Top 25 Botanical Gardens in Maine

The beautiful and diverse botanical gardens of Maine are a must-see for any visitor! There’s more to Maine than just snow, and if you take the time out during your vacation to explore some of its beautiful gardens then I’m sure that will become clear.

From unique native plant species like Labrador tea (made famous by John Mcgrath) or rhododendrons which bloom year after year because they only grow in cold climates; there is truly something for everyone here!

Since driving distances are small, you can also check out some other botanical gardens in the New England area such as:
– Botanical Gardens in New Hampshire
– Botanical Gardens in Massachusetts

1. Viles Arboretum

The Viles Arboretum is a 125 acre arboretum and botanical garden located in Augusta, Maine. It is open to the public daily without charge. The arboretum is named for its benefactors, Leslie P. and Katherine W. Viles.

The arboretum was established in 1961 when Leslie P. Viles donated 78 acres (320,000 m2) of land to the state of Maine for use as an arboretum and botanical garden. Additional land was acquired over the years, including a 24 acre (97,000 m2) parcel donated by the estate of Katherine W. Viles in 1993. The arboretum now includes more than 2,000 different types of trees and shrubs from around the world.

The arboretum has a variety of educational programs, including guided tours, nature walks, and classes for adults and children. There is also a playground, picnic area, and gift shop on the grounds.

The arboretum covers over 34 acres of land, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy there. You can go for a walk, go fishing, have a picnic, or take part in one of the many educational programs that are offered. The Viles Arboretum is worth a visit if you’re in the area!

2. Coastal Maine Botanical Garden

The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located in Boothbay, Maine. It covers 242 acres (98 ha) and contains more than 1,500 different types of plants, including 100 different species of trees. The garden features eight miles (13 km) of walking trails, as well as a visitor center, a cafe, and a gift shop. It is open to the public year-round.

The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden was founded in 1991 by Dr. Gilbert Hochschild and his wife Marjorie. The couple purchased the land for the garden in 1990 and began construction shortly thereafter. The garden opened to the public in 1992.

The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden contains more than 1,500 different types of plants, including 100 different species of trees. Some of the more notable trees in the garden include a dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), a Ginkgo biloba, and American sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua).

The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden covers 242 acres (98 ha) and contains eight miles (13 km) of walking trails. The garden features a visitor center, a cafe, and a gift shop. It is open to the public year-round.

The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden offers a variety of activities for you to enjoy. These include gardening classes, nature walks, family festivals, and concerts. The garden also hosts many special events throughout the year, such as the Spring Plant Sale, the Holiday Tree Lighting, and the Summer Concert Series.

3. Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary

The Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary is a nature reserve located in the town of Scarborough, in southern Maine. It is operated by the Scarborough Land Trust and covers an area of 460 acres (1.9 km2). The sanctuary contains a variety of different habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. There are also several miles of hiking trails through the property.

The sanctuary was founded in 1967 when resident Kenneth A. Knight donated 156 acres (0.6 km2) of forest land to the Scarborough Land Trust. Additional parcels of land were acquired over the years, and today the sanctuary includes 460 acres (1.9 km2) of land.

The nature reserve is named for Thorncrag Mountain, which is located on the property. The mountain is the site of an old fire tower and offers views of the surrounding area.

The sanctuary is home to a variety of different trees, including American beech, sugar maple, white pine, and eastern hemlock. There are also many different animal species inhabiting the sanctuary, including black bears, moose, deer, coyotes, and bobcats.

The Scarborough Land Trust offers a variety of programs and activities at the sanctuary. These include nature walks, bird watching tours, and maple syrup demonstrations. The sanctuary is open to the public year-round, and admission is free.

4. Hamilton House and Grounds

The Hamilton House and Grounds is a historic house museum located in Pittsfield, Maine. It is open to the public from May to October. The house was built in 1805 by Colonel Timothy Bagley (1764-1836).

