The Kampong, National Tropical Botanical Garden — Attraction in Miami

One of my favorite find in Miami . What a beautiful place to just relax!

Stuff were very nice , knowledgeable!

Some history behind this beautiful, peaceful hidden gem:

The Kampong, a botanical garden in Coconut Grove and known now as the National Tropical Botanical Garden, dates back to the 1800s and is entered in the National Register of Historic Places.

The first settler to live on the property was Jack Peacock—related to the Peacocks who opened the first hotel in the area (Bay View Inn). The land then changed hands multiple times until Dr. David Fairchild and his wife Marian, daughter of Alexander Graham Bell( ring a bell.? ) purchased the property in 1916, naming it Kampong, a Malaysian word for village.

Dr. Fairchild was a horticulturist and dedicated his career to the research of plants. He traveled to Asia, Egypt, China, Japan and other places where he collected plants that were suitable to bring back to the U.S. In total, he brought about 30,000 different species of plants to the country and planted some of them in the Kampong. The garden also has a house on the land, where the Fairchilds welcomed many famous friends, such as Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Though the land was used primarily as their winter residence (he and his wife lived in Washington D.C. for most of their lives), it eventually became his permanent home.

It was also here where Marjory Stoneman Douglas and Ernest Coe met to plan the establishment of the Everglades National Park..!

The Kampong later became the property of Dr. Sweeney, a botanist who transformed the land into the botanical garden it is today. The nine-acre historic garden is used as an educational resource for the study and conservation of plants. Visitors will find a laboratory and education center on-site, as well as a herbarium. Guests can book a tour of the gardens and the main house and see historical documents that detail the creation of the Everglades National Park.

There are also self-guided tours so that visitors can explore the lush, tropical gardens at their own pace. Amidst the tropical oasis, visitors will find an 80-year-old baobab tree from Tanzania, fruit and flower trees, and scenic views of Biscayne Bay—ideal for a picnic. ( thanks for the...

The Kampong garden is definitely a place you need to take your time in. It is one of five National Tropical Botanical Gardens, the other four of which are in Hawaii. The property overall is quite small, but is loaded with a huge diversity of plant species. It is easy to walk through in a few minutes if you don't take the time to enjoy the garden's ambience. I believe the regular admission fee was $15, but for myself as a student it was $10. I sent an email as per instructions on the website, stated the date and time I wanted to visit, and that I was a student. My email was replied to very quickly. When I rang in at the front gate I stated my name, and was promptly allowed inside. I took advantage of the water fountain and shade of the Fairchild house in the summer heat. The architecture was clearly designed with Indonesian influences. A large wood carving of the mythical Garuda is a beautiful focal point in the house's foyer. The view of Biscayne Bay is yet another distinguishing feature of the estate. The impeccable landscaping and abundance of flowers makes this area perfect for a photoshoot or picnic. Adjacent properties are multi-million dollar homes, which speaks to the monetary value/upkeep of the garden itself. The front area of the house, which one drives through on their way to parking, is full of botanical novelties which include fruit trees grafted together in interesting combinations. Flocks of toucans can be seen nesting in the trees, and one may even find a few untouched fruits to taste. Ultimately, you need to be patient and willing to explore ALL of the garden to get the full Kampong experience. This can be especially difficult for visitors who only want to enjoy the pretty sights and then move on. I recommend bringing a lunch or book, and definitely a camera if you really want to immerse yourself in the...

The Kampong: A Hidden Gem in Coconut Grove

Nestled in the heart of Coconut Grove, The Kampong is nothing short of a tropical paradise. This stunning botanical garden, part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden network, is a must-visit for anyone seeking a serene escape from the bustling city of Miami.

The moment you step onto the grounds, you’re transported into a world of lush greenery, exotic plants, and tranquil water views. The diversity of flora is breathtaking, with rare fruit trees, flowering plants, and towering palms that create an ambiance of natural wonder. Walking along the winding paths, you feel like you’re exploring a secret garden filled with hidden treasures.

One of the highlights of my visit was the incredible view of Biscayne Bay. The peaceful waterfront, framed by tropical foliage, is the perfect spot to pause and soak in the beauty of nature. The Kampong also offers glimpses into history, as it was once the home of Dr. David Fairchild, a renowned horticulturist who introduced many exotic plants to the U.S.

The guided tours are excellent, providing rich insights into the garden’s history, the unique plants, and the conservation efforts underway. Even without a guide, it’s a magical place to wander, reflect, and connect with nature.

What sets The Kampong apart is its intimate and calming atmosphere. Unlike larger, more crowded botanical gardens, it feels like a private retreat—a hidden gem where you can slow down and appreciate the simple beauty of the natural world.

Whether you’re a plant enthusiast, a history buff, or someone who simply enjoys peaceful surroundings, The Kampong is an unforgettable experience. It’s a reminder of the extraordinary beauty that can be found right in the heart of Miami. Highly recommend visiting—it’s...