Looking to escape with someone special? These botanical gardens offer blooming backdrops, serene walks, and cozy moments surrounded by nature’s best.
Highlights:
Unique Botanical Gardens:
1. Missouri Botanical Garden
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
St. Louis, MissouriHighlights:
Looking for a place where history, nature, and tranquility bloom together? Missouri Botanical Garden is the oldest in the nation—and one of the most beautiful. Founded in 1859, it’s a living museum of plants and design that inspires and relaxes in every season.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, history enthusiasts, photographers, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor escape with year-round beauty.What I Love: ♥
The 14-acre Japanese Garden, the tropical Climatron, Victorian-era grounds, and rare orchid collections—all set in a 79-acre oasis of color and culture.- Explore the Climatron conservatory for a taste of the tropics, or visit the Temperate House for Mediterranean vibes.
- Stroll through a 14-acre Japanese Garden, an English Woodland Garden, and the Victorian District near Henry Shaw’s original 1850s estate home.
- See one of the best rare orchid collections in the world among 79 acres of stunning floral landscapes.
- Relax with a bite at Sassafras, Café Flora, or Terrace Café, and browse the garden’s charming vintage-themed gift shops.
- Visit year-round—each season brings a new atmosphere, from spring blossoms to summer shade to fall foliage and winter lights.
Address:
Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110Phone: 314-577-5100
2. Fuller Gardens
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Location:
North Hampton, New HampshireHighlights:
If you’re looking for a tranquil escape with beautiful floral displays, Fuller Gardens is a hidden seaside gem, offering lush greenery and vibrant blooms just a stone’s throw from the New Hampshire coast.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, photographers, couples, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.What I Love: ♥
The historic charm of a turn-of-the-century estate, the incredible rose collection, and the serenity of the koi pond and Japanese Garden.- Explore over 2,000 roses and seasonal annual blooms, as well as stunning perennials in formal English borders.
- Discover a tropical conservatory, Japanese Garden, and a tranquil koi pond to relax in.
- Admire the Dahlia Display, a must-see for visitors in the summer and fall.
- Stroll through the Front Garden or explore the propagation house and conservatory to see plants in their early stages.
- Shop at the Garden Shop for a unique memento to remember your visit.
Address:
Fuller Gardens, 10 Willow Avenue, North Hampton, NH 03862Phone: 603-964-5414
3. New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill
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Location:
Boylston, MassachusettsHighlights:
Located in the scenic hills of Boylston, Massachusetts, New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill is a year-round haven for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of Mount Wachusett and the Wachusett Reservoir.Recommended For:
Garden enthusiasts, families, photography lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape into nature with educational and visually stunning displays.What I Love: ♥
The rich plant collections, stunning garden designs, and the tranquil beauty of spaces like the Secret Garden and the 18th-century style orangerie.- Explore a variety of garden experiences, including the Frank L. Harrington Sr. Orchard with ancient apple varieties, and the Secret Garden featuring fountains, statuary, and a romantic atmosphere.
- Admire the 18th-century style orangerie, which showcases exquisite blooming bulbs and sub-tropical plants in a stunning wintertime display.
- Discover the Systematic Garden, an Italianate-style garden dedicated to educating visitors about plant evolution.
- Relax at the Stoddard Education and Visitors Center, which includes a theater, horticultural library, and the Twigs Café for refreshments.
- Shop at the Gift Shop for unique garden-themed items to take home.
Address:
New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, 11 French Dr, Boylston, MA 01505Phone: 508-869-6111
4. The Holden Arboretum, Ohio
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Location:
Willoughby, OhioHighlights:
Nature lovers and garden enthusiasts will find a peaceful paradise at The Holden Arboretum, the largest arboretum in the U.S. With 3,600 acres and over 120,000 plants, it's a vibrant destination for hiking, learning, and reconnecting with the natural world.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, hikers, couples seeking scenic walks, nature photographers, and families looking for outdoor exploration.What I Love: ♥
The butterfly and wildflower gardens, scenic hiking trails, tranquil picnic spots, and a top-notch visitor center with educational resources.- Explore themed plant collections featuring woody trees and shrubs tailored to Northern Ohio’s climate, along with groundcovers and perennials.
- Visit the Arlene and Arthur S. Holden Butterfly Garden for a colorful, flutter-filled experience and the Myrtle S. Holden Wildflower Garden for seasonal blooms.
- Hike the peaceful Pierson Creek trails or explore the wooded beauty of the Old Valley.
- Relax at the modern visitor’s center, browse the reference library, or enjoy a romantic meal at the picnic area.
- Experience the arboretum’s rotating seasonal activities that connect visitors to nature year-round.
Address:
The Holden Arboretum, 9550 Sperry Rd, Willoughby, OH 44094Phone: 440-946-4400
Fun Botanical Gardens:
5. Santa Fe Botanical Garden, New Mexico
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Location:
Santa Fe, New MexicoHighlights:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of the Southwestern landscape at Santa Fe Botanical Garden, located on the picturesque Museum Hill. This 12-acre garden showcases the stunning biodiversity of New Mexico's natural terrain.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, garden enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone who appreciates the unique flora of the Southwestern U.S.What I Love: ♥
The breathtaking mountain views, the thoughtful garden collections, and the opportunity to connect with local experts on a guided tour of the gardens.- Explore themed gardens, including the Orchard Gardens, with rows of fruit trees and a lush meadow garden, and the Ojos y Manos: Eyes and Hands garden featuring the century-old Kearny’s Gap Bridge.
- Experience the garden’s natural beauty and biodiversity on a free guided tour led by knowledgeable local experts.
- Relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the Temporary Visitor’s Center or browse the Garden Shop for unique garden-related items.