It was acquired in 1898 by Dr. George Huntington Woodbury (1850-1927), a prominent physician and surgeon from Boston. Woodbury made extensive renovations to the house, landscaping the grounds with terraces, walks, and ponds. He also planted numerous specimen trees, including dawn redwoods (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), Japanese maples (Acer palmatum), and Ginkgo biloba. In 1927, Woodbury gave the house and its grounds to the town of Pittsfield.

The Hamilton House and Grounds are open to the public from May to October. The house is a historic house museum with period furnishings. It was built in 1805 by Colonel Timothy Bagley (1764-1836).

The house is open to the public from May to October. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for students. There are also a few acres of land open to the public where you can hike or enjoy a picnic.

You can explore the Hamilton House. You could also take a walk around the grounds. There are lots of different paths to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for you. Make sure to stop at the pond and waterfall! Then try fishing in the pond. It’s a great spot for trout fishing, so bring your rod and reel!

5. The Longfellow house and Gardens

The Longfellow House and Gardens, also known as the Wayside Inn, is a historic house museum and National Historic Landmark in Maine. The house was built in 1799 by Colonel John Stevens and is a well-preserved example of Federal architecture. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962.

The property was purchased by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in 1839 and he and his family lived there until 1882. The property contains many of Longfellow’s personal belongings, including his writing desk. The gardens are open to the public and contain many species of trees, including some that are rare or endangered. The property spans 105 acres (42 ha) and includes hiking trails, a playground, and an animal farm.

The Longfellow House and Gardens are open to the public year-round. Admission is charged from May through October, and free the rest of the year. Guided tours are available during the summer months. The property is home to a variety of animals, including cows, pigs, sheep, chickens, and rabbits. There is also a playground and hiking trails on the property.

There are always lots of activities going on there, from concerts and lectures to children’s workshops and garden tours. You can also just wander around the grounds and admire the beautiful flowers and gardens. So if you’re looking for a fun day out, be sure to check out the Longfellow House and Gardens!

6. Charlotte Rhoades Park and Butterfly Garden

The Charlotte Rhoades Park and Butterfly Garden is a park in Maine, United States. It is located in the town of Scarborough and covers an area of 108 acres. The park has a history dating back to the early 1900s when it was founded as a private garden by Charlotte and Edward Rhoades.

In 1957, the property was given to the town of Scarborough, and it became a public park. The park features a butterfly garden, as well as areas of woodland and meadow. There are also many species of trees, including oak, maple, ash, hickory, and black cherry.

The park is open year-round for hiking, picnicking, and other recreational activities. It is also a popular spot for birdwatching. The Charlotte Rhoades Park and Butterfly Garden is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature. However, there is one drawback: the mosquitoes! They seem to be everywhere, and they love to bite! If you’re planning on visiting this park, make sure you bring along some bug spray. You’ll need it!

7. Gilsland Farm Audubon Center

The Gilsland Farm Audubon Center is a nature preserve located in Falmouth, Maine. The center was founded in 1965 as a gift to the people of Maine from Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Gilsland. The center is home to a variety of different trees, including oak, maple, and pine. The center is also home to a variety of different animals, including deer, raccoons, and foxes. The center spans 192 acres and is open to the public for free year-round.

The center is also home to the Gilsland Farm Audubon Center Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the center and the natural history of Maine. The center is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.

The Gilsland Farm Audubon Center activities are great for people of all ages! There’s something for everyone, from nature, walks to bird watching. You can also stroll on a sunny day. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, like fishing and hiking. No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time at the Gilsland Farm Audubon Center!

8. Wild Gardens of Acadia

The Wild Gardens of Acadia is a National Park located in Maine. The gardens were established in 1915 by George B. Dorr and are now over 1,500 acres large. The gardens are open to the public year-round for activities such as hiking, biking, bird-watching, and picnicking.

The gardens are home to a variety of trees, including sugar maples, white pines, red spruces, and eastern hemlocks. The park is also home to a variety of animals, including moose, deer, beavers, black bears, and coyotes.

