Historic Spanish Point Selby Gardens
An outdoor museum blending history, archaeology, and botanical gardens on the shores of Little Sarasota Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the midday heat
Historic Spanish Point Selby Gardens
Best Time
Avoid the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An outdoor museum blending history, archaeology, and botanical gardens on the shores of Little Sarasota Bay.
"Lovely park with amazing views and historical knowledge, perfect for a serene escape."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and historical buildings.
☀️ Stay Hydrated
Florida can get hot! Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pioneer Buildings
Various locations across the grounds
Step back in time exploring 19th-century pioneer homes and structures, offering a glimpse into Florida's past.
Bertha Palmer's Gardens
Along Little Sarasota Bay
Wander through elegant gardens featuring native flowers, plants, and trees, meticulously maintained with stunning bay views.
Ancient Shell Mounds
Archaeological site
Discover prehistoric shell mounds, remnants of ancient Native American settlements, offering a unique historical perspective.
Butterfly Garden
Designated garden area
A delightful spot for all ages, especially children, to marvel at fluttering butterflies amidst vibrant flora.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Membership Perks
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and historical buildings.
☀️ Stay Hydrated
Florida can get hot! Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer months.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The boathouse dock offers a fantastic, secluded spot for sunset views.
🦋 Butterfly Garden Fun
Kids (and adults!) love the butterfly garden, but be mindful of butterflies landing on you.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and historical buildings.
☀️ Stay Hydrated
Florida can get hot! Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer months.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The boathouse dock offers a fantastic, secluded spot for sunset views.
🦋 Butterfly Garden Fun
Kids (and adults!) love the butterfly garden, but be mindful of butterflies landing on you.
🎟️ Online Ticket Ease
Purchasing tickets online is straightforward, though it doesn't offer a discount.
💡 Knowledgeable Tours
Highly recommend the 90-minute walk and talk tour for deep historical insights.
🎃 Spooky Point Event
Check out the 'Lights at Spooky Point' Halloween event for a festive experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Historic Spanish Point for its beautiful historical grounds, stunning bay views, and engaging historical exhibits. The gardens are a highlight, and the butterfly garden is a hit with families. Some find the park can be quite a walk, and recommend visiting during cooler weather to avoid the heat.
"Lovely park. Lots of historical knowledge. Views are amazing. It can be quite a walk to cover the whole park. Better to visit when weather is pleasant otherwise it's too hot in summers. Awesome experience 💯❤️"
Priyanka Jadhav
"Recommend doing the 90 min. walk and talk tour. The volunteer was so knowledgeable about the restored buildings on the grounds and the history of the area in general. The property has 3 periods of history and you can see the layers of an archaeological dig in one of the buildings. The butterfly house was wonderful, too. The shaded trails along Little Sarasota Bay are an easy walk."
Judy R
"Neat spot to walk through. Recommend going in the morning when the sun isn’t so hot! Loved the packing house views and the little church. Also liked the building with the shell wall. We wished there was more of those types of things to read and see out of the heat. Super interesting. The butterfly house was cool, but I don’t like things landing on me, so it was a quick run through for me. For $20, it’s a neat activity to do with your family or friends. Online tickets were easy to order, although there is no discount for purchasing them this way."
KM H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Historic Spanish Point is located in Osprey, Florida, just south of Sarasota. It's easily accessible by car. If you're coming from the downtown Sarasota campus of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, you can even take a boat between the two locations.
Yes, there is parking available on-site for visitors.
Information on public transport options can be limited for this specific location. Driving or ride-sharing services are generally the most convenient ways to reach Historic Spanish Point.
Historic Spanish Point is located in Osprey, FL, which is a short drive south of downtown Sarasota, typically around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, Historic Spanish Point is the companion campus to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and is managed by them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary. It's recommended to check the official Marie Selby Botanical Gardens website for the most current pricing. A membership to Selby Gardens often includes access to both campuses.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the entrance, but buying online in advance is also an option and can be more convenient.
