Parrot Jungle and Gardens – Miami, Florida, 1980s-2000s, Photo by Carol M. Highsmith

Parrot Jungle and Gardens, established in 1936 by Franz Scherr, was one of Miami’s earliest and most beloved roadside attractions. Originally designed as a tropical paradise where exotic birds and lush gardens could be enjoyed in harmony, it quickly gained fame for its colorful parrots, tropical plant collections, and naturalistic environment. The park invited visitors to experience the beauty and diversity of tropical flora and fauna, with special exhibits and bird shows featuring macaws, cockatoos, flamingos, and other exotic species.

Over the decades, Parrot Jungle became a cultural icon, hosting notable visitors including Sir Winston Churchill, Steven Spielberg, and President Jimmy Carter. The site was renowned for its lush foliage, including the rare cypress slough and a collection of rare cycads, creating an immersive experience in the jungle environment.

In 1988, the park was purchased by Bern Levine and later moved to Watson Island, where it was renamed Jungle Island, continuing its legacy until new development plans led to the end of its original location in Pinecrest. Today, the Pinecrest Gardens public park preserves the spirit of Parrot Jungle with tropical gardens and bird exhibits, though the original attraction no longer exists at its historic site.

Features:

• A series of photographs from the 1980s to early 2000s showcasing the acclaimed Miami wildlife and garden park

• Highlights the lush tropical environment, exotic bird collections, and key cultural moments

• Captures the transition from the original roadside attraction to the modern Jungle Island park

• Printed on archival-quality materials, suitable for display and collection

• Perfect for history buffs, environmentalists, zoo enthusiasts, and cultural historians

• Includes insights into the history of tourism, nature conservation, and urban development in Florida

Celebrate the legacy of one of Miami’s most iconic attractions with authentic imagery that reflects the beauty, history, and cultural significance of Parrot Jungle and Gardens.