botanical gardens walking tour

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• Open Today: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Specialty Tours

For individual visitors or groups of 10 or less. $45–$49/person, includes admission. These docent-led walking tours allow visitors an insider’s look at The Huntington, with most beginning before public hours. Ninety-minute Estate, Chinese Garden, and Japanese Garden tours are available. Advance ticket purchase is required. Tour descriptions and reservations

Group Tours

For groups of 10 or more. $34–$49/person, includes admission. One-hour Estate Tours and 90-minute Chinese Garden and Japanese Garden tours are available. Please note that reservations are required at least one month in advance. Tour descriptions and reservations

Garden Tours Free tours of the gardens are available with general admission or membership. Tours are offered daily at 10:30, 11, and 11:30 a.m. Times vary depending on docent availability; please check in at the information cart past Admissions for the day’s schedule of garden tours. Free tours may not be reserved in advance and cannot accommodate large groups. Tours not available on Free Days.

Art Spotlight Conversations Take a 15-minute deep dive into a single work of art with a docent in the Galleries. Offered free with general admission or membership. Times vary depending on docent availability.

• European Art Gallery: Daily at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., plus Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 and 2:30pm. Meet at the Huntington Art Gallery Entrance.
• American Art Gallery: Daily at noon and 1 p.m. plus Saturdays and Sundays at 2 and 3 p.m. Meet inside the Erburu entrance to the galleries across from the Conservatory.

School Tours

The Huntington offers both guided and self-guided (teacher-led) school tours for K–12. Guided school tours are provided from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and led by volunteer docents who guide students in interactive explorations of the collections. Teacher-led school tours are welcome during regular public hours.

Huntington Digital Guide

Download The Huntington Digital Guide before your visit to access:

• Tips for planning your visit, wayfinding information, maps, and Huntington history • Current exhibition highlights and special features • Tours include: Huntington Highlights, Behind the Scenes, American Art , Garden Sculpture, and Chinese Garden 1. Scan the QR code on your mobile device. 2. Download the Bloomberg Connects app. 3. Open The Huntington Digital Guide .

Virtual Tours

Explore the gardens before your visit, or while you’re here. Botanical Collections Tours

Chinese Garden Virtual Tours explore the flora, architecture, stone paving patterns, writings and calligraphy of Liu Fang Yuan 流芳園, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance.

Takeaway Tours

Whether you’re visiting for an hour, with kids, or for some peace and quiet, there is a Takeaway Tour for every kind of visitor. Takeaway Tours

QUICK LINKS

• Plan Your Visit

Garden Tours

Explore the Gardens.

Try a Tour!

With 323 acres to explore, there is so much to see and do at the Gardens! Not sure where to begin? Try one of our many docent-led tours, from the Gardens’ art exhibits and history to its wild and cultivated spaces.

Two free tours daily.

Every day at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., you can access a free tour. Whether introducing friends to the Gardens on a Highlights Tour or diving deeper with a Wetlands Tour or other specialty tour, there is something for everyone. Pre-registration is recommended for specialty tours.

Highlights Tour

Weekdays, May 1 – July 4 Daily, July 5 – September 3 Weekdays, September 4 – October 20 11 a.m. – noon

Join us for this hour-long drop-in tour. Start by the Great Lawn and explore our central gardens. Learn the origin stories of each surrounding garden and about the people who made them possible; hear highlights of the Gardens’ history, and discover more about garden design and botanical elements. This tour is free and does not require advance registration.

Hike the Trolls Tour

Fridays, May 3 – October 18 1 – 2:30 p.m.

The Guardians of the Seeds have emerged from the woods and are waiting for you to find them! On this guided hike, we’ll find all five of the trolls hidden in the woods and along the way explore the real botany behind the magic of the exhibit. Join us to learn more about the artist Thomas Dambo and the team that built them, hear behind-the-scenes stories of how they were constructed, and discover how you, too, can join the trolls and become a guardian of the forest. This tour will last approximately one and a half hours and will cover about 2.5 miles of paths and trails.

See Change: Climate Stories Tour

Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays, May 2 – June 21 Sundays & Thursdays, June 22 – July 22 Tuesdays & Saturdays, July 23 – October 19 1 – 2:30 p.m.

How can we build climate-resilient communities? By engaging with stories about the natural world and exploring how our relationships with the environment are impacted by the changing climate. Join us on this new tour of the Gardens as, together, we examine shifts in human values and behaviors and discuss the future of nature’s interactions. Enjoy the chance to share your perspectives on the changes you see occurring around you in this unique conversational format. The tour lasts an hour and a half, starts on the Great Lawn, and concludes in the Vayo Meditation Garden.

Native Plants Tour

Mondays, May 6 – October 14 1 – 2:30 p.m.

For a deeper dive into the world of native plants, join our docent-led Native Plant Tour. Free with the price of admission, we begin with a stroll down the Haney Hillside, moving from cultivated native plantings to the natural landscape of the Shoreland Trail. We then travel on the Maine Woods Trail to discover fern glens and wetlands up to the upland spruce-fir forest of the Birch Allée. Please note: this tour lasts about ninety minutes and moves swiftly over hiking trails; sturdy boots or shoes are recommended. Pre-registration is encouraged as tours do reach capacity; drop-ins are welcome. Please meet outside the Café building by the Great Lawn to join the tour.

Wetlands Tour

Wednesdays, May 1 – October 16 1 – 2:30 p.m.

From ponds and vernal pools to small rivers, on this free staff-led tour, we’ll explore the Gardens’ many wetlands to see how water affects each natural community. Learn how important wetlands are to our ecosystem, how they provide vital habitat for wildlife, and what we can do to preserve them. Please note: this tour lasts about ninety minutes and moves swiftly over our steeper hiking trails. Pre-registration is encouraged as tours do reach capacity; drop-ins are welcome. Please meet outside the Lyn and Daniel Lerner Visitor Center by the Heafitz Wetland Bridge to join the tour.

Biodiversity Tour

Tuesdays & Saturdays, June 22 – July 22 Sundays & Thursdays, July 23 – October 20 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Biodiversity is the variety of all life on Earth. It provides us with everything that makes life on Earth possible—clean air and water, fertile soil, medicines, fuels, materials, shelter, places for recreation, and a stable climate. This important part of our ecosystems is currently being threatened though, with reports showing that we have lost 60% of the global biodiversity in the last 40 years. In this new tour, we’ll explore the rich biodiversity at the Gardens, learn about its value, and discover how you can help protect it in your communities.

