How to Enjoy a Peaceful Morning at Folly Farm Nature Preserve

Folly Farm Nature Preserve is an 8-acre park in Safety Harbor, Florida. It changes year by year with new plants and gardens added each year as well as whimsical sculptures and artwork created by local artists.

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When we moved to the Tampa Bay area in 2008, we left the rolling green hills and horse farms of Ocala. I knew Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely-populated county, probably wouldn’t have many farms. It didn’t, and the few large tracts of acreage have slowly become houses, condos, and apartments. That’s what happens when the people who vacation here want to live here as well.

Back in 2008, while doing a valuation for my “real” job – I’m a Realtor in real life – I drove by a familiar scene. Three-board fence, a barn, lots of oak trees. It brought a smile to face, especially located in a place like Safety Harbor.

The sign by the gate read “Folly Farm”.

The farm has undergone a few changes since then. Through the efforts of former owner, George Weiss, and the City of Safety Harbor, Folly Farm became a nature preserve, never to be paved over as a housing development. Enjoy my walk with me, enjoy the Folly Farm Nature Preserve photos I’ve taken on several visits, and if you’re in Safety Harbor, stop by and enjoy the preserve for yourself!

What is a nature preserve?

A nature preserve is an area that has been protected due to the importance of the flora, fauna, or geological features found there. It can be designated by a government entity or private landowner. These tracts of land are reserved and managed for conservation and to provide special opportunities for study and research. Folly Farms Nature Preserve conserves green space in Safety Harbor and Pinellas County. It provides a place for visitors and residents to enjoy nature as well as helps to conserve native flora and fauna.

History of Folly Farm Nature Preserve

When I first drove by Folly Farm in 2008, I didn’t know George and Lucille Weiss had purchased the 10-acre property just months before. From the moment of purchase, they envisioned turning the property into a park-like oasis.

“He’s always had a vision for this being like a national park, and he really enjoys seeing it being used for that purpose today,” said longtime friend and Safety Harbor resident Tim Burzynski.

After Lucille’s passing, George gifted 8.6 acres of the farm to the City of Harbor in 2014. He had three requests with the gift:

1. That the property be dedicated in honor of his family,
2. That the property be rezoned, and
3. That the city develop a five-year plan to clean up and maintain the property in its natural, passive, park-like preservation state.

In 2015, the Common Grounds community garden leased a portion of the park and moved their gardens to the clearing around the barn.

Over the course of five years, city workers and volunteers cleared paths, created a butterfly garden, built a playground, erected signs, and much more. George remained involved. Most mornings he walked his dog through the park. He donated thousands to help with maintenance and upkeep.

Folly Farm Nature Preserve officially opened in April 2017, just two weeks after George’s birthday. In 2018, the Weiss family and city of Safety Harbor threw a surprise 90th birthday party at the Preserve for George. The city with help from volunteers continues to clear paths, remove invasive plants, and plant Florida friendly plants.

Things to Do at Folly Farm Nature Preserve

Though only 8.6 acres, visitors find so much to do at Folly Farm. And more is added each year as George and Lucille Weiss’s vision comes to fruition.

Common Grounds Community Garden

Common Grounds community garden relocated to Folly Farm in 2015. The community garden is made up of several plots which are tended by members of the community. When visiting the preserve, please only observe the community garden. The vegetables and flowers grown there are not for the public to pick. It’s still a lot of fun to see the different plants. Before my visit, I had never seen Brussels sprouts and kale on the plant. Very interesting!

Hiking Trail Loop

The hiking trail is unpaved and winds around the perimeter of the property behind the wetlands area and into the orchard. It’s approximately 3/4 of a mile, maybe just a little longer. It’s a shady path and has several benches to rest on along the trail. On my walk this morning, I saw a rabbit eating in a clearing and several songbirds. Except for the sound of construction in the adjacent neighborhood, it was a serene walk.

Butterfly Garden

The butterfly garden was the highlight of my visit to Folly Farm Nature Preserve. I adore butterflies and bright flowers. They make me happy. This butterfly garden has three distinct areas with gravel paths and decorative art, much of it produced by Safety Harbor Art and Music Center (SHAMc).

Don’t miss the poem at the entrance to the butterfly garden. Written by Lucille Weiss, it’s a fitting and beautiful tribute to nature, spring, and the birds she loved to watch.

The Safety Harbor Arts and Music Center is one of several artsy things to do in Safety Harbor and provides a place for local artists to learn and hone their skills.

Playground

A portion of the grounds is dedicated to children, too. A new playground invites kids to play and expend their energy, their laughter ringing through the preserve. Two play areas and lots of grassy ground is perfect for kids who love to run, jump, and tumble around.

Special Events

Folly Farm Safety Harbor events includes many special events throughout the year. One of the favorites is Harbor Holiday Lights in December. The preserve comes to life at night with lights in the trees, holiday characters around the preserve, a holiday market, hot cocoa, and live music. It’s a fun time for families and kids of all ages. The City of Safety Harbor also hosts overnight camping and fireside chats at the preserve.

Plan Your Visit

Visit Folly Farms Nature Preserve seven days a week from 8 A.M. to 6 P.M. The preserve provides plenty of parking and does not charge an admission fee or parking fee. For the most comfortable visit:

• Bring water
• Bring lunch or snacks if you plan to eat while at Folly Farm Safety Harbor
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Wear bug spray
• If you are allergic to bees or wasps, be careful in the butterfly garden or avoid it altogether
• Stay on the gravel or dirt trails

Final Thoughts About Folly Farm Nature Preserve

Unlike nearby nature preserves which are quite large like Weedon Island Nature Preserve or Brooker Creek Nature Preserve, Folly Farm’s intimate size provides a unique place for visitors to get away to nature in an urban setting. Packed with exceptional activities and the host of many special events, Folly Farm Nature Preserve has become a gem in Safety Harbor.

If you’re looking for a longer hike, try one of the top hiking trails in Tampa. Or head to nearby John Chesnut Park for an equally exceptional experience in a larger park setting.