25 Botanical Gardens in Tennessee

There’s something about nature that just feels so calming. Whether you are in the city or out on your own in the state of Tennessee, surrounded by lush green trees and flowers in one of the botanical gardens can really help take care of those worries weighing down upon us all day long!

Tennessee has beautiful botanical gardens and parks that will give you the solace and peace of mind to take stock in your life. These parks are scattered across Tennessee, giving all walks of people access, so they can find their own little piece of paradise without having too far a journey or spending much time traveling about town. Here are the best gardens and parks you can choose from in the state of Tennessee.

You can also have a look at botanical gardens in neighboring states:
– Botanical gardens in North Carolina
– Botanical gardens in Arkansas
– Botanical gardens in Virginia

1. Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum

Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum.
Joel Kramer Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum.

The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum is a botanical garden and arboretum located in Knoxville, Tennessee. It covers 122 acres (49 ha), including a wildflower meadow, wetlands, and a serpentine barren. The arboretum includes a collection of conifers and broadleaf evergreens.

The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum was founded in 1965 as the East Tennessee Rose Garden. In 1979, it was renamed the Knoxville Botanical Garden. In 1987, the arboretum was added to the garden.

The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum is home to the annual Tennessee Fall Flower Show. The show features a display of more than 25,000 flowers, including daffodils, tulips, irises, lilies, azaleas, roses, and hollies. The show also includes a garden market, floral demonstrations, and children’s activities.

Other attractions at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum include the Wetlands Boardwalk (a nature trail that traverses a wetland), the Children’s Garden (featuring a treehouse, a climbing wall, and a water play area), and the Japanese Garden (featuring a Zen garden and a teahouse).

The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum occupy 122 acres (49 ha) in west Knoxville. The garden is open year-round, and admission is free for members and children ages 12 and under.

2. Huntsville Botanical Garden

Huntsville Botanical Garden
Shannon McGee Huntsville Botanical Garden

The Huntsville Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located in Huntsville, Tennessee. The garden is open to the public daily without charge. It occupies 130 acres (53 ha) and features a variety of gardens and landscapes, including a children’s garden which is full of themed gardens, play equipment, a Splash Pad, rose garden, Japanese garden, herb garden, and perennial gardens. The gardens are also home to a variety of animal life, including ducks, swans, turtles, and frogs.

The Huntsville Botanical Garden offers a variety of educational programs for all ages. These programs include summer camps, classes for school-aged children, workshops for adults, and guided tours. The garden is also home to the Discovery Museum, which features exhibits on science, nature, and history.

You can also explore the five miles of nature trails, view the beautiful floral displays, or attend one of the many special events held at the Garden throughout the year.

3. The Gardens In Chattanooga

The Gardens In Chattanooga is a botanical garden located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The gardens occupy 105 acres (422,000 m2) and feature a large variety of plants and trees from around the world. The gardens are also home to several species of animals, including deer, peacocks, and turtles.

The Gardens In Chattanooga are a popular tourist destination, and attract over 250,000 visitors each year. The gardens are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday, and from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sundays. Admission is $8.00 for adults, $7.00 for seniors, and $5.00 for children aged 3-12.

If you’re looking for things to do in The Gardens In Chattanooga, then check the website. They have a great website that explains all the different attractions and activities you can enjoy while you’re there. Some of the favorites include the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, and Ruby Falls. So be sure to check them out when you’re in town!

4. Arboretum at Murray State University

Murray State University’s Arboretum is a beautiful and serene place on campus. It features gardens, ponds, woodlands, and a nature trail. The Arboretum is also home to the MSU Herbarium, which contains more than 25,000 plant specimens.

The Arboretum at Murray State University covers nearly 100 acres. It contains a wide variety of plants and trees, from Kentucky bluegrass to bald cypress trees. There are also several ponds and two streams on the property.

The Arboretum at Murray State University is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend a day. It’s located on the edge of campus, right next to the woods, and it covers over 100 acres! There’s plenty to explore, with gardens, nature trails, ponds, and even a small waterfall. You can also find a variety of trees and plants there, as well as some pretty impressive sculptures.

The Arboretum is a great place for a relaxing walk or a picnic lunch. And if you’re looking for something more exciting, they offer workshops and classes throughout the year. If you’re looking for something fun to do on campus, the Arboretum at Murray State University is a great option. So spend an afternoon exploring this beautiful campus landmark!

