Top 25 Botanical Gardens in Texas

Looking for the Best Botanical Gardens in Texas? We’ve got you covered! We’ve got all sorts of this great state – desert oases with beautiful flowers and tree-lined walks; freshwater lakes where fishing is always an option…so head out today (or tomorrow if it rains)and find your perfect spot.

These botanical gardens are an awesome place to visit if you are looking for someplace scenic and relaxing. Botanic gardens typically have well-groomed lawns with beautiful scenery that make it easier than ever before to enjoy your time outdoors! They also offer free or inexpensive admission which means this budget-friendly experience won’t break the bank either way (and who doesn’t love saving money?). So go on adventures through these incredible places next time you are in Texas.

Here are our picks for the best botanical gardens in Texas. You can also have a look at botanical gardens in neighboring states:
– Botanic gardens in Arkansas

1. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden (86 acres) is a beautiful garden in the heart of the city of Dallas, Texas. The garden contains 16 gardens, including the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, which is the largest children’s garden in the United States. There are also several ponds and fountains, as well as a variety of flowers and plants.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden are open 365 days a year from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission is free on Wednesdays. There are a variety of exciting activities to do at the garden, including walking or biking the 7-mile White Rock Creek Trail, attending one of the many concerts or classes offered at the garden, or having a picnic in the gardens.

Some of the most popular sports in the Dallas Arboretum include the Pecan Grove, the Japanese Garden, and the Children’s Garden. The Pecan Grove is a large area filled with various types of pecan trees. It’s a great place for a picnic or to just relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Children’s Garden is perfect for kids of all ages. It contains a large playground, petting zoo, and several gardens designed specifically for children. There are also plenty of areas where kids can run around and explore. The Dallas Arboretum is also home to several exciting events throughout the year. These events include the Avant Gardener Fair, the Fall Plant Sale, and the Holiday at the Arboretum event.

2. Zilker Botanical Garden

The Zilker Botanical Garden is located in Austin, Texas. It is a beautiful garden that spans over 21 acres and has something for everyone to enjoy. There are gardens with different types of plants and more.

Plus, there are several spots to explore that have interesting features. For example, the Hillside Theatre is a spot where you can watch performances or listen to concerts. The Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve is also worth visiting; it’s known for its incredible swimming hole. If you’re looking for something fun to do, the Zilker Botanical Garden has you covered.

There are seasonal events like the Spring Flower Show and Christmas Tree Lighting that are sure to please. Plus, the garden is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

3. Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a 103-acre garden located in the heart of Fort Worth, Texas. It was founded in 1909, making it one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southwest. The garden features a variety of gardens and ecosystems, including a rose garden, Japanese garden, and desert exhibit.

The garden is home to over two thousand plant species, including many rare and endangered plants. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is also home to the Fort Worth Children’s Museum, which has interactive exhibits on science and nature.

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a great place to go for a walk or to have a picnic. Several exciting activities take place in the garden. The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra hosts a free concert in the garden every summer. The garden also has a butterfly house, which is open from March to October.

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is worth a visit if you’re in Texas.

4. San Antonio Botanical Garden

The San Antonio Botanical Garden can be found in the city of San Antonio, Texas. It’s a 38 acre garden that is filled with beautiful plants and flowers from all over the world. There are also several different gardens located within the botanical garden.

One of the most popular features of the garden is the Lazy River. This river winds its way through a large part of the garden, and visitors can float down it on rafts or tubes. There’s also a golf course located in the botanical garden, as well as a playground for kids and a cafe where you can buy food and drinks.

The highlight of the botanical garden is the amazing conservatory, which features a butterfly exhibit and a rainforest exhibit. Several outdoor gardens are perfect for picnics or just taking a relaxing stroll. The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a great place to visit any time of year, and there are always exciting activities happening there. For example, every summer they host a concert series in the amphitheater.

You can also visit the garden during the holidays to see their amazing light show. No matter what time of year you visit, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is sure to be a delight.

5. The South Texas Botanical Gardens

The South Texas Botanical Gardens are a beautiful place to visit and are home to many different types of plants and animals. The gardens span over 85 acres and have something for everyone to enjoy. One of the most popular features of the garden is the butterfly pavilion. This pavilion is home to hundreds of butterflies from all over the world. In addition to the butterfly pavilion, the garden also has a nature trail, a children’s garden, and a rose garden.

The South Texas Botanical Gardens are located in Corpus Christi, Texas. There is no shortage of things to do in the gardens. A nature trail is a great place for a nature walk, and the children’s garden has a variety of activities for kids, including a playground, a sandpit, and a water feature. The rose garden is home to over 1,000 rose bushes from all over the world.

