Frequently Asked Questions



When are the gardens open to the public?
The gardens are open to the public from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day except Christmas. Last admittance at 4:30 pm.
 
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What is the admission charge?
Members are admitted free, adults $12.00, and children 6 through 11, $6.00. Children 5 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.
 
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How do I get to Selby Gardens?
From Interstate 75, take Exit 210 (Fruitville Road, formerly Exit 39) west about 7 miles all the way to the end; turn left onto U.S. 41; go through three sets of traffic lights; slow down and get in the right lane; take the first right on Palm Avenue just after the large curve. The entrance to the Gardens is at the end of the block on the right; parking is across from the entrance. If you are coming south over the Skyway Bridge on I-275, follow the signs to I-75 South and proceed as instructed above.
 
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How can I become a member?
You can become a member by filling out an application at our Visitor Center the next time you visit, by calling the Membership Department at 941-366-5731, or by completing our on-line application form in the Membership section of our website.
 
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How can I become a volunteer at Selby Gardens?
Please call our Volunteer Coordinator to learn about opportunities for helping the Gardens by calling 941-366-5731.
 
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Is Selby Gardens wheelchair accessible?
All areas of the Gardens are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs are available at no extra charge on a first come basis.
 
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Are pets allowed in the Gardens?
Pets are not allowed in the Gardens because of safety and security issues.
 
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Is there a place to eat at Selby Gardens?
Visitors can enjoy a variety of salads, sandwiches, cheese and fruit plates, desserts, flavored teas, beer and wine at Michael's in the Garden. Located in the historic Selby House, Michael's is open from 11:30-2:30 every day. Call 941-302-4762 for further information.
 
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Is there a listing of upcoming events at Selby Gardens?
An events listing is available by selecting the Events Calendar on any page of our website. You may also get a listing mailed to you by calling 941-366-5731.
 
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Do you allow weddings and receptions at the Gardens?
Our Private Events Department will be happy to help you plan your wedding and reception site. Please call 941-366-5731 to make an appointment to discuss your needs. You may also find more information in the Weddings section of the website.
 
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Do you have educational classes?
Our Community Class Coordinator has an extensive listing of classes that are taught at the Gardens. Call 941-366-5731 for further information or look in the Education section of our website for a current listing of our Community Classes.
 
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Do you have group rates?
We have special group rates for groups of 20 or more people. Please call our Tour Group Coordinator at 941-366-5731 for further details and to book your group tour.
 
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Do you allow school group tours?
School group tours can be arranged by calling our Community Programs Manager at 941-366-5731. Some information about School group tours is available in the Education section of our website.
 
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How do I make a donation to Selby Gardens?
Donations can be arranged by calling our Development Director at 941-366-5731.
 
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What is Selby Gardens mission?
The mission of The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is to understand and conserve tropical plants -- with emphasis on epiphytes and their natural habitats - through programs of research, education and horticultural display that promote appreciation of plant life and provide enjoyment for all who visit the Gardens.
 
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What is Selby Gardens vision?
Selby Gardens vision: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will be a recognized world leader in the research, identification, conservation and display of epiphytes, especially orchids and bromeliads, and their canopy ecosystems. Our collections of epiphytes, especially orchids and bromeliads, will be the best in the botanical world. Our horticulture and facilities will enhance the beauty of our natural site on Sarasota Bay and provide an enriching visitor experience. Our education programs will enlighten adults and children, and provide practical information about the importance of tropical plants in their daily lives. Our expertise and experience will be used to advocate points of view where we can make a difference.
 
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How do I enter the 24th Annual Juried Photography Exhibition?
For further information and entry forms, please contact Ms. Athene Grant (941-346-2294) or athene10@comcast.net The theme is "The Natural World: Florida and Beyond." Entries will be accepted in the following categories: Selby Gardens (color), Plant Life (color), Scenics (color), Vanishing Treasures (color), Black and White (all categories), Manipulated Imaging (all categories), What is This? (all categories), and Student (all categories; Ages 6 to 18). 20 entries per category will be juried.
 
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Selby Gardens is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Christmas.

Adults $17, Children 6-11 $6, Members Free.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

811 South Palm Avenue
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-366-5731
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