The area’s first tourist attraction was opened in 1932 as McKee Jungle Gardens by early Vero Beach developer and promoter Waldo Sexton, along with Arthur G. McKee. Sexton’s legacy remains in the House of Giants lodge he built, a favorite stop along the paths for families.

The gardens request quiet on grounds, so you may want to take your rambunctious tiny tots to the beach instead. Older kids will keep occupied with the Garden Discovery Backpacks for different age groups and Where’s Waldo scavenger hunt, or hand them a camera to encourage appreciating beautiful and fun plants such as the dragon tree and balloon plant.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.