Accessible Cart Tour

Our one-hour Accessible Cart Tours are led by trained Gardens’ docents, rain or shine, on our quiet electric cart. These tours are a wonderful opportunity for those who may not otherwise be able to walk the Gardens. The cart can accommodate up to five (5) passengers. The tour is $12 for members and $15 for nonmembers (in addition to admission), except on Wednesdays when the accessible cart tours are free.

Calendar of Events

Tue tuesday, wed wednesday, thu thursday, sat saturday, 0 events, 26, 4 events, 27.

May 1-October 18, Monday-Friday, 9-10:45 a.m., 10-11:30 a.m., & 3-4:30 p.m. In July-September, an additional tour is available, 1-2:30 p.m....

Native Plant Tour

Mondays, May 6-October 14, 1-2:30 p.m. For a deeper dive into the world of native plants, join our docent-led Native...

3 events, 28

4 events, 29, accessible cart tour (free wednesday).

Wednesdays, May 1-October 18 9-10:45 a.m., 10-11:30 a.m., 3-4:30 p.m. Additional tours in July-September at 1-2:30 p.m. Our one and...

Wednesdays, May 1-October 16, 1-2:30 p.m. From ponds and vernal pools to small rivers, on this free staff-led tour, we'll...

3 events, 30

3 events, 31, 0 events, 1, 0 events, 2, 4 events, 3, 3 events, 4, 4 events, 5, 3 events, 6, 3 events, 7, 0 events, 8, 0 events, 9, 4 events, 10, 3 events, 11, 4 events, 12, 3 events, 13, 3 events, 14, 0 events, 15, 0 events, 16, 4 events, 17, 3 events, 18, 4 events, 19, 3 events, 20, 3 events, 21, 0 events, 22, 0 events, 23, 4 events, 24, 3 events, 25, 4 events, 26, 3 events, 27, 0 events, 29, 0 events, 30, 5 events, 1, 4 events, 2, 6 events, 3, accessible cart tour (free wednesdays), 4 events, 4, 0 events, 6.

For our full course listing, members-only events and other programming that requires registration, please visit:  Shop.MaineGardens.org .

The mission of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is to inspire meaningful connections among people, plants, and nature through horticulture, education, and research.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

P.O. Box 234 Boothbay, ME 04537

207-633-8000

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The Chicago Botanic Garden has 385 acres of nature, beauty, and respite to discover.  

Today's Hours

8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Walking Tours

Explore the beauty of the Chicago Botanic Garden with these self-guided tours, designed to allow visitors to explore our gardens with greater depth. Download the GardenGuide App when you visit to use these tours on your phone.

Tour the English Walled Garden

Approximate Distance: .165 miles

Approximate Time: 25-35 mins

Tour the Malott Japanese Garden

Approximate Distance: .65 miles

Approximate Time: 1-1.25 hours

Tour the Krasberg Rose Garden

Approximate Distance: .3 miles

Approximate Time: 35 -45 mins

Tour the Fruit & Vegetable Garden

Approximate Distance: .35 miles

Approximate Time: 40-50 mins

Summer Photo Tour

Approximate Distance: 1.2 miles

Approximate Time: 1 hour 45 mins- 2 hours

Fall Photo Tour

Approximate Distance: .85 miles

Approximate Time: 1 hour - 1 hour 20 min.

Spring Photo Tour

Approximate Distance: .5 miles

Approximate Time: 1 hour 20 mins-1 hour 40 mins

Winter Photo Tour

Approximate Distance: .4 miles

Approximate Time: 40 mins-1 hour

Tour the Dixon Prairie

Approximate Distance: .56 miles

Approximate Time: 1 hour 25 mins-1 hour 45 mins

Nine Secret Spaces

Approximate Distance: Varied

Approximate Time: 2-3 hours

Time at the Garden

Approximate Distance: 1.34 miles

Approximate Time: 1-2 hours

Around the Garden

Approximate Distance: 2 miles

Approximate Time: 45 min- 1 hour

BYO Binoculars

Approximate Time: 1 hour 30 min to 2 hours

Garden Walks

Seasonal walks, featured walk, free walking map.

Guided Tours by Volunteers

• Guided Tours

Our volunteers conduct different tours each weekend (held on Saturdays, except on the 5th Saturday of the month). These walking tours are free so pick one and bring your family and friends for a fun and educational day out! Please note that we manage the group size in order to ensure that the sessions are conducive for all to learn and experience. Registration for all session begin 15-minute prior.

Our Education Branch at the Singapore Botanic Gardens also offers a large variety of tours and educational workshops. These programmes are designed to promote nature awareness and to bring out the ‘green thumb’ in people! For a list of tours and programmes, please visit us here.

Please refer to our Events  listings for most up-to-date schedules for our activities. 

Our Other Websites

NOTE: The Conservatory will open at 10:30 a.m. on Tues., March 12.

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Guided Tours

Phipps is pleased to provide guided tours of the Conservatory that are perfect for your next group event or outing. Conservatory tours are one hour in length and focus on our plant collections, history and current flower show.

A $2 surcharge per person applies. Tours are limited to 40 guests. Group tours are subject to availability, and reservations are required at least 30 days in advance.

To book your tour or learn more, complete the form below.

For more information or to ask questions, please contact our Guest Services team at 412-622-6914 ext. 6307.

To book your tour or learn more, complete the Contact Form below:

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Other Tour Options

Sustainability Tours

Sustainability tours are 60 – 90 minutes in length and focus on the sustainable aspects of the state-of-the-art green buildings on campus, including the Center for Sustainable Landscapes (CSL) and Exhibit Staging Center (ESC). Recognized worldwide, these buildings generate all of their own energy and treat all storm and sanitary water onsite. See these real-world sustainability models first-hand to gain new insights on green buildings, renewable energy, biophilic design principles and more. To learn more contact [email protected] .

Student Tours and Field Trips

Phipps offers a wide range of field trip and tour experiences that meet Pennsylvania standards for school, homeschool, scout and other student groups. Visit our Field Trips page to learn more and contact Sarah Bertovich at 412/441-4442 ext. 3925 or [email protected] to sign up.

FREE Sustainability Tours

Phipps offers guided tours of the Center for Sustainable Landscapes  and Exhibit Staging Center most Thursdays – Saturdays at 1 p.m. free with your admission to Phipps. Please call 412/622-6914 to confirm whether a tour is happening on a specific day. On the day of your visit, join your fellow participants at the patio doors of the Tropical Forest Conservatory shortly before the tour begins.

