Michigan Botanical Gardens is a one-stop-shop for your outdoor adventures this summer! Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or just need some fresh air, our gardens have something perfect waiting. You’ll be amazed by what we can do with flowers in such an urban setting — from dizzying Labyrinths and fantasy forests that will take everyone’s imagination soaring.
Contents
- 1. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
- 2. University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens
- 3. W.J. Beal Botanical Gardens
- 4. The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park
- 5. Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve
- 6. Windmill Island Gardens
- 7. Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory
- 8. Dow Gardens
- 9. Hidden Lake Gardens
- 10. DeTour Village Botanical Gardens
- 11. Taylor Conservatory And Botanical Gardens
- 12. Leila Arboretum
- 13. Michigan State University Horticulture Gardens
- 14. Slayton Arboretum
- 15. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens
- 16. Nichols Arboretum
- 17. Veldheer Tulip Garden
- 18. Museum of Ojibwa Culture
- 19. Applewood Estate
- 20. The Monet Garden of Muskegon
- 21. Cranbrook House and Gardens
- 22. Cadillac Soundgarden
- 23. Hidden Lake Garden
- 24. Dahlia Hill
- 25. Stone Cottage Gardens
The state’s diverse landscape offers everything from windmills in the north to railroads around Detroit, making it easy for visitors of all ages and interests to find their perfect spot! From the quiet and serene to one that is interactive, there truly are 25 Michigan gardens for every type of visitor.
You can also have a look at botanical gardens in neighboring states:
– Botanical Gardens in Illinois
– Botanical Gardens in Ohio
1. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Michigan. The gardens are situated on a huge piece of land and are home to a wide variety of flowers, trees, and sculptures. A park is also a great place for walks, picnics, and other activities.
The gardens are open all year round and there is always something new to see. In spring, the flowers start to bloom and the trees come into leaf. In summer, the park is a great place to relax in the shade or take a walk in the cool evening air. Autumn is a beautiful time to visit when the leaves change color and the weather gets cooler. Winter is also a magical time at the park when the trees are covered in snow and the air is crisp and fresh.
The park is a great place to visit for all ages. There are plenty of things to do for kids, including playgrounds, petting zoos, and other attractions. Adults can enjoy the sculptures, the gardens, and the quiet area.
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to visit, with plenty of things to see and do, then Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park are worth a visit!
2. University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens
The University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens is a botanical garden located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The gardens include several different gardens and conservatories, as well as an herbarium and library. The gardens are open to the public year-round and offer a variety of programs and events.
The Matthaei Botanical Gardens were founded in 1936 when Dr. W.J. Beal donated his collection of over 2,000 plants to the University of Michigan. The gardens were originally located on campus but were moved to their current location in 1972. Today, the gardens cover over 300 acres (1.2 km2) and feature a wide variety of plant collections.
The gardens are best known for their extensive collection of native Michigan plants, as well as their rare and endangered plant species. The gardens also feature a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and perennials, as well as a large conservatory. In addition to the gardens, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens also include an herbarium and library.
The Matthaei Botanical Gardens are a great place to visit all year round. In the spring, the gardens come alive with color as the flowers begin to bloom. In the summer, the gardens are a cool oasis from the heat of the day. And in the fall, the leaves change color, making for a beautiful backdrop to your walk through the gardens. Winter is also a beautiful time to visit, as the gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland.
No matter what time of year you visit, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens are sure to delight you. With something for everyone, the gardens are a great place to spend a day exploring nature.
3. W.J. Beal Botanical Gardens
W.J. Beal Botanical Gardens are located in Michigan and are one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. The gardens were founded in 1829 by Professor William James Beal and are now run by Michigan State University. The gardens are open to the public from April through October and feature a variety of flowers, trees, and other plants. Visitors can also take part in educational programs and events, or just enjoy a stroll through the beautiful gardens.
The W.J. Beal Botanical Gardens cover 18 acres and feature over 4,000 different types of plants. The gardens are home to a wide variety of flowers, including roses, lilies, daisies, and more. There are also a variety of trees, such as maples, oaks, pines, and others. In addition to the plants, the gardens also have a pond, a fountain, and a gazebo.
