Berne Davis Botanical Garden - Palm heaven
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Berne Davis Botanical Garden

4.6
·23 reviews·Fort Myers, United States

A serene, volunteer-run botanical garden in Fort Myers, home to rare Atala butterflies and native Florida flora. Free entry!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter Mornings (Oct-Apr)

Longer hours, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Berne Davis Botanical Garden - Palm heaven

Berne Davis Botanical Garden

Best Time

Winter Mornings (Oct-Apr)

Longer hours, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene, volunteer-run botanical garden in Fort Myers, home to rare Atala butterflies and native Florida flora. Free entry!

4.6
(23 reviews)

"A peaceful moment near the Edison and Ford Winter Homes, truly worth a visit!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🦋 Spot the Atala Butterfly

Look for the rare Atala butterfly and its caterpillars on Coontie plants. A unique wildlife sighting!

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

Well-behaved dogs are welcome to sniff around and enjoy the garden with their owners.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Atala Butterfly Haven

Atala Butterfly Haven

Coontie Plants

Spot the rare Atala butterfly and its vibrant caterpillars feeding on native Coontie plants. A true conservation success story!

Peaceful Gazebo

Peaceful Gazebo

Central Garden Area

A perfect spot for a quiet picnic or moment of reflection amidst lush greenery. Enjoy the tranquility.

Native Florida Flora

Native Florida Flora

Throughout the Garden

Discover a diverse collection of native Florida plants, showcasing the region's unique botanical heritage.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Days & Times to Visit

Visit on Tuesdays or Thursdays during the winter months (October-April) for the longest open hours. Weekday mornings are ideal to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll. Check their specific hours as they change seasonally.

Location & Accessibility

Nestled next to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, this garden is easily accessible. Wheelchair-accessible parking is available on Virginia Ave, with standard parking off Larchmont Ave. The entire garden is wheelchair accessible.

Best Times

When
Winter Mornings (Oct-Apr)
Why
Longer hours, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Tuesday & Thursday Mornings
Why
Best chance for open hours
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Mornings (Apr-Sep)
Why
Shorter hours, cooler temps
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Bonsai Society of SW Fl in Ft Myers is holding their annual auction and picnic Saturday, April 15. Don't miss it! #bonsai #bonsaitree #bonsaiauction #floridabonsai
bonsai_societies_of_fl
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🦋 Spot the Atala Butterfly

Look for the rare Atala butterfly and its caterpillars on Coontie plants. A unique wildlife sighting! Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

Well-behaved dogs are welcome to sniff around and enjoy the garden with their owners. Reddit

This Saturday in Ft. Myers, at the Berne Davis Garden (next door to the Edison and Ford estates) the Bonsai Society of Southwest Florida is holding their annual auction. Don't miss it! #floridabonsai #bonsai #bonsaitrees
bonsai_societies_of_fl
7 likes • 0 views
The lovely Atala butterfly, once thought to be extinct, has found a home in the Berne Davis Gardens. Come spot the beautiful caterpillar feeding on the Coontie plants! We're open Tuesday and Thursday from 10-1! If you're visiting the Edison-Ford Gardens, we're right next door. #bernedavisgardens #prettyflowers #atalabutterfly #botanicalgardensinfortmyers #thingstodoinfortmyers
bernedavisgardens
6 likes • 0 views

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot

The gazebo is an ideal location for a relaxing picnic with friends or family. Reddit

📍 Next to Edison & Ford

Conveniently located next to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates for a combined visit. Instagram

Merry Christmas from the SW Florida Bonsai Club in Ft. Myers
emptynest2664
4 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🦋 Spot the Atala Butterfly

Look for the rare Atala butterfly and its caterpillars on Coontie plants. A unique wildlife sighting! Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

Well-behaved dogs are welcome to sniff around and enjoy the garden with their owners. Reddit

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot

The gazebo is an ideal location for a relaxing picnic with friends or family. Reddit

📍 Next to Edison & Ford

Conveniently located next to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates for a combined visit. Instagram

🗓️ Check Seasonal Hours

Hours vary by season; confirm Tuesday/Thursday openings before your visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(23 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Berne Davis Botanical Garden for its peaceful atmosphere, welcoming volunteers, and the unique opportunity to see the rare Atala butterfly. Its free entry and convenient location next to the Edison and Ford Estates make it a highly recommended stop for a tranquil and educational experience.

