Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden Anchors Local Education and Conservation

The Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden is a distinctive public resource in Monroe County, preserving a rare continental United States example of tropical moist forest on 7.5 acres at 5310 College Road. The site contains more than 170 species of trees and plants, supports habitat for local wildlife, and conserves numerous rare and endangered tropical species, making it both a living collection and a functioning ecosystem.

Visitors and residents can tap into a steady calendar of events that includes yoga, story time, "Garden Guardians" volunteer days, special exhibits, guided walks and seasonal birding activities. The garden also runs children’s programs and periodic community science projects that engage volunteers and school groups in data collection and habitat stewardship. The garden maintains seasonal hours, membership and volunteer opportunities, and a phone contact for visitor questions. Some events require advance registration or a small fee.

Locally the garden functions as a classroom, a leisure destination and a conservation site. Educational programming gives children and adults hands on exposure to tropical ecology, while volunteer days mobilize local residents to maintain trails, monitor species and contribute to community science records. Those activities expand public awareness of native and endangered species and build a base of unpaid labor and civic investment that complements municipal conservation efforts.

Economically the garden contributes to Monroe County’s tourism and quality of life. As an accessible, year round attraction in Key West it draws day visitors and longer stay tourists who seek natural and cultural experiences. That visitation supports local businesses and reinforces the county’s broader strategy of leveraging natural assets for sustainable tourism.

Looking ahead the garden’s role will remain important as Monroe County navigates environmental pressures on coastal resources and seeks to integrate conservation with economic development. Continued support through memberships, volunteerism and public funding will be central to maintaining the site for education, recreation and species preservation. For up to date event information and visitor questions contact the garden by phone or consult the garden calendar.