Show Your Support

You can help us today to care for our plants and facilities so we can continue to be the source of beauty and enrichment we have been for over 125 years.

RAD Works Here

Phipps exhibits and programs are made possible by the generous support of the Allegheny Regional Asset District.

City of Pittsburgh

Phipps was gifted to the City of Pittsburgh by Henry Phipps in 1893. The City is thankful to the Board of Trustees for being stewards of this gem of our Schenley Park.

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Private Guided Walking Tours

What better way to tour the garden then to have an expert leading the way! We offer several options based on your group’s interest:

• Journey through a Historic Garden The Missouri Botanical Garden opened to the public in 1859 and began to grow in the European tradition of horticultural display combined with education and the search for new knowledge. Today, over 150 years after opening, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a National Historic Landmark and a center for science and conservation, education and horticultural display. Take a step back in time and explore many of the Garden’s historic treasures, learn the history of how the Garden was planned and has grown, and get a glimpse of what the Garden was like during Shaw’s time.
• Explore Asian Gardens E xplore the culture, art, and plants of our Asian gardens! With a Docent, guests will learn more about the Margaret Grigg Nanjing Friendship Garden (Chinese Garden) and ponder how Chinese philosophies influenced the garden’s arrangement and plantings. From there your group will enter Seiwa-en , our 14-acre Japanese ‘wet strolling garden’, to discover how Japanese traditions are reflected in the garden’s design.
• Seasonal Highlights The Garden is always beautiful, no matter the season. Discover the diversity of plants, get a glimpse of St. Louis history and explore gardens that reflect a variety of cultures, styles and traditions. In this tour, your group will explore what’s truly in bloom around the Garden and in its Living Collection.
• Gardens under Glass: The Garden’s Conservatories Built in 1882, the Linnean House is the oldest continuously operating display greenhouse west of the Mississippi River . It is the only remaining greenhouse at the Garden that was built during Henry Shaw’s day. From there, a tour of the Climatron ® transports your group into a lush lowland rain forest complete with waterfalls and some 1,500 plants. This stunning conservatory has become a symbolic image of the Missouri Botanical Garden. The geodesic domed structure was inspired by the futuristic design of R. Buckminster Fuller. Your tour concludes with a walk through the Temperate House featuring plants from around the world that thrive in “Mediterranean” climates.
• Trees of the Missouri Botanical Garden The Garden was virtually treeless when Henry Shaw began it in 1859 on the Missouri prairie. Today, the Garden has quite an impressive collection of trees . Although the trees of the Missouri Botanical Garden might seem to be an anonymous backdrop, they are in reality a garden unto themselves. The Garden’s trees were planted with the same scrupulous attention to design and botanical diversity as the Garden’s myriad flowers and shrubs, and are an integral part of the Living Collection. Some of the trees are commonplace; others rare. Many carry a historical message. Others burst into eye-catching bloom at certain times of the year. Together, they form a garden within a garden, and each tree has its own story to tell.
• Growing Greener—Sustainability Features of the Missouri Botanical Garden* Sustainability-themed visits to the Garden integrate an interpretive tour of the site with investigations of key sustainability concepts. Participants explore topics such as energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, recycling, composting, air quality, water conservation, plant-based solutions, and the basics of green building. In this tour, your group will see the Garden’s energy initiatives and discover how to carry practical sustainable solutions into your own life wherever you live, work, or play. This tour is limited to groups of  2 0 or less and guests should plan for a two-hour experience.
• Herbarium & Library * Tour two of the Missouri Botanical Garden's outstanding research resources with a Garden Curator. Visit the Garden's Herbarium, one of the largest collections of pressed and dried plants in the world. And view the Peter H. Raven Library's Rare Book Collection, which contains volumes dating back as far as the 15th century that are still used in the study plants today. Guests will learn how the Garden's Herbarium and Library work together to support the work of scientists, students, and researchers around the globe seeking to better understand, identify, classify, and conserve plants.   This tour takes place in the Monsanto Center. Guests should plan for a two-hour experience.

*Subject to staff availability.

Tips and Information

Fees : $12 per person (in addition to general admission)

Minimum fee is $100 per tour.

Length : Walking tours are typically 90–120 minutes and are best suited for guests who are comfortable walking throughout the garden.

Group Dynamics: To provide the best private walking tour experience, we suggest one docent for every 10–12 guests , which means larger groups may be divided into smaller groups. This allows ease of communication and fosters more in-depth conversations.

Accommodations and Amenities: The Missouri Botanical Garden welcomes visitors from all over the world. We are committed to providing everyone with a beautiful and serene visitor experience. View the Garden’s accessibility accommodations online. At the time of reservation, please let us know how we might be able to better serve your group.

Reservations and Payment : Private guided walking tours must be reserved at least 6 weeks in advance and paid for at least 3 weeks prior to the date of your visit.

Ready to purchase or have questions? Email Group Sales .

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Welcome to the U.S. Botanic Garden!

The U.S. Botanic Garden is a living plant museum. We invite you to return again and again to watch the Garden change through the seasons and explore our  dynamic exhibits . Learn about the many  areas of the Garden  you can visit, and we hope you'll  join us for an educational program !

Admission to the U.S. Botanic Garden is free. No tickets required.

Locations & hours.

• Conservatory

Gated Outdoor Gardens

Bartholdi fountain and gardens, directions and parking.

Find information about arriving at our location, public transportation, parking, and more .

Accessibility

The U.S. Botanic Garden strives to make its facilities and programming accessible to all visitors. Our  Accessibility page  provides more information.

Explore Our Gardens

The Conservatory features plants from across the United States and around the world ranging from desert plants to tropical forests to orchids and is open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. Tickets are not required.

Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens are open from dawn to dusk daily. They are located across Independence Avenue from the Conservatory, with access from any of the three bordering streets:  Independence Avenue, Washington Avenue, or First Street SW.

The gated outdoor gardens ("National Garden") are open 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. These gardens have extended spring-summer hours April 1 – September 15, staying open until 7:00 p.m.

Visit our  Hours and Location page  for additional information and directions.

Safety Guidelines

Masks are recommended for indoor spaces, and groups are encouraged to maintain social distance from other visitor groups. Please stay home if you have symptoms of COVID-19, have tested positive for COVID-19, or have been asked to isolate because of COVID-19 exposure. Find more information in multiple languages  on the CDC website .