"Absolutely worth everything. The ladies were so nice and welcoming. Took us for a whole tour around the garden and a backstory of the 100 year old statue."

Alyssa TheUnknown

"This concentrated garden offers a peaceful moment
near the Edison and Ford Winter Homes. The flora includes native Florida plants and a gazebo. really worth a visit!
Entry to the garden and parking is free.
Sign up for free self-guided walking tours online if you want, but not ncessary.
It is open October to April 25 from 10 am to 1 pm on
Tuesdays & Thursdays
and April 30 to September from 9 am to noon
Tuesdays Only
All wheel chair accessible. Note that wheel chair accessible parking is on Virginia Ave, with standard parking on Larchmont Ave off McGregor Ave."

Toni Thompson

"Such a beautiful garden, and the people keeping the place running are so so kind and welcoming!! I brought my dog to go sniff flowers and just about everyone greeted us and gave my dog pets!"

Raven Wood (Puff)

What People Like

Kind and welcoming volunteers
Rare Atala butterflies
Peaceful and serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours
Short seasonal hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The garden is located in Fort Myers, Florida, adjacent to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Standard parking is available on Larchmont Ave, with wheelchair-accessible parking on Virginia Ave. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is parking available. Standard parking is off Larchmont Ave, and wheelchair-accessible parking is on Virginia Ave. Reddit

Absolutely! The garden is right next door to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, making it easy to visit both attractions consecutively. Instagram

Yes, the entire garden is wheelchair accessible, and there is designated wheelchair-accessible parking available. Reddit

If you're staying in the River District, you can easily take a short ride-share or taxi to the garden, as it's a short distance away. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the garden and parking is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Reddit

During winter (October to April 25), the garden is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 1 pm. From April 30 to September, it's open Tuesdays only from 9 am to noon. Always check their official hours before visiting. Reddit

No, advance booking is not necessary as entry is free. You can sign up for free self-guided walking tours online if you wish, but it's not required. Reddit

The garden is typically open on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the winter season. Weekend hours are not generally available, so plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

The garden has seasonal hours. It's open longer during the winter months (October to April) and has reduced hours or is closed during parts of the summer. Always verify current operating times. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the chance to spot the rare Atala butterfly and its caterpillars feeding on Coontie plants. The peaceful gazebo is also a lovely spot for relaxation. InstagramReddit

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you for a stroll through the garden, and many visitors report friendly interactions with staff. Reddit

The garden offers beautiful floral displays and unique wildlife, making it a picturesque spot for photography, especially for nature lovers. Instagram

You'll find a variety of native Florida plants, showcasing the region's unique flora, as well as some exotic specimens. Reddit

Free self-guided walking tours can be booked online, though they are not mandatory. The volunteers are also very welcoming and informative. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within the garden. However, its proximity to the Edison and Ford Estates and downtown Fort Myers means many dining options are nearby. Instagram

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring food for a picnic. The gazebo provides a lovely setting for enjoying a meal amidst the garden's beauty. Reddit

You'll find a variety of restaurants and cafes in the nearby River District and around the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, offering diverse culinary choices. Reddit

It's often recommended to plan your meals either before or after your visit, as the garden is primarily a place for enjoying nature rather than dining. Reddit

While not directly in the garden, the River District offers many popular spots. Visitors often explore the local scene for breakfast or lunch after their garden visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The areas with the Atala butterflies and Coontie plants are unique. The gazebo and the diverse floral displays also offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged, especially for capturing the beautiful flora and fauna. Instagram

While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially if using professional equipment. Instagram

Morning light is often ideal for garden photography, providing soft, diffused light that enhances colors and reduces harsh shadows. Instagram