The W.J. Beal Botanical Gardens are a great place to visit if you love nature or you want to learn more about plants and gardening. The gardens offer something for everyone, whether you want to take a stroll or participate in one of the educational programs.
4. The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park
The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is one of the newest gardens in Michigan. The garden opened in 2015 and is located on the former site of a barn that was built in the early 1900s. The barn was originally used as a dairy farm, but it was converted into a botanic garden in 2014. The garden spans 12 acres and features over 200 different species of flowers and plants.
The garden is also home to a variety of trees, including maples, oaks, and pines. Visitors to the garden can enjoy a variety of activities, such as walking trails, picnicking, and watching birds. The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is a great place to visit for anyone who loves nature and gardening.
The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is a beautiful place to visit, but there is one drawback. The parking situation can be tricky. There is limited street parking and the lot behind the garden can fill up quickly on busy days.
Overall, the Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is a lovely place to spend a day, but it’s important to keep these drawbacks in mind when planning your visit.
5. Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve
Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve is a beautiful garden located in Michigan. The garden is full of flowers and trees, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. The history of the garden dates back to the early 1900s when it was founded by a group of botanists. Today, the garden is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination.
Fernwood covers an area of approximately 100 acres and contains a variety of different types of flowers and trees. You can stroll with family or your partner through the gardens, go on nature walks, or take part in educational programs. The garden is also a great place to picnic or relax in the sun.
Whether you’re looking to learn about plants and nature or just want to enjoy a beautiful setting, Fernwood Botanical Garden is worth a visit.
6. Windmill Island Gardens
Windmill Island Gardens is a beautiful place to visit in Michigan. The garden is an island on Lake Macatawa, and it’s connected to the mainland by a causeway. The island was originally settled by the Dutch in the 1600s, and the windmill was built in the early 1800s. The windmill is still functional today and is used to pump water from the lake onto the island.
The gardens are famous for their tulips, which bloom in the springtime. There are over 100,000 tulips on the island, in a variety of colors. The gardens also have a wide variety of other flowers, trees, and plants.
You can take a stroll through the gardens, relax on the beach, or go for a boat ride. Windmill Island Gardens is a great place to visit for a day of relaxation and beauty.
7. Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory
The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is a botanical garden located on Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan. The Conservatory is the oldest continually-operating public glasshouse in the United States and contains the largest collection of victorian-style greenhouses in North America.
The Palm House is the largest greenhouse at the Conservatory and contains palms, cycads, ferns, and other tropical plants. The Cactus House features cacti and other succulents from around the world, while the Fern House showcases a variety of ferns and mosses.
Outside of the greenhouses, visitors can explore the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Memorial Fountain, which was built in 1949 to honor Ms. Whitcomb’s lifelong love of horticulture, and the Butterfly Garden, which is home to a variety of native Michigan butterflies. The Conservatory is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and admission is free.
8. Dow Gardens
Dow Gardens in Michigan is a beautiful place to visit, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy while you’re here. The garden is home to a variety of flowers and trees, and it’s also a great place to learn about the history of the area. There are plenty of interesting facts to discover about Dow Gardens, and it’s a place that’s worth spending some time in.
You can visit the butterfly house. The butterfly house at Dow Gardens is home to over 30 different species of butterflies. You can walk through the gardens and see them up close as they flutter around. It’s a great way to learn about these amazing creatures.
Also, you can take a garden tour. A tour of the Dow Gardens is a great way to learn about the history of the place and see some of the most beautiful parts of the gardens. You’ll get to see a variety of flowers and trees, and you might even spot some wildlife along the way.
Feel free to explore the nature center. The nature center at Dow Gardens is a great place to learn about the plants and animals that call this place home. There are interactive exhibits, educational programs, and plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with nature.
Dow Gardens is a great place to visit for all ages, and there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the area’s history or just want to enjoy the beauty of the gardens, Dow Gardens is worth a visit.
9. Hidden Lake Gardens
The Hidden Lake Gardens are located in Tipton, Michigan, and are part of the Lenawee County Parks system. The gardens cover approximately 100 acres and feature a variety of gardens, including a wildflower garden, an Iris garden, and a Rock Garden. There is also a nature center on site that offers educational programs for all ages.
The history of the Hidden Lake Gardens dates back to the early 1900s when the property was purchased by William and Mary Colby. The Colbys worked to develop the land into a beautiful garden spot and over the years, their efforts turned the Hidden Lake Gardens into one of the premier gardening destinations in Michigan.
