Pinecrest Gardens

Botanical garden · Coral Bay

Pinecrest Gardens

Botanical garden · Coral Bay

2

11000 Red Rd, Pinecrest, FL 33156

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Highlights

This family-friendly gem in Miami-Dade boasts a delightful splash pad, a charming petting zoo, lush gardens, and an outdoor theater for endless fun.  

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11000 Red Rd, Pinecrest, FL 33156 Get directions

pinecrestgardens.org
@pinecrest_gardens

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11000 Red Rd, Pinecrest, FL 33156 Get directions

+1 305 669 6990
pinecrestgardens.org
@pinecrest_gardens

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Jul 12, 2025

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@cntraveler

"A botanical delight brimming with lush foliage, trees, plants and birds, this city park has plenty of things to do including a splash pad and a petting zoo for kids, plus a botanical garden and an outdoor theater. Established in the 1930’s and originally the home of Parrot Jungle the Village of Pinecrest acquired the 14-acre park in 2002, securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011 and transforming it into a venue for events and education. Beyond the breathtaking and massive Banyan trees, the hardwood hammocks, and a serene cypress slough and orchids winding up tree limbs, the park has a full schedule of programming that keeps visitors interested throughout the year, from concerts in the 530-seat amphitheater, to rotating art exhibits to horticulture lectures and holiday festivities. A weekly Sunday Farmer’s Market includes a free community yoga class." - Sara Liss, Terry Ward

The 26 Best Things to Do in Miami
View Postcard for Pinecrest Gardens
@cntraveler

"A botanical delight brimming with lush foliage, trees, plants and birds, this city park has plenty of things to do including a splash pad and a petting zoo for kids, plus a botanical garden and an outdoor theater. Established in the 1930’s and originally the home of Parrot Jungle the Village of Pinecrest acquired the 14-acre park in 2002, securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011 and transforming it into a venue for events and education. Beyond the breathtaking and massive Banyan trees, the hardwood hammocks, and a serene cypress slough and orchids winding up tree limbs, the park has a full schedule of programming that keeps visitors interested throughout the year, from concerts in the 530-seat amphitheater, to rotating art exhibits to horticulture lectures and holiday festivities. A weekly Sunday Farmer’s Market includes a free community yoga class." - Sara Liss, Terry Ward

The 26 Best Things to Do in Miami
View Postcard for Pinecrest Gardens

Jennifer Brooks

Google
Pinecrest gardens was such a nice time. It was SO hot that day so we didn't spend a lot of time there. The play area is pretty hot but there are tables to sit. There are tables scattered through out so if you want to sit and enjoy the view you can. There is a splash park too an s some animals for viewing. Our youngest wasn't able to get a cut wet so we didn't enjoy it this trip. We will definitely be back. Military families they are a blue star museum so they have free access for Military members and 4 guests from memorial day to labor day.

Leordanis Hernandez

Google
What a beautiful discovery today! Pinecrest Gardens is a hidden gem—thoughtfully curated with awesome trails, calming waterways, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels like a true rainforest escape. Even on a rainy day, it was magical. The soft sound of rain over the foliage, running water, and natural wildlife sounds made the entire place feel enchanted. There are ponds filled with fish and turtles, bridges over streams, and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy nature. While some areas are still being restored and remodeled, the gardens are already to explore. The kids absolutely loved the waterpark area and the playground, they also stopped for every spider, fish, turtle, and bird they saw. And oh, the peacocks, there were peacock chicks too… when you're in the middle of those trees and your hear their calls, it was like someone purposely added a dramatic, surreal soundtrack to the visit. We’ll definitely be back—with or without the rain.

Celia Blanco (Celitahhhh)

Google
It’s a wonderful experience if you have kids, there is a Splash and Play zone, rock climbing, mini zoo, garden, and even ponds. 5 dollars and kids under 2 go in free. Perfect spot for a Saturday or Sunday fun day.

Erin Richtsmeier

Google
Very beautiful, plush gardens, tucked away with a beautiful walking path. My family and I enjoyed it very much!

Katherine L. Garcia Ibarra

Google
Thank you so much, Ms. Seil, for being an incredible tour guide! Your passion and effort in showing us around and sharing the amazing stories of the place truly made our day unforgettable. We appreciate all the knowledge and warmth you brought to the experience. You made it special for all of us!

Glenn Goldman

Google
Great place to bring young children. The playground is terrific with a variety of climbing opportunities as well as a small collection of animals (donkey, cow, chicken, rabbits). The walk around the grounds is flat and easy for children to navigate. Flowers and turtles in addition to a variety of plants. Holiday lights are well done. Great scale for children.

Amanda Moreno-Schroeder

Google
I loved working with the team at Pinecrest Gardens to host my bridal shower. They were quick to respond to my inquiry, easy to communicate with, and their space is beautiful.

Walid

Google
Hidden gem of a tropical garden. Can be visited in less than 1 hour. Will soon have many children outdoor playground.