The gardens offer several different hiking trails that vary in difficulty level. The most popular trail is the Ocean Path, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Other popular trails include the Witch Hole Pond Trail and the Bald Peak Trail.

The gardens are open every day from sunrise to sunset. Admission is free for all visitors.

9. Blaine House Gardens

The Blaine House Gardens in Augusta, Maine are a beautiful sight to behold. The gardens have been around for over a hundred years and are home to many different types of trees and plants.

The origins of the Blaine House Gardens go back to 1881 when Governor Joshua L. Chamberlain had the grounds of the Blaine House landscaped. Chamberlain was a Civil War hero and later served as president of Bowdoin College. He is credited with planting many of the trees that still stand in the gardens today.

The gardens were further developed in the early 1900s by Governor Percival P. Baxter. Baxter was a passionate horticulturalists and is responsible for many of the gardens’ signature features, such as the lily pond and the gazebo.

Today, the Blaine House Gardens cover over 15 acres and are a popular tourist attraction in Maine. The gardens are open to the public year-round so you are free to visit.

There are many things to do in the Blaine House Gardens in Augusta. You can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens, admire the beautiful flowers and plants, or have a picnic lunch on the lawn. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the gardens’ many hidden corners and secret pathways. And if you’re visiting with children, there are plenty of fun activities for them to enjoy too, such as playing in the playground, going on a scavenger hunt, or feeding the ducks at the pond.

10. The Garden at Pineland Farms

The Garden at Pineland Farms is a nonprofit agricultural and forestry preserve in New Gloucester, Maine. The preserve includes a working farm, forest, and garden. It covers more than 1,000 acres (4 km2) and features more than 2 miles (3.2 km) of walking trails. The Garden is open to the public year-round for self-guided tours.

The Garden at Pineland Farms was founded in 1965 as the dream of Harry W. Crosby Jr., a wealthy businessman from Boston. Crosby’s goal was to create a model agricultural and forestry preserve that could be used to teach people about the importance of land conservation and sustainable agriculture. The preserve was opened to the public in 1966.

The Garden at Pineland Farms features more than 200 species of trees, including white pine, red spruce, black cherry, and American beech. The preserve also includes a working farm with sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, and horses. There is also a children’s garden with a playhouse, a sandbox, and a water pump.

The Garden at Pineland Farms is open year-round from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is free for self-guided tours. There are also a variety of hiking trails and activities available at the Garden, you can try cross-country skiing as well.

11. Pettengill Farm

The Pettengill Farm is a historic farmstead in the town of Holden, Maine. The farm was established in the 1790s by John Pettengill and has been in continuous operation since that time. The farm consists of 322 acres (130 ha) of woodlands and pastures and is home to a variety of trees, including sugar maple, white ash, and American beech.

The farm is open to the public for, biking, and cross-country skiing. It also features a playground, a small pond, and an 18th-century barn that is open for tours. The Pettengill Farm is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

When you visit Pettengill Farm, there are plenty of things to keep you busy. You can explore the barns and animals, go for a walk on the nature trails, or pick some fresh fruit from the orchard. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of food options available, from the farm stand to the café. So whatever your interests may be, Pettengill Farm has something for you. We hope you enjoy your visit!

12. McLaughlin Garden

The McLaughlin Garden is a botanical garden located in South Portland, Maine. The garden was established in 1951 by Dr. and Mrs. Hugh McLaughlin and consists of 82 acres (33 ha) of gardens, woodlands, and ponds. Dr. McLaughlin was a professor of botany at the University of Maine, and the garden is home to one of the largest collections of conifer species in New England.

The garden features a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers from around the world, including rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, and camellias. The garden also includes a Japanese tea house, a rose garden, and a children’s play area. There are also several nature trails and ponds, which are home to a variety of wildlife.