There are several different activities that visitors can enjoy while at the Hidden Lake Gardens. One of the most popular things to do is take a stroll through the gardens and take in all of the different sights and smells. The nature center also offers a variety of educational programs throughout the year, including classes on gardening and bird watching.
The Hidden Lake Gardens are home to a variety of different flowers and plants, including over 600 varieties of Iris. The gardens are also home to several different trees, including maples, oaks, and pines.
The Hidden Lake Gardens are open year-round and offer a variety of different activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are interested in taking a stroll through the gardens or learning more about gardening, the Hidden Lake Gardens are a great place to visit.
10. DeTour Village Botanical Gardens
The DeTour Village Botanical Gardens feature a wide variety of flowers, trees, and other plants. The gardens are located on the shores of Lake Michigan and cover a total area of approximately 10 acres. Visitors to the gardens can enjoy a variety of activities, including walking tours, picnicking, and fishing. The gardens are also home to many different events throughout the year, such as concerts and festivals.
The DeTour Village Botanical Gardens were first established in the early 1900s by the village’s founder, William J. Day. The gardens were originally designed to be used as a public park and recreation area for the residents of DeTour Village. However, over time, the gardens have become increasingly popular with tourists and visitors from all over the world.
When you get there, you can take a walk through the gardens and take in all the sights and smells of the different plants and flowers. Then, visit the greenhouses and learn about different types of plants from around the world. You can also check out the butterfly garden and see all sorts of butterflies flitting about.
There’s something for everyone at the DeTour Village Botanical Gardens, so be sure to check it out next time you’re looking for something different to do.
11. Taylor Conservatory And Botanical Gardens
The Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are located in Michigan, just outside of Detroit. The gardens were founded in 1884 by Hiram and Sarah Taylor as a place to grow and showcase their collection of rare and exotic plants. Today, the gardens span nearly 40 acres and feature over 3,000 different species of plants.
Visitors can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, view a wide variety of flowers and trees, and even take part in gardening classes or workshops. The Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are a must-see for any nature lover visiting Detroit.
The gardens are huge, and there is a lot to see and do. The flowers are stunning, and the trees are tall. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing day out.
Yes, the Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful place to visit, but there are a few drawbacks. Firstly, the cost of admission can be a bit steep for some visitors. Then, the gardens are located in a fairly urban area, so there is not much natural wildlife to be seen. Despite these drawbacks, the Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is still a lovely place to spend an afternoon.
12. Leila Arboretum
The Leila Arboretum in Michigan is a beautiful garden that was named after Leila Post, who was the daughter of one of the founders of the Michigan Botanical Club. The garden covers an area of 36 acres and is home to over 200 species of trees and shrubs, ponds and streams, as well as thousands of flowers.
Visitors can enjoy walking through the gardens, picnicking, and even fishing in the pond. The Leila Arboretum is a great place to learn about Michigan’s plants and wildlife.
The Leila Arboretum is open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission to the garden is free.
13. Michigan State University Horticulture Gardens
The Michigan State University Horticulture Gardens are a beautiful place to visit and learn about different types of flowers and trees. The gardens are open to the public from May to October, and there is no admission fee. Visitors can take self-guided tours or participate in educational programs offered by the garden staff.
The gardens are home to over 1,000 different kinds of plants, including annual and perennial flowers, shrubs, and trees. Many of the flowers in the garden are native to Michigan, such as tulips and daisies. The tree collection includes maple, oak, spruce, and fir trees.
The gardens are a great place to spend a day outside exploring and learning about plants. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to answer any questions you may have. If you are looking for a place to enjoy the beauty of nature, the Michigan State University Horticulture Gardens is the perfect spot.
14. Slayton Arboretum
The Slayton Arboretum in Michigan is a beautiful garden that has a rich history. It is home to over 1,200 species of trees and plants, making it one of the largest arboreta in the United States. The garden is full of interesting flowers and trees, and there are plenty of activities to do there. The garden is quite large, and it is a good place to visit.
Some of the flowers that you can find in the garden include roses, lilies, and daisies. There are also a variety of trees, including oak, maple, and pine. The garden is open year-round, so you can enjoy it no matter what time of year it is.