Yvelin R.

Yelp
Love visiting this place with family and friends. I first started coming here when my soon to be teenager was a baby There's a fun playground and the good ol' splash pad is still standing. The scenery is peaceful and there are plenty of great spots for beautiful photos. We like coming on Sundays, for yummy goodness at the farmer's market and then inside the gardens. They open every day, except holidays, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission price includes all day access to the Garden nature paths and usage of amenities on premise including the playground, mini viewing zoo, picnic areas. General Admission: $5.00 Seniors 65+: $3.00 Children under 2: Free Active Military (with valid ID) and immediate family: Free Plenty of parking spaces, Free.

Daniela A.

Yelp
Visited Pinecrest Gardens on Sunday and wow what a wonderful experience! The garden itself is not very big but it is beautiful and has a variety of plants! There is a splash pad for the kids and also a very unique and intricate playground! I can't wait to come back and explore this garden more in depth and visit the library!

Rick M.

Yelp
Step into a world where nature dances to its own rhythm and history whispers through the foliage - welcome to Pinecrest Gardens, where enchantment meets tranquility. Originating as Parrot Jungle in the 1930s, this lush oasis has blossomed into a haven for both locals and wanderers alike. For the ultimate Pinecrest experience, aim for those perfect South Florida days when the sun kisses your skin and a gentle breeze whispers sweet nothings through the trees. Picture-perfect moments await around every corner, whether you're strolling through the botanical gardens or finding serenity by the serene lakeside. But it's not just about picturesque landscapes; Pinecrest Gardens is a stage for the community, hosting a vibrant tapestry of events that weave together culture, art, and entertainment. From lively concerts under the stars to captivating art exhibitions, there's always something stirring the senses here. And on a Sunday like today, with skies as clear as your mind and temperatures just right at a balmy 77°F, it was the perfect invitation to explore nature's masterpiece and trust me it was a beautiful relaxing day. . So, follow your heart's compass, wander through the verdant pathways, and let Pinecrest Gardens weave its 5 star magic upon you. Trust me, your soul will thank you later.

Adriana B.

Yelp
I had not been to this park in many years. I was happily surprised at how nice it is and that there is so much shade! You also can't beat the very affordable entrance price of $5. The playground is beautiful and the kids really enjoyed it. The splash pad was also very nice, a bit full on a Saturday but still found a seat and in the shade. Unfortunately there's hardly any food there, just a small snack bar with hot dogs and cookies. But there are plenty of tables so you can take your own.

Dan C.

Yelp
I think this used to be something else with birds or monkeys or something. Now it is just a cool little jungle with lots of walking paths. It also has a splash pad and a decent playground. It is well maintained and the staff are nice, too. We took the kids here to burn off some energy and it is a perfect little gem of a place. It has great shaded winding narrow paths through its jungle forest with little ponds (that have rather large fish). The shade part is great for a really hot, sunny day. The kids had a great time and it was not very crowded. It was also very cheap to get in - lots of Miami nature/science places are very expensive, so that is a plus that Pinecrest can be done on a budget. It is also in the middle of Pinecrest, so it is not a production to get there. If you live reasonably close, you can bring the kids there to run around for a couple of hours in the morning or the afternoon.

Victoria Z.

Yelp
The kids and I really enjoyed our summer kick off with Pinecrest Gardens ! Military friendly with lots of activities and fun for the parents and kids. Beautiful sites and walking trails. Benches to eat your brought in snacks. (Yes they allow outside food huge plus) but they also have a nice snack stand near the pond that even had swans gliding in the water. Splash pad was awesome and refreshing for the kiddos. We will definitely be back many many times I'm sure !

Sarah P.

Yelp
Still a five stars from me. I came with my lil charge and we discovered the new AMAZING park area. JOB WELL DONE. He loved it. We also saw the new zoo area - also a hit. We also enjoyed walking around the entire park and saw so many animals - in short, a huge crab, lizards, iguana, a pot belly pig, chickens, goats, rabbits, donkeys, fish, turtles, a swan, butterflies. We will surely be back and this time we will hit the splash area.

Jessica R.

Yelp
Went with my family to experience the lights for winter time and it was so beautiful. My daughter loved running around. The place was so clean and the lights were so nice to watch. You can see the details and hard work they put into it. The snow cones were so refreshing and they gave a lot. Loved this place and recommend.

Estela J.

Yelp
Pinecrest Gardens is a hidden gem in Pinecrest, offering a serene and picturesque escape from city life. The beautiful botanical garden features lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and themed areas that are meticulously designed. The diverse collection of native and exotic plants, complete with informative plaques, makes for an educational and visually delightful experience. Highlights include a petting zoo, a splash pad for kids, and a butterfly exhibit, making it perfect for families. The peaceful ambiance, with soothing sounds of nature, creates an ideal setting for relaxation and reflection. Pinecrest Gardens is a must-visit for anyone seeking nature, education, and recreation. Highly recommended! -

Catherine D.

