The historic and whimsical Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, situated on a 35-acre subtropical estate in Fort Lauderdale, offers a special offer for families this summer. From Saturday, June 1 to Sunday, Sept. 1, children under 17 can enjoy a free self-guided tour admission, provided an adult accompanies them. Bonnet House will also offer a range of Spring and Summer classes and workshops to cater to different interests, including yoga, art, bees, orchids, and plant care. The array of workshops, tours, and classes aims to ignite artistic passion in those with a creative flair. These offerings provide the perfect opportunity for beginners looking to explore a new hobby or experienced artists seeking to refine their skills. The home’s historic residents, Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, once immersed themselves in art and creativity at Bonnet House over 100 years ago.
CLASSES
Yoga on the Veranda
Fridays from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.: June 7, July 12, Sept. 6, Oct. 4, and Nov. 1
- The yoga class attendees will experience a tropical treat surrounded by the beauty of nature while being led by Lisa Pumper, E-RYT 500, YACEP. The class will sequence together basic yoga poses with breathing techniques in a fluid, meditative, and invigorating way, inviting adventurous yogis to try variations of postures as they are offered. Students are encouraged to expand their boundaries and celebrate a fun and energizing flow practice. By the end of the class, the attendees will settle into deep rest and guided relaxation in nature while also receiving a cool-down aromatherapy refresher, inspirational message card, and warm tea to support their amazing day.
- Optional: After classes, yogis can indulge in a natural retreat at the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, enjoying its tropical tranquility. The venue offers the option of going solo or joining a group for a social walk under the lush tree canopy. One can also take a break and relax while admiring the picturesque views of the lake and pond.
- Cost: $20 for Bonnet House members/ $25 for non-members, and pre-registration is required.
Watercolor Workshop – six-class series for beginners
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. from May 14 to May 30
- Watercolor enthusiasts are invited to join the renowned artist Barbara DiMartini for a three-week workshop amid beautiful gardens. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to unleash one’s creativity in a picturesque setting while learning traditional watercolor realism techniques. Participants can enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them while working on their art projects at the art tables provided in shaded areas. The environment is designed to inspire and give comfort to all budding artists.
- Cost: $190 for Bonnet House members and $210 for non-members.
Orchid Care Classes
Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Aug. 6 and Aug. 13
- Green thumbs and orchid enthusiasts can mark calendars for two upcoming Orchid Care classes at Bonnet House. These classes will be taught by Bonnet House Orchid Curator Jose Exposito and his team of orchid care experts. Participants will be able to delve into Orchid Planting 101, the basic cultivation techniques, or the art of repotting and mounting orchids while also learning invaluable tips for combating pests and diseases. Whether someone is a seasoned gardener or a novice with a passion for plants, these classes promise to elevate their gardening game to new heights. Jose Exposito, the founder of Soroa Orchids, is a senior judge of the American Orchid Society and a world-renowned speaker who has spoken at World Orchid Conferences in Brazil and Malaysia. He has also been featured in Orchids Magazine, Vogue, Martha Stewart Show, and many other national and international publications.
- Cost: $30 for Bonnet House members and $35 for non-members.
TOURS
Family Summer Special Self-Guided Tours
Saturday, June 1 to Sunday, September 1
Tuesdays through Fridays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Families are warmly welcomed at Bonnet House, where they can take advantage of the Family Summer Special. This special offer allows families to take self-guided tours of the Maine House, explore the sprawling gardens, and meander along nature trails. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of the subtropical landscape and keep an eye out for wildlife hidden among the trees and aquatic wonders in the lakes and ponds. Nature enthusiasts of all ages will surely enjoy this treat.
- Cost: $25; children aged 17 and under receive free admission (must be accompanied by an adult).
Guided Tours
Tuesdays through Fridays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m.
- Visitors can experience Bonnet House with the help of one of their seasoned docents. A 90-minute guided tour led by a docent will take visitors through the rooms of the Main House, where they can learn about the history of the Birch/Bartlett family and discover the charm and whimsy of this beachfront estate.
- Cost: $30 per person, Ages 6-17: $10, and reservations are required.
VIP Upstairs/Downstairs Tours
Wednesdays from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- For guests eager to discover more about Bonnet House’s history and secrets, the exclusive VIP Upstairs/Downstairs Tours are a great opportunity. Conducted by docents, these 90-minute small-group tours provide a glimpse into the private living areas of the estate’s previous owners, Evelyn and Frederic Bartlett. Participants can explore parts of the house that are not frequently visible to the general public and uncover the hidden treasures. Advance registration is necessary to reserve a spot for this remarkable time-traveling experience.
- Cost: $40 per person, with limited reservations available.
For all classes, workshops and tours, please register in advance or purchase tickets online at Bonnethouse.org/events/category/adult-classes/list/. For more information, please call (954) 563-5393 or visit www.bonnethouse.org.