5. Cheekwood

Cheekwood
nelsocs Cheekwood

The Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art is a 55 acre (223,000 m²) estate located in Nashville, Tennessee. The property was once the home of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Cheek, and it opened to the public as a museum and garden in 1960. Today, there are many different features to enjoy at the Cheekwood Estate such as nature trails, a conservatory, art galleries including a sculpture garden, and a children’s garden.

The property includes woodlands, wetlands, gardens, and a nature trail. The Cheekwood Estate also features a conservatory, which is home to more than 2,000 plants from all over the world.

There are also six art galleries on the property, which display paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. The Cheekwood Estate is open every day of the week except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission to the museum and gardens costs $15 for adults, $12 for seniors (ages 65+), and $7 for children (ages 3-17).

Several special events take place throughout the year at the Cheekwood Estate. These events include Christmas at Cheekwood, Jazz on the Lawn, and Art After Dark. For more information about these events, visit the Cheekwood Estate website.

6. Dixon Gallery and Gardens

Dixon Gallery and Gardens
Thomas R Machnitzki Dixon Gallery and Gardens

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tennessee. It’s located on seventy acres of beautiful gardens and woodlands, and it offers visitors a variety of exciting activities to enjoy. There are four major gardens on the property, each with its unique features: the Italian Garden, the Formal Garden, the Dogwood Dell, and the Woodland Garden. There’s also a children’s garden, which is perfect for families with young kids.

The Dixon Museum contains a large collection of American art from the 18th through the 21st centuries. You can see works by artists like Andrew Wyeth, Edward Hopper, and Georgia O’Keeffe. The museum also has a large collection of European art, including pieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Rembrandt.

The gardens are also a sight to behold, with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery. is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a nature getaway. The gardens are absolutely beautiful and well-maintained

If you’re looking for something to do outdoors, the Dixon Gardens are the perfect place to visit. The gardens are open every day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and admission is free. There’s plenty to see and do, so be sure to plan a full day trip!

7. Oaklawn Garden

Oaklawn Garden
ruthdaniel3444 Oaklawn Garden

The Oaklawn Garden located in the beautiful state of Tennessee is a delightful place to visit. Covering 120 acres, it features a variety of gardens and activities that are sure to excite visitors of all ages.

Some of the highlights include the Children’s Garden, which has a treehouse, a water play area, and plenty of other fun things to explore; the Rose Garden, with more than 4,000 roses of all colors blooming at once; and the Maze Garden, where you can lose yourself in the twists and turns of an intricate labyrinth.

With over 120 acres of gardens, forests, and meadows to explore, it’s the perfect spot for a nature-lover like you. There’s also an on-site cafe that serves up some delicious snacks and drinks, so you can make a day of it. And if that’s not enough, they also have plenty of special events and activities going on throughout the year. You can check out their website for more information.

8. Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center

Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center
Chattanooga2018 Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center

Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center is a wonderful nature preserve in the Appalachian Mountains of east Tennessee. The park is located on 600 acres of rolling forest and meadows and includes a nature center, miles of hiking trails, and a large lake. There are also several gardens filled with native plants.

Reflection Riding is a great place to spend a day outdoors. You can enjoy hiking or biking on the many trails, fishing in the lake, or simply taking a walk through the beautiful gardens. The nature center has exhibits on the local ecology and offers programs for kids and adults. In the summer months, there are often concerts held in the amphitheater.

If you’re looking for a fun day trip, Reflection Riding is the perfect place to go. The park is located just an hour’s drive from Knoxville and Chattanooga, making it easy to get to. So if you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, be sure to check out Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center.

9. Hope Botanical Garden

The Hope Botanical Garden in Tennessee is a place where visitors can come to see and learn about different types of plants. The garden has more than fifty acres of land, which is filled with gardens, nature trails, and a children’s play area. Several pavilions can be rented out for events, as well as a gift shop and restaurant.

One of the most popular things to do at the Hope Botanical Garden is walking around the gardens. There are six different gardens to explore, each with its unique theme. Some of the highlights include the Japanese Garden, which features a koi pond and waterfall, and the English Cottage Garden, which has a variety of flowers including roses and lilies.

