Unmissable if you're a gardener, or just appreciate some decent scenery. Tropical plants abound in 83 acres of botanic gardens, greenhouses etc. It's home to some of the largest collections of palms, vines and other exotic and not-so-exotic trees, flowers and plants in North America.
You can walk yourself round, take the free tram tour, or both.
Until May 31 2006, the grounds are home to a large and colourful collection of Dale Chihuly glass sculptures, which really light up the scenery. (He had a similar scattered exhibition at Kew Gardens before Christmas - I've seen both and the Fairchild collection is twice as impressive).
10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables 33156 (less than 20 minutes in the car, a few miles south of downtown Miami); tel: 305 667 1651; Admission $20 (OAPs $15, kids $10); www.fairchildgarden.org
There are currently still some Chihuly glass exhibits, plus Lichtenstein and Botero until end of May 08. Fairchild is also a very good place for seeing local nature. Also guided tours of parts of the garden are very good too. The restaurant is very good quality and value - Miami Herald top spot for lunch.
Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
Search Been there