Photography and Sketching

Visitors are permitted to take photographs of the public areas at the U.S. Botanic Garden for personal use only. Commercial use of such photographs is strictly prohibited.

• Hand-held cameras, video cameras, or lap easels for sketching may be used at any time, as long as they do not affect the public's enjoyment of, or access to, the Garden.
• We do not allow visitors to do photoshoots or video shoots at the Garden.
• Please read the full  Photography and Art Policy  for more details.

Etiquette for Visiting the Garden

The U.S. Botanic Garden is a living plant museum for everyone to enjoy. Please respect the living collection and be mindful of other visitors. As you walk through the gardens,  here are some "do's and don'ts" to keep in mind .

There is no food or drink for sale at the Garden, though a water fountain and bottle refill station is available. Food and drink is allowed in the Garden, and visitors can use tables and chairs outdoors. We ask visitors to gather and pack out their trash, as there are limited trash bins outdoors.

There is a gift shop in the West Gallery run by the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden and local small business Rewild with plants and plant-themed offerings. 

Special Events

The U.S. Botanic Garden facilities are not available for weddings or other personal or private functions. Policies governing Congressionally sponsored evening events are established by the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library. For more detailed information, see Congressional events .

School Group Resources

For information about school group educational resources, please visit our Field Trip page to plan your field trip.

United States Botanic Garden Campus Map

Photo Gallery

Sunbeams break through the plants in the Conservatory's Tropics house.

Explore the flowers, trees, fountains, and more in our outdoor gardens.

Sunset illuminates the sprays of the historic Fountain of Light and Water in Bartholdi Gardens.

U.S. Botanic Garden Visitor Guide

Read about the U.S. Botanic Garden  before you arrive! Our visitor guide is available in English, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish. Choose your language to download .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are any spaces air conditioned.

There are several air-conditioned spaces indoors within the Conservatory, including the West Gallery, East Gallery, and South Transition. Please ask a member of the visitor services team upon your arrival for assistance navigating to a cooler pace.

Is there a water fountain / bottle refill?

Drinking fountains and a water bottle refill station are located indoors in the south of the Conservatory near the restrooms.

Are there accessible restrooms and child changing tables?

Accessible facilities and children's changing tables are found in both men's and women's restrooms.

Are dogs allowed?

Leashed pets are allowed throughout the outdoor gardens. Pets are not allowed inside the Conservatory. We welcome service dogs that are trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability in all areas of the garden unless the dog poses a direct threat, is not housebroken, or is not under the control.

Is there a Lost and Found?

Items of value found at the Garden are given to U.S. Capitol Police at the end of the day. If you have lost something and the Garden is closed, please contact USCP at (202) 225-4200.

Can I park at the Garden?

We encourage taking public transportation - the Federal Center SW metro station is just three blocks away. Metered street parking spaces are available within a few blocks of the U.S. Botanic Garden. The Garden does not have its own parking lot or parking spaces. More information

Is there a cafe or restaurant?

There is no food or drink for sale at the Garden, though a water fountain and bottle refill station is available. 

Can I have a wedding / event at the Garden?

The U.S. Botanic Garden facilities are not available for weddings or other personal or private functions. Policies governing Congressionally sponsored evening events are established by the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library. For more detailed information, see  Congressional events .

Explore and Discover

The U.S. Botanic Garden creates and offers extraordinary exhibits that delight, educate, and inspire the public to become more active stewards of the plants that support life on earth.

"Season's Greenings" holiday exhibit 2023

• Outdoor Gardens

• Arid and Desert
• Carnivorous

• Allée and Overlook
• Aquatic Exhibits
• Arboretum and Geiger Tropical Flower Garden
• Arid and Succulent Collections
• Butterfly Garden Miami: The Clinton Family Conservatory
• Children’s Garden
• Cycad Collection
• Garden Club of America Amphitheater
• Gate House Museum
• Jewels of the Caribbean Exhibit
• Keys Coastal Habitat
• Liberty Hyde Bailey Palm Glade
• Lin Lougheed Spiny Forest of Madagascar
• Lisa D. Anness South Florida Butterfly Garden
• Montgomery Palmetum & Palm Collection
• Moos Sunken Garden
• Natural History Collection (Archives and Herbarium)
• Pine Rockland Exhibit
• Richard H. Simons Rainforest
• Sibley Victoria Pool
• The Fairchild Farm & Tropical Fruit Collection
• Tropical Plant Conservatory and Rare Plant House
• Organic Vegetable Garden
• Vine Pergola
• Whitman Tropical Fruit Pavilion
• Wings of the Tropics
• Fairchild Hours & Admission
• Become an Explorer
• Group Programs
• Garden Restaurant
• Field Trips
• Home School Programs
• Biotech High School
• Pine Lake Elementary
• Classes for Adults, Kids, & Families
• The Fairchild Challenge
• Summer Camp
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• Growing Beyond Earth®
• Orchid Care Sheets
• Native Plant Conservation
• Native Plant Network
• Kushlan Bird Program
• Conservation
• Dimare Science Village
• Innovation Studio
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• What’s Blooming at Fairchild: Flower Gardens
• Fairchild on Lincoln
• Plant Societies
• American Orchid Society
• Florida Orchids
• Florida Orchids for Sale
• How to Grow Your Wild Orchids on Trees
• Cold Protection
• Storm Protection
• Planting Watering Mulching
• Soils Media
• Plant Selection
• Insects and Pesticides
• Fertilization
• Pruning Trees
• Home Composting
• Edible Gardens
• South Florida Native Plants
• Ask Fairchild
• Plant Nursery
• Garden Explorer
• A Festival of Chocolate
• Gala in the Garden
• Garden D’Amore
• Orchid’s In Bloom Festival
• The Bunny Hoppening
• Jurassic Garden
• Dino’s After Dark
• Under A Dino Moon
• Enchanted Fairies
• Mother’s Day in the Garden
• Splendor in the Garden
• Sunset Summer Jams
• Mango Festival
• Gnomes on the Roam
• Haunted Bird Houses
• Orchids in October
• A Very Merry Garden
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Guided and Self-Guided Exploration

Tours are a great way to enjoy Fairchild in a more comprehensive and comfortable way. Tours are led by trained volunteers who will guide you along the way to many different plants, flowers, birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The content will vary depending on the departure location and interest of the visitors. 