Another popular activity in the garden is hiking nature trails. There are four different trails to choose from, each with its unique scenery. The trails range in length from half a mile to two and a half miles, so there is something for everyone.

Finally, the Hope Botanical Garden is a great place for families to visit. There is a children’s play area with a variety of activities, including a train ride, and the pavilions can be rented out for birthday parties or other events. Plus, the garden has a gift shop and restaurant where visitors can buy souvenirs or have a bite to eat.

So if you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, be sure to check out the Hope Botanical Garden in Tennessee. You’re sure to have a great time!

10. Memphis Botanic Garden

Memphis Botanical Gardens
dani0010 Memphis Botanical Gardens

The Memphis Botanic Garden is a beautiful place to visit, especially if you’re interested in plants and gardens. The garden features a large number of different plants, as well as several gardens designed to showcase different types of gardening. There are also many areas open to the public, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and several demonstration gardens. In all, the Memphis Botanic Garden covers 96 acres.

If you’re looking for something to do, the Memphis Botanic Garden offers plenty of activities. You can take a guided tour of the gardens, attend one of the many classes or workshops offered, or just relax in one of the many peaceful areas. The garden is also home to several special events throughout the year, including an annual butterfly exhibit and a holiday lights show.

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to visit in Tennessee, the Memphis Botanic Garden is worth checking out.

11. White House Arboretum

The White House Arboretum is located in Tennessee and it is a beautiful place to visit. It covers an area of nearly sixty acres and has a variety of different gardens and landscapes to explore. There are also several ponds on the property, as well as a nature trail that visitors can follow.

One of the highlights of the arboretum is the butterfly garden, which is home to dozens of different species of butterflies. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy. The arboretum hosts concerts and other special events throughout the year, and there are also playgrounds for children and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

The White House Arboretum is a great place to spend a day with friends or family, and it’s certain to leave you with a lasting impression.

12. University of Tennessee Gardens

UT gardens.
Mike O'Neil UT gardens

The University of Tennessee Gardens is a beautiful place to visit. It’s located in Knoxville, Tennessee. The Gardens is an amazing place to visit! It covers over 120 acres and has tons of different gardens to explore. There’s the Children’s Garden, Herb Garden, Sustainable Agriculture Garden, and more.

You can also find a nature trail, picnic areas, and a greenhouse on-site. The gardens are always changing with the seasons, so you’ll never get bored. Plus, there are always fun events happening at the gardens. In the fall, they have a pumpkin patch and corn maze. In the winter, they have a Christmas tree farm. And in the spring and summer, there are always new flowers blooming.

If you’re looking for a fun day trip that’s close to home, be sure to check out the University of Tennessee Gardens!

13. My Big Backyard at Memphis Botanic Garden

The My Big Backyard at Memphis Botanic Garden is a place for people of all ages to enjoy nature. This attraction is located in Germantown, Tennessee, and has many acres of land to explore.

The My Big Backyard at Memphis Botanic Garden is a place where you can have a great time with your family. It’s an exciting place to explore, with plenty of things to do. The garden occupies 96 acres and has many different features, including a nature center, children’s garden, and interactive water play area.

There are also miles of walking trails to enjoy. Also, there are concerts and other events scheduled throughout the year, so be sure to check out the website for more information. If you’re looking for something fun to do, the My Big Backyard at Memphis Botanic Garden is the place for you! The best part is that it’s all free to visit!

14. Baxter Gardens

The Baxter Gardens is a beautiful place to visit, located in the state of Tennessee. It covers acres of land and is home to some of the most exciting activities in the area. Whether you’re looking for a great place to spend a day outdoors or want to learn more about the history and culture of the region, the Baxter Gardens has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of the gardens is the variety of plants and trees that can be found there. From flowering shrubs to towering pines, there’s something new to see around every corner. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a hike through the forested areas.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Baxter Gardens also boasts a range of man-made attractions. There’s a playground for the kids, a bandstand for live performances, and even a small museum with exhibits on local history. You can also enjoy a picnic lunch or take a leisurely walk around the gardens.

If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, the Baxter Gardens is the place to go. With plenty to see and do, it’s certain to keep everyone entertained. So why not visit them today?

