Summary
11000 Red Rd, Pinecrest, FL 33156, USA
Phone +1 305-669-6990
Listed in the National Register, Pinecrest Gardens is a key park to visit when in Florida, if only to experience the unique building and landscape architecture and maybe spend a day decompressing from city life.
History and Background
In 2003, a 14-acre botanical garden right off Old Cutler Road in the South Miami area was dedicated as a municipal park by the local Village Council. Pinecrest Gardens, as we know it today, hosts a weekly farmer’s market as well as regular events and holiday programming. However, once upon a time (in 1936), this same location was home to Parrot Jungle, a world-famous tourist attraction and zoo of sorts. Early visitors to the “jungle” — which was an oasis for tropical birds — include Sir Winston Churchill. Moreover, though Parrot Jungle has since moved to another location, Pinecrest Gardens still features over 1,000 varieties of rare, exotic, and tropical plants in a native tropical hardwood and cypress setting.
When to Visit
Any time of year is a good time to visit Pinecrest Gardens. Nevertheless, Miami weather can be temperamental. Sunny days are ideal; hence, it’s wise to pack a raincoat or umbrella just in case it rains and always remember to triple-check the weather forecast in advance. The only time it’s not advisable to visit Miami is during hurricane season; however, if you’re already here, you should be just fine. Consequently, don’t let a little rain ruin your vacation.
Things to See and Do
Pinecrest Gardens offers a packed monthly calendar (which you can find on their website) filled with various events including family movie nights, musicals, orchestra performances, concerts, fine arts festivals, artist talks, and much, much more. Festivals and plant shows include Howl-O-Ween, December’s Nights of Lights event, an orchid show in March, a chili cook-off, and a cactus and succulent show in May.
Moreover, the Gardens provide educational programs for adults (think horticulture and conservation workshops), families, youth groups, and schools (outreach, camp, and field trips). Near the playground and petting zoo, there’s also a Learning & Sensory Garden that features seasonal vegetable and herb beds, investigation stations, chalk, games, and other fun self-guided activities.
If you need more convincing, let it be known that Pinecrest Gardens also has a fabulous fine art program featuring an exhibition of international contemporary artwork, which focuses on new and mid-career artists, aiming to support talented young artists early on.
At the time of publication, the Artist in Residence program is featuring Xavier Cortada, who showcases his work at various renowned museums. Cortada has previously collaborated on environmental installations and has created art for notable organizations globally.
Farmers Market
The Pinecrest Gardens Farmers Market is held every Sunday, rain or shine, all year round. It takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekly, and admission is always free. Consistently voted the best farmers market in Miami, this outdoor stop-and-shop features coffee vendors, artisanal goods, BBQ, homemade dog treats, Venezuelan arepas, acai bowls, CBD products, and fresh baked goods and juices. A sweet arepa with chicken and avocado always hits the spot at this farmers market. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leashes and might even score some free treats from dog-loving vendors throughout the market.
Parking
There is off-site parking available for all festivals and a lot on-site at Pinecrest Gardens, perfect for parking on regular days. Parking is free and usually plentiful, making this an even more ideal place to visit with family or small children. Getting a stroller or wheelchair on or off the grounds is also manageable.
Things to Do Nearby
If you’ve seen everything you wanted at the Gardens and plan to stick around the area, there’s another garden called Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden down the street. There is a cost to enter, but the sights, sounds, and smells here are worth it. Additionally, Matheson Hammock Park is nearby, offering enjoyable activities like paddleboarding. It’s a fun way to combine relaxation with a workout!