Yelp
So this was for sure a hidden gem. Something to do with the kids or with your friends or partner. Very relaxing walk through beautiful nature. Very cool playground for the kids and very cool splash park. All for 5$ to get in, free parking. I can't believe I'm a Floridian and have never been here. I will for sure be bringing my kids back to enjoy this beautiful place.

Sal P.

Yelp
WOW ~ this is a paradise for families! Loads of free parking (YAY) and super stroller friendly. Playground is absolutely magical - kiddos scramble over the giant chameleon, the littles love the roller slide, and all kinds of creative play structures for music-making and other silliness. Really caters to a diverse age range - plucky 12 month olds can make fun there and even the rowdiest 8 year olds can enjoy themselves too! Every time we go, we find another magical place - it reminds me of Parc Guell in Barcelona - artistic, whimsical, incredible activities and one of a kind!

Lin H.

Yelp
1100 Sw 57 avenue Pinecrest, FL 33156 305-669-6990 9 am-5 pm hours 1/1/23 2 persons 3 pm Pinecrest Gardens is a 20-acre park in Pinecrest, it is the original location of the Parrot Jungle, a theme park that started in 1936 and they relocated to the city of Miami"s Watson Island in 2003. This park is so beautiful and shaded with so many lush beautiful plants and trees. I could see this is a place to bring your kids, especially with the playground, splash area, and petty zoo. I loved the peacocks and the huge koi fish and also the plenty of places to sit and meditate and enjoy nature. This park is a gem and only five dollars to get in, if you are a senior or student there are discounts. I believe this is a place that can be used as a wedding venue too. If you are into beautiful botanical parks this is a must-see at a great price.

Sindu K.

Yelp
We went for the event - Nights of lights. It's a holiday lights set up. The whole park is converted into a winter wonderland. We got our tickets online and the check in process was smooth, no lines. There was plenty of parking available. The lights setup was so magical, completely loved it. Unfortunately my phone couldn't capture the beauty of the twinkling lights. It took us around 30 minutes to walk through the park. Highly recommend going to this setup during the holiday season.

Daniella S.

Yelp
Simple y stunning . The old Parrot Jungle I grew up to love is still intact save for the parrots and flamingoes gone. It's a beautiful place to walk in nature undisturbed and contemplative, disrupted only by the thrill of finding such amazing botany that's thriving in a city that is becoming cement. On weekends we go to the market and thought pricey the goods are top notch. But just a quick escape here is also marvelous to get in your steps, a coffee break, steal away from work for lunch (there is a cafe and indoor and outdoor seating), or just meditate for 10min. I'll always love this compact garden of Eden. There are few places like this old sink hole with coral, ancient ficus and ferns and cactuses and such a variety of autochthonous and foreign species.

Shawnie P.

Yelp
I had the littles for the weekend so I was looking for something to do outdoors that was beautiful, had a lot of fresh air and someplace I haven't been to before. Pinecrest Gardens had all of this and more. They are located in Pinecrest, Florida which is in South Miami. There is plenty of parking in the front of the gardens. As you walk in there is an attendant where you pay your entrance fee. It was only $5 per adult and free if you are three and under which both of the kids are so we paid $10 total to enter. Once you pass the attendant you start out on a nicely paved path and start walking through the lush beautiful gardens. From the very entrance everything was so beautiful. It brought calmness over me immediately which is what I really needed that day. As we slowly walked through, I made sure to take my time and look at all the different types of tropical plants, the mini water falls, the different types of fish in the ponds, the turtles, the beautiful flowers, etc. I soaked it all in. As we got about halfway through the gardens it started to rain. We were very close to a cabana so we sat under there for a while waiting for the rain to subside. My husband had the littles do some mini exercises while we waited for the rain to stop in order to keep them entertained. It was a perfect time to take a break as the rain fell around us. We were able to have a quiet cute moment with the kids. Once the rain stopped, about 10 minutes later, we were on our way to finish walking through the gardens. They do offer a few things that were closed due to the increase in Covid cases like a splash pad area which the kids would've loved so we need to take them back later to experience that as well as a petting zoo that was not open that day. Very cool additions I can't wait to experience with the kids on our next visit. Pinecrest Florida is a beautiful area and this garden is a great addition. There is a public library right next-door so keep that in mind while visiting. I highly recommend this place. It's a great place to go especially now when a lot of indoor places have a lot of restrictions. You'll definitely walk out much calmer than you walked in.

Leslie S.

Yelp
Pros: Beautiful botanical gardens, well maintained paths, beautiful sculptures, clean restrooms. I had a lovely time exploring the gardens. They also have evening events that include live music and a small art gallery. Such a lovely spot to spend the day. Plenty of free parking and it's only $5 to get in. Cons: the playground was closed but they have a nice splash pad for the kiddos.

Geraldine D.

