Pinecrest Gardens is the newest Village of Pinecrest park even though the site has been a major tourist attraction since the world famous Parrot Jungle was founded there in the 1930’s by Austrian born Franz Scherr. Village of Pinecrest purchased the property in December 2002 and officially opened Pinecrest Gardens to the public in March 2003.
When you visit Pinecrest Gardens you will truly stroll through paradise. The winding path, which was originally dug through coral rock and hammock land, provides an incredible panorama of towering banyans, natural streams, rare and exotic tropical plants, caves, hardwood and cypress hammocks, and much more. There are numerous spots in this special respite to sit and rest as well as lots of picnic tables in various areas.
It’s not just a place to see. There is plenty to do. Young children especially enjoy the Splash-n-Play, petting zoo, the butterfly garden and the playground. I visited on a very rainy Monday afternoon, so the Splash-n-Play was closed due to weather; and no children were on the playground. However, the winding path had numerous visitors enjoying the gorgeous views. Even the Meadow, 
where flamingos used to “march,” was absolutely stunning. Both children and adults can participate in various fun and enrichment classes and other special programs. Special community events are often held there, as are birthday parties and weddings.
Pinecrest Gardens is an absolutely “must visit” park. There is just no way to really “feel” or experience this park through the eyes of someone else. You can spend a great family afternoon for FREE! Pictures below are a few of the things you’ll see. Click on each one to enlarge.
Over the past seven days I’ve talked about all seven parks in Village of Pinecrest.
1. Ground-breaking for Flagler Grove Park
2. Coral Pine Park – perfect for birthday parties or tennis
3. Veterns Wayside Park – improvements in progress
4. Suniland Park – including baseball and football leagues
5. Evelyn Greer Park – featured in Parenting Magazine
6. Red Road Linear Park – long, skinny and peaceful
7. Pinecrest Gardens – crown jewel of the park system.
Tomorrow I’ll do an overview of the entire Village of Pinecrest park system.