Our Story
McKee Botanical Garden is Vero Beach’s first and oldest award-winning attraction. Founded in 1932 by Arthur McKee and Waldo Sexton, and designed by William Lyman Phillips of the Olmsted Brothers firm, the Garden was created to preserve Florida’s native hammock and showcase rare tropical plants from around the world. Originally known as McKee Jungle Gardens, it quickly became one of Florida’s top three visitor attractions.
Preservation and Renewal
Although the Garden closed in 1976 and most of its original 80 acres were developed, 18 acres were spared. In 1988, when plans for a shopping center threatened the site, a passionate community effort led to the creation of the Indian River Land Trust. With support from The Trust for Public Land, the remaining acreage was saved, restored, and reopened in 2001 as McKee Botanical Garden—a nonprofit dedicated to education, conservation, and cultural enrichment.
Statement of Environmental Sustainability
A Living Legacy
Today, McKee welcomes more than 130,000 visitors annually and hosts signature events including an annual exhibit, the Pirate & Fairy Festival in May, the Waterlily Festival in June, the Rare & Exotic Orchid Show & Sale in September, and JUNGLE LIGHTS each December. Supported by more than 7,000 members, the Garden offers a robust range of educational programs for children, families, and adults.
Recognition and Excellence
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Florida Heritage Landmark, McKee has earned national acclaim. National Geographic Traveler named it one of the top 20 places of “surprise and sanctuary” in North America. It is the first Florida garden—and only the third in the U.S.—to receive the Jean and John Greene Prize for Excellence in American Gardening from The Garden Conservancy. Additionally, 51 of McKee’s waterlilies have been recognized as a Collection of Excellence by the International Waterlily and Water Gardening Society—an honor shared by only seven gardens worldwide.
Our Commitment
McKee’s legacy is one of vision, resilience, and a steadfast dedication to preserving an extraordinary piece of Florida’s natural and cultural heritage—ensuring its beauty, biodiversity, and inspiration endure for generations to come.