Yelp
I went for their Christmas lights event and it was so cute and magical. You walk around the entire park looking at different light sets and towards the end it leads you to an open field full of vendors. Perfect for date night around the holidays

Anna M.

Yelp
I've been coming here since I was young. Their farmers market is always great but in recent years since the pandemic they've lost a lot of vendors. There aren't as many as there used to be which is a shame. Nonetheless, I always like to come here on the weekends with friends. Parking is difficult to find if you're not there very early but you just need to have some patience.

Master Vicente A.

Yelp
Our next family adventure take us to Nights of lights located inside Pinecrest Gardens offer an brilliant holiday experience because the place was transformed into a winter wonderland illuminate for thousands of lights this events for all family members. An for the little ones there 'll be magical Story time and Santa appearance on select evenings. High recommend.

Bev A.

Yelp
I have attended the gardens for 60 years!! The gardens were in need of some gardening this visit. Two of the trails were closed to seal the walkways. Water was very low in the ponds. This is a very popular, unique gem and sure hope more attention is paid to the incredible foliage that line the paths. Golden tickets for seniors in Miami-Dade with proper ID are honored every day. It's mostly assessable with lots of shade provided by foliage and covered pavilions. Click for my slideshow: https://youtu.be/Xmk3yZjyKFo

Cristina O.

Yelp
After searching for outdoor activities in the Miami area, I ran into the Pinecrest Garden. I went with my boyfriend on a Sunday at around 2pm. Unfortunately for us, the vendors / farmer's marker outside the garden was closing up, so we didn't get to see too much there, however, there were a few vendors selling girl scout cookies, fruits/veggies, popcorn, ice cream, etc. Entrance was $5 per person. Once inside, you get to walk throughout the Gardens. There weren't too many people when we went, so it was a pretty nice quiet stroll. The garden itself is small, but there's a lot to look at. There's many trees, plants, and smaller animals (fish, turtles, swans). My favorite part were the carved Trolls (picture attached) with a nice story included. They make for a good picture! Part of the upper level of the garden was closed when we went (it seems like they're adding a whole new section or just renovating). But the supposedly "Petting Zoo" was not open when we went. Cons: Other than the entrance map, there's no paper map you can follow. Not all the plants are labeled, so there's a few trees/plants missed. Pros: Good parking. Plenty of seating. Open and shaded areas making it weather-accommodating. Great for the whole family (and pets!).

Yanet D.

Yelp
Muy agradable para un paseo y pasarlo en familia Una oportunidad par interactuar con la naturaleza.

Naomi K.

Yelp
Night of lights this year was very disappointing. There hadn't been as much advertising because the venue has significantly changed. They're redoing the upper part which is all sectioned off. Santa had a small section, though no professional photographer. He was friendly but no candy canes. They had pony rides but no carnival rides which is fine but the advertising showed pictures from two years ago when they had them. That's very misleading. No story telling, no special events, limited food vendors. We love these gardens but they must have been hit hard by covid. Certainly not worth a $20 entrance. They also didn't specify ages for tickets. Two and under are free. You could probably see some nice lights just driving through the neighborhood. Was really hoping to see the special Bruce Munro exhibit but it was a bit underwhelming. You can only see it from far away, not up close as pictured in the advertisement

Tati Z.

Yelp
I love love this place. It's clean, organized, and spacious. Also, it's not expensive. Kids 2 years and under are free and for the rest $5 per person. I believe teachers get a discount for a yearly pass. The splash pad it's great for kids to use in the summer. They have benches for parents to sit down and when kids are finished using it they can be changed in the restrooms or if they're little enough and you feel comfortable there are tables right outside the splash pad where you can quickly change your kids cause the restrooms are a little hot. The new renovated playground is so beautiful and safe. I love everything about it. I'll let the pictures I took so all the talking. Also, at the entrance they give the children free fish food for them to feed the fishes in the waterfall fish pond. I came on a Sunday and they had a farmers market in the parking lot so we got food from there and ate it inside the garden. Kids had an amazing time and came back home super tired to sleep.

Leila R.

Yelp
Neat little historic spot to visit when down in way south Miami! Well worth the price of admission, this place is a great way to spend a cool afternoon. The gardens are a nice walk and there is a lot to see in what initially looks like a small area. The entrance is beautiful and Insta-worthy, as are many spots throughout the Gardens. It can get very busy on weekends, so I suggest going later in the afternoons or on a weekday to be able to enjoy the gardens at your own pace (it is a one way path due to COVID restrictions). There are some parts where you forget the city is literally just on the other side because you are encased in gorgeous green everywhere. The turtle pond was one of my fav spots to see the little turtles swimming and sunning. There is also small gorgeous little lake complete with swans that makes you are in some sort of Victorian-era novel rather than an urban garden in Miami!  The banyan tree area is a lot of fun too and seeing the peacocks hiding in between the cacti was a gorgeous juxtaposition of contrast.  The real stars of the show here, though, are hands down the "Trolls", an integrated wood-based installation by Danish recycle-artist Thomas Dambo. This larger than life whimsical sculptures are absolutely incredible to behold and seem to come to life when late afternoon shadows hit them just right. Not to discount any other parts of the Gardens, but this was by and far my favorite part of my visit.  I plan to come back to enjoy a blissful respite from the modern rat-race with another quiet walk amongst the fauna, flora, and fresh air. With parking and potential for spiritual cleansing included, the $5 ticket price is probably the best money you can spend in Miami!

