Fort Lauderdale, often celebrated for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, is also home to a lesser-known but equally enchanting treasure: The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens and overlooking the serene waters of the Atlantic Ocean, The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a captivating blend of art, history, and nature. This enchanting estate offers visitors a unique glimpse into South Florida’s past while providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
A Brief History
The Bonnet House was built in 1920 by Chicago-born artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Helen Louise Birch Bartlett. The estate spans 35 acres of pristine barrier island habitat, a rare find in the rapidly developing region. The name “Bonnet House” is derived from the Bonnet Lily, a type of water lily that once thrived on the property.
Frederic Bartlett was a talented artist and passionate collector of art and artifacts. His artistic vision is evident throughout the house which is filled with murals, paintings, and unique architectural features. The house’s design is an eclectic mix of Caribbean-style plantation architecture and Mediterranean Revival influences, creating a charming and visually striking environment.
After Helen’s untimely death in 1925, Frederic remarried Evelyn Fortune Lilly, an accomplished artist in her own right. The couple continued to develop the property, adding their personal touches and expanding the gardens. Evelyn’s influence is particularly visible in the house’s whimsical decor and vibrant colors, reflecting her joyful spirit and artistic flair.
The Bonnet House remained a private residence until Evelyn’s death in 1997, after which the estate was bequeathed to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation. Today, The Bonnet House is a museum open to the public, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the artistic and natural beauty cultivated by the Bartletts.
Exploring The Bonnet House
The Bonnet House offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some highlights:
Gardens and Grounds: The gardens are a horticultural marvel, featuring a diverse array of tropical and subtropical plants. Wander through the meticulously maintained grounds, which include a desert garden, a hibiscus garden, and an orchid display house. The estate’s proximity to the ocean also means that it serves as a sanctuary for various wildlife species, including monkeys, swans, and colorful birdlife. Don’t miss the charming shell museum, showcasing a collection of shells gathered from around the world.
Art and Architecture: Inside the house, the Bartletts’ artistic legacy is on full display. The interior is adorned with Frederic’s murals and paintings and a collection of decorative arts from around the globe. Each room offers a glimpse into the couple’s eclectic tastes and their appreciation for beauty in all its forms. The house itself is a work of art, with coral stone columns, breezy verandas, and open-air courtyards designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Handpainted Ceilings: One of the most striking features of The Bonnet House is the custom, handpainted murals on the ceilings in the courtyard area. Frederic Bartlett meticulously crafted each mural, showcasing his artistic talent and attention to detail. These vibrant, intricate designs add a unique and personal touch to the space, making the courtyard a true masterpiece of art and architecture.
This was one of my favorite rooms in the house, offering 360-degree views of Frederic Bartlett’s art collection. There is a mix of styles on display, so you can surely spend some time here looking at all the different paintings and artifacts.
To see the upstairs portion of The Bonnet House, you’ll need to book a ticket for a guided tour. The tour takes you through the private living quarters and offers a deeper look into the Bartlett family’s life. Without a tour ticket, access to the upstairs area is restricted, so be sure to plan ahead if you want to explore this exclusive part of the estate. For my visit, I purchased a self-guided ticket to the downstairs portion of the house and the gardens.
A charming gate once allowed those who stayed at The Bonnet House direct access to the beach, but it has been locked, preserving the estate’s tranquility. While you can no longer walk directly to the ocean, you still take in the serene beauty of the beachfront, framed perfectly by the lush gardens of The Bonnet House.
One of the most charming aspects of the gardens is the shell museum (pictured left), where visitors can explore a collection of shells gathered from around the world as well as a private bar (pictured right) where guests to the estate would often be entertained. This quirky exhibit reflects the Bartletts’ love of nature and their desire to share its wonders with others.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, here’s what you need to know:
Location: The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is located at 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. It is conveniently situated near Fort Lauderdale Beach, making it an easy addition to your day of exploring the area.
Tickets: General admission tickets for adults are $25, while tickets for children aged 6-17 are $10. Children under 6 can enter for free. Discounts are available for seniors and students with a valid ID. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Tours: The Bonnet House offers several tour options to enhance your visit. Guided tours, led by knowledgeable docents, provide in-depth information about the house’s history, architecture, and the Bartlett family. Self-guided tours are also available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Specialty tours, including behind-the-scenes and private tours, can be booked in advance for a more personalized experience.
Hours of Operation: The Bonnet House is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Special Events: Throughout the year, The Bonnet House hosts a variety of special events and exhibitions. Check their website or contact the museum for information on upcoming events during your visit.
The Best Time of Year to Visit: Due to the climate of South Florida, the best time to make your way to The Bonnet House would be from December to April. The weather is cooler in the winter, especially in January and February, and warms up a bit as spring approaches.
As a native of South Florida, this was my first visit to The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens – I cannot believe it took me so long to stop by! I enjoyed my time exploring the house and grounds and learning a bit about the local history of Fort Lauderdale while there. Visiting the museum and gardens is a journey through time, celebrating creativity and nature’s beauty, making it a true gem of South Florida. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, The Bonnet House has something to offer everyone if you find yourself in the Fort Lauderdale area.
ZM
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