If you are looking for a beautiful place to visit, the South Texas Botanical Gardens are worth checking out. You can find more information about the gardens on their website.

6. Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens

If you’re looking for a beautiful and peaceful place to spend an afternoon, the Mercer Botanic Gardens in Texas is worth a visit. This garden is home to over 2,500 plant species from all over the world, making it a nature lover’s paradise. In addition to its natural beauty, the Mercer Botanic Gardens also has a rich history. It was founded in 1937 by Robert L. Mercer, who was an accomplished horticulturist and avid collector of rare plants. The gardens have continued to grow and expand over the years and now cover more than 107 acres. There are plenty of things to see and do at the Mercer Botanic Gardens, so let’s take a closer look at some of its highlights.

The first thing you’ll notice when you visit the Mercer Botanic Gardens is the impressive variety of plants on display. There are gardens dedicated to specific types of plants, such as roses, cacti, and orchids, as well as a large section of native Texas plants. If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to relax, the Pioneer Village is worth a visit.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are plenty of other things to do at the Mercer Botanic Gardens. The children’s garden is a great place to explore, with its winding paths, play areas, and informative exhibits. History buffs will want to check out the Pioneer Village, which features buildings from the 1800s and early 1900s. And for nature lovers, the acres of forest and prairie in the gardens provide a perfect opportunity to get away from it all.

No matter what your interests are, the Mercer Botanic Gardens is sure to have something to offer. With its beautiful gardens, interesting history, and diverse array of activities, this garden is worth a visit. So be sure to put it on your list of things to do in Texas!

7. Hermann Park Japanese Garden

The Hermann Park Japanese Garden is a truly beautiful place. It’s located in Houston, Texas and it covers nine acres of land. The garden was first built in 1976 and it has been a popular tourist attraction ever since. There are many different features to enjoy in the garden, including a pond, a waterfall, and several different types of trees and plants.

There are also several statues and other pieces of art on display. One of the most popular activities at the Japanese Garden is simply walking around and taking in all the beauty. However, there are also several other things to do there. For example, you can go fishing in the pond or have a picnic by the waterfall.

You can also take a walk on one of the nature trails. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, you can visit the amusement park that’s located on the premises. The Japanese Garden is a must-see for anyone visiting Houston.

8. Texas Discovery Garden

The Texas Discovery Garden is a beautiful garden located in Dallas, Texas. It’s a great place for families to spend time together, and there are plenty of things to do there. The garden has over 100 acres of land, which is divided into several different sections. Each section has its unique features and attractions.

One of the most popular sections of the garden is the butterfly garden. This area is home to hundreds of butterflies, and it’s a great place to learn about these beautiful creatures. There are also gardens for flowers, herbs, and vegetables; a children’s garden with a variety of play structures; and a nature trail that winds through the trees.

The Texas Discovery Garden is also home to several festivals throughout the year. The most popular festival is the spring butterfly festival, which celebrates the arrival of the butterflies. There are also a pumpkin festival, a holiday lights festival, and several other events that attract visitors from all over Texas.

If you’re looking for a fun and interesting place to spend an afternoon or evening, the Texas Discovery Garden is a nice area.

9. Amarillo Botanical Garden

The Amarillo Botanical Gardens is a beautiful place to visit if you’re ever in the Texas Panhandle. It’s located in the city of Amarillo and covers over 16 acres of land. There are various gardens and exhibits to explore, each with its unique history and features.

There’s the Japanese Garden, for example, which was created in 1967 through a donation from the Rotary Club of Amarillo. It’s home to a traditional torii gate, as well as a koi pond and dozens of other plants and statues from Japan. The English Rose Garden is another popular sport in the botanical gardens. It was dedicated in 1978 and contains over 400 different rose bushes.

If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, the botanical gardens also have a nature trail and playground. The nature trail is nearly 1/2 mile long and takes you through various areas of the garden, including the butterfly garden and cactus garden. And the playground is one of the biggest in Amarillo.

So if you’re ever in the Texas Panhandle, be sure to stop by the Amarillo Botanical Gardens.

10. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

This is a botanical garden and arboretum located on the University of Texas at Austin campus in Austin, Texas. It was founded in 1982 by Lady Bird Johnson, the former United States first lady, in honor of her beloved husband, Lyndon B. Johnson.