Adilen R.

Yelp
Beautiful place. I believe was $5 entrance . I took my 2 year old and he had a good time at the water splash & the playground. Also we saw some cute pigs and goats. The restrooms by the playground are very nice and clean.

Grace M.

Yelp
This is an amazing place and should be treasured. Even if you don't enjoy reading about each plant as you wander, just being surrounded by all these species is good for the soul. Add in the great play structures, splash pad, animals, etc. and I couldn't believe the deal!

Tatiana P.

Yelp
Stunning little place. The giant figures are so much fun for the kids to play on. During Christmas it's like a little winter wonderland. Adorable!

Chloe H.

Yelp
Pinecrest Garden has hands down the best farmers market in Miami every Sunday until 2pm. It is such a joy to grab my tote bag and go all out. There's a little spot in the back with really great Indian nan and dips, also LNB rainbow smoothie is fantastic. I have love for all the vendors there. So go check it out next weekend. Savor while supporting small businesses and local farmers. I have become a regular there, so say hi if you see me sampling all the food, my hands will most likely be full of treats.

Jose P.

Yelp
What a beautiful place Pinecrest Gardens continues to be! I have been coming to this location my entire life from when this was the original parrot jungle! The beautiful plant life here is just breath taking. I have had the please of experiencing two different themes they've hosted here at Pinecrest Gardens. My sons school field trip where they had tons of activities for the children. One of the events was I an area that the kids got to play in the water park. Tonight I was able to experience a beautiful junior ring ceremony for my sister and her school. It was hosted in their amphitheater. I hope this place stays around for a long time. Keep up the great work !

Wendy A.

Yelp
What not to love about this place? I love how nice and clean is always in here, how nice the people working here are, all the different events they host in here. They have a good parking lot and you can check out their website for their lists of events. They also offer summer camps.

Jen B.

Yelp
What a nice garden to walk through, even during Covid. I'll have to admit that we were truly brought there looking for Thomas Dambo's Trolls but totally enjoyed the rest of the park. They were set up for the lights events for the holidays so it was a wee bit strange looking at the artificial plants and lights among the native plants, but no biggie. I can easily get past that. This is an easy stroll through for families and they are running the splash pad on a schedule. They were definitely cleaning and wiping everything down in between sessions. For just $5 admission this is worth spending an hour or two to take in the native plants and nature. Seeing the turtles and the fish in the ponds even get this big kid excited. Oh, and trolls!!! Read up on Thomas Dembo's Trolls all over the world.

Ariel W.

Yelp
After a disappointing visit to Jungle Island on Watson Island I had an urge to visit the site of the original attraction, Parrot Jungle in Pincecrest. Although the birds have moved on the site has been preserved and turned into a park. In 1936 an Austrian named Franz Scherr rented the site of a former nudist colony for $25 a year. He used to visit Monkey Jungle offering unsolicited advice until the exasperated owner told him to open his own jungle. He did charging 25 cents to tour his garden and visit his birds. Parrot Jungle did very well for many years especially through the 1970's. It was eventually designated a historical landmark making it difficult to make changes to the park to keep up with the changing tastes of consumers. Attendance began to drop due to hurricanes and larger theme parks opening. The decision was made to move the park to Watson Island where it opened in 2003. It has struggled ever since never finding the following it once had in Pinecrest. It's latest incarnation as an action park is about to begin. Meanwhile back in Pinecrest on December 17, 2002, the Village of Pinecrest, with grant assistance from the Florida Communities Trust and Miami-Dade County was able to purchase the former Parrot Jungle site and turn it into a garden. I have not paid the area a visit since it was Parrot Jungle. Once I heard it was turned into a garden I wanted to come back and I finally got the chance on a Saturday afternoon. When we came in an event was being held in the Cyprus Hall. A $5 admission is required to tour the gardens. Once we paid we went on a self guided tour. There are paved walkways, bridges, and coral walls throughout the property. You can still see the bird cages that used to house Scherr's birds as well as the original entrance to the jungle. Now the cages sit empty and serve as a memorial to the past life of the property. I saw turtles, fish, and swans in the various waterways throughout the park. The gardens maintained all of the beautiful plants that made the original attraction so charming. It's a beautiful stroll through the shaded gardens. A petting zoo and splash pad for kids have been added. They have a snack bar by the swan lake but they only take cash.The old Parrot Bowl is now used to host concerts and other special events. During my visit there was a temporary art exhibit called StickWork. It consisted of large scale twig structures. You could walk through them and it was a perfect fit for the natural setting of the garden. A full list of special events and traveling exhibits can be found on the gardens website. Another event that a lot of people enjoy is the farmers market held every Sunday. I really enjoyed my visit to this beautiful park. It is so nice to see how Pinecrest rescued the jungle after the animals were moved out. Even though it no longer carries the name of Parrot Jungle it still fulfills Franz Scherr's original vision of having a beautiful place filled with plants and flowers for people to come and enjoy.