According to visitor feedback, there is no discount for purchasing tickets online compared to buying them at the entrance.
Yes, Historic Spanish Point hosts various events, including the popular 'Lights at Spooky Point' during Halloween and art exhibitions like those by Patti Smith.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's best to check the official Marie Selby Botanical Gardens website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore 19th-century pioneer buildings, wander through beautiful gardens, discover ancient Native American shell mounds, and enjoy the butterfly garden. The site offers a rich blend of history, nature, and archaeology. +1
Absolutely! Families with children will enjoy the butterfly garden, exploring the historic buildings, and the open spaces. It's a great place for a family adventure.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended. The 'walk and talk' tours, often led by knowledgeable volunteers, provide in-depth historical context.
While there are shaded trails along Little Sarasota Bay, some areas can be exposed to the sun. Visiting in the morning or during cooler months is advised.
The gardens and some pathways are generally accessible, and there's a focus on accessibility, including for children's areas. However, some historic structures might have limitations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Evie's on the Bay is a tiki restaurant and bar located at Spanish Point, offering a place to dine with beautiful bay views and sunsets.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally a good idea to check with the venue regarding outside food and picnicking. However, there are dining options available on-site.
Evie's on the Bay offers a menu suitable for a tiki restaurant and bar, often featuring seafood and casual dining options, perfect for enjoying the waterfront atmosphere.
Evie's on the Bay is highly recommended for its sunset views, making it a lovely spot to enjoy dinner or drinks.
The surrounding Osprey and Sarasota areas offer a variety of restaurants and cafes if you wish to explore dining options beyond the on-site restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens, historic buildings, waterfront views, and the boathouse dock are all picturesque. The sunset from the dock is particularly stunning.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permits.
Events like 'Lights at Spooky Point' offer unique, festive photo opportunities with elaborate light displays.
Visitors often capture landscape shots of the gardens and bay, architectural details of the historic buildings, and portraits with the scenic backdrops. +1
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and botanical gardens to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the venue's specific drone policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open spaces provide room for kids to move around, and the shaded trails offer a pleasant walk. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the peak heat, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring. The 'walk and talk' tours can also be adapted to be interesting for older children who can appreciate the historical narratives.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting during a weekday to enjoy a more intimate experience. The peaceful atmosphere allows for quiet conversation and shared appreciation of the natural and historical surroundings.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The boathouse dock is a prime location for capturing stunning sunset shots. Early morning visits can offer beautiful soft light and fewer people, enhancing your photographic experience. Remember to respect any posted photography guidelines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: History at Spanish Point
+1The property also preserves the legacy of Bertha Palmer, a prominent Sarasota pioneer. Visitors can explore her elegant gardens, which are planted with a diverse array of native flowers, plants, and trees, showcasing the region's natural beauty. Additionally, the site features reconstructed 19th-century pioneer buildings, providing a vivid look into the lives of early settlers.
This layered history makes Historic Spanish Point a unique destination for those interested in archaeology, pioneer life, and the development of Sarasota County. The combination of natural landscapes and historical structures creates a compelling narrative of the area's evolution.
Gardens and Nature: A Botanical Oasis
A particular highlight for many visitors, especially families, is the butterfly garden. This vibrant space allows guests to observe various butterfly species in a lush, floral environment.
Beyond the cultivated gardens, the site's location on the shores of Little Sarasota Bay allows for the observation of different natural habitats and plant combinations, reinforcing its role as an environmental museum.
Events and Special Occasions
Beyond private events, the site hosts public programming that enhances the visitor experience. The 'Lights at Spooky Point' event during Halloween transforms the grounds into a festive, spooky spectacle with elaborate light displays, attracting many visitors.
+1 Additionally, the venue has hosted art exhibitions, such as those by artist Patti Smith, showcasing her photography inspired by nature and displayed outdoors amidst the gardens. These events offer unique opportunities to experience Historic Spanish Point in a different light, adding another layer of appeal to this historic and botanical destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit