INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — McKee Botanical Garden has introduced Guide by Cell, a cell phone-based audio tour for visitors who wish to enhance their garden experience with a dose of modern technology.
Guide by Cell offers visitors an opportunity to learn the history behind 11 of McKee’s most historic sites by utilizing their cell phones to dial in and access informative, pre-recorded messages. The sites are designated with signs throughout the Garden, and upon admission, visitors receive step-by-step information on how to participate in the tour.
The messages explain the significance of McKee landmarks such as the Cypress Stump, the Stone Bridge and the Royal Palm Grove.
“As technology continues to play a significant role in the daily lives of our visitors, we wanted to find a way to incorporate it here at the Garden,” said McKee Botanical Garden Executive Director Christine Hobart, “Guide by Cell provides them with a more interactive experience that’s easy and only requires a cell phone to participate.”
Once completed, participants can even submit comments about their tour to a voicemail box that is accessed by staff. There is no cost to take the Guide by Cell audio tour, however, participants are charged cell phone minutes according to the terms of their cell phone service contract.
The mission of McKee Botanical Garden is to nurture and enhance a historic garden in a unique tropical setting for the education, enjoyment and enrichment of all.
McKee Botanical Garden is located at 350 US 1 south of Vero Beach. General admission fees are $9 adults, $8 seniors and $5 children ages 3 to 12. Admission is free for members and children under 3.
Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon to 5 p.m. The garden is closed Mondays.
