Sunken Gardens: A Living Museum
Discover a historic botanical paradise in St. Petersburg, Florida, with over 50,000 tropical plants, exotic birds, and cascading waterfalls in a lush, four-acre setting.
Escape the bustle of St. Petersburg and step into Sunken Gardens, a verdant oasis brimming with exotic flora and fauna. This historic botanical garden, a roadside attraction dating back to the early 20th century, offers a tranquil retreat with winding paths, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant displays of over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers. Wander through themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, cactus garden, and butterfly garden, and marvel at the diverse collection of birds, including flamingos, macaws, and cockatoos. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Sunken Gardens provides a captivating experience for all ages. Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore this unique St. Petersburg treasure, a true testament to Florida's natural beauty and rich history.
A brief summary to Sunken Gardens
- 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, Historic Old Northeast, Florida, 33704, US
- +1727-551-3102
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the spring for the best chance to see many flowers in full bloom.
- Take advantage of the free guided tour to learn more about the garden's history and plant species.
- Check the Sunken Gardens website for special events and discounted admission rates.
- Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the gardens, as outside food is permitted.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on paved pathways.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown St. Petersburg, the SunRunner bus rapid transit line offers a convenient option. Take the SunRunner to a stop near 4th Street North, then transfer to a local bus route (such as the 4, 22, or 38) heading north on 4th Street. Get off at a stop near 22nd Avenue North. From there, it's a short walk west to the gardens. A single ride on the local bus is around $2.25.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in downtown St. Petersburg, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) provides a direct and quick way to reach Sunken Gardens. The ride typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for the trip.
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Walking
If you are in the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood or near Crescent Lake Park, walking to Sunken Gardens is a pleasant option. From Crescent Lake Park, walk east along 22nd Avenue North to 4th Street North, then cross 4th Street to reach the gardens. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles from Crescent Lake Park.
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Driving
If driving, approach Sunken Gardens via 4th Street North. The gardens are located at 1825 4th Street North. Ample free parking is available on-site, shared with Great Explorations and Carrabba's. If the main lot is full, overflow parking is available at Crescent Lake Park, a short walk west of the gardens. Be mindful of pedestrian crosswalks when walking from overflow parking.
Discover more about Sunken Gardens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Huggins-Stengel Field
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2nd Best Tree in Crescent Heights
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Welcome to St. Petersburg sign
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Segway Experience of St. Pete
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St. Petersburg Preservation
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Chamber of Commerce Bldg
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St Petersburg Neighborhood
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Snell Arcade
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S. H. Kress and Co. Building, St. Petersburg, FL
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The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art
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Benoist Plaza
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The Florida Holocaust Museum
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Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center
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Historic St. Petersburg YMCA
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Demens Landing Historical Landmark
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Unmissable attractions to see
Great Explorations Children's Museum
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Historic Round Lake Park
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Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum
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Flora Wylie Park
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North Shore Park
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Ghost Tour of St. Petersburg & Tampa Bay
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Historic Banyan Tree
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St Petersburg Shuffleboard Club
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North Straub Park
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Vinoy Park
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Mirror Lake
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Beach Dr NE
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Dracula's Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro
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Museum of Fine Arts
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Tadeusz Kosciuszko Monument
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Essential places to dine
Three Birds Tavern
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Tap Room at the Hollander Hotel
1.5 km
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Paul's Landing
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Birch & Vine
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Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant
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Allelo
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Parkshore Grill
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Tryst Gastro Lounge
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Stillwaters Tavern
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Sea Salt
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
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BellaBrava
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Bacchus Wine Bistro
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Cassis St. Pete
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Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunken Gardens Gift Shop
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Revolve Clothing Exchange
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Canvas Fashion Gallery
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Marion's
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The Boutique Butterfly, LLC
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nEaT neaT neAT
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Coastal Soul Boutique
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The Shop
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Pink Soleil - A Lilly Pulitzer Specialty Boutique
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Vogue Society Boutique
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The Sundial
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z•aa dress up studio
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Pippa Pelure
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Adventures In Paradise Outfitters
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The Merchant - Purveyor of Local Goods
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Flute & Dram
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The Ale and the Witch
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Cane and Barrel Rooftop Bar
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Copper Shaker
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The Ship's Hold
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Welcome To The Farm
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Ruby's Elixir
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Good Night John Boy
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Five Bucks Drinkery
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Saigon Blonde
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Mandarin Hide
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Club 201 at the Detroit
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Bar@548
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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L8 Night Flights
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Reggie's Lounge
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4 Play After Dark
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Turbo Lounge
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