13. Nickels-Sortwell House Gardens and Sunken Garden

The Nickels-Sortwell House Gardens and Sunken Garden are located in Maine, United States. It is a historic site that features gardens and a sunken garden. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

It was founded in the early 1900s by J.W. Nickels and H.S. Sortwell, who were both horticulturists. The gardens feature a variety of trees, including Japanese maples, ginkgos, and magnolias. There are also perennial gardens and herb gardens on the property.

The sunken garden was designed by landscape architect Charles Platt and features a fountain in the center. It is said to be one of Platt’s best-known works. The garden is also home to many different bird species, including owls and hawks.

There are a few things to do in the Nickels-Sortwell House Gardens and Sunken Garden, depending on what you’re interested in. If you want to enjoy nature and get some exercise, there are plenty of walking paths to explore. If you’re looking for something more relaxing, you can sit on one of the benches and take in the view. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a small waterfall that you can climb up to!

The gardens are open to the public from May to October. There is an admission fee, but the gardens are well worth a visit. They offer a beautiful and peaceful escape from the everyday world.

14. Perkins Arboretum

The Perkins Arboretum is a botanical garden and arboretum located in South Paris, Maine. It was established in 1984 with the donation of the Perkins Homestead by the Perkins family. The arboretum contains over 1,000 different types of trees and shrubs, including conifers, maples, oaks, and rhododendrons. There are also herb gardens and a nature trail. The arboretum spans over 30 acres (120,000 m2) and is open to the public year-round for no charge.

The Perkins Arboretum was founded in 1984 when the Perkins Homestead was donated to the town of South Paris by the Perkins family. The arboretum contains over 1,000 different types of trees and shrubs, including conifers, maples, oaks, and rhododendrons. There are also herb gardens and a nature trail. The arboretum spans over 30 acres (120,000 m2) and is open to the public year-round for no charge.

The Perkins Arboretum is a great place to visit if you’re interested in plants or just looking for a nice walk through the woods. They have a really wide variety of trees there, from common species to more exotic ones. If you’re visiting in the fall, be sure to check out the leaves changing color; it’s a beautiful sight. And if you’re visiting in the winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding at the nearby ski resort.

So if you’re ever in the area, be sure to check out the Perkins Arboretum. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon, and it’s free!

15. Pine Tree State Arboretum

The Pine Tree State Arboretum is one of several arboreta in Maine. The arboretum was founded in 1910 as the Augusta Experimental Forest by the United States Department of Agriculture. The purpose of the arboretum was to study the growth and development of trees in northern New England. In 1931, the arboretum was transferred to the State of Maine. The arboretum’s name was changed to the Pine Tree State Arboretum in 1961.

The arboretum is open to the public year-round and covers an area of 322 acres (130 ha). It features a variety of trees from all over the world, including sugar maple, white spruce, and black cherry. There are several walking trails, a children’s play area, and picnic areas available at the arboretum. The arboretum is also home to the Maine Forest and Heritage Center, which features exhibits on the history of forestry in Maine.

There are so many things to do at the Pine Tree State Arboretum, you could spend days here and not get bored! One of the best activities is walking through the gardens. The flowers and plants are beautiful, and it’s a great way to relax and clear your mind. Another favorite activity is hiking the trails. The views are amazing, and it’s a great way to get some exercise. You can also rent bikes or paddle boats if you want to get around a little faster.

16. Pineland Farms Garden

The Pineland Farms Garden began as a project of the Maine Farmland Trust in 2001. The goal of the project was to preserve farmland in Maine, and the garden was established on 45 acres of land that had been donated to the trust. The garden features a variety of trees and other plants, including apple trees, black cherry trees, blueberry bushes, and white pine trees. There is also a hiking trail that winds through the garden, and visitors can bike or fish on the property as well.

You can take a walk around the gardens. The gardens at Pineland Farms are absolutely beautiful, and there’s no better way to experience them than by taking a walk around. You’ll be able to see all sorts of different plants and flowers, and it’s the perfect opportunity to get some fresh air and take in the scenery

You could also have a picnic in the garden. What could be more relaxing than having a picnic in the garden? Grab some of your favorite snacks and drinks, find a spot in the sun, and enjoy! You’ll be able to take in the beauty of the gardens while you eat, and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon. The garden is open every day from dawn until dusk.