- Admire the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains, making the garden an excellent spot for peaceful reflection and photography.
Address:
Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 725 Camino Lejo Suite E, Santa Fe, NM 87505Phone: 505-471-9103
6. Sawtooth Botanical Garden, Idaho
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Location:
Ketchum, IdahoHighlights:
Set against the backdrop of Idaho’s stunning mountains, the Sawtooth Botanical Garden is home to an impressive collection of native plants that thrive in the high-altitude environment. It offers visitors a peaceful, educational experience focused on the region’s natural beauty.Recommended For:
Nature enthusiasts, photographers, botanists, families, and anyone looking for an educational and scenic experience in Idaho's breathtaking Sawtooth Mountains.What I Love: ♥
The expansive plant collections, the zen-like tranquility of the alpine garden, and the innovative water-conserving xeriscape garden.- Explore diverse garden areas, including the ornamental garden, xeriscape garden for water conservation, and the stream-side garden.
- Discover the large greenhouse, home to flowering perennials, herbs, and vines.
- Visit the Garden of Infinite Compassion, an alpine garden designed by a Zen Buddhist monk, complete with waterfalls, reflecting ponds, rock art, and a Tibetan Prayer Wheel turned by a bubbling brook.
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, blessed by the 14th Dalai Lama during his visit.
- Learn about the area’s plant life and conservation efforts through the garden's educational programs.
Address:
Sawtooth Botanical Garden, 11 Gimlet Rd, Ketchum, ID 83340Phone: 208-726-9358
7. Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, Delaware
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Location:
Wilmington, DelawareHighlights:
For those interested in American history and decorative arts, Winterthur is a must-visit destination. Set on 60 acres of stunning natural gardens, this museum offers a glimpse into centuries of American craftsmanship and design.Recommended For:
Art and history enthusiasts, families, photographers, and anyone interested in beautiful gardens and exquisite decorative arts.What I Love: ♥
The museum’s extensive period-room displays, the natural beauty of the gardens, and the opportunity to explore an outstanding library dedicated to American decorative arts.- Explore over 175 period-room displays showcasing more than two centuries of American decorative arts.
- Visit the Winterthur Library for a wealth of literature on American history, architecture, and decorative arts.
- Wander through the estate's stunning natural landscape, with meadows, hills, forests, and winding streams teeming with both exotic and indigenous flora and fauna.
- Stroll the gardens, which feature crisscrossed walking paths and are home to seasonal exhibitions and gallery displays.
- Dine at the on-site restaurant and browse the gift shop for unique keepsakes.
Address:
Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, 5105 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19735Phone: 800-448-3883
8. The Four Arts Gardens, Florida
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Location:
Palm Beach, FloridaHighlights:
Located in the heart of Palm Beach, The Four Arts Gardens is a beautiful demonstration garden showcasing the diversity of tropical plants in the region, interspersed with artistic sculptures and statues that enhance its serene atmosphere.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, art enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to explore a peaceful oasis in Palm Beach.What I Love: ♥
The stunning collection of local flora, the charming sculptures, and the unique cultural programming offered by the Four Arts Society.- Explore the Chinese Garden with its winding pathways, beautiful Spanish façade, and decorative well.
- Admire the moon gate and statues that make for picturesque photography spots.
- Visit the Madonna Garden with its magnificent fountain and shady paths.
- Attend a variety of cultural events, including concerts, films, art exhibitions, and educational programs.
- Relax in the beautifully landscaped gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll or quiet reflection.
Address:
The Four Arts Gardens, 2 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach, FL 33480Phone: 561-655-7227
9. Atlanta Botanical Garden, Georgia
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Location:
Atlanta, GeorgiaHighlights:
Spanning over 30 acres, Atlanta Botanical Garden is an urban oasis in Midtown, adjacent to Piedmont Park, offering breathtaking landscapes, fascinating plant collections, and must-see attractions like the Kendeda Canopy Walk.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, nature enthusiasts, photographers, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape within the city.What I Love: ♥
The variety of exhibits, from rare orchids to honeybees, and the chance to stroll through the treetops on the Kendeda Canopy Walk.- Explore the Fuqua Orchid Center, home to rare high-altitude orchids.
- Walk the 600-foot Kendeda Canopy Walk, winding through the treetops of Storza Woods.
- Relax by the Sunflower Fountain and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Discover the Soggy Bog, home to fascinating Venus flytraps.
- Learn about honeybees at the Natural Observation Hive.
- Enjoy seasonal edibles at the Edible Garden, perfect for home-cooked meals.
Address:
1345 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30309, Phone: 404-876-585910. Alaska Botanical Garden
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Location:
Anchorage, AlaskaHighlights:
Located in the heart of Anchorage, Anchorage Botanical Garden is a serene arboretum showcasing the diverse local flora of the region, with thoughtfully designed sections that allow visitors to explore the plants and landscapes of Alaska.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, botanists, families, and anyone looking to explore Alaskan wildlife and plants in a peaceful setting.What I Love: ♥
The network of trails that guide you through the garden’s diverse plant collections, the beautiful wildflowers, and the chance to watch salmon spawning in the natural setting of Campbell Creek.- Explore the Lower Perennial Garden and Herb Garden, a haven of culinary and medicinal herbs.
- Discover the Rock Garden, home to over 350 species of alpine plants from around the world.
- Walk the Wildflower Trail, a romantic pathway with an exquisite array of Alaskan wildflowers.
- Visit the Lowenfels Family Nature Trail, where you can watch salmon spawning and enjoy wildlife viewing along Campbell Creek.
- Shop for plants and souvenirs at the on-site nursery and gift shop.
Address:
4601 Campbell Airstrip Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507, Phone: 907-770-3692Plan Your Trip