Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

This place is a true gem! The gardens are huge and impeccably maintained, and there are many themed areas. The highlight for me was the giant bamboo forest which was so peaceful and serene to walk through. It's the perfect place to spend a few hours relaxing, walking and just enjoying nature. I loved the walk, it’s so tranquil 😇

This place was very beautiful but it seemed very under kept despite the number of people working there. Some of the signage for the plants were difficult to tell which plants they were. Aside from that there is a very nice kids play ground and it seemed like the event area was well kept up. Definitely would like to revisit in the spring to see more flowering plants. Most trails are wheelchair accessible but some trails are very thin dirt trails.

It was the day after thanksgiving and the weather was perfect for a long walk in the gardens. Very few people there which was really nice. Gardens were well maintained with easy walking paths. Azaleas and Camillas coming into bloom-some of my favorites for sure. Bamboo’s and grape vines were stunning in size. Absolutely beautiful!

This was our first time visiting and we loved it. I’m hoping to come back in spring, possibly see more blooms. Definitely bring bug spray! Most of the walk is shaded and paved so pretty easy to walk.

Awesome experience and awesome place, banana trees were cool to see and the lemons and tangerines growing. Plus if you ever get to meet Chris while he's out there working, he's so knowledgeable and we took most of his time up asking him questions about different things. He should definitely be a tour guide as much as he knows. Big shout out to a great experience. Will definitely be coming back sometime. Definitely recommend it.

Very reasonably priced for a large garden with a variety of different plant life. An October visit still provided plenty of beautiful scenery and a pleasant experience. The children’s area was a nice touch and would revisit upon coming to Gainesville.

A beautifully arranged garden! I love how it goes around very old and natural landscapes, sinkholes and trees. There are a couple informative short films, I would suggest watching before you venture out. It was hot! Be sure to go early, take an umbrella, bug spray, water bottle. The gift shop is full of cute items, so stop in before you leave!

the botanical gardens were beautiful! it was a great walk around the gardens with a mix of native wild plants and planted flowers that are beautiful! it was amazing to see the amount of butterflies, bees, and flowers that were still open mid september! definitely would recommend!

I LOVE THIS PLACE! This is a place I go for inspo and refreshment. I mention it in my little podcast episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7q-7dXGM1wc https://open.spotify.com/episode/7AVDzYG9l9OUJzVAxF1e0t?si=1m6pyudZTC6FPpriw7ojwA

Amazing gardens location. Their yearly membership is worth every penny. Only flaw is lack of knowledge by people that work or volunteer there on anything native. In their yearly plant sale. Few sell natives or even know what a native is.

I visited Kanapaha Botanical Gardens for the first time and loved it. It was so serene and offered so many different types of gardens to walk through. It was a relaxing couple of hours just leisurely roaming the gardens and enjoying nature.

This place is so nice to walk around and look at! I loved the butterfly fly garden! It is $12 per person to get in so keep that in mind when you come.

We so enjoyed our trip to the botanical gardens. We arrived around 3pm on a Sunday and had so much fun exploring! The botanical gardens boasts so many plants, but most notable I feel like was the huge collection of bamboo plants and their herb garden (which they said is the largest herb garden in the Southeast United States). The admission is $10 per person which I think is very reasonable. The gardens boast about 1.5 miles of trails through their plant collection. Signage was great and almost every plant we saw had a sign on it. There are lots of beautiful areas, waterfalls and even a kids garden! Definitely a recommended place to stop in Gainesville!

Very nice and inviting and inexpensive. The day we went it was pouring rain but we still enjoyed the beautiful grounds.

A very rude front desk attendant attempted to deny us entry, saying "We don't allow entry 45 minutes before close." when we arrived at 6:10 pm (50 minutes before close). When I clarified what time it was, she proceeded to be rude and backtrack saying we wouldn't have that much time in the gardens anyways. We are annual pass holders and simply wanted a quick walk. It's a shame Kanapaha employs people who just can't be bothered. Very disappointing. This occurred Sunday April 27, 2025 at 6:10pm. The attendant was an older woman with a sour face and grey hair.

Pretty gardens. I think spring/summer is probably the best time for viewing though. Relatively affordable

Everything was just perfect. It was our first time visiting and I can't wait to go back. My favorite part was all the lilies!

This is a beautiful little place, not the best botanical garden in the world but worth a visit. At least once. It's a good way to spend an hour or two if you're near Gainesville.