17. Fort Williams Park

Fort Williams Park is a park located in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. The park occupies 90 acres (36 ha) of land on a peninsula overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It is home to the Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine. The park also features several miles of trails, including a section of the Maine Coast Trail, and has panoramic views of the ocean and Casco Bay.

The park is home to a variety of trees, including sugar maple, white ash, red oak, black cherry, and American holly. The park is also home to the Fort Williams Arboretum, which features more than 200 species of plants.

The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and bird watching. The park is also home to the Portland Head Light Museum and the Cape Elizabeth Historical Society Museum. The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Activities to do when you get there are endless. You can go to the lighthouse, which is one of the most popular destinations in the park. You can also check out the parade ground, which is where all of the ceremonies and events happen. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb up the 91 steps of the Maine Coast Trail. And if that’s not enough for you, there are plenty of other trails to explore and viewpoints to check out. Fort Williams Park is a place you’ll want to visit if you’re looking for a fun day outdoors!

18. Asticou Azalea Garden

The Asticou Azalea Garden is a public garden located in Northeast Harbor, Maine. It contains a variety of azaleas and rhododendrons, as well as other plant species. The garden occupies 4 acres (16,000 m2) and features several different trees, including Norway spruce, white pine, and red maple. There are also walking paths, benches, and gazebos located throughout the garden. The Asticou Azalea Garden is open to the public from late May until early October. Admission is free.

The Asticou Azalea Garden is a popular tourist destination, with an estimated 100,000 visitors per year. It is particularly popular in the spring when the azaleas are in bloom. The garden is also home to many artworks, including a sculpture by Alexander Calder and two murals by Andrew Wyeth.

First, be sure to take a stroll through the gardens. There are over 10,000 azaleas on display, so you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. Secondly, stop by the gift shop and pick up some souvenirs. They have a great selection of gifts, including local art, jewelry, and home decor.

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy a picnic lunch in the park. The views are stunning, and it’s a great way to relax and take in all the beauty that Asticou has to offer. We hope you have a great time!

19. Thuya Garden

The Thuya Garden is a public garden located in the town of Tremont, Maine. The garden was established in 1959 by resident Ralph Shaw and contains over 500 different species of trees and shrubs. The garden occupies 10 acres (40,000 m2) of land and is open to the public for free admission.

The Thuya Garden is noted for its variety of conifer trees, including some of the oldest and largest specimens in North America. The garden also contains a collection of rare and endangered plants, as well as a children’s play area and nature trail. In addition to its natural attractions, the garden hosts several annual events, including a spring plant sale, an autumn foliage tour, and a holiday tree lighting ceremony.

The Thuya Garden is open year-round and attracts over 25,000 visitors annually. It is maintained by the Tremont Garden Club, a non-profit organization founded by Shaw in 1959.

Once you’re in the Thuya Garden, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your visit. First, be sure to walk through the entire garden. There’s a lot to see, and you’ll want to take your time to enjoy it all.

Also, be sure to visit the gift shop. They have some great souvenirs, and it’s a great place to pick up a trinket or two. Finally, if you’re feeling hungry, stop by the cafe. They have some great food, and we are sure you’ll find something that suits your taste.

20. Merryspring Nature Center

The Merryspring Nature Center is a nature preserve and environmental education center in Camden, Maine. The center was founded in 1974 as the Camden Bird Sanctuary and renamed the Merryspring Nature Park in 1984. The nature center occupies 30 acres (120,000 m2) of forested land on the banks of the Megunticook River and is home to over 120 species of trees and plants.

The nature center offers environmental education programs for students of all ages, as well as nature walks and hikes. The center also houses a small museum with exhibits on the natural history of the area. There are many activities you can do there! You can hike, birdwatch, picnic, and so much more. The Merryspring Nature Center is open to the public from dawn until dusk every day of the year. Admission is free.

