
Sunken Gardens – St. Pete’s tropical oasis
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Sunken Gardens is considered a hidden gem by locals and visitors alike, but it’s hardly hidden at all. Situated off of busy 4th Street N with a huge, retro sign on the sidewalk, it’s one of those attractions that’s nearby and
Sunken Gardens – St. Pete’s Oldest Living Museum
Sunken Gardens is a botanical garden located in the heart of St. Pete. George Turner Sr., a plumber

The Gardens quickly grew in popularity, becoming one of Florida’s top ten commercial attractions between the 1950s and 1970s. In the 1950s, the botanical garden added exotic wildlife to
Over one hundred years of growth and restoration and Sunken Gardens is still a must-see in the city of St. Petersburg. Many of the original plants are still in the garden and provide an incredible sense of tranquility just yards away from bustling 4th Street. The exotic wildlife, koi ponds, birds, and waterfalls are magnificent and bring you close to nature, being some of the best features of the attraction.

Exploring at The Gardens
I recently had the opportunity to spend a day at Sunken Gardens and got a pleasant surprise. Within minutes of entering, the 4th Street noise was pretty much gone. I had to constantly remind myself that there’s a major roadway just feet away. If you blindfolded me and dropped me in Sunken Gardens, I may have guessed that I’m in a South American rainforest. That’s what it feels like.



The exotic wildlife
One of my favorite features of the attraction is the growing stone. The growing stone is a limestone rock from the original sinkhole lake. Legend has it that anyone who sits upon the stone “shall be granted tranquility, inner harmony, and the talent to make things grow.” Best believe I sat on that rock for a good minute and did some meditating. I can use more tranquility. And talent.


Plan a Visit to Sunken Gardens
Spending a day at the gardens is relaxing fun and I recommend it for locals and tourists alike. As a local, it’s a good way to get away from the city, slow down, and do something new or different. As for tourists, it’s a unique way to take in some of the city’s history and culture without the crowds and noise that may come with other attractions. Whichever one you fall under, your Sunken Gardens experience will be a memorable one.

Sunken Gardens is open
Adult admission to Sunken Gardens is $10 at the door, though you can get them on Groupon at 2 for $12.50. Senior admission is $8 and admission for children ages 2-11 is $4. Parking at Sunken Gardens is free

Sunken Gardens
1825 4th St. N.
St. Petersburg, FL 33704
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Looking for more things to do in St. Pete? Check out my guide on the St. Pete Saturday Morning Market!
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Comments (17)
A.V. Chukwuneta
December 18, 2018 at 3:55 pm
That’s a well written article. Now I know when next I’m around, Sunken Gardens would be at the top of my bucket list.
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
December 19, 2018 at 7:24 pm
Yes dad. The nature buff in you would love it lol.
Cynthia
December 18, 2018 at 4:03 pm
So excited to try these!! Ray and I have been taking about it as one of the places we want to hit. Your tip about the Groupon special is perfect timing for us 🙂 thanks for the tips!!
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
December 19, 2018 at 7:25 pm
Glad you found it helpful! Make sure to take loads of pictures! The nature shots are pretty marvelous!
Tricia Snow
December 19, 2018 at 12:05 pm
Wow, I did not know about these. I will have to add to my list. I love visiting gardens in FL.
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
December 19, 2018 at 7:25 pm
Definitely a must-see attraction!
Cynthia Mackintosh
December 19, 2018 at 5:50 pm
I’ve been to Sunken Gardens. I even remember going as a student in elementary school! It is a wonderful sanctuary to relax and get away from the everyday.
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
December 19, 2018 at 7:26 pm
That must’ve made an awesome school trip. And it sure is!
Lea Bella
December 20, 2018 at 9:42 am
Wow this looks amazing! Great pictures here too. Hidden gems like this are my favourite to explore 😀
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
December 21, 2018 at 1:57 pm
Thanks! And tell me about it. They’re the absolute best!
Marion
December 27, 2018 at 9:54 am
I love botanical gardens! They’re always such a great way to shelter yourself from the city and take some time away. Also, we forget too easily to pay attention to nature, especially when visiting a new city. This place looks delightful 🙂
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
January 5, 2019 at 10:30 am
I agree with everything you wrote! Make sure to give it a visit whenever you’re in St. Pete if you haven’t already! 😉
Cindy
February 28, 2019 at 6:01 am
I love your photos in this post! Florida celebaration has been near the top of my list to do for a long, long time
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
March 9, 2019 at 7:58 pm
Thank you! So much beauty at the Gardens. I hope you get to do it soon!
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
March 9, 2019 at 7:59 pm
Thank you!
Karen Kempton
December 31, 2019 at 10:08 am
Is my dog permitted on a leash at the Sunken Gardens in St. Pete
Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
December 31, 2019 at 2:52 pm
Hi Karen! My assumption would be that they’re not allowed because of the wildlife in the museum. You should call and confirm to be sure though.