Enjoy a free, narrated tram tour with one of our expert guides. Tram Tours offer an introduction to the history, mission, and Fairchild’s plant collections. The tours give an excellent overview of the Garden, after which you can explore on your own. Please note that during special events and/or inclement weather, tram tours are suspended to ensure the safety of our guests.

PLEASE NOTE: Tram tours are offered each day starting at 11am. Please check with our Guest Service associates in The Shop for the daily Tram Tour schedule.

Self-Guided Tours

Do you prefer self-exploration? Then, be sure to discover the Garden on your own using one of our many exploration aids. Our  visitor map  will guide you to the many sites throughout Fairchild. The Kushlan Bird Trail is another wonderful self-guided experience that will help you discover the birds of Fairchild. Be sure to ask for both of these tour booklets when you arrive.

Private Tours of Fairchild

Whether you’re new to Fairchild or a longtime Member, you can deepen your enjoyment of the Garden by taking an exclusive Private Tour. These informative docent-led tours are offered throughout the day and are available for individuals or small groups of up to seven guests in the comfort of our shuttle carts; larger groups are accommodated in our trams. Guests enjoy the Garden’s 83-acres for approximately 1 ½ hours with our expertly-trained and friendly volunteer docents. Afterwards, explore the Garden at your leisure. In order to provide your party with the best experience, we recommend booking your private tour three days prior to your visit. Depending on availability, we may accommodate any day-of bookings.

Private Tour Pricing (Includes Garden Admission, Garden Exhibits, Wings of the Tropics Exhibit, Special Exhibits, and a Private Tour lasting approximately 1 ½ hours).

Up to groups of 5: $250 Up to groups of 7: $300 Groups larger than 7:  $500 (limit 20 guests) Member Pricing (up to groups of 7): $125

To book a group larger than 7 guests, please contact us at  [email protected]  or 305.667.1651 x3305 at least 48 hours before your group visit.

Guided Walking Tours

Guided walking tours are a great way to enjoy Fairchild more in-depth. Tours are led by trained volunteers who will guide you along the way to many different plants, flowers, birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The programs are carefully curated to ensure both an expansive and enjoyable educational experience. The content will vary depending on the departure location and interest of the visitors.

Schedules are subject to change depending on participation or weather. 

Early-bird Walks at Fairchild

SEASONAL: Discover the diverse avian community in South Florida via the Kushlan Bird Trail at Fairchild.  Join us on Early-bird Walks and explore the best birding spots throughout Fairchild and record your sightings in the global database for birds,  eBird . Don’t forget your binoculars!  Please check our event schedule for these tour offerings. 

Useful Information

Event dates.

FREE Bookings essential.

Meet at the Visitor Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Free Guided Walk

A free guided walk is the perfect way to enjoy Melbourne Gardens. Led by a passionate guide, discover sensational views and the remarkable plant diversity of this sanctuary in the middle of bustling Melbourne.

What's On at the Gardens

The Explorer - Melbourne Gardens

Aboriginal Heritage Walk

Forest Therapy at Melbourne Gardens

Secret Life of Birds

Domain Discovery: Shrine & Gardens Tour

ClimateWatch Walk at Melbourne Gardens

Stellar Nights

Sonica Botanica: Stories & Sounds from the Gardens

Seek and Find Nature Cards

The Explorer - Cranbourne Gardens

Garden Highlights Walk

Free Daily Shuttle

ClimateWatch Walk at Cranbourne Gardens

Trees in the Australian Garden

Birds in the Australian Garden

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University of Washington Botanic Gardens

• University of Washington

Take the Arboretum TRAM TOUR and visit six continents in one hour!

This fully narrated 1-hour tour guides you through Seattle’s outdoor living museum:

• Learn about plants from nearly 100 countries.
• Discover the Arboretum’s connection with horses.
• Understand which plants are part of a world-class collection!

PRIVATE 1-HOUR TRAM TOURS $220 plus tax (10-person max)

$200 plus tax (Senior Groups)

2024 SCHEDULE

We are currently closed for public tram tours. Private tram tours are available April through September.

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance? Yes!  For private tram tours we need to ensure we have a tour guide available for you. Our 1-hour tour times are generally 11 to 12 and 12:30 to 1:30.

What about inclement weather?   Tours will run rain or shine. We ask that you check the weather forecast and dress accordingly if inclement weather is predicted. In cases of high winds, snow, or impassable roadways, you will be notified in advance and refunded accordingly.

Are there bathrooms along the way?  No. Public restrooms are available at the beginning of the tour in the Graham Visitors Center.

Will locals enjoy the tour as well, or is it mostly for tourists? Absolutely! While you may be familiar with the Arboretum you will also have the opportunity to discover new things about Seattle!  Additionally, this tour is an excellent way to entertain out-of-town guests.

Are tickets refundable?  All ticket sales are final.  If there are extenuating circumstances, please contact [email protected] , but please note this is answered Monday through Friday between 9am and 5pm

Is the tour suitable for children?  Including children is up to the discretion of the adults accompanying the children.  Content is directed to adults, however. 

Is the tour wheelchair and stroller accessible?   Unfortunately, no. The tram does not have room for a wheelchair or stroller.  If you are able to leave them in the Visitors Center and are able to sit on the Tram then yes, you can tour! Note: All mobility-impaired tram passengers must be able to climb aboard on their own, or with assistance from a professional caregiver that comes with them on the Tour.  A UWBG step stool is provided, but no physical assistance will be given from Tour staff.

Where does the Tour depart?   Washington Park Arboretum, 2300 Arboretum Drive East, Seattle, WA 98122.  Check-in at the information desk located in the Graham Visitors Center anytime after 10AM.  Tours will begin boarding about 5 minutes before departure.

Is there public parking available nearby?  There are multiple parking lots for free near the Visitors Center.  On a busy day these can fill early! We also recommend taking public transportation and/or using resources such as Uber, Lyft, or bike-share programs.  We are about a 20-minute walk from the UW Light Rail Station.  Specific parking and public transportation directions will be included in the meeting location details after purchasing tickets.

How many people will be on the tour?  Each tour is capped at 10 people per tour guide.