No matter what time of year it is, there’s always something to do at the Merryspring Nature Center. In the summer, you can visit the swimming hole, or in the winter you can go cross-country skiing. There’s something for everyone at the Merryspring Nature Center!

21. Lerner Garden of the Five Senses

The Lerner Garden of the Five Senses is a garden located in Maine. It is open to the public and admission is free. The garden contains over 200 different types of trees from all around the world and covers over 9 acres (3.64 hectares) of land. There are also several areas where visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, bird watching, and picnicking.

The Lerner Garden of the Five Senses has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. In 1917, Dr. Frank A. Stahl, a biology professor at Bates College, purchased the land that would become the garden. He used the land to research plant growth and diversity.

Today, the Lerner Garden of the Five Senses is a popular tourist destination, attracting over 60,000 visitors each year. The garden is open from dawn until dusk, and admission is free. There are several areas where visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, bird watching, and picnicking.

22. Azalea Garden

The Azalea Garden in Maine is a beautiful place to visit. The Azalea Garden covers over 200 acres. Its history dates back to the early 1800s when it was first established as a nursery. The garden features a wide variety of trees, including azaleas, rhododendrons, dogwoods, and magnolias.

There are also several acres of gardens with walking paths, bridges, and ponds. The garden is open to the public year-round. It’s also a great place for photography enthusiasts! If you’re looking for something to do, the Azalea Garden in Maine is a great place to check out.

You can also enjoy a picnic lunch or take a relaxing stroll through the park. Plus, there’s always something new to see at the Azalea Garden in Maine, so be sure to visit again and again!

23. Fay Hyland Botanical Garden

The Fay Hyland Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located in Augusta, Maine. It is open to the public daily without charge. The garden contains more than 500 species of trees and shrubs from around the world, including many rare and unusual specimens, including many rare and unusual specimens. Some of the more notable trees in the garden include a dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), a Japanese maple (Acer palmatum), and American sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua).

Their several nature trails wind through the garden, offering you a chance to see the plants and trees up close. A picnic area is located near the entrance to the garden, and a playground is available for children. The garden is also home to a large bird sanctuary, which attracts a wide variety of birds.

The Fay Hyland Botanical Garden offers educational programs for school groups and adults. Workshops on topics such as horticulture and arboriculture are offered throughout the year. The garden also has a library containing books on botany and horticulture.

The Fay Hyland Botanical Garden is open to the public daily without charge. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. The garden is open from dawn to dusk year-round.

24. Haney Hillside Garden

The Haney Hillside Garden is a publicly accessible garden located in the city of Westbrook, Maine. The garden occupies a hillside that overlooks the Presumpscot River and is home to numerous species of trees and other plants. The garden was established in the early 1990s by resident Everett Haney, who donated the land to the city of Westbrook in 1995.

The garden has been open to the public since 1997 and occupies nearly 7 acres (28,000 m2) of land. It is home to more than 200 different species of trees, including maples, oaks, ashes, birches, and elms. The garden also features a variety of shrubs and herbaceous plants. A walking path winds its way up the hillside, providing you with scenic views of the river and surrounding area.

The garden is open year-round, and admission is free. It is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. The Westbrook Garden Club offers guided tours of the garden from time to time.

25. Vayo Meditation Garden

The Vayo Meditation Garden is a stunning location in Maine that is perfect for visitors who are looking to enjoy some peace. The garden was founded in 1978 by Dr. Hiroshi Motoyama, who was a world-renowned spiritual leader and author. The garden features over 150 different species of trees, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Several walking paths wind their way through the gardens, making it the perfect place to take a relaxing stroll. If you’re looking for something more active, the garden also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and bird watching. In total, the garden spans over 16 acres, providing plenty of space for visitors to explore.

Whether you’re looking to relax or get active, the Vayo Meditation Garden is the perfect destination.