There are several different ways to tour the garden. You can take a self-guided tour, or you can join a guided tour. The Slayton Arboretum is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning about Michigan history or if you just want to enjoy a beautiful garden. Either way, you are sure to have a great time.
15. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens
The Matthaei Botanical Gardens in Michigan are a beautiful and peaceful place to spend an afternoon. The gardens are home to a wide variety of flowers, trees, and plants, as well as a variety of wildlife. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens also offer a variety of interesting activities for visitors to enjoy.
The history of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens dates back to the early 1800s when the land was first settled by German immigrants. The gardens were originally part of a farm, but over time they slowly began to take on the appearance of a traditional English garden. In the early 1900s, the current owners of the property decided to turn the gardens into a public park.
Today, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens cover nearly 300 acres of land. The gardens are home to over 10,000 different species of plants, as well as a variety of animals. When you get to the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you can explore the many different gardens, take a nature hike, go bird watching, or even take a paddleboat ride on the pond.
The Matthaei Botanical Gardens are a great place to enjoy the beauty of nature and learn about the different plant and animal species that call the gardens home.
16. Nichols Arboretum
The Nichols Arboretum is a stunning garden located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The arboretum is home to a wide variety of flowers, trees, and plants, making it a beautiful place to visit. The arboretum also has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. The arboretum is also a great place to go for a walk or hike. The garden is approximately 12 acres in size.
Today, the Nichols Arboretum is a popular spot for picnics, hikes, and other outdoor activities. The garden is also a great place to learn about different types of vegetation. There are plenty of benches and picnic tables where you can set up your laptop or books and get some work done in between exploring the grounds.
If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend a day, the Nichols Arboretum is worth checking out! Note that the park isn’t the most convenient place to get to. It’s a bit of a trek from Central Campus, and no bus goes directly there. However, once you’re there, it’s a beautiful place to relax or take a walk.
17. Veldheer Tulip Garden
The Veldheer Tulip Garden in Michigan is a beautiful place to visit, and it has a rich history. The garden was started in 1929 by Arie Veldheer, who emigrated from the Netherlands. He brought with him over 100 varieties of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers.
The garden now covers over 10 acres and has over 200 varieties of tulips. It is open to the public from late April through early May when the tulips are in bloom. During this time, there are also special events such as concerts and art shows.
The Veldheer Tulip Garden is a great place to visit for anyone who loves flowers or just wants to enjoy the beauty of nature. It is also a great place to learn about the history of tulips and how they came to be such an important part of Dutch culture.
18. Museum of Ojibwa Culture
The Museum of Ojibwa Culture in Michigan is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Ojibwa people. The museum has a large collection of artifacts, as well as a garden with many different types of flowers and trees.
The Museum is also a great place to learn about the Ojibwa language, as there are classes available for both beginners and advanced learners. The Museum is a great place to visit for both adults and children, as there are many different activities to do.
Your family will enjoy learning about the Ojibwa culture through the various exhibits and interactive activities at the Museum of Ojibwa Culture. You can try your hand at traditional beadwork, make a dreamcatcher, or listen to stories told by Elders. The whole family will enjoy spending time at this unique museum.
19. Applewood Estate
Applewood Estate is a historic property in Michigan that offers visitors a chance to experience the state’s natural beauty and learn about its history. The estate includes large gardens with a variety of flowers and trees, as well as several hiking trails.
Applewood is also home to many animals, including deer, ducks, and geese. Visitors can also participate in a variety of activities, such as bird watching, picnicking, and fishing. The estate is open year-round, making it an ideal destination for all seasons.
The Applewood Estate in Michigan events and activities calendar for various months is always live! You can check out all the great things happening this month, including their Halloween party, cocktail party, wine tastings, and more.
20. The Monet Garden of Muskegon
The Monet Garden of Muskegon in Michigan is a beautiful place to visit. The garden is full of flowers and trees, it is very big and there are plenty of activities to do there. The history of the garden is interesting, and it is a good place to visit.
The Monet Garden of Muskegon in Michigan was created by Claude Monet, who was a famous French painter. He created the garden to have a place to paint the beautiful flowers and trees. There are plenty of activities to do in the garden, such as walking around, picnicking, and taking pictures.