Do you offer private tours?  Yes!  Currently all of our tram tours are private. Private Tours (both walking and tram tours) are available year round . To schedule a private tour, please email [email protected]

By purchasing individual Tour tickets, or renting/buying-out the entire Tour, and/or by attending the Tour, the ticket holder, for itself and any children it is accompanying on the Tour under age 18, acknowledges and understands the hazards and limitations of the Tour in full and furthermore forever releases UWBG and its agents, employees or officers from all debts, claims, demands, and damages, actions, and causes of action, whatsoever, which You or Your Guests may now have, or may hereafter have, as a result of taking the Tour.  Further, the ticket holder, for itself and any children under age 18 it is accompanying on the Tour, shall indemnify and hold harmless UWBG for any theft, property damage, or injuries caused by the ticket holder while attending the Tour.  The Tour takes place in a 13-passenger tram that has lap belts but no sidewalls. Tours can travel up to 10 mph and make frequent stops as well as traveling over speed bumps and taking sharp turns.  All mobility-impaired tram passengers must be able to climb aboard on their own, or with assistance from a professional caregiver that comes with them on the Tour.  A UWBG step stool is provided, but no physical assistance will be given from the Tour staff.

Contact us:

To schedule a tour, email us at [email protected] or call 206.543.8800

UW Botanic Gardens Tram Tour Tour departs from:   2300 Arboretum Drive East, Seattle, WA 98112

• (210) 536-1400
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• MON-SAT: 8AM - 6PM SUN 8AM - 8PM Member's Only Hour: 7AM-8AM

Tours & Walks

Upcoming walks.

Monthly guided public tours are available by registration including Sustainability and Design, Texas WaterSaver Gardening, and Bird Watching.

Read the Garden’s Registration and Cancellation Policies for information about member discounts, refunds and more.

Drop-in Guided Tour: Huntopia

Guided Tour: Sustainable Gardening

Drop-in Guided Tour: Native Plants in the Garden

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• $75 (plus entry fee for each attendee)

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The 13 Most Beautiful Gardens in the World to Visit

W hether you're in the Northern Hemisphere or Southern, East or West, there's always something to see at the best botanical gardens in the world. This guide covers six of the seven continents (sorry, Antarctica), including six gardens in the United States.

What are botanical gardens exactly? Merriam-Webster defines them as gardens "often with greenhouses for the culture, study, and exhibition of special plants." The international Botanic Gardens and Plant Conservation goes a few steps further, emphasizing the purpose of scientific research and the conservation of rare and threatened plants, plus compliance with international policies and sustainability and ethical initiatives.

While the flora and fauna change from region to region-and season to season-each of these gardens offers an astonishing variety of natural and man-made wonders. These are sanctuaries of tranquility that simultaneously excite nature lovers and inspire would-be green thumbs. You don't have to be an aspiring botanist or horticulturist to enjoy a visit; these gardens boast magnificent architecture, greenhouses, fountains, wildlife, walking tours, libraries, classes, and special events, including light shows and concerts. They're also family friendly, less expensive than amusement parks, and good for your health-depending on how ambitious you are with your walking.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

• Location: Richmond, London, England
• Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. (last entry 2 p.m.)
• Tickets: $13–$30 (adults), $5–$10 (children 4–15), free for children under 4

Kew Gardens (as the gardens are better known) may be the most famous botanical park in the world and not just because it's a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's considered the world's largest collection of living plants with more than 50,000 of them across 300 acres of dedicated land, including many species you'd never expect to find in England. For that, you have the climate-controlled Princess of Wales Conservatory to thank. The glasshouse (the largest Victorian one in the world) is carved into zones: One is dedicated to carnivorous plants like Venus flytraps; another to succulents and cacti; and a third is humid and tropical enough to grow Victoria amazonica , the world's largest water lilies.

The property, founded in 1759, also has a rock garden with a tiered waterfall and an arboretum with 14,000 trees, including giant redwoods and black locusts dating to the 18th century. For the ultimate immersion, head to the edge of the garden, where a 37-acre storybook forest meets the River Thames and an elevated trail snakes through a watercolorist's palette of wildflowers .

Singapore Botanic Gardens

• Location: Singapore
• Hours: Daily 5 a.m.–midnight
• Tickets: Free
• nparks.gov.sg/sbg

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is the only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO World Heritage list and the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Singapore. The 203-acre green space, founded in 1859, welcomes millions of visitors a year, drawn to the lakeside gazebos, groves of wild fruit trees, the bonsai garden, three lakes, a small tropical rain forest, and a perfumed grouping of frangipani. There is also a healing garden with 400 types of medicinal plants.

Of special appeal is the 7.4-acre National Orchid Garden-the largest of its kind, with more than 1,000 wild species and 2,000 hybrids, organized into color zones.

You may see exotic animals as well; birds, frogs, lizards, bats, monkeys, pigs, turtles, otters, and other animals live here year-round. Note: Do not confuse this with Singapore's Gardens by the Bay , a popular , man-made, and air-conditioned environment.

Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Montréal)

• Location: Montreal, Canada
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Tickets: $23 (adults), $21 (seniors 65+), $17 (students with ID), $12 (kids 5–17)
• espacepourlavie.ca/en/botanical-garden

The stats alone are impressive: 10 greenhouses spread over 185 acres with 22,000 species of flora-and the whole garden was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 2008. On top of all that, the Montreal Botanical Garden , created in 1936, also shows creativity in its approach. There's a toxic plant garden and a garden of innovations that showcases new cultivars from the ornamental horticulture industry.

Depending on the season, visitors can explore an arboretum with 800 species of trees and shrubs, a Japanese garden with bonsai trees, a Chinese garden, and spaces dedicated to perennials, shade plants, ferns, succulents, roses, floating plants, medicinal plants, and, of course, flowers (especially irises, peonies, and lilies). What's more, it maintains more than 400 species on the list of rare or threatened plants drawn up by the World Conservation Union (IUCN). And it launched the First Nations Garden in 2001, which "presents the close bonds First Nations and the Inuit have always had with the plant world."

If you're interested in visiting the insectarium with more than 250,000 specimens (one of the largest insect museums in North America), you need a separate ticket, which includes access to other museums, including the Biosphere and Biodome .

Jardim Botânico

• Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday–Sunday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Tickets: $15 (cash only)
• gov.br/jbrj/en

Rio's 350-acre Jardim Botânico was founded in 1808 by D. João VI of Portugal, prince regent (eventually king) of the United Kingdom of Brazil and Portugal. It has a reputation as one of the finest tropical gardens on Earth, bordered by the world's largest urban forest, Tijuca National Park. Of its 7,000-plus species of tropical plants, the vast majority are native to Brazil. It also has 2,000 species of orchids. And while you may see the garden's Avenue of Royal Palms surface repeatedly on Instagram, its rare bromeliads and traditional Japanese garden-including cherry trees and bonsai-are not to be missed.