15. Plateau Discovery Gardens

The Plateau Discovery Gardens is a place filled with natural beauty and exciting activities to do. The gardens are spread out over 500 acres of land, making it the perfect place to explore. In addition, the gardens are home to many events throughout the year, such as concerts and art shows.

If you’re ever in the mood for a nature hike, the Plateau Discovery Gardens in Tennessee is worth a visit. Covering over 460 acres, the gardens feature miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a playground, picnic pavilion, and fishing pond.

There’s also an animal park with deer, elk, bears, and bison. Be sure to check out the wildflower garden while you’re there – it’s absolutely beautiful!

16. Discovery Park of America Gardens

The Discovery Park of America is a garden and museum located in the town of Union City, Tennessee. It encompasses over 500 acres of land, with different gardens and spots to explore. There’s the Heritage Garden, which has a replica of a one-room cabin from the 1800s, as well as a blacksmith shop and a cotton gin.

The Patriot’s Plaza is dedicated to veterans, with a 9/11 memorial and a statue of George Washington. Kids will love the Safari Playground, which has a large climbing structure with caves and tunnels, and the Dinosaur Park, which has life-sized replicas of dinosaurs. You can also go fishing in the park’s pond or take a walk on the nature trails.

One thing you should note is that there are no rides. But I think that is a good thing, because the focus of this park is not on entertainment, but on educating people about different aspects of our world. If you are looking for an amusement park, then you should go to one of the other parks in the area. However, if you want to learn something new and interesting, then the Discovery Park of America is the perfect place for you!

17. Cherokee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest
US Forest Service – Southern Region Cherokee National Forest

The Cherokee National Forest is a beautiful forest in Tennessee that is home to many exciting activities. The forest has over 500,000 acres of land, making it one of the largest in the eastern United States.

There are plenty of spots to explore in the forest, including the Ocoee River, the Tellico River, and Cades Cove. Each spot has its unique features and offers plenty of excitement for visitors. For example, Cades Cove is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and its abundance of wildlife.

There are also many exciting activities to do in the Cherokee National Forest, such as hiking, fishing, camping, and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at the Cherokee National Recreation Area. Overall, the Cherokee National Forest is a beautiful and exciting place to visit, and it offers something for everyone.

18. Gaylord Opryland Hotel

Gaylord Opryland Hotel
Rick Pecoraro Gaylord Opryland Hotel

The Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee is a world-renowned hotel and garden attraction. It features 28 acres of indoor gardens, each with its unique style and attractions. There’s the Delta Garden, which has a river that winds through it, the Italian Garden with its Mediterranean flavor, the Cajun Swamp with alligators and cypress trees, and many more. Each garden is home to different plants, birds, and wildlife, as well as fountains, ponds, and waterfalls.

In addition to the gardens, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel offers plenty of other activities for guests to enjoy. There’s an eight-story atrium with a glass-domed roof, a spa, several restaurants, and a shopping mall. The hotel also has its theme park, the Grand Ole Opryland, which features rides, games, and live music shows.

If you’re looking for a beautiful and exciting place to stay in Nashville, the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center is worth considering.

19. Sanctuary Arboretum and Botanical Garden

The Sanctuary Arboretum and Botanical Garden are one of the top tourist destinations in Tennessee. The garden features many different attractions, each with its unique appeal.

The gardens span over 100 acres, making it easy to lose yourself in the beauty of nature. There are plenty of spots to explore, including a rose garden, lily pond, and bamboo forest. The arboretum is also home to a variety of animals, including deer, birds, and turtles.

If you’re looking for something fun to do, the Sanctuary Arboretum and Botanical Garden offer a range of activities. You can take a guided tour of the gardens, go for a walk or bike ride on the trails, or explore the nature center. There’s also a playground for kids and a picnic area for visitors to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a beautiful garden to explore, the Sanctuary Arboretum and Botanical Garden are worth checking out. With its variety of attractions and activities, there’s something for everyone.

20. Hermitage Arboretum

The Hermitage Arboretum is a botanical garden and arboretum located in Nashville, Tennessee. It occupies 320 acres (130 ha) of rolling hills and woodlands on the banks of the Cumberland River. The arboretum features more than 4,000 types of plants from around the world, including a collection of Southern Appalachian plants. There are also miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

Some of the most popular attractions at the Hermitage Arboretum are the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Sensory Garden. The Japanese Garden features a traditional tea house and waterfall, while the Rose Garden has more than 1,000 roses of all colors. The Sensory Garden is designed to be accessible to children and adults with disabilities, with features like a rubberized trail, Braille signs, and scented plants.

