Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Are you looking for a culturally significant indoor activity while vacationing in Fort Lauderdale? The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in the richness of the 1920s era and explore a stunning plantation home. 

With its remarkable architecture and beautiful interior, you'll be glad you stumbled upon this gem during your visit.

Bonnet House was created by a Chicago-area artist named Frederic Clay Bartlett, situated right on the oceanfront. The property was gifted to him and his second wife by her father. Sadly, she passed away just a few years later, but Frederic remarried a woman named Evelyn Fortune Lilly. She continued to live in the house until 1995. 

The fascinating history of the house and its residents contributes to the artistic elements found throughout this stunning home. In fact, when you walk in, you'll learn a great deal about the area and the house itself. 

And the variety of tours available caters to different preferences. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, a self-guided tour is a perfect choice. Alternatively, you can opt for a mobile-friendly, tablet-like tour that provides information as you walk through the house—a neat option for tech-savvy visitors! 

But if you're interested in diving deep into the history and stories of the location, a guided tour is the way to go.

Exploring the rich history and illustrious artistic influence of Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a must-visit location for vacationers seeking a blend of culture and leisure. Not only will you appreciate the original architecture and captivating interior, but you will also leave with a wealth of knowledge about the stories behind this fascinating plantation home. 

Book a tour and experience the timeless charm of Bonnet House Museum & Gardens for yourself!

Fun Facts & Cool Features

This incredible spot in Fort Lauderdale is a testament to art expression, environmental preservation, and history. The property boasts stunning features such as unique architecture, vibrant colors, and a variety of collected art pieces, thanks to Frederic, the dedicated art collector who once called this place home.

Among the incredible artworks found here are original pieces like “Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte” by Georges Seurat and Pablo Picasso’s “The Old Guitarist.” Seeing these masterpieces in person is definitely a fascinating experience for all vacationers visiting the museum.

The striking gardens surrounding the house are not to be overlooked, as they showcase five very distinct ecosystems on the property. With diverse landscapes such as a beach area, dunes, and water elements, the gardens offer something for everyone and are well-maintained all year round. In spring, the gardens burst into bloom, creating breathtaking views for visitors to enjoy.

Moreover, the area is home to a wide variety of birds, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. Be sure to bring your camera to capture these beautiful creatures and the stunning surroundings.

In fact, after the death of its owner, the Bonnet House was dedicated to preserving the historical treasures within and the environment around it. This exceptional commitment is evident in the thoughtful updates made by the Bartletts and the Birches throughout the property's history. 

So as you explore the museum and gardens, you'll be immersed in a captivating blend of art, culture, and natural beauty.

Getting There

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is located on NE 9th Street, right past N. Birch Road. 

It’s easy to get to right off of the highway, near the marina.

Cost

Admission for the Self-Guided Tour: 

•  Adults: $25 per person
• Children 6 -17: $8 per person—5 and under are free.
• Bonnet House Members: $8
• Additional tours and prices can be found on their website.