The center is dedicated to the conservation and study of native plants and their habitats. The garden occupies 318 acres (1.29 km2) and includes more than 50 gardens, meadows, and woodlands. The center also features an art gallery, auditorium, and cafe. The center offers educational programs for students of all ages, as well as public tours.

There’s plenty to do at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! You can take a walk through the gardens, learn about native plants, or go on a nature hike. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go canoeing or kayaking on the river! And don’t forget to stop by the visitor center and gift shop.

Admission is free for children aged 12 and younger, students with ID, and members of the military and their families. Adult admission is $10.00. The center is wheelchair accessible.

11. Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a beautiful place to visit, with a rich history and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. The garden is located on the banks of the Trinity River in Fort Worth, Texas, and covers more than 100 acres. It’s home to more than 2,500 species of plants, including many rare and endangered varieties.

The botanic garden has been open since 1936, and over the years it has become a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. Several different areas in the garden are worth exploring. The garden is one of the most popular spots, with its koi ponds, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. The Children’s Garden is another favorite spot, with its play structures, water features, and butterfly garden.

There are many interesting activities to do at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. One of our favorites is the interactive garden. You can touch and feel different plants, and learn about their uses. You can watch the amazing butterflies flutter around.

12. El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The El Paso Zoo and Botanical Garden is a great place to spend the day with your family. The zoo is located in Texas and covers over 90 acres of land. It has a variety of animals from all over the world, as well as a beautiful garden area.

Some of the interesting facts about the zoo include its history. It was founded back in 1916 and has been growing ever since. Another cool fact about the zoo is that it’s home to over 500 animals from all over the world. You can see everything from lions and tigers to giraffes and gorillas. And if you’re looking for a beautiful place to relax, the botanical garden is worth checking out. It’s home to over 2,000 different types of plants and flowers from all over the world.

If you’re looking for something to do, the zoo has plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can check out the animal exhibits, go for a ride on the train or carousel, or take a walk through the gardens. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go zip lining!

Be sure to add it to your list of places to visit next time you’re in Texas.

13. Chihuahaun Desert Research Institute

The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens (CDNCBG), located in Fabens, Texas, is a beautiful nature center and botanical garden that was established in 1998. It is home to over 900 species of plants, including cacti and other desert plants, and is also a haven for wildlife. The CDNCBG covers 105 acres and offers visitors plenty of opportunities to learn about and enjoy the natural world.

Some of the highlights of the CDNCBG include the 5,000-square-foot butterfly pavilion, which is home to more than 100 different species of butterflies; the Texas Wildflower Garden, which features more than 200 different kinds of wildflowers; and the Wetlands Boardwalk, which offers visitors a chance to see the wetlands up close. Several nature trails wind through the gardens, providing visitors with an opportunity to see a wide variety of plants and wildlife.

The CDNCBG is also home to a variety of interesting historical features. For example, the Garden of the Guardian Spirits pays tribute to the Native Americans who once inhabited the area. This garden is made up of 11 concrete sculptures that depict various spirit animals, such as eagles, bears, and wolves. There is also a replica of a traditional Puebloan dwelling in the garden.

The CDNCBG is a great place for families to visit. In addition to its many gardens and nature trails, there are also several areas where kids can play, including a playground, a petting zoo, and a small train that can take you on a tour of the nature center. There is also a cafe on-site where you can purchase food and drinks.

14. Houston Botanic Garden

The Houston Botanic Garden is beautiful in Texas. It’s located on more than 900 acres of land and has something for everyone. The history of the Houston Botanic Garden is interesting. The garden was originally founded by the Junior League of Houston in the 1950s. At that time, it was known as the Bayou Bend Gardens. In the 1970s, the garden was moved to its current location and renamed the Houston Botanic Garden.

There are many features of the Houston Botanic Garden that make it special. For example, there are several gardens with unique themes, like the English Cottage Garden. The Houston Botanic Garden is also home to some beautiful butterflies. It’s one of the largest butterfly gardens in the United States. You can see hundreds of different species of butterflies flitting around the garden.

There are many exciting activities to do at the Houston Botanic Garden. For example, visitors can take a guided tour or go on a self-guided tour. There are also children’s programs and special events throughout the year. Plus, the garden is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

If you’re looking for a beautiful garden to visit, the Houston Botanic Garden is worth checking out. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Houston and for good reason!

15. Mercer Botanic Garden

Mercer Botanic Garden is a beautiful garden located in Texas. It contains more than twenty-two acres of gardens and natural areas. Mercer Botanic Garden was founded by Hugh and Bessie Mercer in the early 1930s. The garden was opened to the public in 1936. Mercer Botanic Garden features a variety of gardens.