Yes, capturing the Atala butterflies and their caterpillars is a highlight for many visitors. Be patient and respectful of their space. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Berne Davis Botanical Garden is a delightful spot for families. Kids will be fascinated by the chance to spot the Atala butterfly and its caterpillars, a unique wildlife encounter that’s both educational and exciting. Instagram The garden's manageable size makes it easy for little legs to explore without getting overwhelmed. It’s a great place for a short, engaging outing that complements visits to nearby attractions like the Edison and Ford Estates. Instagram

Consider bringing a small picnic to enjoy in the gazebo, offering a pleasant break for the whole family. The free entry makes it an economical choice for families looking for enriching activities. Remember to check the seasonal hours, as summer hours are shorter. Reddit

🐶 Pet Owners

Good news for pet parents! Berne Davis Botanical Garden is a dog-friendly destination. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you as you wander through the beautiful flora. Many visitors have shared positive experiences of their dogs being greeted warmly by the garden's staff and volunteers. Reddit It's a wonderful opportunity to give your furry friend some fresh air and a chance to explore a new environment. Just be sure to keep them leashed and clean up after them.

📸 Nature Photographers

For nature photographers, Berne Davis Botanical Garden offers a charming subject matter. The vibrant Atala butterflies and their host plants provide excellent opportunities for macro photography. Instagram The diverse collection of native Florida plants also presents a colorful palette for landscape and detail shots. The gazebo offers a picturesque element to frame your compositions. Instagram

Visiting in the morning often yields the best light for capturing the garden's beauty. The relatively small size of the garden means you can cover a lot of ground for diverse shots without extensive travel within the grounds. Remember to be respectful of other visitors while you capture your perfect shot. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Atala Butterfly: A Local Gem

The Berne Davis Botanical Garden is a sanctuary for the Atala butterfly (Eumaeus atala), a species once thought to be extinct in Florida. These stunning butterflies, with their iridescent blue wings and bright red bodies, are a remarkable sight. Visitors can often spot them feeding on Coontie plants (Zamia integrifolia), which are their primary host plant. Seeing the vibrant caterpillars munching away on the Coontie is a unique experience that highlights the garden's role in local conservation efforts. Instagram

The presence of the Atala butterfly is a testament to the garden's commitment to preserving native Florida ecosystems. It offers a chance for visitors to connect with nature and witness a successful conservation story firsthand. The garden's volunteers are passionate about educating visitors on the importance of these delicate creatures and their habitat. Instagram

For the best chance to see these butterflies, visit during their active seasons. The garden's staff and volunteers are often happy to point out where the butterflies and caterpillars are most likely to be found. It’s a truly special encounter that adds significant value to a visit. Instagram

A Peaceful Escape Next to History

The Berne Davis Botanical Garden offers a serene and tranquil escape, conveniently located right next to the historic Edison and Ford Winter Estates. This juxtaposition of natural beauty and historical significance makes for a well-rounded visit. The garden itself is a concentrated garden, meaning it's thoughtfully designed to maximize beauty and interest within a manageable space. Reddit

Visitors often describe the garden as a peaceful moment that provides a welcome contrast to the bustling tourist attractions nearby. It’s a place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the diverse flora. The presence of a gazebo further enhances the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation or a relaxed picnic. Reddit

The garden is maintained by dedicated volunteers who are known for their kindness and welcoming nature. They contribute to the garden's charm by sharing their knowledge and passion with visitors, often offering impromptu tours and insights into the plants and local wildlife. This community-driven aspect adds a personal touch to the experience. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Hours and Accessibility

Understanding the garden's operating hours is key to a successful visit. During the winter months, from October to April 25, the garden is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 1 pm. As the seasons change, from April 30 to September, the hours shift to Tuesdays only, from 9 am to noon. It's always advisable to confirm these hours before your trip, as they can be subject to change. Reddit

Accessibility is a priority at Berne Davis Botanical Garden. The entire garden is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its beauty. For those requiring specific accommodations, wheelchair-accessible parking is conveniently located on Virginia Avenue, while standard parking is available on Larchmont Avenue. Reddit

Entry to the garden and parking are free of charge, making it an accessible attraction for all budgets. While self-guided tours can be booked online, they are not mandatory. The welcoming volunteers are often on hand to provide information and enhance your experience. Reddit

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