Heathcote Botanical Gardens: A Senior-Friendly Guide to Visiting
A 2024 study shows that gardening improves cognitive status in seniors, which means that older adults should participate in this activity. However, you may not always have access to a garden, nor will you have the physical and/or mental energy to garden either.
The next best thing is appreciating the gardening work others have done. Not only can it be fun to see what others come up with, but it's good to get some physical activity and fresh air in.
So in that case, if you're in or near Fort Pierce, FL, you should visit Heathcote Botanical Gardens.
About Heathcote Botanical Gardens
If you're looking for outdoor activities for seniors, then there's no better place to go than Heathcote Botanical Gardens. It's a charming and peaceful retreat that's perfect for those who enjoy gardening, nature, and relaxing outdoor experiences.
The gardens are handicap accessible since there are paved and packed gravel pathways, and they even have wheelchairs available. If you'd like to walk, then rest easy knowing that there are plenty of benches and shaded spots for resting. In addition, they have accessible restrooms on-site.
If you want to bring your pet, it's possible; just pay a $1 fee for each that comes along. The exception is during Garden of Lights, when pets aren't permitted.
Operating Hours, Admission, and Parking
The gardens are located at 210 Savannah Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34982. They're closed on Mondays and most major holidays, as well as Sundays from May to October. Otherwise, you can visit Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sundays from November to April from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Admission costs $12 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-17. However, children under six get in for free, and seniors over 65 just pay $10.
If you're a veteran with ID, a retired/active first responder with ID, or a garden member, you get in for free. AHS Reciprocal Garden members can also get in for free, but the botanical garden suggests that you make a donation.
What's great is that there's free parking on the premises. There are even designated handicap spots available near the entrance so you don't have to go far to get inside.
The Best Times to Visit
Floridian weather can be harsh, so you want to plan your trip during optimal times. In general, you should go during the fall and winter (October through March) since there are mild temperatures and fewer mosquitos. The summer (July through September) can be hot and humid, but if you go in the morning or late afternoon, it can still be enjoyable.
Don't write off spring (April through June) either. This is when many flowers are in full bloom, so you'll get a fantastic and vibrant visual show!
What to Do in Heathcote Botanical Gardens
Those searching for things to do in Florida won't be disappointed here. Here are the must-do activities in these accessible gardens.
James J. Smith Bonsai Gallery
Bonsai is an art from ancient Japan that's made it all over the world. James J. Smith was a world-class bonsai master and you'll get to see his curated collection here. It's one of the largest public tropical bonsai collections in the US, so it's a must-see when visiting.
Japanese Garden
The Japanese garden was originally created by Mollie Crimmins, a woman who was well-known for her Japanese garden design. While most of her designs have been lost, Heathcote Botanical Gardens has worked hard to preserve this garden.
Make sure that you take time to observe the traditional elements and symbols incorporated in the design. The architecture is a work of wonder, especially in the replica tea house!
Butterfly Garden
Your heart will be full of bliss when you stroll through the butterfly garden. Not only is it filled with colorful flowers, but you'll also spot gorgeous butterflies flitting about, making it a lively scene. It's one of the most interesting nature walks for seniors because of this!
There are over 35 species of plants and this garden is part of the National Pollinator Garden Network (NPGN). It's definitely a beautiful place to snap pictures in.
Community Garden
Visit the community garden to see volunteers hard at work, planting vegetables, herbs, and fruit trees. What's impressive is that they only use local organic materials, and no chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
What's even more commendable is that they donate all harvests to Fort Pierce families in need. So while admiring the volunteers' hard work, make sure to compliment them too!
Herb Garden
Heathcote Botanical Gardens has a specific herb garden where you can appreciate both sights and scents. The Heathcote Herb Society started this garden in 1994, and there are many rare and unusual herbs planted here, thanks to the passion of the herb-loving founders.
After a trip to the herb garden, you'll surely appreciate your daily chef-prepared meals provided by the senior living community you reside in.
Pioneer House, Field, and FL Native Plants
The Pioneer House (aka Florida Cracker House) is truly a treat to visit. It's a replica of what the settlers lived in 200 years ago. Nowadays, it's the grounds for garden festivals and other fun events.
All around the Pioneer House are Florida native plants. So not only is it an educational experience, but it's a sensory one too.
Reflection Garden
It's important to find inner peace and serenity, which means the reflection garden tops the list for senior-friendly attractions. It's a quiet haven that's separated from the rest of Heathcote Botanical Gardens, so you won't have to worry about loud crowds.
In this space, you can sit and do whatever you like. Whether you want to meditate, read, or soak in the natural surroundings, you're welcome to stay for hours.
Find Peace at the Heathcote Botanical Gardens
Heathcote Botanical Gardens is a wonderful destination if you're seeking a peaceful outdoor escape. The gardens are very accessible too, so as long as you wear comfortable shoes, it shouldn't be a problem to walk the paths.
Depending on when you go, it can be sunny and warm, so don't forget to pack your hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. And plan for breaks, too.
Would you like to get into assisted living in Fort Pierce? Then schedule a tour at The Lynmoore at Lawnwood today. We have plenty of social events and activities to keep residents active and happy!