One of the hidden treasures of USF is our beautiful Botanical Gardens. Just a short walk to the research park but somehow in the three years of being a student at USF, I just recently paid a visit. And only for a $1 might I add. The botanical gardens were established in 1969 for use by the Biology Department in the USF College of Arts and Sciences. It consists of about 16 acres of gardens and greenbelt on our very own campus. The Gardens maintains a living collection of more than 3,000 of plants, animals and natural habitats.
Garden Hours
Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday, noon - 4 p.m.
Map:
You start in the plant shop where you pay the entrance fee and then move into the conservatory where your exploration begins. And then find yourself in front of the HoyaHut.
They even have a healing garden.
You can visit the demonstration gardens and greenhouses where you can see hundreds of labeled plants and seedlings and even buy some for your home. On top of that, the staff is extremely nice and helpful.
Check the online Events calendar for the monthly plant fairs; the annual Spring and Fall fairs are very popular and offer unique experiences for us locals. And they host a honey tasting event every year.
If you're into bees and want to learn about beekeeping, the USF Botanical Gardens offers beekeeping workshops throughout the year.
I recommend visiting the garden, if you haven't already. Its luscious plant life and peaceful environment is such a treat to explore. And this is the perfect time of year to get outside and enjoy your surroundings.


























