Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus — Attraction in Sarasota

Attending Matt and Maggie Dorn's wedding at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota was an unforgettable experience. The venue, a picturesque garden overlooking tranquil waters, was breathtaking, especially as the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The atmosphere was magical, almost surreal, and Annemarie and I were spellbound by the beauty of it all.

The ceremony itself was intimate and heartfelt, with every detail meticulously planned. Matt and Maggie, surrounded by the love of their family and friends, exchanged vows against the backdrop of the setting sun, making the moment even more special. The air was filled with emotions, joy, and laughter, creating an ambiance of pure happiness.

As the evening progressed, the celebration moved into a beautifully decorated area, where tables were adorned with elegant centerpieces and soft, ambient lighting. The dinner was a culinary delight, each dish more exquisite than the last, complementing the upscale yet intimate theme of the wedding.

The music was a perfect blend of classic and contemporary, setting the tone for a night of dancing and merriment. Annemarie and I shared dances under the starlit sky, the melodies creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. We chatted with old friends and made new ones, reveling in the joyous occasion.

The entire night was unlike anything we had ever experienced. The combination of the stunning setting, the delicious food, the wonderful music, and the great company made it a truly epic celebration. It was a night to remember, not just for Matt and Maggie, but for every guest who had the privilege of being a part of their...

We visited on a Saturday in May. It was roasting, I was sorry I went in the afternoon. Stupidly hot. I was extremely disappointed there weren't water fountains to drink from along the pathways or any cooling stations as most of the year, it's hot and humid in Florida. This seems like a no-brainer. The only water we found was located outside the restroom adjacent to the Koi Pond area. There was a water cooler with paper cone cups set up between the bathroom entrances. It took our group about 2 hours to tour the gardens. Some magnificent Banyan, Fig and Moreton ficus trees live here and seeing them takes your breath away. There are other impressive species of trees here as well and many varieties of palm trees. Another highlight is the Koi pond complete with a display of lush tropical plants that were beautiful and perfectly arranged to create a peaceful space to sit for a while. There is a large Children's Garden with a water feature (not for swimming, just looking) many opportunities to play and explore including some swings at the back. There is free parking with a 3 level parking garage. If you travel in a large vehicle such as an SUV, go to the 2nd or 3rd deck to find ample spaces to park comfortably. The garage has an elevator that takes you to right outside the gift shop. The gift shop closes at the same time as the gardens, if you would like a souvenir, get it before closing time or you'll be met with the wrath of a thin 50 something man who will stand there with his arms akimbo and stare at you with an icy gaze. Such a pleasant send off. I guess guests can be so...

I was thrilled to return to Marie Shelby Botanical Gardens long absence of 10 years. This place held a special significance for me and my husband as it was where he proposed to me. We were filled with excitement as we embarked on this journey down memory lane.

To our delight, we discovered that the garden had undergone significant transformations and welcomed several remarkable additions to its property. The abundance of beautiful plants and trees was a sight to behold. The meticulous care and attention to detail were evident in every corner of the garden.

One particular highlight was the introduction of stunning boardwalks that enhanced the overall experience. These pathways offered a sense of tranquility and serenity, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings. It was a truly rejuvenating experience to wander along these paths, basking in the natural beauty that surrounded us.

The exceptional staff at Marie Shelby Botanical Gardens further enhanced our experience. Their friendliness and warmth made us feel truly welcome, and their dedication to maintaining the garden was evident. We appreciated their efforts in ensuring that every visitor had a memorable and enjoyable time.

I highly recommend a visit to Marie Shelby Botanical Gardens. Whether you are seeking a romantic afternoon or simply desire a moment of quiet contemplation amidst nature, this garden will exceed your expectations. Its remarkable transformations and stunning additions make it a sanctuary...