating art, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. You might even spot local wildlife!
Yes, it's a great place for families. Kids can enjoy the gardens, and special activities are often available, especially on the second Saturday of the month.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to explore the beautiful gardens at their own pace. Wheelchair paths are also available.
Visitors have reported seeing lizards, iguanas, anoles, herons, turtles, blue jays, and cardinals. While signs mention alligators, they are rarely seen.
Information on guided tours can be found on their official website. Demonstrations, like rock garden raking, are also sometimes offered.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Cornell Cafe offers Pan-Asian inspired cuisine with garden views. They also have an ice cream cart.
The cafe serves a menu inspired by Pan-Asian flavors, with options like teriyaki salmon and Japanese sodas.
Some visitors have noted that drinks, such as Japanese sodas, can be on the pricier side.
While outside food might not be explicitly encouraged for consumption within the gardens, the cafe is available for dining.
Some reviews suggest that the cafe may not have extensive indoor seating, which can be a consideration during hot weather.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed in the gardens, and it's a popular spot for capturing beautiful nature shots.
The various garden landscapes, tranquil water features, bridges, and the bonsai exhibit offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon, during the 'golden hours,' provides the most flattering light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
While general photography is permitted, it's always best to be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas or for commercial purposes.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most public parks and gardens to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors. It's advisable to check the official policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for special family-friendly activities, often held on the second Saturday of the month, which can include workshops and cultural demonstrations. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the Florida heat can be intense for little ones. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the garden paths.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best results, aim for the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – when the light is soft and warm, minimizing harsh shadows. Capture the serene atmosphere, the vibrant greenery, and the architectural elements that make each garden unique. Be mindful of other visitors and respect any designated quiet zones while you capture the beauty.
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers & Nature Lovers
The diverse flora and fauna add to the natural appeal, with opportunities to spot various birds and reptiles. The museum's exhibits also contribute to a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture, which is intrinsically linked to nature and mindfulness. This destination truly allows you to disconnect and connect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Japanese Gardens
Visitors often describe the experience as a peaceful escape, allowing them to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of Japanese garden design. The careful placement of rocks, water, and plants creates a sense of harmony and balance. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and connect with nature.
When exploring, take your time to appreciate the subtle details. Look for the symbolism in the garden elements, such as the raked gravel representing water or the carefully chosen stones symbolizing islands. This mindful approach enhances the overall experience and provides a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved.
The Morikami Museum Experience
Short films and historical displays within the museum are noted for being particularly moving and adding significant depth to a visitor's understanding of the Morikami's history and its connection to Japanese culture. It's a place where you can learn about the legacy of George Morikami and the enduring relationship between Japan and South Florida.
Don't miss the museum store, which offers unique items that make for thoughtful souvenirs. The combination of art, history, and cultural exhibits makes the museum a vital complement to the garden exploration, offering a well-rounded immersion into Japanese arts and culture.
Culinary Delights at Cornell Cafe
While the food is generally well-received, some guests have noted that the beverage prices, such as for Japanese sodas, can be a bit high. Despite this, the cafe is a convenient option for a meal or a snack during your visit, providing a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine in a beautiful setting.
For those seeking a lighter option or a sweet treat, an ice cream cart is also available on-site. The cafe's presence adds another layer of comfort and convenience to the overall Morikami experience, allowing visitors to spend more time enjoying the serene surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit