Sunken Gardens

When I told my family that we visited the Sunken Garden this weekend I heard several comments about a garden in a hole, or a garden that collapsed. Well, even though they thought they were being funny both descriptions are slightly true. The garden was created from a drained lake in St. Petersburg and I believe the lake was created by a sink hole. So you see; out of humor comes truth.

The gardens are located in St. Petersburg, FL close to I-275, so the attraction is easy to find. During our visit on Memorial Day, parking was abundant and FREE. Admission was $8.00 -- $7.00 if you are an AAA member.

My husband was captivated by the exotic birds, the kois, and the snapping turtle. These birds were caged, so park visitors could stand and enjoy their music, calls, and preening. My funny moment was when I heard a “HELLO”, “HELLO”, which I promptly responded with a “HELLO”, “HELLO” thinking wow they have trained these birds to talk to us. I was surprised to discover that it was another visitor talking to the birds and not the birds talking to me. Embarrassing moment.

From the Oak Pavilion, to the wedding lawn, on to the butterfly garden, and finishing with the cactus garden; we enjoyed the walk through the shaded tile pathway winding downward to the lowest part of the garden which was 5 feet below street level where the alligator snapping turtle resided in his own little pond.

It was so calming and relaxing. With several benches throughout the museum it is lovely just to sit and pretend that bustling St. Pete is just over the wall. Don’t miss sitting on the growing stone where legend has it that by sitting on the stone you will be blessed with Tranquility, Harmony and the ability to grow things. Hope that it helps with my growing of tomatoes and bell peppers. I’ll let you know.

Enjoy Florida!!