Note to birders: Bring your binoculars because hundreds of species nest in this garden.

Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden

• Location: Tromsø, Norway
• Hours: Open 24 hours, seven days a week
• en.uit.no/tmu/botanisk

The Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden , the world's northernmost botanical garden, showcases traditional perennials and herbs from the tippy-top of Norway , plus a surprising array of plants from other continents. Part of the University of Tromsø, the garden has 25 collections in total; it specializes in Arctic and Antarctic plants (a rarity), as well as species native to the Himalayas, South America, and Africa. The garden is open year-round and free to visit, but most flowering takes place between May and October. In winter, BYO skis to experience the AABG's evergreen shrubs and snow-capped rockscapes.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

• Location: Kirstenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
• Hours: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. during summer (September–March), 8 a.m.–6 p.m. during winter (April–August).
• Tickets: $12 (adults), $2 (children 6–17)
• sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch

It's hard to beat a backdrop that includes Table Mountain National Park. Set in the eastern slopes of South Africa's most iconic landmark, the world-renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden lives up to the hype. There are 1,305 acres with more than 7,000 species of plants, most of which are native to the Cape and southern Africa.

Located eight miles from the heart of Cape Town, and founded in 1913, the garden is blessed with postcard-worthy groupings of protea and cycads, hiking and mountain biking trails, expansive lawns for picnicking, and a 427-foot treetop walkway (informally known as "the Boomslang") that arcs gently above the arboretum's canopy.

Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney

• Location: Sydney, Australia
• Hours: Daily 7 a.m.–sunset
• botanicgardens.org.au

Australia 's oldest scientific institution-and one of the earliest botanic gardens in the Southern Hemisphere-the 74-acre Royal Botanic Garden is a dazzling mix of horticultural beauty and ecological conservation. Founded in 1816 and located on Sydney Harbour, a five-minute walk from the city center, it houses a collection of more than 27,000 plants from around the world, organized into 15 themed gardens. They include an air succulent garden, a tropical garden, an Australian rain forest garden, and one of the largest green walls you'll ever see.

Unique to this institution is the Cadi Jam Ora–First Encounters Garden , which explores the relationship between plants and people; it's located on the site where the Cadigal (an Aboriginal cultural group) and European settlers first met in January 1788. An online map offers an overview of the Victorian-era buildings, statuary, fountains, and monuments that dot the landscape.

New York Botanical Garden

• Location: Bronx, New York
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday and Monday federal holidays 10 a.m.–6 p.m
• Tickets: $35 (adults 13+), $31 (seniors 65+), $31 (students with ID), $20 (children 2–12)

The Bronx's best-known National Historic Landmark was established in 1891 by botanists Nathaniel Lord Britton and his wife, Elizabeth. Inspired by a visit to Kew Gardens in England (see above), the couple founded their own botanical paradise on the north side of Bronx Park, close to an old-growth forest (the Thain Family Forest) and the babbling Bronx River. With 250 acres of land, this picturesque green space-known as the New York Botanical Garden -is the largest city-based botanical garden in the United States. Its 50 specialty gardens feature more than a million plants and 12,000 species, including lilacs and magnolias.

Highlights of any visit include a stroll through the circa-1890 Victorian-style glasshouse Haupt Conservatory, the impressive northeastern North American native plant garden, and what is widely considered one of the world's most sustainable rose gardens. For plant nerds, there is also the Mertz Library, the largest botanical research library in the USA and the first library whose collection focused exclusively on botany.

Missouri Botanical Garden

• Location: St. Louis, Missouri
• Hours: Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Tickets: $14 (adults 13+)
• missouribotanicalgarden.org

Established in 1859 by merchant Henry Shaw, this National Historic Landmark is America's oldest botanical garden still in continuous operation. Its 79-acre spread is best known for the Climatron, a geodesic-dome greenhouse with a rain forest–like climate, dense tropical foliage, and a river aquarium teeming with fish. More than 2,800 plants grow inside, including cacao and coffee.

The institution has earned international acclaim for its comprehensive botanical reference library and herbarium with more than 6.5 million mounted specimens (the second-largest in the USA). Other notable draws include the 14-acre Japanese strolling garden, one of the oldest in the nation, and an 8,000-square-foot glass butterfly conservatory housing more than 60 species of winged beauties and 100 species of exotic flowering plants.

Desert Botanical Garden

• Location: Phoenix, Arizona
• Hours: October–April daily 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Tickets: $30 (adults), $17 (kids 3–17)

Snuggled into the dusty red rocks of the Papago Buttes Park, the 140-acre Desert Botanical Garden has more than 50,000 arid plants and 4,482 species in its unique collection. Of those, 379 species are rare and endangered.

Founded in 1939, the garden has gotten creative with its programming, offering desert landscaping classes for homeowners and five themed hiking trails that are especially nice for families. It's not just a trove of succulents and cacti, either. There's also a desert wildflower garden dedicated to brightly colored blooms and the pollinators they attract, like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

You can get a sense of history here, too. Travel along the Sonoran Desert Nature Loop to learn how the region's Tohono O'odham and Western Apache people used native plants.

Longwood Gardens

• Location: Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
• Hours: Wednesday–Monday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (March 30–May 8 until 6 p.m.)
• Tickets: $30 (adults 19+), $27 (seniors 62+ and students with ID), $23 (military/veteran), $16 (kids 6–18)
• longwoodgardens.org

Longwood has a rich history, starting with the native Lenni Lenape tribe, which fished, hunted, and planted on the 1,077-acre estate for thousands of years. In 1906, wealthy entrepreneur Pierre S. du Pont bought the land and started to build his own gardens, one by one, drawing heavily on recent visits to renowned gardens in Europe.

He was especially impressed with fountains at the time; he had seen the majestic water pumps at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. So Longwood, naturally, has plenty of them-hundreds. Over decades, Longwood has added a conservatory, a plant nursery, an experimental greenhouse, a desert house, 13 outdoor water lily pools, a meadow garden, tree houses, tropical plants, a plant-breeding program, and a visitor center with a shop, auditorium, and 1,000-car parking lot.

In the fall of 2024, the garden will be unveiling what it is calling "a sweeping reimagination of 17 acres of the Conservatory and grounds."