Frederick D.

Yelp
It's become a nature-packed pilgrimage to make the pretty 2.5 mile walk from South Miami along the canal-lined stretch of Red Road to Pinecrest Gardens on Sunday, which is also the same day as the farmers market. Once there we immediately hit the coffee bar for an caffeinated iced beverage made with Juan Valdez' Columbia's coffee beans. The building housing the coffee bar features various places to sit, a projection TV that is at least 10 x 10 ft, which is great for watching sporting events and even wide open places with a large green rug for toddlers to crawl. I'd rate this a very Family friendly place. Once refreshed we tour the gardens inside which boast a petting zoo, splash pad, wicker stick maze for kids. One side of the park has an overlook of a lake complete with ducks, swans, turtles and fish. On the other side of the park are winding trails of natural pools some of which have koi fish. All very relaxing and fun at the same time. When stomachs start to growl we head outside of the gardens to the farmers market which operates from 9:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. There we can find the season's best bounty of fruits, vegetables, honey, flowers, meats, cheeses, and specialty products throughout the year. The market is sourced from a variety of businesses sustainable and organic farmers and food purveyors from the Miami area, Redlands, Homestead, Clewiston, and Ft. Pierce. We brought everything from the fresh made guacamole, turmeric concentrate to Venezuelan arepas topped with a variety of different ingredients and grilled to perfection. After our a bite and before the mid-afternoon summer storms that are so frequent in August we were sated and headed back the 2.5 mile stretch back to South Miami feeling accomplished from our walk and having adventured a little. Whether you want to walk, run, bike or drive to the Pinecrest Gardens that is up to you. There is ample parking but it might be full on Sunday.

Julia R.

Yelp
We went to the nights of lights event held there for the holidays and bought $40 worth of tickets. When we showed up to the event no tickets were being scanned or checked for and people were walking in for free. When we emailed the event they basically said fuck you and said we agreed to terms and conditions.

Alex D.

Yelp
These gardens are really fun to visit whenever we are in town. The park was the site used by Parrot Jungle, until 2003, when Parrot Jungle moved and the grounds were then developed by Pinecrest into the pleasant gardens they are today. The Farmer's market just outside in the parking lot is a great Sunday event (See my other review) and many times, we will just decide to spill over into the gardens so the kids can have a bit more space to play and run around. There's a lot for families to do here, including a great splash parkland they also do a great job around Christmastime, when they have a night-time event in the garden with Santa, food trucks, and lots of activities for the kids. Our kids love visiting every time we are in Miami, so we will definitely be back!

Ericka G.

Yelp
Every Sunday from 9am to 2 pm the parking lot of Pincrest Gardens turns into a fresh market. It's the old Parrot Jungle and its surrounded by lush gardens and trees. Parking can take some time but we were lucky enough to get a good parking inside. And just for you Tesla drivers they have charging stations parking. On this particular Sunday they were having pet adoptions available. Wish I could take them all home. They even had doggie stations with all kind of treats for them. I had my eye on some natural juices and had a fresh pineapple and guarapo (sugar cane) juice. Both were delicious with no added sugar,completely natural! Walking through they had everything I wanted and need,lol. They had plants and flowers,fresh honey,different flavored popcorn, natural and organic soaps,lotions and oils. Vegan food,fresh fruits,spices,fresh stone crabs, made in front of you guacamole which was so fresh and delicious. They had Peruvian,Vietnamese,Greek, Venenzuelan,and so much more types of food. I can go on and on. We settled for a gyro complete with tzatziki sauce and an arepa stuffed with shredded beef,cheese,onion, avocado, and a secret sauce. They were freaking delish! Everything is cooked to order so you get to watch the meal prep. Oh I also have a love for pickles and olives and they had free samples so you can sit there and try them all(there were over 15) and a percentage of proceeds goes to kids in need. Next time we come here I have to purchase a poke bowl,a bulgogi bowl (Korean thin sliced meat),some natural soaps, more pickles and olives, and definitely the decorative hanging air plants...so yeah I'm basically I want to buy everything. One word of advice, most products are organic,fresh, hand made so average price of things range from $4 (price for a natural juice) to way over $10 but for what your getting it's worth it. And although we didn't make it into the actual gardens,the price of admission is only $5. Not bad at all!

SamKat P.