Visiting Gainesville and looking for something to do? Add this is your list... No matter what time of year, these gardens are absolutely beautiful. Walking the trails and enjoying the nature around you is the perfect way to relax. I tried to think of my favorite parts for this review, but I like all of it! But I guess I do favor seeing the giant water lilies and the bamboo garden. I/we always seem to notice something new as well. Of course, this is the beauty of nature...it's forever changing yet it stays the same. There is plenty of free parking, however, there is a small fee to enter the grounds. Moreover, there is a gift shop and restrooms. Plus, you are welcome to bring dogs as long as they remain on a leash.

Lovely gardens with an easy walking path. We started on the 1 mile loop, then finished our stroll on the 1/2 mile path. We visited in January when much of the flowering plants and shrubs are in their dormant state, but there was still plenty to see, and the weather was perfect. The camelias are in bloom in winter, and there were other flowers that provided bright bursts of color. My favorite garden was the bamboo forest, which is the largest in the state. One can hear the hollow knocking sound as the wind passes through the bamboo from many parts of the garden, and, standing underneath the stands of bamboo as they rock in the breeze is a singular experience. Well worth the $10 entry fee.

My husband and I really enjoy exploring new botanical gardens and this one didn't disappoint (although we will definitely visit at a different time of year when more is in bloom). Not part the American Horticultural Society this garden costs $10 per adult for admission and has annual passes starting at $40 a person (there are some reciprocal gardens in Florida) there is plenty of area to walk, stop for a picnic and enjoy nature. The children's garden was spacious with play areas that include climbing and sliding as well as a giant chess set and small maze to walk through. There are areas with waterfalls and ponds as bamboo gardens and everything in between. This is the perfect place to spend a couple hours.

We had a lovely morning at the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. We started on the right hand side and walked the one mile loop. They were setting up for a wedding amongst the bamboo standsZm. Then we stopped in the main office for some water, before going back out to the other side. We picked up some seeds at the front desk (sensitive mimosa) and purchased a membership. My so will come back for the orchid and Camilla sales!

It small but love the everything about it , especially different kind of Ginger and Asian bamboo plants and Japanese decorations

First things first do not come here in February.! They had cut everything back getting ready for Springs so we only saw a couple of flowers. But this place looks like a great place to spend about 2 hours walking around looking at the types of flowers and vegetation and herbs and they have a koi pond as well. They said they have the largest bamboo garden in the state. They also have a visitor center and a gift shop. Large parking lot and the price to get in was $10 per person.

Beautiful, worth the cost of the visit! Gorgeous walk seeing fun and interesting wildlife and plants.

You can get in for $10 but it is worth it if you like nature because there is a lot to see here I preferred it over other gardens I have been to in Gainesville. The trail is really long , there is lots of different types of flowers and scenery. It is definitely a good place to go with some friends and spend some time enjoying nature, I saw a lot of nature that I thought was really pretty and spent a while here with my friends

Had a great time at the gardens this afternoon! Upon entering, however, we were attacked by these huge black mosquitoes! If you have repellent, bring it with you, or they have some at the front desk. It was $10 per adult to get in and it was a beautiful day for a stroll. Even though summer is coming to a close, there is much to see and experience. Even got to see a baby gator in the koi pond!

Gorgeous and very interesting! Between the largest variety of bamboo in one place (in the state of Florida), and the largest herb garden in the southeast United States. My only regret for this visit is that I wished I had looked up when the large lily pads were in season. For some reason, I thought these would be constant and not bloom back each year - but they do! Which is almost more impressive

It was awe inspiring to walk through the beautiful botanical gardens! The mockingbird sang various songs. Prepare to do some hilly walking for those who might be limited. Thankfully, the paths were sidewalks. I look forward to coming back!

Entertaining and unique gardens. Not as well curated as most but definitely worth a visit. The highlights for us were the bamboo gardens and the Rock Garden. Costs $10 for adults and was definitely worth it. Took us about two hours to quickly walk through but would've been nice if they had signs saying what was in that direction. But overall Understandable why this garden has so many great reviews and great tips!Yes bring bug spray!

Summer visitors bring water and bug spray!!! The giant lily pads were what attracted us. They did not disappoint. Buy the fish food. Lots of colorful Koi fish to feed. Waterfall is small. Kids garden is whimsical and the bamboo is amazing. Loved the herb garden. I imagine the azalea garden is lovely at the right time. Mosquitoes were terrible in swampy wet places and needed the bug spray. Summer visitors prepare to take it slow. Lots of shade but heat and humidity are a factor.

I went there after almost Twenty years, because a dear friend had the celebration of life for his son who died suddenly at 30 years old. The situation was well handled, and the remembrance time was very appropriate as we collected in the woods, and discussed what we enjoyed about his son the most.

Wow is all I can say I'm in love 65 acre , 24 collections and 1and a half paved walk way . The biggest bamboo. Collection I have ever seen . The most beautiful gardens ever . Admission is 10 dollars and you can spend an entire day there but make sure to bring bug repellent and water . Parking is ample.

