Step into a world of lush and captivating scenery at the most beautiful botanical gardens throughout the country.
The United States has many exceptional gardens where plant and art enthusiasts can admire natural landscapes and world-class exhibits. Discover the peaceful bliss of a tropical Hawaiian rainforest or admire the hardy Arizonan plants that thrive in extreme desert conditions at these renowned U.S. botanic gardens.
Desert Botanical Garden, Arizona
Arizona’s Desert Botanical Garden is perfect for admiring the rugged Sonoran Desert landscape. Since 1939, the garden has been a premier destination for hiking in Phoenix. Guests can observe hundreds of cacti, shrubs, and trees through the walking trails and plant displays.
Allerton and McBryde Gardens, Hawaii
The Allerton and McBryde Gardens are two of the five spaces that make up the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Situated on the southern shores of Kauai, they encompass hundreds of lush, tropical acres. Guided tours are required at Allerton Garden, a stunning property in the scenic Lawai Valley. Meanwhile, McBryde Garden offers an idyllic assortment of native plants, including several rare species.
United States Botanic Garden, Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is home to the United States Botanic Garden, the country’s oldest public garden. The gardens were first established in 1816 and contain roughly 44,000 plants. Notable collections include numerous species of carnivorous and medicinal plants. Regardless of the season, there’s always something new to uncover at the Washington, D.C. gardens.
Chicago Botanic Garden, Illinois
Escape the chaos of downtown Chicago at the Chicago Botanic Garden. The gardens span hundreds of acres, with walking and biking paths and unique exhibitions. Your entire family will be in awe of the garden’s blooming flowers, butterflies, birds, and charming model trains. At certain times of the year, a guided tour is available to learn more about the property and its mission.
Washington Park Arboretum, Washington
Washington Park Arboretum is a tranquil paradise amidst the exciting city of Seattle. The arboretum overlooks Lake Washington and boasts 230 acres of world-class plant collections. Rain or shine, the Washington Park Arboretum is an excellent addition to any Seattle itinerary.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, New York
Discover an urban oasis in the heart of New York City at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The garden has over 50 acres of manicured lawns and plant collections. Highlights include a Japanese garden, a lily pond, and a rose garden. Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and see the blooming cherry blossoms.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Texas
Visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s 66 acres. From a sprawling pecan tree grove to captivating sculptures and colorful flowerbed displays, the gardens have much to offer. Education is the primary focal point, so the gardens have many kid-friendly learning opportunities.
Atlanta Botanical Garden, Georgia
The Atlanta Botanical Garden combines nature, art, conservation, and exploration in one world-class property. Occupying 30 acres in central Atlanta, the garden is renowned for its various plants and accessible design. Several pieces by famed artist Dale Chihuly adorn the garden’s indoor and outdoor spaces, enchanting visitors with their one-of-a-kind glasswork.
Denver Botanic Gardens, Colorado
Wander through 24 picturesque acres at the Denver Botanic Gardens. The garden boasts curated collections of succulents, grasses, trees, and more. With its reputation as the Mile High City, Denver is a fascinating example of how plants adapt to high-altitude climates. There are regional and global-inspired gardens on the property for year-round enjoyment.
Longwood Gardens, Pennsylvania
Wander through over 1,000 acres of woodlands and meadows at Pennsylvania’s Longwood Gardens. This renowned nature area aims to engage with and educate visitors about the importance of horticulture. Find inner peace at the lakeside lawns, dazzling fountains, and 19th-century conservatory. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for environmental protection and restoration.
San Francisco Botanical Garden, California
The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a calmer alternative to the bustling city center. Located in Golden Gate Park, the expertly landscaped garden showcases international plants in a wondrous display. Experience the beauty of regions like the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia without leaving California.
Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri
Reserve an afternoon to visit the Missouri Botanical Garden during your next trip to St. Louis. This serene retreat provides fun for all ages through its numerous attractions. Tour the fascinating Climatron, a large geodesic dome operating as a greenhouse. The 14-acre Japanese garden is another must for its ornate landscaping and cultural influences.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanic Gardens, Ohio
Ohio’s Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanic Gardens are an exceptional display of natural beauty. Based in Columbus, the gardens have everything from a palm house to a historic conservatory and art gallery. Franklin Park hosts many seasonal events, such as craft workshops, garden classes, and adults-only cocktail hours.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Virginia
Recognized as one of the country’s top nature areas, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is an essential destination for plant lovers. Since 1984, the gardens have welcomed visitors to its themed gardens and parks. You could spend hours exploring the opulent conservatory, romantic cherry tree walk, and kid-friendly children’s garden.
ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, New Mexico
The botanic garden at ABQ BioPark is an innovative outdoor space that highlights native and international species. Exhibits and manicured gardens are spread over 32 acres, making visitors feel a world away from Albuquerque’s hustle. The BUGarium, an immersive display dedicated to insects and arachnids, is particularly noteworthy.
Immerse yourself even further in nature
National parks throughout the U.S. provide adventure and relaxation without a hefty price tag. Consider visiting a budget-friendly national park next time you plan a family trip.
14 Epic National Parks That You Can Afford
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
