Bermuda Botanical Gardens — Attraction in Main Island

We lost track of the number of times we got lost today trying to find our way around the gardens. They are large and there are few maps to guide you (we counted two total), so if you take a wrong turn you may walk the entire length of the place before you realize you have gone the wrong way.

The plants were pretty. I enjoyed the blooms in the Persian garden and we had fun in the maze garden. I was underwhelmed by everything else, but then again we went in October and did not take the tour.

It's hard to tell what is public and what isn't. We spent over an hour looking for a bathroom, and I finally went into a building marked Ministry of the Environment because I was desperate. The woman there confirmed for me that we were indeed still inside the Botanical Gardens, but for restrooms I would have to leave that building, walk up a hill and around another building. She said this to a woman on crutches, and only when a local man in the office's waiting room suggested there might be a closer alternative, did she give me an annoyed look and let me use the facilities five feet away.

We wandered another half an hour from there trying to locate the art gallery and the café that gets so much attention online when this landmark is mentioned. We arrived at 3:30 and opted for food first, only to be disappointed that the café menu shuts down after 3pm. We had pasta salads from their fridge, an apple tart, and chocolate bread, which were all delicious.

We're a little mystified why everything shut down at 4pm, but we spent so much time trying to get our bearings in the massive gardens that by the time we wolfed down the late lunch, there was no time for the art gallery. Some of the paintings in the café were lovely.

Trying to leave the gardens was another nightmare for someone on crutches who didn't want to splurge on a pricey taxi. We thought we had figured out the best route from the café in the northeast, across the massive gardens to get to the bus stops down by the church in the southwest. However, when we finally reached the main road, there were no sidewalks, just zooming cars and a lot of traffic. So rather than haul back uphill yet again that day, we walked inside the garden perimeter through the grass and trees, and eventually the underbrush. Across half the south side of the garden. Then we went awkwardly over a stone wall, dashed across the busy road to a beautiful glorious sidewalk, and walked all the way to the southwest corner of the gardens where the bus stops were. Thank God it had a bench.

I would not recommend this place to pedestrians who take public transportation. Or the disabled, or those with poor direction, or those with small bladders, or those who get hungry or thirsty easily, or those without an entire day to spend. But if you have a day and a moped or car, and you're into plants or art, by all...

I have been to the Bermuda Botanical Gardens in Paget Parish and if you are patient it’s a solid spot for bird watching. The gardens span about 36 acres with lawns, formal planting areas, tropical flowering trees and a sensory garden that smells amazing on warm mornings. Admission is free and everything stays open from sunrise until sunset with buildings closing around 4pm .

The gardens have native Bermuda cedars, exotic banyans, orchids, hibiscus, palms, and themed sections like the sensory garden for those who enjoy fragrant plants and braille signage. The manicured flower beds and overgrown paths offer a variety of plants to admire . There used to be an aviary but recent reviews say it is empty and disappointing. TripAdvisor users said it felt comical and added nothing to the experience anymore .

Birding here requires patience but is rewarding. According to local discussions, you can spot species like Great Kiskadees, house sparrows, starlings, mourning doves and even American crows. It might not be a hotspot for rare tropical birds, but if you wait in the shaded areas near gardens or native trees you’ll likely see some .

Some visitors say the overall garden feels a bit tired and could use restoration. One person commented that it’s not destination‑worthy unless you’re already nearby and looking to relax for a short walk . But others, including travel experts, praise its layout, peace, and collection of subtropical plants as well worth an hour’s stroll or picnic  .

My Summary… Free entry and close to Hamilton makes it easy to visit Beautiful mix of native and exotic plants in themed gardens you can use the seek app for… Good spot to see local birds if you’re patient and quiet, there was a big unknown bird I couldn’t identify… Aviary currently empty and not much to see there (there were some special ducks tho) Some said the garden feels a bit neglected in places.. which is kinda understood as many things here run on island time… you want to start paying? lol Ideal for a morning walk, picnic, photography or quiet break if the weather isn’t too hot.

If you’re looking for birds in Bermuda and don’t mind spending a bit of quiet time waiting, this garden can reward you. It’s not perfect but it has charm and some pleasant surprises if you slow down and...

Visiting the Bermuda Botanical Gardens was an experience that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I stepped through the gates, I was enveloped in an oasis of tranquility and beauty. The gardens are meticulously maintained, showcasing a breathtaking array of flora that seems to transport you to a different world. The vibrant colors and diverse plant life are a testament to the dedication of the garden's caretakers. What impressed me the most was the variety; from exotic orchids to majestic palms, every turn revealed a new marvel that delighted the senses. The peaceful walkways and themed gardens offered a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Additionally, the staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share the history and stories behind the plants. My visit to the Bermuda Botanical Gardens was not just a walk among plants; it was an educational journey that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful and enriching experience. A true 5-star gem that is a must-visit for both locals and...