5 U.S. Botanical Gardens
To Visit Now

These 5 Botanical Gardens in the U.S. are a great reason to pack your bags and embark on an adventure. Theme travel has always been a fun way to see various destinations. For flower lovers, gardeners, and outdoor enthusiasts, a trip to the botanical gardens is a great way to fill your itinerary with all the things you love.

Many cities have spectacular gardens they can call their own, and here are five that have caught my eye, either in person or on my list of places to see.

Atlanta Botanical Gardens -has an array of  beautiful topiary sculptures with an extensive collection of tropical plants.  This garden tops my list of must-see places. Renowned for themed topiaries highlighting the time of  year, you can not miss the Cascades Garden with flowing water and canopy walkways leading to the spectacular Earth Goddess. The iconic sculpture has graced the gardens since 2013. She is made from 18,00 live annuals and now is a permanent installation welcoming guests to this photographic spot. Check their website – www.atlantabg.org for special exhibitions and activities throughout the year. Featured this summer is the Japanese Origami exhibit with giant sculptures of horses, flowers, and birds, to name a few.  

Portland Japanese Garden – In Portland, OR, you’ll find twelve acres of tranquil traditional Japanese nature and garden structures in this authentic Asian garden. The space includes eight different garden styles: flowing streams, peaceful pathways, and a fantastic view of Mt. Hood.  Plan a stop for tea at an authentic Japanese Tea House. Visitors can learn about Japanese arts throughout the year with many seasonal activities, classes, demonstrations, and performances. This summer the Koto Harp is a featured performance. Plan your trip starting with a visit to their website – www.japanesegarden.org

Huntington Beach Botanical Garden – in San Marino, California, offers 130 acres open to the public on an elegant estate purchased by Henry E. Huntington in 1903. A cactus collection that marvels any you may find anywhere is the highlight. You will be amazed with the natural beauty growing in this dry climate. There are 16 themed gardens throughout the botanical oasis. While cacti and succulents are my personal favorites, there are various plant collections with over 16,000 species to explore. The gardens also serve as a research facility for conservation and cryopreservation. When you’re in the area, check out the online calendar for all the details – www.huntington.org

Bellevue Botanical Garden – in Bellevue, WA, has something for everyone. Children especially love the suspension bridge over a deep ravine. The 53-acre urban garden is a refuge in the city center. Perfect for a stroll to take in all the beauty of plants, flowers, and natural scenery. Summer activities offer something for entertainment as well as education. The Crazy For Natural Photography class is perfect for budding photographers who want to polish their skills capturing beautiful flowers and plants. Start your adventure with a visit to their website – www.bellevuebotanical.org

Callaway Gardens – Pine Mountain, GA – offers beautiful seasonal gardens and nature trails. You can switch up your visit for beach time, Tree Top Adventures, Hiking & Biking, Summer Circus, Mega Bugs exhibits, Birds of Prey Show, a Balloon Festival, and did we mention golfing too. With 2,500 acres of gardens and nature trails, grab a map and plan for a whole day or weekend of enjoying the outdoors. Start here on the website and plan a trip to this family fun spot – www.callawaygardens.com 

Looking for more fun things to do this summer? How about train journeys.