Mercer Botanic Garden is a great place for families to visit. There are several areas where children can play, including a playground and a frog pond. The garden also has a nature center that offers educational programs for children. Mercer Botanic Garden is home to the largest camellia collection in the United States. More than two thousand specimens of camellias are on display at any given time. Camellias can be found in the rose garden, the Japanese garden, and the camellia forest.

You can enjoy walking through the gardens or relaxing on one of the benches scattered throughout the property. The Mercer Botanic Garden is also a great place to see wildlife. You can see ducks and other waterfowl on the ponds, deer in the forest, and a variety of birds in the gardens.

In addition to being beautiful, Mercer Botanic Garden is also very interesting. The garden has a rich history, and each area of the garden has its unique features. For example, the Japanese garden is based on a traditional design that dates back to the twelfth century.

If you are looking for a beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature, Mercer Botanic Garden is a great choice.

16. The National Butterfly Center

The National Butterfly Center is a beautiful nature reserve located in Mission, Texas. The 100-acre garden is home to more than 200 species of butterflies and moths. It’s also a great place to see other kinds of wildlife, including deers and hawks.

The center was founded in 2001 by Marianna Wright, who was inspired to create a refuge for butterflies after seeing them threatened by development. Today, the center is run by the non-profit organization North American Butterfly Association (NABA).

One of the center’s most popular features is the “Butterfly Walk.” This winding path takes you through a variety of habitats, from meadows to woodlands to wetlands. There’s also a children’s garden, which is home to a variety of play structures and educational exhibits.

The National Butterfly Center is open year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Admission is free, though donations are always welcome.

17. Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center

The Shangri-La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is a nature reserve located in Orange, Texas. The gardens occupy over 300 acres of land and are home to a variety of plants and animals, including several endangered species. The gardens were founded in 2001 by Dr. James and Linda Hester, who purchased the land to create a nature preserve.

There are also several spots in the garden that are perfect for photography. The gardens are also home to the Shangri La Tea House, which offers tea service and light snacks.

The activities you can do here are numerous and varied. You can enjoy a leisurely walk through the gardens, take a hike on one of the nature trails, or participate in one of the many educational programs offered there. In addition, the center has a natural playground that is perfect for kids, as well as a birdwatching blind where you can watch birds in their natural habitat.

If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, the Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center are worth seeing!

18. San Antonio Botanical Garden

If you’re ever in San Antonio, Texas, make sure to check out the amazing San Antonio Botanical Garden! This garden is chock-full of interesting facts and history. For example, did you know that it’s one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States? It was founded back in 1941!

The garden is also home to a variety of different plants and flowers. There’s everything from roses to cacti on display here. Plus, if you’re looking for a little bit of excitement, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. The garden features a bamboo forest, butterfly pavilion, and even a maze!

There are so many fun things to do at the San Antonio Botanical Garden with your family! You can explore the different gardens, take a nature hike in the bamboo forest, visit the butterfly garden, and much more. The Garden also offers special events throughout the year that are perfect for families.

This fall, they’re hosting a Bat Festival where you can learn all about these amazing creatures. They also have a Pumpkin Patch where you can pick out the perfect pumpkin to take home. If you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend, be sure to check out the San Antonio Botanical Garden!

19. East Texas Arboretum

The East Texas Arboretum is a garden located in Tyler, Texas. It covers 136 acres and contains more than 4,000 types of plants from all over the world. The arboretum also has many interesting features, including a herb garden, bamboo garden, and more. There are also several miles of walking trails through the gardens.

The East Texas Arboretum also features the Sensory Garden. This garden is designed to be accessible to visitors of all abilities, and it includes a variety of plants that can be touched, smelled, and tasted. The sensory garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

One of the most popular activities at the East Texas Arboretum is fishing. The arboretum has three ponds stocked with bass, catfish, and bream. You can also explore the nature trails or have a picnic in one of the pavilions.

20. Houston Arboretum

The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a 155-acre nature preserve located in the heart of Houston, Texas. The arboretum was established in 1974 as a public/private partnership between the City of Houston and the Houston Parks Board.

There are several interesting things to see and do at the Houston Arboretum. One of the most popular attractions is the nature loop, a self-guided nature trail that winds its way through the preserve. The loop is made up of five different trails, each of which highlights a different aspect of the arboretum’s natural environment.

Another popular attraction is the children’s forest. This area is designed for kids to explore and learn about nature. It features a treehouse, a creek bed, and a variety of animals and plants.