Yelp
So beautiful!! We were riding our bikes along the trail when we passed by this garden. On our way back we decided to stop, and we were pleasantly surprised by this amazing hidden gem! Can't beat $5, and the plants were incredible. Look forward to coming back and maybe checking out a concert.

Carmen R.

Yelp
Beautiful place and super fun for playdates. Their new coffee shop is amazing, its called Juan Valdez Cafe. The atmosphere is refreshing, so inviting you wanna come back every day for breakfast. Their muffins are fresh and soft, our favorite is the ham and cheese croissant and their cappuccino. They also sell the best coffee in the world, organic and they will grind the beans if you ask them to. Its fresh and delicious. Highly recommend this place for business meetings, coming to work in silence, and just having a good snack with your kids after playing on the splash pad, petring zoo and feeding the friendly gold fishes they have here all around. I love their local Farmers Market on Sundays. If you love buying REAL ORGANIC, local, supporting your small business owners then you'll absolutely love it.

Soniliz E.

Yelp
Visited last night for the Nights of Lights event they have going on. The area transforms itself into a winter wonderland dotted by thousands of twinkling lights that go up, through and around the whimsical botanical landscape, its beautiful. Its perfect for the whole family. Only things I would change is that you don't have directions as to where you should continue walking so you don't miss anything, so be on the look out as it can be tricky. And I would added Food Trucks and some tables keeping social distance for people to eat and enjoy more time there. But for the price, its all worth it.

Isabella K.

Yelp
As a mom I can only recommend this place to other parents. There are very beautiful trees, plants and lakes that you can admire when walking around. They have very nice events through the year such as the Night Garden around Christmas time and Easter events.

Alberto C.

Yelp
50% of the park is closed, actually like 60%, the garden, the playground closed... they still charge 100% of the entrance. Even if you asked if they can give a discount, they won't reason. No logic. Don't come until is completely open don't waste your $ and time.

Michael T.

Yelp
Open year round. Plenty of parking. It's our Sunday ritual. We are usually there for Sunday brunch by 11am. Breakfast sausage egg cheddar sandwiches or veggie bowls from Babe Froman. The best iced coffee made from special bean blend by Cybil. Awesome arepa sandwiches with pulled pork egg and avocado. Great ceviche and avocado at the Peruvian stand. Chocolate whiskey banana bread from Susilicious. There is so much more but these are our highlights. The people watching is great and lots of cute pets.

Tatiana V.

Yelp
What a beautiful hidden gem I recently discovered! I stopped by for the first time with my mother who was visiting from out of state, I'm so glad I was recommended this botanical garden. It is breathtakingly beautiful, it was only $8 to get in and free for children under 2. Aside from the botanical gardens, there is a petting ozone, playground, and splash pad! I'd recommend this place for any parent, my three year old did not want to leave. If you haven't been here before do yourself a favor and stop by.

Ana V.

Yelp
What can I say this is a beautiful peaceful garden which I come to often. It's only $5 to enter and has free parking, plenty of it. If you have little kids there is a petting zoo and a small water park. There is always art on display and a now there is a new coffee house with great gourmet coffee and treats. Sometimes you can catch a performance at the banyan bowl as well. I just love Pinecrest Gardens and so will you!

David W.

Yelp
Great little family location to spend 1-2 hours. Has a nice looping trail with tons of shade and benches. On Sunday there's a farmers market that closes at 2:30PM but got there too late to see what there was. At the time there was a park being built that will finish later in 2022 (spring?)

Fernando D.

Yelp
The best value in South Florida! This is by far the most fun you can have in South Florida for only $5 ($3 for seniors), specially if you have kids. The Gardens are beautiful and very well kept, lots of shade so it's a pleasant place to visit even in the summer. There are creeks and water features full of gorgeous, giant fish, turtles, as well as a koi pond. There's also a central pond with swans, as well as wild peacocks running and flying around. There's a really nice variety of trees, flowers, and other beautiful and exotic plants, the bamboo area is nice and it's very relaxing to sit there and listen to them sway in the wind. They have a really nice, big playground for kids, as well as a really fun splash park (bring a bathing suit and change of clothes!) and a petting zoo, all included in the admission! The pavilion at the entrance always has cool art exhibits and a Juan Valdez coffee shop with great service! The Farmers Market on Sundays is by far the best in South Florida and deserves its own review. Often they hold concerts in the amphitheater, I went to a "Mozart under the stars" one that was fantastic beginning to end, the acoustics are great and it doesn't get better than listening to beautiful music in a beautiful setting! There is lots of parking, including parking for EVs and it's right next to the public library with its own set of great things to do. Parking does get pretty full on Sundays because of the Farmers Market, but I've never had an issue finding a spot after driving around for a few minutes. Definitely take a Lyft or bike on Sundays if you live nearby to avoid that. You can also rent three different party spaces, I've been to a few kids parties there and they've been great since the admission is free for your guests, in fact, it's how I discovered this hidden gem. It's also ideal for family photo shoots as there are lots of beautiful settings to take your pictures at, it's even a nice place for a proposal since it's one of the few places in Miami where you can have beautiful swans in the background!

