In 1922, Arthur McKee and Waldo Sexton bought 80 acres of land with dreams of creating a citrus plantation. However, they fell in love with the land’s natural beauty and decided to preserve it instead. Teaming up with landscape architect William Lyman Phillips, they transformed the area into “McKee Jungle Gardens,” a popular attraction until the 1970s. When the gardens closed, 62 acres were turned into condominiums, and the remaining 18 acres were left abandoned for 20 years.
Fast forward to 2001, the community rallied together to purchase and restore the land, giving birth to the enchanting “McKee Botanical Gardens” we adore today. Home to over 10,000 tropical and native plants and a stunning array of water lilies, this garden is a must-see wonder!
April 2024 Visit