The education center is also a popular destination. It features interactive exhibits on topics such as ecology, wildlife biology, and renewable energy. There are also classrooms and meeting rooms available for rent.

The Houston Arboretum is a great place to get outdoors and enjoy nature. It’s also a great place for kids to learn about the environment. If you’re in the Houston area, be sure to stop by and check it out!

21. Clark Gardens Botanical Park

The Clark Gardens Botanical Park is located in Weatherford, Texas. It’s a beautiful garden that spans 54 acres of land and has many different features to enjoy. Some of the areas you can explore in the park include the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, the Butterfly House, and more. There’s also a playground and a nature trail for visitors to enjoy.

The Clark Gardens Botanical Park first opened to the public in 1998, and it’s been a popular destination for families and nature lovers ever since. The garden is home to over 2,000 different plant species, as well as dozens of butterflies and other insects. It’s a great place to learn about nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

When you visit the Clark Gardens Botanical Park, you can explore a variety of gardens. There’s the traditional English garden, with its well-manicured greenery and floral borders. The Australian garden is perfect for nature lovers, while the children’s garden is packed with fun activities for the little ones.

22. Beaumont Botanical Gardens

The Beaumont Botanical Gardens is a beautiful garden located in the city of Beaumont, Texas. It has been open to the public since 1965 and spans over 102 acres of land. There are several different areas in the garden, each with its unique features and history.

The highlight of the gardens is the Japanese Garden, which covers over 8 acres. It was created in 1968 and is home to a variety of plants, trees, and shrubs from Japan and other parts of Asia. The garden is also home to a traditional Japanese teahouse, which can be rented for special events.

Another popular spot in the gardens is the Children’s Garden. This area is designed specifically for kids, with a variety of plants, trees, and flowers to explore. There is also a playground, a sandbox, and a water play area.

The Beaumont Botanical Gardens is a great place to spend a day with the family. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, and the scenery is simply beautiful. If you’re ever in the area, be sure to check out the gardens!

23. Chandor Gardens

The Chandor Gardens is located in Fort Worth, Texas. It covers 120 acres of land and features different gardens. The gardens are open to the public from sunrise to sunset every day of the year.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at the Chandor Gardens. There is a playground for children, as well as a nature trail that winds through the gardens. The gardens are also home to numerous sculptures, including a large metal sculpture of a praying mantis and a fountain. The Chandor Gardens are home to many exotic plants and flowers.

The Chandor Gardens are a popular destination for weddings and other special events. The gardens can accommodate up to 500 guests and offer several locations for ceremonies and receptions.

The Chandor Gardens are a beautiful and unique destination for visitors of all ages. If you’re ever in the Fort Worth area, be sure to stop by and enjoy a day in the gardens!

24. Hilltop Gardens

Hilltop Gardens, located in the Texas Hill Country, is home to acres of beautiful gardens full of vibrant flowers and plants. This garden is a popular spot for you to enjoy nature and have a peaceful picnic.

The Hilltop Gardens were first established as a private residence in the early 1900s by Walter Gresham. After his death, the property was donated to the city of San Antonio and turned into a public garden. Today, the garden spans over 120 acres and features different areas like the bluebonnet garden and more.

The Hilltop Gardens are home to over 1,500 different types of plants, including roses, cacti, and Texas bluebonnets. The garden is also a popular spot for bird watching. Over 250 species of birds have been spotted at Hilltop Gardens.

There’s plenty to do at Hilltop Gardens for visitors of all ages. The garden also offers educational programs for school groups and special events like concerts and art shows. For a peaceful day outdoors surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers, be sure to visit the Hilltop Gardens in the Texas Hill Country.

25. Dallas DeGolyer Estate

The Dallas DeGolyer Estate is a beautiful place that is located in the heart of Texas. It covers more than 40 acres of land, and it has some of the most amazing gardens that you will ever see. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy while you are there.

One of the main features of the estate is the garden. The garden is made up of several different areas, each with its unique charm. There is an Italian Garden, a Japanese Garden, and even a Spanish Garden. Each one of these gardens is worth exploring, and they are all incredibly beautiful.

In addition to the gardens, there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy at the estate. You can go for a walk or a bike ride on the many available trails, or you can go fishing in the estate’s ponds. There is also a playground for the kids and a petting zoo where they can get up close and personal with some of the farm animals.

If you are looking for a place to spend a day or weekend, the Dallas DeGolyer Estate is worth checking out. It is certain to provide you with plenty of memories that you will never forget.