Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has emerged triumphant, clinching the prestigious third position in USA Today’s esteemed 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards contest for “Best Botanical Garden” in the United States.
Nominees for this coveted award were meticulously selected by a distinguished panel of experts, which included editors from USA TODAY. Amongst stiff competition, Selby Gardens distinguished itself as one of the top 20 botanical gardens in the nation. Through a rigorous process of public voting, enthusiasts and supporters propelled Selby Gardens into the final top 10, solidifying its status as a botanical marvel.
In response to this remarkable achievement, Jennifer Romniecki, President, and CEO of Selby Gardens, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sarasota community and Selby Gardens’ ardent supporters. In a press release celebrating the news, Romniecki extended her thanks, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of voters. She emphasized that the recognition serves as a testament to Selby Gardens’ unwavering commitment to its mission of fostering connections between people, air plants of the world, native nature, and regional history within the tranquil sanctuaries of its bayfront premises.
The accolade comes amidst a period of substantial growth for Selby Gardens, coinciding with its monumental 50th anniversary season. In a testament to its forward momentum, the nonprofit organization recently merged with Historic Spanish Point, fortifying its position as a beacon of botanical excellence. Moreover, Selby Gardens celebrated a significant milestone with the completion of Phase One of its downtown campus expansion. This transformative endeavor added an impressive 188,030 square feet of new facilities and amenities, marking a pivotal moment in the institution’s storied history.
Notably, the expansion includes a groundbreaking addition—a new restaurant that operates solely on solar energy. With a commitment to sustainability at its core, this innovative eatery showcases produce cultivated in its rooftop garden, further enhancing the garden-to-table dining experience.
Selby Gardens’ ascent to the pinnacle of botanical distinction underscores its unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship, educational outreach, and immersive botanical experiences. As it continues to evolve and innovate, Selby Gardens remains a beacon of inspiration, enchanting visitors with its natural splendor and enriching the community through its transformative initiatives.
