Berne Davis Botanical Garden
A serene, volunteer-run botanical garden in Fort Myers, home to rare Atala butterflies and native Florida flora. Free entry!
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Longer hours, pleasant weather
Berne Davis Botanical Garden
Best Time
Longer hours, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, volunteer-run botanical garden in Fort Myers, home to rare Atala butterflies and native Florida flora. Free entry!
"A peaceful moment near the Edison and Ford Winter Homes, truly worth a visit!"
🦋 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Central Garden Area
A perfect spot for a quiet picnic or moment of reflection amidst lush greenery. Enjoy the tranquility.

Native Florida Flora
Throughout the Garden
Discover a diverse collection of native Florida plants, showcasing the region's unique botanical heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Days & Times to Visit
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦋 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.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
The gazebo is an ideal location for a relaxing picnic with friends or family.
📍 Next to Edison & Ford
Conveniently located next to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates for a combined visit.
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!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls
Well-behaved dogs are welcome to sniff around and enjoy the garden with their owners.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
The gazebo is an ideal location for a relaxing picnic with friends or family.
📍 Next to Edison & Ford
Conveniently located next to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates for a combined visit.
🗓️ Check Seasonal Hours
Hours vary by season; confirm Tuesday/Thursday openings before your visit.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is parking available. Standard parking is off Larchmont Ave, and wheelchair-accessible parking is on Virginia Ave.
Absolutely! The garden is right next door to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, making it easy to visit both attractions consecutively.
Yes, the entire garden is wheelchair accessible, and there is designated wheelchair-accessible parking available.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the garden and parking is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
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.
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.
The garden is typically open on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the winter season. Weekend hours are not generally available, so plan your visit accordingly.
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.
🎫 🌿 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.
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you for a stroll through the garden, and many visitors report friendly interactions with staff.
The garden offers beautiful floral displays and unique wildlife, making it a picturesque spot for photography, especially for nature lovers.
You'll find a variety of native Florida plants, showcasing the region's unique flora, as well as some exotic specimens.
Free self-guided walking tours can be booked online, though they are not mandatory. The volunteers are also very welcoming and informative.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas with the Atala butterflies and Coontie plants are unique. The gazebo and the diverse floral displays also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged, especially for capturing the beautiful flora and fauna.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially if using professional equipment.
Morning light is often ideal for garden photography, providing soft, diffused light that enhances colors and reduces harsh shadows.
Yes, capturing the Atala butterflies and their caterpillars is a highlight for many visitors. Be patient and respectful of their space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🐶 Pet Owners
📸 Nature Photographers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Atala Butterfly: A Local Gem
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.
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.
A Peaceful Escape Next to History
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.
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.
Planning Your Visit: Hours and Accessibility
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit