Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

1801 North Ocean Boulevard, Boca Raton, FL

Open Monday thru Saturday 9:00am until 4:00pm, Sundays 12:00pm until 4:00pm

The other day while Brian and I were out and about, we made a trip to the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center situated right off of A1A in Boca Raton.  As I've probably mentioned before, I am constantly on the hunt for new things to do and places to explore, with this being one place that has been on my list since I moved down here. 

We were surprised at the variety of attractions offered at the nature center.  You can visit the sea turtle rehabilitation facility used to rescue sick and injured sea turtles.  There are a number of sea tanks and pavilions with fish and other sea creatures--sharks, lobsters, puffer fish, and sting rays-- built to show the various South Florida marine habitats.

Extending past the sea tanks and nature center is a quarter-mile boardwalk trail through a preserved Hardwood Hammock.  Midway through the boardwalk trail, you can climb a 40-ft lookout tower that towers just above the giant trees, looking out onto a beautiful view of the Intracoastal Waterway.  Although this is an extraordinarily cool feature that I would recommend checking out, if you have a weak stomach when it comes to heights, you may want to think twice before climbing the steps all the way to the top (I could feel the tower swaying ever-so-slightly--YIPES!)

On the grounds of this environmental complex include another nature trail, the Ashley Trail, which leads to the Butterfly Garden where you can see several different species of butterflies (the best time to visit the garden is between May and June when the flowers are in full bloom).

This place is such a fun spot to visit--great for both kids and adults!  Admission is free, but $5 donations to the center are definitely encouraged.  And they have a variety of event going on throughout the year here as well--including the Green Turtle Gallop, a timed 10K run in April of this year, which I am DYING to sign up for.