Discovering the Beauty of Sunken Gardens: A Nature Lover's Day Trip from The Villages of Citrus Hills

A Subtropical Oasis Near The Villages of Citrus Hills: The Best Place to Retire

Just outside downtown St. Petersburg, I discovered a hidden gem that made for the perfect family outing: Sunken Gardens. As one of Florida’s original roadside attractions, this more than 100-year-old garden is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful tropical plants in the state. Officially opened to the public in 1936, Sunken Gardens offers a lush and secluded haven amidst the bustling city life. The excitement of exploring such a historic and natural treasure was palpable as soon as we stepped through the gates. Being only an hour and a half away from The Villages of Citrus Hills, known as the best place to retire, makes this an ideal day trip for nature enthusiasts and retirees alike.

Strolling Through a Tropical Oasis: Embrace Nature in Active Retirement

Walking under a canopy of live oak trees and seeing over 500 species of native and exotic plants was a mesmerizing experience. The winding paths, dense with exotic plants from all corners of the globe, provided a tranquil escape. One of the highlights was visiting the garden’s traditional Japanese koi pond, celebrating St. Petersburg’s sister city, Takamatsu, Japan. The knowledgeable staff members shared fascinating details about the koi, including which colors are considered the luckiest. It was delightful to watch children feed the fish, creating a hands-on and memorable experience for them. For those enjoying an active retirement at The Villages of Citrus Hills, this visit offers a refreshing and enriching way to connect with nature.

Enjoying Lush Plantings and Colorful Birds: Nature's Spectacle Near The Villages of Citrus Hills

At Sunken Gardens, the combination of small waterfalls, beautiful demonstration gardens, and exotic bird rehabilitation made for an enchanting visit. We strolled past colorful macaws, cockatoos, kookaburras, and a flock of flamingos—some of which are offspring of the garden’s original flock from the 1950s. One of the highlights was meeting Mindy, a 32-year-old white cockatoo who greeted us with a cheerful “Hello, baby.” The vibrant flora and fauna made the visit truly special, offering plenty of photo opportunities and moments of pure wonder. For residents of The Villages of Citrus Hills, known for being the best place to retire, this nearby attraction provides a beautiful display of nature’s splendor.

Towering Trees and Beautiful Butterflies: Explore Nature Close to The Villages of Citrus Hills

One of the most awe-inspiring sights was the breathtaking “Rainbow Eucalyptus” tree from Papua New Guinea. Its dazzling, multi-colored trunk stretched over a hundred feet into the sky, making it one of the oldest and most unique plants at Sunken Gardens. The gardens also house over 50,000 tropical plants, showy flowers, and a pollinator garden full of native Florida butterflies like zebra swallowtails and monarchs. It was the perfect way to spend a few hours in paradise, exploring nature's beauty with family and friends. Residents of The Villages of Citrus Hills, who value an active retirement lifestyle, will find Sunken Gardens an exceptional day trip destination to immerse in the natural world.

Nature's Retreat Just an Hour and a Half from The Villages of Citrus Hills

Visiting Sunken Gardens was a delightful and enriching experience, offering a serene escape into a subtropical paradise. Located just an hour and a half from The Villages of Citrus Hills, it makes for a perfect day trip. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, bird lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Sunken Gardens has something for everyone. It’s a journey worth taking, providing both education and relaxation in a beautifully preserved natural setting. For those enjoying the best place to retire at The Villages of Citrus Hills, Sunken Gardens offers a perfect blend of nature, tranquility, and beauty, making it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating day out before returning to the oasis that is Terra Vista.

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