West of 75 in the opposite direction of UF, this garden takes you some place totally different from the hustle and bustle of a college town. Was a little worried about going in "winter" on a cold day but there were still plenty of gorgeous, bright, vibrant flowers in bloom. There is a quite extensive herb garden which was probably half full but still cool all the same. The bamboo variety here is like nothing I have ever seen before. There were several plants that were cut back so I'm sure when spring rolls around they will be great. They have a small playground and maze for young ones, plenty of koi that you can feed (purchase feed in main building before you head out), and lots of areas to stop for a break or quick snack which you can bring in from the outside. It can be a lot of walking on uneven or elevated ground so make sure you have good shoes on. Many nice areas to just stop and take in the views or have some peaceful reflection. We went on a cold day but could see how if it were hotter, mosquitoes would be a big concern. Worth a visit in your in the area or a little drive away and looking for something to do for the day. Pack a lunch and head on over.

I genuinely don't know where all the good reviews are coming from. I came here with my girlfriend the day after valentine's day, and it was a 2hr drive. From the pictures, we expected so much more. One thing I can say for certain; do not waste your money here. I repeat, do not waste your money here. Or your time. Every plant was either dead or missing, there were empty plots of land that look like they just forgot to put something there. The "waterfall" was murky and underwhelming. It seriously looks like a hurricane swept everything away. I was shocked that they allowed people into the park like this. After finishing one side of the park, we headed to the other side. Just as we walk through the doors, we hear someone say "I hope the other side is better". I was floored. I didn't think it could get worst. We barely made it through that mile hike alive, I almost died of boredom. There were signs for plants but no plants in sight. We literally had to cut through and leave because it was too bad to finish the mile hike. 1 star is for the koi fish. The only redeeming quality.

The kanapaha botanical gardens are beautiful!! There are so many nice little spots to sit and just take in the beauty but it is also big enough to just keep walking and walking and see something new all the time. It felt like there were so many hidden things to discovery and so much natural beauty. I went shorty after a freeze but I can't wait to go back and see it in spring

Had no idea this spot of dog friendly! It's my new favorite place to meander and relax. Well kept grounds with most of it paved. Very peaceful to walk through. I loved that so many of their plants (if not all) are labeled. Great spot for a date or picnic with the family, plenty of room to spread out and be covid safe. There is a kids' garden that is very whimsical and fun (even for adults!). Can't wait to go back. Also worth noting their annual membership fees are relatively cheap and totally worth the price. This place is definitely a hidden gem of Gainesville!

Nice 1st park to visit after post covid-19 reopening both staff and guests seamed very mindful of social distancing. Got in a nice long walk and enjoyed the vibe of both nature and wildlife. Got to see a baby gator, butterflies, cardinals, squirrels, lizards and bubble bees. Picturesque waterfalls, water lilies, bamboo, gardens, labyrinth, vines, flowers, trees and all the related smells too. 48 acres and several mini sections makes for a great way to get some steps in with some varied scenery. Good fun and way to kill a few hours in nature before going back to being stuck inside.

Everything about this awesome attraction is serene, beauty-filled and photographic. There isn't an abundance of flowers at this time of year but there are enough to see, enjoy and take photos of. The drive up from Ocala was worth it just to see the unique and amazing Giant Victoria Water Lilies...they were the highlight for us.

Lovely park, dogs allowed on leash. Can go for a decent jog or walk as the park is a good size.

Beautiful beautiful garden that is so vast and huge! They have so many varieties of different plants and flowers. The garden itself is so big with very different but interesting categories. They also have regular community events, which are also very fun to attend.

What a sweet botanical garden set in Gainesville. I love the fact that they accept dogs within the grounds, as long as they are on a lead. My two pups sure had a lovely time there. My daughter and I also enjoyed the grounds too, very pretty. The entrance fee of ten dollars for an adult is very acceptable imo. I was fascinated by the huge Lily pads they had there on the koi pond. Apparently they can grow up to six feet wide and hold a small child on them! Definitely worthy of a few hrs if you are a nature lover and you want a peaceful time.

If you like to be outdoors and love plants, this is a beautiful place to visit in the Gainesville area. Whether you go for a guided walk or one of their seasonal garden festivals, you will be sure to enjoy the vast amount of plants in bloom depending on what time of the year you go. I had the opportunity to see one of the world's largest giant water lily pads [Victoria cruziana lily pad] that measured 85 inches in diameter. Yah wow! There are plenty of things to explore such as the bonsai nursery, bamboo garden, herb trail, some wildlife, butterfly gardens and more. They also have a small give shop if you want to grab a souvenir or two. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is also kid and pet-friendly, but keep in mind, it's definitely not Disneyland for the former. Definitely wear mosquito repellent during the warmer months if you're prone to bites like I am. Otherwise, the cooler months may be a better time to go.

