Tranquil Tuesdays

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for all members of our community. Tranquil Tuesday is a private, sensory-friendly, after-hours Selby Gardens experience, designed with neuro-inclusivity in mind. The Gardens will remain open for an extra hour to offer quiet exploration of our grounds — without the crowds or noise.  

During this event, neurodivergent and sensory-sensitive guests, their families, and caregivers will receive complimentary tickets to Selby Gardens! Upon arrival, guests receive a customized map with easily identified icons to indicate areas of the Gardens with interactivity (touch, smells, etc.) or displays with a strong sensory component (loud noises, strong odors, etc.). The Tropical Conservatory, gift shop, cafe, and Museum of Botany and the Arts will be closed; however, the Children’s Rainforest Garden, Florida Lagoon, Mangrove Boardwalk, restrooms, and all walking paths will remain open.  

Noise-cancelling earmuffs, sensory kits and wheelchairs are available on loan, free of charge. You are welcome to bring any tools, toys, or stimming devices to make your visit as comfortable as possible. While admission to Tranquil Tuesday is free, advanced registration is required for all guests and accompanying family members or caregivers. A “see you tomorrow” informational email will be sent out the day before to all registrants.  

Tranquil Tuesday takes place from 5:15 until 6:15. Check-in begins at 5:10. Guests check in at the Welcome Center. There will be signage directing you to the check-in location 

The best address for mapping is: 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. Parking is in the Morganroth Family Living Energy Access Facility (LEAF) structure.  

Please note, Tranquil Tuesday is a special event, but accommodations such as sensory maps, wheelchairs, sensory kits, and noise-cancelling earmuffs are always available from the Welcome Center during Selby’s regular business hours. We hope that this event opens the door to many future visits to Selby Gardens for you and your loved ones! If your family is interested in becoming members of Selby Gardens, please reach out after the program to discuss membership opportunities.