Chicago Botanic Garden

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Hours: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
• Tickets: $10–$15 (adults 13+), $10–$12 (children 3–12), children under 3 are free; the garden offers occasional free days, check its calendar
• chicagobotanic.org

Depending on the season (and which exhibits are on view), visitors at the Chicago Botanic Garden can enter a habitat filled with live butterflies, admire 26 replicas of roadside attractions in the Model Railroad exhibit, or take in the 385 acres of nature and beauty while seated on a free tram tour .

What kinds of gardens will you find? There's a rose garden, a fruit and vegetable garden, a world-class bonsai collection, and more than 200 dwarf trees, including evergreens, maples, and magnolias. The kaleidoscope of color is spread across nine islands and six miles of lakeshore. To explore what's in bloom when you visit, download the interactive plant-locating app and take one of the offered walking tours .

The Huntington Botanical Gardens

• Location: San Marino, California
• Hours: Wednesday–Monday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Tickets: $25–$29 (adults), $21–$24 (seniors 65 and students 12–18 or full-time with ID), $13 (children 4–11), children under 4 free
• huntington.org

Located 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles , the Huntington is a fantastic, massive campus that sits on 130 acres, boasting more than 83,000 living plants. It's impossible to see everything in one day. Some of the themed gardens are so spectacular that you could visit just for that collection. The desert garden, for example, is one of the largest outdoor collections of cacti and succulents in the world and includes more than 5,000 species of desert plants. Among the striking specimens, seek out the boojum trees ( Fouquieria columnaris ).

The grounds also have gardens dedicated to different types of plants (roses, herbs, palm trees) as well as nations (Australia, China, Japan), plus lily ponds and a mausoleum. You want a cool selfie in nature? You could shoot a month's worth of content here in a day.

This article was originally published in 2019 and most recently updated on January 3, 2024 with current information.

BOTANICAL GARDEN

    tours   .

"I look forward to connecting more people with one of Anchorage's hidden gems and sharing my passion for plants! I hope to see you on one of my tours at the Garden. "

- Brie A. Xavier

MBA, Owner, Operator, Entrepreneur

ABOUT OUR TOUR

Discover one of Anchorage's hidden gems on this one-hour, half-mile walking tour of the Alaska Botanical Garden! The tour usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half, leaving plenty of time for photo opportunities and questions. The paved trail has a few benches along the way and we can stop and rest if needed. The Alaska Botanical Garden has a powerchair that is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.  On the tour, you will learn about the native flora and non-native cold climate flora and the history of the Alaska Botanical Garden. The tour will include stunning blue poppies, peonies, and other cold hardy perennials depending on the season. The leisurely tour follows the paved trail th rough five main Garden areas and ends with a stop at the gift shop and plant nursery.   This guided walking tour is the perfect way to begin or end your trip to Anchorage, Alaska. I try to tailor each tour to my guests' interests and skill levels. I want you to walk away with a new appreciation for plants and hopefully some answers to burning questions. I'm not a Master Gardener and I do not know all of the plants, but I will do my best to get all your questions answered. 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

In addition to our world class tours of Alaska Botanical Garden, we also offer a beautiful AirBNB and Turo Car Rental. Check us out at the links below! 

TO DO NEARBY 

Native Heritage Center

Flattop Mountain Hike

Thunderbird Falls Hike

Mirror Lake

Coastal Trail

Kincaid Park

Polar Bear Park

Russian Jack Greenhouse

Burrito Factory in Chevron Gas Station on Northern Lights and Boniface

Mooses Tooth

Bear's Tooth

Resolution Brewery

Cynosure Brewing

Double Shovel Cider

49th State Brewing

Glacier Brewhouse

Why take a tour with me?

Bear Safety

New Tour Alert! Food, Flora & Fauna Tour

GUEST REVIEWS

Brie’s passion for gardening and knowledge about the garden were infectious as we walked around the beautiful winter landscape. It felt more like hanging out with a friend than being on a tour. 

VIEW BLOOM REPORTS 

Tel: 508-207-3542 

[email protected]

Anchorage, AK 99507 

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Events & Classes

Concerts in the garden: keb’ mo’ & shawn colvin, september 29 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm.

Concerts return to the Gainesville Garden’s beautiful Ivester Amphitheater this fall, featuring Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriters Keb’ Mo’ & Shawn Colvin . Tickets on sale to Garden members June 10!

Member Pre-Sale: Monday, June 10 at 10 a.m.

General Public On-Sale: Friday, June 14 at 10 a.m. 

Related Events

Fairytale friday, walking tour: summer blooms, musical odyssey: vivaldi’s four seasons performed by the southeastern young artists.

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JAPANESE GARDEN – KOI POND AT SOUTH COAST BOTANIC GARDENS

Listen to the calming sounds of water and take in the subdued palette of evergreen shrubbery embracing the Koi Pond. The garden features stone lanterns crafted of Okazaki stone over 200 years ago and a bonsai display maintained by the South Coast Bonsai Association.   Adults – $15, Seniors 65 and over and Students with ID – $11, Children (5 to 12 years) – $5, Foundation members and children under 4 – Free, Entry on the third Tuesday of each…

WATTS WILLOWBROOK FARMERS’ MARKET AT MLK CAMPUS

Watts Willowbrook Farmers’ Market, in collaboration with the MLK Outpatient Center, opened in November 2023. The market will serve a diverse customer base and continue to grow in both attendance and reputation as a market that is outstanding in the quality of the fresh food that is offered weekly.     Open Weekly on Wednesdays, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

JAPANESE GARDEN AT DESCANSO GARDENS

Explore this tranquil Japanese-style garden that blends design elements from four classic garden styles. Cross an arched bridge and walk on shaded paths along a koi-filled stream to the teahouse.   General – $15, Seniors 65 and over and Students with ID – $11, Children (5 to 12 years) – $5, Descanso members and children under 5 – Free

Pacific Islander Festival

Join the Aquarium for its twentieth annual Pacific Island Festival. This festival features traditional music and dance, cultural displays, and craft demonstrations and celebrates Pacific Islander cultures, including Hawaiian, Tahitian, Samoan, Tongan, Chamorro, Marshallese, and Māori.

SUIHO EN – JAPANESE GARDEN

Amid the San Fernando Valley lies an oasis – a 6.5-acre garden featuring three gardens in one. First, the Japanese Garden has a dry Zen meditation garden containing Tortoise Island, a three-buddha arrangement of stones, and a wisteria arbor at the end of the Plover Path. Next along the path is an expansive Chisen or “wet-strolling” garden with waterfalls, lakes and streams, abundant greenery, and stone lanterns, which were hand-carved by artisans in Japan. At the end of this path…

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