It’s definitely a bug’s world at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. The 83 acres of curated tropical landscape are teeming with tiny critters. Careful—some bite. Others are works of art–brought to massive life. Bugging Out: A Bug’s World But Bigger, an exhibition of giant insect sculptures, is making this tranquil refuge in South Miami buzz with excitement. The show, which features specimens from all over the world, opened on May 23 and runs through September 28, 2025.
I visited the garden on a quiet Wednesday morning before the sun reached its full strength. Still, the heat was already felt.
Flowers, plants, trees, ponds, and waterfalls grace the well-landscaped garden. A cactus garden features species of varying sizes—some tall, some short—in an array of colors, from pink, rose-resembling blooms to overflowing yellow stems, all basking in the Miami sun.
To balance the heat, visitors can stroll through misty rainforest trails with trickling waterfalls and lush, shady leaves. There are plenty of shaded spots to stay cool, along with air-conditioned indoor areas like the café and gift shop. Bring a handheld fan for extra comfort.
Insect repellent is highly recommended. Sit too long on any of the benches, and you’ll likely get bitten. Some seating areas are perfectly positioned under trees, inviting moments of silent reverie and introspection—but without protection you’ll feel the pinch of flying critters.
This is a place for movement, with winding trails and art to discover—both natural and man-made. Many of the flowers and trees from around the world are masterpieces in what feels like God’s own museum. And despite the irksome bugs, there are a few insects you won’t want to scare away: butterflies.
You’ll be lucky if some large, exotic blue butterflies flutter around you. That’s likely to happen in the Wings of the Tropics exhibit, a large enclosure simulating a tropical rainforest. Native species—including Monarchs—grace the garden as well. An outdoor butterfly garden, planted with many native species, draws these delicate creatures in. You’ll see them sweeping around in groups, and if your energy is welcoming, one might even flutter into your path. Just don’t try to photograph them—they hate to be captured.
WHEN: May 23 – September 28, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: Fairchild Botanical Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd. Coral Gables, FL 33156
ADMISSION: Tickets are required for all attendees
Adults: $24.95
Seniors (65+): $17.95
Children (3-11): $11.95
Free for Fairchild members and children under 2
For more information: www.fairchildgarden.org or call 305-667-1651
Miami Chronicles 