The Kampong – National Tropical Botanical Garden in Miami

There is so much beauty to be found in the world if you just know where to look, and one place you can definitely find it is at the National Tropical Botanical Garden in Miami. Referred to as The Kampong, this 11-acre tropical garden is a must-see for anyone who appreciates exquisite greenery. Want to know a little more about The Kampong? Keep reading for more information.

A Little History
The Kampong is actually one of five gardens that make up the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Located in Miami, specifically in the neighborhood of Coconut Grove, the property changed hands several times before it was purchased in 1916 by Dr. David Fairchild and his wife Marian and named The Kampong. It all started because of the doctor’s love of plants as he was a plant collector and a horticulturist. The home that they built there in 1928 still remains.

Plants
You’ll find numerous types of plants at The Kampong including mango trees, avocado trees, and citrus trees. There are also a variety of palm specimens on the property as well as flowering trees. We’d also be remiss if we didn’t mention the bamboo, but all of that is just the start of what you’ll find during your visit. If you love plants and nature, there will be plenty for you to explore.

Bali Ha’i Party
While there is always a good reason to visit The Kampong, there is a garden party coming up by the name of Bali Ha’i that you may want to check out, especially if it will be your first time visiting the property. It’s set to take place on Sunday, April 3rd with a VIP preview party at 4 pm and the party itself starting at 5 pm. Tickets are available online for $150 and $350. This year, the party is in honor of the 100th year since the Fairchilds bought the property. Cocktails and food will be served.

Tours
If you’re interested in touring The Kampong, there are self-guided and guided tours that you can take. The self-guided tours are available Monday through Friday with a possibility on Saturdays, and guided tours are available Wednesdays and Saturdays from September to November and Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from December to June. The self-guided tour ranges in price from free for kids 3 and under to $15 for those 13 and up. The price for a guided tour is free for kids 3 and under and goes up to $20 for those 13 and up.

Lectures
There is always a new lecture in the works at The Kampong. A calendar of events is available on their website. The next lecture on the schedule is on March 10 where the talk is with the author of The Biology of Mangroves and Seagrasses with another lecture set to take place on March 17 by the name of “Explore the problem with exotic mangroves.”

You can learn so much from spending even a short time at The Kampong in Miami. It’s a great way to get kids interested in nature or even to become more interested in it yourself as an adult. There is constantly something new going on, so make sure to check out their website and Facebook page for all the latest information.