The garden is also home to several different types of animals, including ducks and geese. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, then the Monet Garden of Muskegon in Michigan is the perfect place for you.
21. Cranbrook House and Gardens
The Cranbrook House and Gardens are located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. The estate was designed by famous architect Albert Kahn and completed in 1908. It was originally built for newspaper magnate George Gough Booth and his wife, Ellen Scripps Booth. The house is considered one of Kahn’s finest works and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The gardens at Cranbrook are just as impressive as the house. The grounds cover nearly 250 acres and feature a variety of different gardens, including an English garden, a Japanese garden, and an Italianate garden. There are also several greenhouses on the property, which house a collection of rare and exotic plants. The Cranbrook House and Gardens is a great place to learn about horticulture, enjoy some time outdoors, or experience a piece of American history.
When visiting Cranbrook, you can take guided tours of the house and gardens, or explore the grounds on their own. There are also many events and programs held at Cranbrook throughout the year, making it a great place to visit any time of year.
22. Cadillac Soundgarden
The Cadillac Soundgarden is a public art installation and park located in downtown Cadillac, Michigan. The garden was created in 2014 by local artists and community members as a place for people to enjoy the beauty of nature and the sounds of the city. The garden is home to a variety of flowers, trees, and bushes, as well as many sculptures and other art pieces.
The Soundgarden is home to many sculptures and monuments, including a replica of the Statue of Liberty and a 9/11 Memorial. The park also features a large fountain, which is popular with locals and visitors alike.
When visiting the garden can enjoy walking through the paths, relaxing on the benches, or playing in the water feature. The park is also a great spot for photography lovers, as there are plenty of scenic spots to snap a picture. The Cadillac Soundgarden is a great place to visit for all ages.
23. Hidden Lake Garden
The Hidden Lake Garden is a beautiful place to visit in Michigan. The garden is full of flowers and trees, and there are plenty of activities to do there. The garden is also full of history, and it is a great place to learn about the area’s past. The garden is large. The garden is situated on 80 acres of land near Adrian, Michigan. It is home to over 500 different species of flowers, trees, and plants.
It is a great place to see different types of plant life, and it is also a great place to get some exercise. There are plenty of paths to walk, and you can even go for a swim in the lake. The Hidden Lake Garden is a great place to visit, and you will enjoy your time there.
The garden is also a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. One potential issue you might encounter is that the area around the lake can get quite muddy during rainy weather, making it difficult to access.
Despite this potential drawback, the Hidden Lake Garden remains a popular destination for many visitors each year.
24. Dahlia Hill
Despite the drawbacks of Dahlia Hill, it is still a beautiful place to visit. The gardens are full of color and life, and there is something truly magical about the place. If you’re looking for a unique and beautiful place to visit, Dahlia Hill is worth checking out.
Dahlia Hill in Michigan is a beautiful garden that is filled with flowers and trees. The garden is large, and there are many different types of flowers and trees. The garden is also a great place to visit, as there are many activities to do there. Dahlia Hill is a great place to visit for anyone who loves flowers or gardening.
Dahlia Hill also offers a variety of other activities, including a corn maze, hayrides, and a pumpkin patch. The farm grows over 200 varieties of dahlias, which are available in a rainbow of colors. You can pick your flowers or purchase bouquets from the on-site shop. The farm also offers workshops on how to grow and care for dahlias.
Dahlia Hill is also home to many different types of animals, including rabbits, squirrels, and birds. The garden is a great place to take a walk, as it is very peaceful and quiet. Overall, Dahlia Hill is a great place to visit, and it is filled with history and interesting facts.
25. Stone Cottage Gardens
The Stone Cottage Gardens is a historic site located in Michigan that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The gardens date back to the early 1900s and were created as a private gardens for the local community. In recent years, the gardens have been open to the public and offer a variety of events and activities throughout the year. You can take part in gardening workshops, tours of the grounds, and even overnight stays in the cottage. The gardens are also home to a variety of birds and animals, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
The size of the garden is large, and it is a great place to visit for a day or two. There are many different types of flowers in the garden, and the trees are also beautiful. The garden is a great place to visit for a family vacation or a romantic getaway.
If you’re looking for a unique place to visit in Michigan, be sure to check out the Stone Cottage Gardens.