Botanical Gardens in Miami

If you’re looking for a break from your conference activities, consider visiting one of the botanic garden oases available in Miami. The Kampong and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens both emphasize tropical plant conservation and offer beautiful gardens for rest and rejuvenation. Both gardens were started by plant explorer David Fairchild. The Kampong is the former estate of Fairchild and his wife, Marian, the younger daughter of Alexander Graham Bell. The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens are Fairchild’s namesake, and feature plants gathered during his travels. Described as an “Indiana Jones type” explorer, Fairchild traveled to every continent expect Antarctica in his search for useful plants for the American people. In addition to being a fascinating person in his own right, Fairchild was the impetus for both of these beautiful gardens serving as a respite in metropolitan Miami. Be sure to visit and enjoy some natural beauty!

See Fairchild Hours & Admissions and National Tropical Botanic Garden – The Kampong for more information on hours and admissions.

See you in Miami!

–Amy F. Brown, University of Texas, Austin