Located in the scenic Hudson Valley, Innisfree Garden in Millbrook, New York, is widely recognized as one of the top ten gardens in the world. An icon of 20th-century landscape architecture, this 150-acre public garden blends Chinese design principles with natural American landscapes for a tranquil and immersive experience unlike any other.

Recommended For

Innisfree Garden is ideal for:

  • Garden enthusiasts interested in global horticultural styles and design history.
  • Nature lovers seeking peaceful walks and unique botanical beauty.
  • History and art buffs drawn to cultural landscapes and design philosophies.
  • Schools and educators looking for immersive field trip opportunities tied to art, history, and science.

History and Design

  • Created by Walter and Marion Beck in the late 1920s, inspired by Walter’s love for Asian art.
  • Design influenced by Chinese poet and gardener Wang Wei and his concept of “cup gardens”—small, scenic landscape vignettes.
  • Harvard-trained landscape architect Lester Collins collaborated with the Becks starting in 1938, contributing to the garden's unique aesthetic.
  • Collins studied the ancient Japanese Sakuteiki in the 1950s, guiding the philosophy of creating a garden that captures the essence of nature.

Challenges and Preservation

  • Originally planned to be preserved through an endowment, but funds were depleted due to Marion Beck’s illness.
  • After Marion's death in 1959, a nonprofit foundation raised funds to purchase and maintain the garden.
  • Despite financial limitations, Lester Collins completed a world-renowned garden before his passing in 1993.

What to See at Innisfree Garden

  • 150 acres of landscape designed to evoke discovery, with minimal online imagery to preserve surprise and wonder.
  • Known features include:
    • Channel Bridge
    • Mist and Water Sculpture
    • Air Spring and Fountain Jet
    • Tiptoe Rock
    • Front Lawn and Entrance Drive
    • Japanese Primroses

Educational Opportunities

  • Guided tours available by reservation, led by specially trained staff.
  • Tours include history of the garden, biographies of its creators, and insights into its design philosophy.
  • Guides also discuss the flora and fauna that flourish in the garden.

Admission & Field Trips

  • General admission fees apply to all visitors and group tours.
  • School field trips are free of charge, with transportation assistance available for eligible institutions.

Events

  • Hosts a range of public and private events throughout the year.
  • Public events are listed on the online events calendar.
  • Designated areas within the garden are available for private event bookings.

Planning Your Visit

  • Location: 362 Tyrrel Rd, Millbrook, NY 12545
  • Phone: 845-677-8000
  • Website: innisfreegarden.org
  • Tip: Contact in advance for guided tours, field trip info, or private event reservations.

Learn more about Innisfree Garden

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