Sarasota Jungle Gardens | Sarasota

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a long-standing tourist attraction in Sarasota, Florida, that has been delighting visitors since its opening on December 31, 1939. Spanning over 10 acres, it offers a unique blend of botanical beauty and wildlife encounters.

History

• The land where the gardens now stand was initially a swampy banana grove. In the early 1930s, David Breed Lindsay, a local newspaperman, purchased the 10-acre plot with the vision of creating a botanical garden.
• With the help of his neighbor and friend, Pearson Conrad, who owned a local nursery, Lindsay began to develop the gardens, importing numerous tropical plants and charting streams and lakes.
• By 1936, the gardens' growing popularity led to the introduction of an admission fee.
• Originally named "The Sarasota Jungle," it officially opened to the public in its current form in 1940.
• In 1971, the gardens were acquired by the Allyn family, who continue to own and manage them today.
• Over the years, Sarasota Jungle Gardens has hosted significant events, including several Miss Florida pageants in the 1960s.
• "Jungle Jim," a talking Mynah bird from the gardens, gained national attention with appearances on the Today Show in the 1960s.

Features and Attractions

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is home to a diverse collection of both flora and fauna, offering a variety of experiences for visitors:

• Botanical Gardens: The 10 acres feature a wide array of native and exotic plants, including towering palm trees, vibrant tropical flowers, bamboo, succulents, and rare trees like the Australian nut tree and the largest Norfolk Island pine in Florida. Visitors can explore these through winding trails.
• Free-roaming Flamingos: One of the most iconic attractions is the flock of free-roaming flamingos that guests can hand-feed.
• Animal Encounters: The gardens house over 200 animals, including various birds of prey, parrots, macaws, primates (like lemurs), small mammals, reptiles (such as alligators, crocodiles, snakes, lizards, and iguanas).
• Interactive Animal Shows: Daily shows feature parrots, reptiles, and other animals, offering educational and entertaining experiences.
• Up-close Interactions: Opportunities are available for close encounters with some animals, such as holding an alligator or posing with a parrot (for an additional fee). Private animal experiences can also be booked.
• Butterfly Garden: A serene space filled with colorful butterflies. (Future plans include an enclosed butterfly garden).
• Gardens of Christ: Dioramas depicting the life and death of Jesus Christ.
• Playground: A children's playground is available for younger visitors.
• Flamingo Cafe: Offers snacks, sandwiches, and beverages.
• Gift Shop: For souvenirs and essentials.

Location and Hours

• Address: 3701 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34234, United States.
• Hours: Generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, but it's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary and they are closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens aims to educate and inspire visitors of all ages through interactive experiences with nature and animals, making it a beloved family-friendly attraction in the Sarasota area.