The arboretum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including plant sales, festivals, and art shows. One of the most popular events is the Tennessee Fall Trails Festival, which features guided hikes, workshops, and demonstrations. For more information on upcoming events at the Hermitage Arboretum, please visit their website.

21. Aquarium Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden

The Aquarium Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden are located in the beautiful town of Chattanooga, Tennessee. The garden is a wonderful place to spend a sunny day, with acres of gardens to explore and plenty of activities to keep you busy.

The Aquarium Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden is home to over 250 different species of butterflies and hummingbirds. You can see them flitting through the flowers or perched on leaves, and it’s a truly amazing sight.

There are also several different gardens to explore at the Aquarium Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden. The Zen Garden is a great place you can relax, while the Children’s Garden is perfect for kids of all ages. There’s also a bamboo forest, a rose garden, and more.

If you’re looking for a fun day out, the Aquarium Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden is the place to go. With acres of gardens to explore and plenty of butterflies and hummingbirds to see, you’re sure to have a great time. So why not visit Chattanooga and check out the Aquarium Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden?

22. Rock City Gardens

Rock City Gardens
Snickersnack30 Rock City Gardens

The Rock City Gardens is a beautiful garden located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Tennessee. The garden spans over 400 acres and contains a variety of different gardens and landscapes, each with its unique charm.

Some of the highlights of the Rock City Gardens include the Shakespeare Garden, which features plants and flowers mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays; the Enchanted Forest, a mystical forest filled with fairies and other magical creatures; and the Lookout Mountain Viewpoint, which offers stunning views of Chattanooga and the surrounding area.

There are also plenty of exciting activities to enjoy at Rock City Gardens. Visitors can hike or bike through the gardens, or go on a zip line tour. There’s also a playground for the kids, a petting zoo, and several restaurants and cafes. Rock City Gardens is a great place to visit for a day of fun and relaxation.

23. Chattanooga Nature Center

The Chattanooga Nature Center (CNC) is a beautiful garden located in the heart of Tennessee. Covering 213 acres, the nature center features plenty of spots for visitors to explore, making it one of the largest nature preserves in Tennessee. The woodland gardens are home to more than 5,000 species of plants, while the meadows and riparian zones offer chances to see wildlife such as deer, herons, and turtles.

The garden has many different features, including a butterfly garden, a frog pond, and a nature trail. The nature trail is about two acres in size and is a great place to go for a walk. Several exciting activities can be done at the Chattanooga Nature Center, such as kayaking and bird watching.

If you are interested in learning more about the nature around them, the Chattanooga Nature Center is worth a visit.

24. Tennessee River Gardens

The Tennessee River Gardens is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It’s located in Tennessee and covers over 100 acres of land. There are several different spots in the garden, each with its unique features. The Rose Garden is one of the most popular spots, with over 2,000 roses on display. There’s also a Japanese Garden, Arboretum, and Children’s Garden.

If you’re looking for something exciting to do, the Tennessee River Gardens has plenty of activities to choose from. You can go fishing in the river, take a walk through the gardens, or have a picnic lunch. There are also playgrounds for the kids and lots of places to sit and relax.

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, the Tennessee River Gardens is worth checking out.

25. Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens

Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens
DebMomOf3 Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens

The Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens is a botanical garden in Tennessee that features different gardens, each with its unique theme. There’s the Japanese Garden, the English Rose Garden, and the Daylily Garden, to name just a few. The gardens are spread out over 14 acres, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around.

If you’re looking for something exciting to do at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens, check out the gardens’ train station. Modeled after the original Chattanooga Choo Choo station, it’s a great spot to take photos or just admire the architecture. Or why not take a ride on the garden’s train? It goes through different parts of the gardens, giving you a great view of everything.

If you’re looking for a place to relax, the Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens has plenty of spots to choose from. Take a seat on one of the benches in the English Rose Garden, or find a spot in the shade under one of the trees in the Japanese Garden. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s something to enjoy at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens.