I have been going to Key West for years and never knew about this amazing place! Nancy's tiles of her beloved birds and pets are as amazing as she is. Cannot wait to reture to paridise.

I rated the cemetery as above average but my husband, who's not really interested in cemeteries, was a bit bored during our time there.We stayed about an hour and I wasn't ready to leave.

We visited one afternoon on an unusually cool day for Key West. There aren't as many trees as most old cemeteries have. I can imagine how hot the place would be on a really warm day so I'd suggest the best time to visit would be in the morning or evening before sunset.

Be sure and read where the entrance is so you don't spend a lot of time walking the perimeter which is fenced. Also there's a web page that gives directions on how to find the graves that are more popular. I didn't use it because I enjoyed wandering on my own. I took several angel photos and a few more of beauty I found in the aged fences and stones. Even one stone with cursive writing!
We walked but biking would be a fun way to see the grounds too.

I thought you all might like to hear my thoughts on Nancy's from a person that did volunteer at the secret gardens for a weekend.
It is a beautiful place. No it is not pristine nor are the "beds" mulched but that is the charm of it. You have to be in a Key West state of mind to truly appreciate the gardens. We had a terrific time (and sweated our butts off) working in the garden. Could the entire place use a good pruning and weeding sure but it NOT out of control. Remember in Key West time moves at a very different pace that is why we vacation there -right? there are so many things to see in the garden- take a slow walk and you will be amazed!!!
We stayed in the "guest house" and truly enjoyed it. Nancy even let us use her outdoor shower-very refreshing.
After we finished our work at the gardens Nancy recommended a resturant to us. We told the waiter who recommended the resturant. Eventually the owner came over and introduced himself and gave us the "Conch" discount. ("Conchs" -as native Key Westerns are refered to)
A must see- tough to find but worth the hunt.
ENJOY

Nancy Forrester is an artist, an environmentalist and a preservationist. We stumbled upon her Secret Garden and returned several times to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, glorious tropical plants and the antics of the rescued birds (and the magic cat!). This is one of Key West's gems. Nancy is having a difficult time protecting this one remaining acre in KW from development, and the tax man is making things even more unpleasant. Please visit this extraordinary garden--almost directly across Simonton St. from the wonderful Heron House--and help support the last unspoiled, undeveloped bit of paradise in Key West. Thank you, Nancy, for providing this attraction to visitors who want to see a true nature preserve.