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If you're looking for something a little different to do in South Florida, Fruit and Spice Park in Homestead, Florida, is definitely worth putting on your list.
This isn't your typical botanical garden. Instead of focusing primarily on flowers and ornamental plants, Fruit and Spice Park is filled with tropical fruit trees, spices, herbs, palms, bamboo and other plants from around the world. As you walk through the park, you'll see things growing that you may have never encountered before.
It was a fun place to explore, especially if you enjoy gardens, tropical plants, unusual fruits or just finding something a little off the beaten path while traveling.
What You'll Find at Fruit and Spice Park
One of the things that makes Fruit and Spice Park interesting is the sheer variety of plants. The park covers a large area, with winding paths taking you through different collections and gardens.
There is plenty to see, so don't expect to walk through it in just a few minutes. Give yourself some time to wander and take everything in.
Tropical Fruit Trees
Fruit is obviously one of the big attractions here.
The park has an impressive collection of tropical fruit trees, including different varieties of mangoes, bananas and other fruits that aren't commonly found in your local grocery store.
Depending on the time of year you visit, you may see fruit growing throughout the park. Some of the more unusual fruits you'll encounter include jackfruit, sapodilla, lychee and canistel.
For someone who enjoys discovering new foods and plants, this was one of the most interesting parts of the park.
A Walk Through the Spice Garden
The park isn't just about fruit.
There are also areas dedicated to spices and herbs, including plants associated with familiar flavors such as vanilla, cinnamon, allspice and black pepper.
It's interesting to see where some of the ingredients we use in cooking actually come from. Seeing these plants growing in a tropical environment gives you a completely different perspective than seeing the finished spice sitting in a jar in your kitchen.
Take the Guided Tram Tour
If you don't want to explore the entire park on foot, look into the guided tram tour.
The tour is a great way to see more of the park while learning about the plants along the way. The guides provide information about the different fruits, spices and trees, including how some of them are used.
I always enjoy tours like this because there's so much you can walk right past without realizing what you're looking at.
Fruit Tastings
One of the fun things about Fruit and Spice Park is the opportunity to taste some of the unusual fruits.
You aren't simply allowed to walk around picking fruit from the trees, but when available, fruit can be sampled at the designated tasting area.
This is a great way to try something you've probably never had before without having to buy an entire piece of unfamiliar fruit.
Just keep in mind that what's available for tasting can depend on what's in season.
Butterfly and Pollinator Garden
There are also areas throughout the park designed to attract butterflies, bees and other pollinators.
These sections add some beautiful color and movement to the gardens and are especially enjoyable if you're interested in photography or nature.
Even when you're not specifically looking for butterflies, it's hard not to stop and look when you see them moving from plant to plant.
Bamboo and Tropical Trees
As you continue walking, you'll come across impressive bamboo and tropical hardwood trees.
The park includes a variety of tropical trees, including species such as mahogany and teak. Some of the larger trees and dense tropical growth make parts of the park feel like you've stepped into another world.
This was one of those places where I found myself looking around constantly because there was always another interesting plant or tree nearby.
Walking the Trails
One of the best things about Fruit and Spice Park is simply taking your time and walking the trails.
The paths wind through the tropical landscape, giving you plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and look at the plants along the way.
If you're visiting South Florida during the warmer months, remember that you're going to be outside in a tropical climate. Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen and a hat are good things to have with you.
I would also give yourself more time than you might initially think you need. There's a lot to look at, and part of the fun is wandering rather than rushing from one attraction to the next.
Events at Fruit and Spice Park
Fruit and Spice Park also hosts events throughout the year celebrating South Florida's agricultural heritage.
Depending on when you visit, you may find festivals, workshops, plant-related programs and other special events taking place at the park.
The Mango Festival and Redland Heritage Festival are among the events associated with the area and can make for an especially fun time to visit.
If you're planning a trip around a particular event, I recommend checking the park's current schedule before you go since dates and activities can change.
VISITOR INFORMATON
Hours of Operation
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
No admission is allowed after 4 p.m.
Park is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
Park Office
305-247-5727
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