SUNKEN GARDENS

By  Mike Miller May 30, 2025

Sunken Gardens is a 4-acre botanical garden in St. Petersburg, Florida. Located at 1825 4th Street North, it’s one of Florida’s oldest roadside attractions.

The garden features over 50,000 tropical plants, flamingos, and parrots. Visitors can explore winding paths, ponds, and waterfalls. It’s a peaceful retreat in the city.

Flamingos at Sunken Gardens

In 1903, plumber George Turner Sr. bought 6 acres with a shallow lake. He drained it to create a sunken garden. Turner planted papayas, citrus, and exotic plants.

By the 1920s, he charged a nickel for tours. In 1935, he fenced the garden and raised admission to 24 cents. From the 1950s to 1970s, it was a top Florida attraction.

After Turner’s death in 1961, his sons continued operations. In 1998, it became a Local Historic Landmark.

The City of St. Petersburg bought it in 1999 to preserve it. A History Center opened in 2022 in the 1940 entrance. 

Sunken Gardens is at 1825 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. From I-275, take exit 23A, follow 4th Street North, and the garden is on the left.

It’s open Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 4:30 PM, and Sunday, noon to 4:30 PM. Last admission is at 4 PM. The garden is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Paths are mostly ADA-accessible; wheelchairs are allowed but not provided. Book docent-led tours for groups by calling (727) 551-3102.

Stay on paths and avoid touching plants or animals. Visit in spring for vibrant blooms. Check the website for events like yoga or horticulture classes.

• The Rainbow Eucalyptus tree has a multicolored trunk, unique in Florida.  

• George and Lucy, two original flamingos, still live in the garden.  

• The 1940 entrance, once a gift shop, now houses the History Center.  

• A 1926 market building became the “World’s Largest Gift Shop” in 1967.  

• The gardens hosted Miss Florida pageants in 1947 and 1949.  

• Over 500 plant species include rare orchids and giant plumeria trees.  

• A children’s book, Sophie & Zack at Sunken Gardens, funds school field trips. 

SUNKEN GARDENS WEBSITE