Discovery Backpacks

Did you know that the Port Saint Lucie Botanical Gardens have educational backpacks to be used when exploring our beautiful gardens? Kid-tested and kid-approved, the Discovery Backpacks are available free of charge and tailored to all age groups. There are two different themed backpacks: Feathered Friends and Perfect Pollinators. A third backpack, Gorgeous Gardens, is set to launch this summer.

Developed for kids ages 2 – 102 to help children learn about Florida’s birds, insects, and plants; each backpack has a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and Life Science activities. Initially created by Florida teachers, the backpacks have information and activities vetted by teachers throughout the US.

Each mesh backpack contains a booklet filled with fun faces and activities, magnifying glasses, a book, and the tools needed to complete the activities. There are even QR codes throughout the activity booklet if you want to dive deeper into a subject. It takes about 1-2 hours to complete all the activities.

How to Get One

You can borrow a backpack free of charge by asking at the front desk and leaving your Photo ID. If you would like to buy a backpack, they are available in the Gift Shop for $99. Each pack is removed from circulation, sanitized, and unused for at least 48 hours before it can be borrowed again. So, come to the Gardens, grab a backpack, and have a great time while you learn more about the Gardens and nature.