Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Bonnet House: A Historical Retreat between the Intracoastal Waterway and Fort Lauderdale Beach

Bonnet House, nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and Fort Lauderdale Beach, holds a rich historical legacy. In 1919, a wealthy settler gifted the 35-acre property, named after the bonnet lily flower that flourished on its grounds, to his daughter Helen and her husband Frederic as a wedding present. The couple aimed to build a winter retreat where Frederic could immerse himself in art and Helen could focus on her music and poetry. However, construction halted in 1925 due to Helen's untimely death from breast cancer.

Frederic did not resume renovations until 1931, after marrying Evelyn Fortune Lilly. Together, they adorned Bonnet House, continuously adding artistic touches until Frederic's passing. In 1983, Evelyn donated the property to the state's Trust for Historic Preservation, making it accessible to the public through guided tours.

Visitor Experience

Previous visitors commend Bonnet House for its diverse appeal, catering to art aficionados, horticulture enthusiasts, animal lovers, and history enthusiasts alike. The guided tour comes highly recommended by many. The plantation home boasts ornate decorations and an impressive art collection, as all three of its residents were artists. Additionally, the estate’s expansive grounds are lush and ideal for a scenic walk through nature, with occasional sightings of monkeys.

Summer Visits

It is important to note that not all rooms in the house are air-conditioned. Visitors planning a summer trip are advised to bring a hand fan to stay cool.

Hours of Operation

Bonnet House welcomes visitors Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for self-guided, mobile-device tours.

Ticket Information

Guided tours are available once or twice daily, costing $30 for adults and $10 for children aged 8 to 16. Self-guided tour admission is $25 for adults, $8 for children between 6 and 17, and free for children 5 and under. Garden-only tours are also offered, though past visitors suggest that the house itself is the highlight. Parking is free. For more details, visit the Bonnet House website.