Katrina G.

Yelp
Every Sunday Pinecrest Gardens AKA the old Parrot Jungle is transformed into a farmers market. You could find anything from organic fruits and veggies to freshly made guacamole to a variety of beautiful orchids. I have been here twice in the past two weeks and I must admit I'm obsessed! I swear I felt like Anthony Bourdain, I literally spent hours exploring the place trying out and buying everything I laid my eyes upon. On my first visit I had a chocolate croissant. Oh. Em. Gee. I literally died and went to heaven; it was phenomenal. I then began walking and immediately noticed this adorable pink food truck that sells Conch Fritters. No flipping way! Conch Fritters? I jumped for joy! I have been craving conch fritters for ages. Six bucks will get you six yummy conch fritters. It doesn't stop there, I also had delicious Mama Guava Cookies not one but an entire box ($5,) and to top it off I had Roc Kat Ice-cream which happened to have Mama Guava pieces in the mix. I know, I know.. I need to make healthier decisions. On my second visit, I had a delicious chocolate almond croissant, a flat bread pizza, a crepe and roasted corn. They have plenty of more things I must try in my future visits such as: ceviche, raw vegan food, natural juices, Greek food, and so much more! Pinecrest Gardens Farmer's Market is the perfect place to spend your Sunday afternoon with your family, friends or even your dog. If you haven't already checked out Pinecrest Garden's Farmer's Market, you must! Trust me! Come on out and support your local farmers :] BRING CASH!!!

Julio H.

Yelp
Pinecrest Gardens has the best farmer's market in Miami, no competition, and a much welcomed ride of 10 minute east versus the 35 minute drive south to Homestead, to the Redlands farmer's market, which has a completely different assortment of vegetables, and a completely different vibe. To give you a point of reference, this farmer's market could be part of any episode of The Real Housewives of Wherever. Pinecrest Gardens farmer's market is basically targeted to a wealthy suburban crowd. It is located on a nice neighborhood, with everything paved and organized. As the main form of entertainment in this neck of the woods, it is no surprise to come here and not find a single parking space. This farmer's market is like a festival, it is full to the brim and possibly attracts more people than Trader Joe's. Parking could be an issue, if and only if you want to be civilized and not partake in the friendly chaos. One thing that I have learned after buying organic in Miami is that, sadly, not everything is organic. If the sign says "Organic Food Here", you still have to ask "Are the cauliflowers organic? Are the tomatoes organic?". It's dumb, but the law is strict and the money is good. Make sure you are paying for real organic stuff. Like I said before, this farmer's market is more on the socialite housewife side of things. There is kale and quinoa available, so you know what I mean. Seriously, there are lots of vegetables, some strange fruits, lots of fresh herbs, bunch of stuff to make a really nice salad, maybe a nice souffle, maybe an exceptional Asian dish. But the outstanding feature of this market is that there are lots of very unique vendors, and that is the reason why I am coming here more often. First, there are two bakers, one is French traditional, the other one is American funk, both artisanal breads. There is a fresh pasta lady, half a pound fresh made pasta for $6, and she sometimes has sauces. There are two guacamole ladies, a kettle corn dude, two ceviche ladies, a few cookie ladies (no pun intended, maybe), a crepe guy (did you read creepy?), and the zaniest pizza men in Miami, with their own rolling oven on the premises, baking pizza and calzones right on the spot. But my favorites here are 1) the couple with the freshly squeezed orange juice by the gallon, for $7, and when I mean freshly squeezed it is freshly squeezed. You can not drink more than two cups of juice. It is strong stuff. Also available, tangerine and grapefruit. Then 2) the sausage gang, with more than eight types of sausages, a mean kielbasa and three types of bacon available to take out if you don't want it cooked right there. Also available, pates and cretons. And 3) the BBQ crew, with some awesome smoked pork and yellow rice, a more Caribbean BBQ style but great. If I may add, this is a great place to come for breakfast. There are a couple people selling coffee beans, but some are brewing coffee as well. The kids from the sausage stand dish out a delicious *sausage and egg on a bagel*, or you could get some pastries from the bakers. Or you could come for lunch and have sausages, BBQ pork, pizza, etc. My only advice, bring lots of cash, very few things are dollar cheap. Also, come with an empty stomach and willingness to try new things. Points are added for having exact change, as "I love yous" will flow. Other things available are plants for sale, flowers for sale, rice crispy treats, candles, pottery for decoration, knick knacks, religious artifacts, spaghetti sauces, etc. Finally, vendors are not the same from week to week, although the more successful ones have become regulars. If you come here and don't find any on the reviewed vendors, well, that was your warning. On the upside, Pinecrest Gardens farmer's market is here year round, and if you are a food adventurer, this market will not disappoint.