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About the Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation

The Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation (FBGF) is a fund raising entity (501c3) created to provide leadership and financial support for the Florida Botanical Gardens. The FBGF began as the Friends of the Gardens in 1993 for the purposes of encouraging interest in and support for a botanical garden in Pinellas County.

The Friends became the FBGF in 2003 as a cooperative public private partnership with the intent to enrich the cultural and educational opportunities of the community at a significantly reduced cost to the taxpayers. The FBGF has successfully partnered with Pinellas County to maintain, expand and improve the Gardens since then.

Our Mission

To support The Florida Botanical Gardens as a natural oasis that engages and inspires through education, enjoyment and well-being.

Our Strategic Initiatives

Engage: Offer opportunities and activities for a diverse audience to connect with the unique natural environments found withing the Gardens.
Educate: Provide nature-based educational experiences for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Grow: Diversify and increase Garden visitor attendance, Foundation membership, community connections, and financial support ensuring the Gardens maintains its status as a nature sanctuary and a permier tourist attraction.
Enhance: Advance the continual improvement of the Gardens and its collections to enrich the experience for all visitors.
Advocate: Champion the Gardens as a nature sanctuary that brings value, education, and meaningful connection to all visitors.

To learn more about our Position Statements and Strategic Initiatives, view our Strategic Plan.
Strategic Plan 2026

The Story

It all began in the late 1990’s when a small group of dedicated garden lovers dreamt of creating a verdant oasis in the heart of Pinellas County. It is through their efforts the Florida Botanical Gardens opened in December 2000, converting 100 acres in the middle of the most densely populated county in Florida into a diverse garden paradise.

Garden areas are devoted to unique botanical specimens, showcasing outstanding tropical and subtropical flora and fauna, as well as incorporating water and art features. You will see themed formal gardens, featuring roses, topiaries, palms, vines, succulents and azaleas, as well as gardens dedicated to native plants, tropical fruit, herbs and butterflies. The Majeed Discovery Garden delights younger visitors as they are able to connect with nature through its many unique features.

The Foundation has been a major supporter of the gardens since its inception. Foundation events help promote community awareness and generate resources to support growth and enhancements. Holiday Lights in the Gardens provides an enchanting evening where the Gardens are decorated with more than one million sparkling, eco-friendly LED lights.

Visit often, bring a friend, a picnic and discover seasonal delights. Admission is always free. Please help preserve and support this remarkable Pinellas County gem - become a member today!