Magical. Lush tropical landscape that feels unimaginably beautiful. Wonderful place for a stroll.

The bamboo stands alone are worth the trip! I went with my aunt and uncle who are natives of Florida. It was an open treasure to me.

If you want to visit Gainesville, this botanical garden is a good spot to be. Please allow minimum two hours to enjoy the garden. This garden is wheel chair accessible. The most famous is their Amazon lily pad. However, the lily pad only fully grown and curve up the edge at August and September. When weather turn cold, they actually get smaller and eventually died. They start lily pad seed at February. The lily is a must seen items in Florida tourist spot. When it is fully grown, it can sit a child on it. I have noticed on one of the previous review from our yelp friend Coty. She have her wedding here. I can see there are many good spot for picture during the wedding, anniversary, or special event. Other than the lily pad. Their garden flower blooming is at different time of the year. It almost every month they have different flower. It is good for the flower society people. This garden has magnificent bamboo garden. The bamboo species include the horse tail bamboo shape like horse tail. I can imagine the Crouching Tiger and Hidden Dragon can film here for their bamboo scene with sword fight. This park is not too far off from I-75. Plan a visit with children also since they have children garden with moving water. If I am the resident of Gainesville, I will get the annual pass of this place.

I like bugs. They have bugs. Good bugs. 4.99878/5. Yelp will not, unfortunately, allow me to leave my accurate star rating, but since I enjoyed my time there so much I shall round up. 5/5.

I had a lovely day here with my dog! They were very dog friendly with plenty of places to roam and enjoy. Water bowls galore and lots of places to stop for a break. Wonderful staff at entry and throughout the park! Lovely way to spend time with dog and friends!

Love going to plant sales and orchid shows. Very beautiful setting. Lots of amazing plants and flowers for sale.

Wonderful place! Loved the walk through, bring some bug spray and it's a great way to spend the afternoon. The front desk is very polite and the gift store was awesome!

Gorgeous place to spend the day. Lots of gardens to explore and nice quiet areas to hide away and relax. $8 admission is definitely worth it, and if you're nearby it's definitely worth it to get an annual pass and come just to spend the afternoon.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. We love going there on the weekends to wander the grounds with our dog. We especially love seeing the giant lily pads in the spring which look like huge platters floating in the pond. Their Spring Garden Festival and Fall Plant Sale are popular community events - and we always need to remember that pets are not allowed at those! Such a beautiful place and I'm still amazed it's so close to where we live. Truly one of Gainesville's greatest treasures.

I have not visited Kanapaha in awhile, but I had annual passes in 2014 and 2015. I used to visit frequently. This is a great local place to explore for nature [I frequently spotted alligators, banana spiders and hawks] or take a walk with your dog. My favourite spots are the Bamboo garden and herb garden.

Visiting my college students we found our way here to spend some quite time The gardens and paths are well maintained with lots of well labeled beautiful foliage and blooms. The feeling of tranquility was so welcomed at the end of the day We walked and sat all around and as we were leaving stopped in the gift shop and found lots of unusual items. The staff here is friendly and informative Take some time here - just check the hours as out they close early on Monday

Pretty average as far as botanical gardens go. It was quite a big property and a fairly long walk around to explore, but overall I wasn't too impressed with what I saw. Sure, you're outside and that in itself can be nice depending on the weather, but there wasn't much to this place. The really large bamboo garden is probably the highlight - both creepy and impressive. Outside of this, the rest of the gardens are not taken care of very well. I think they rely on volunteers to do everything, and if there are none then the weeds get overgrown throughout. But, they keep taking people's money of course. They host some decent plant sales though. If you're in the area AND there's another event going on here, check it out. But otherwise, I'd suggest passing and finding a park to walk around and relax in.

This is a blast from the past. I was here over 20 years ago with my late mother in law. She was a plant enthusiast and science teacher at a S. Florida public school. I recognized a lot of plants, learned about more and answered a lot of my own questions. I'm a Gainesville high school and UF grad and needed to get this off my bucket list. We will be back!

Absolutely beautiful, well maintained gardens. Even in December. Lots of plants still blooming. We even saw quite a few butterflies. He herb garden was very educational. Everything is well labeled. We like to know what we're looking at. Gift shop creative with lots of unique items. Five stars for letting dogs come into this park. Lots of well behaved dogs on leashes and no dog poop anywhere. Someone was using the park to train a service dog. What a great idea.