Occupying a nine-acre peninsula on the downtown waterfront, these lovely gardens display more than 20,000 tropical plants. Orchids and bromeliads take center stage at the gardens' popular Tropical Display House. A paved path outside circles 20 garden areas, including the cyad collection, the cactus and succulent garden, the shaded banyan grove and a native plant community. An elevated walkway leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Sarasota Bay. The Mansion at the north end of the garden hosts changing exhibits of art and photography.