Now owned by the city of St. Petersburg, these grounds were originally carved out of a large sinkhole and shallow lake by plumber George Turner in 1924. The attraction fell into disrepair over the years, but since the city has taken over, 6,000 new plants have been added, plus a beautiful butterfly garden. Gone is the tacky souvenir store and in its place is a modern Rainforest Information Center.
If you are still enough you might have a butterfly perch on your hand and you can enjoy Kodak® moments featuring flamingos and other birds among a backdrop of draping pink bougainvillea and massive Live Oaks.
This is the most reasonably priced attraction in Florida and well worth the visit if you are in the Tampa Bay area.
Information and Directions
Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.Admission costs $8 for adults, $4 for children and $6 for senior citizens. Garden tours, school field trips, and private rentals are available. Call 727-551-3100 for further information.
