Top 25 Botanical Gardens in Virginia

What’s better than exploring a beautiful garden? The many beautiful botanical gardens in Virginia reflect that diversity with sites to offer year-round inspiration, beauty. You’ll have the opportunity for peace when you visit these gorgeous demonstration sites which include historic homes as well!

If you’re looking for suggestions on which garden in Virginia to visit this month, look no further. We’ve got the low-down on every single one – their history (maybe even some secrets), how long they’re open all year round. So here’s our list.

1. Norfolk Botanical Garden 

Norfolk Botanical Garden is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia, and for good reason. With its well-manicured gardens, diverse ecosystem, and plethora of activities to do, there’s something for everyone at Norfolk Botanical Garden.

The garden was founded back in 1933 by Elsie M. Dillard, who was inspired to start the garden after a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens in London. At the time, Norfolk Botanical Garden was one of only a handful of public gardens in the United States. Today, it’s grown to cover more than 170 acres and contains over 15,000 different plant species.

One of the things that makes Norfolk Botanical Garden so special is its diverse ecosystem. The garden is home to a wide variety of different plant species, including everything from tropical plants to cacti. There’s also a large lake on the property, which is great for fishing or simply taking a relaxing stroll.

If you’re looking for something fun to do, Norfolk Botanical Garden has you covered. The garden hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals. There’s also an amusement park on-site with rides for both kids and adults.

Norfolk Botanical Garden is worth a visit if you’re in the Virginia area. With its well-manicured gardens and diverse ecosystem, there’s something for everyone at this popular tourist destination.

2. Meadowlark Botanical Garden

The Meadowlark Botanical Garden is located in Vienna, Virginia. The garden was established in 1969 on the former estate of Lulu andDR. Walter Reed. Meadowlark features a diverse collection of gardens and plant collections, including a rose garden, a coneflower meadow, an Asian garden, and a perennial border. The American Horticultural Society has designated Meadowlark as a “Signature Garden.”

Meadowlark covers 118 acres (48 ha) of which 30 acres (12 ha) are developed gardens. Meadowlark has more than 12 miles (19 km) of walking paths. The garden is open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

Exciting activities to do at Meadowlark Botanical Garden include: taking a walk through the garden and enjoying the different gardens and plant collections, visiting the gift shop, which has a wide selection of plants, gardening tools, and other items, strolling through the Children’s Garden, which is designed to teach children about plants and nature, playing in the interactive fountain in the center of the garden and taking a guided tour of Meadowlark (reservations are not required).

3. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a large botanical garden in Richmond, Virginia. It covers 48 acres and contains thousands of plants from all over the world. The garden has several different sections, each with its unique features.

The Children’s Garden is one of the most popular spots in the garden. It has a variety of play equipment, including a giant spiderweb, a treehouse, and a water slide. There are also gardens specifically for children to learn about plants, as well as a butterfly garden where they can watch the insects flutter around.

The International Garden is one of the most diverse areas in the garden. It features plants from all over the world, including Africa, Asia, and South America. There are also several gardens designed to look like traditional European landscapes.

The Rose Garden is one of the most popular spots in the garden, and it’s easy to see why. It contains over 4,000 roses in a variety of colors and shapes. The garden also has a gazebo where visitors can relax and enjoy the flowers.

One of the most exciting things about the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is its annual festival. The Richmond Flower Show takes place every spring and features hundreds of different plants. There are also demonstrations by expert gardeners, contests, and food vendors. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is worth a visit.

4. Williamsburg Botanical Garden

The Williamsburg Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful and unique gardens in Virginia. It covers over sixty acres and has a rich history dating back to the 1700s. The garden is home to a variety of different plants and trees, as well as a variety of exciting activities for visitors to enjoy.

One of the most unique features of the Williamsburg Botanical Garden is its layout. Rather than being arranged in traditional rows, the garden is divided into a series of small “hubs” which are connected by walking paths. This allows visitors to explore the garden at their own pace and makes it perfect for those who want to spend some time relaxing in nature.

Another great feature of the garden is its variety of plants and trees. There are over five thousand different species of plants and trees in the garden, making it a perfect place for nature lovers to explore. The garden also has many exciting activities for visitors to enjoy, including a children’s play area, a butterfly garden, and a variety of walking trails.

The Williamsburg Botanical Garden is worth a visit for anyone interested in gardens or nature. It’s an excellent place to relax and explore, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors of all ages entertained.

5. State Arboretum of Virginia

The State Arboretum of Virginia is a wonderful place to visit if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Located in Virginia, the arboretum spans an impressive 365 acres, making it one of the largest in the country. It’s also home to some of the most unique and diverse flora in the United States.

The arboretum’s history can be traced back to 1899 when Dr. John C. Wister donated a portion of his land to the state for use as an educational garden. In subsequent years, additional parcels were purchased or donated, until the arboretum reached its current size. Today, it features dozens of gardens and exhibits, each with its unique character and charm.

The arboretum is a great place to visit year-round, thanks to its variety of gardens and activities. In the spring, the flowering trees and shrubs are a sight to behold. In the summer, the garden’s many ponds make for a cooling respite from the heat. And in the fall, the leaves of the deciduous trees turn a beautiful golden hue.

No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to check out the arboretum’s various gardens and exhibits. The Heritage Garden is a great place to start, as it features plants from all over the world. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, head to the Adventure Garden, which has a ropes course and zip line. And for those who love nature, the Woodland Garden is a must-see.

So if you’re looking for a place to escape the everyday grind, be sure to check out the State Arboretum of Virginia.

6. Hahn Horticulture Garden

The Hahn Horticulture Garden of Virginia Tech is a unique public garden that is different from most other gardens in the United States. The garden is located on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, and it covers over 120 acres of land. The garden has a rich history, dating back to 1892 when it was founded as the State Agricultural Experiment Station. In 1965, the garden was renamed the Hahn Horticulture Garden in honor of Dr. Edwin S. Hahn, who was a professor at Virginia Tech and a horticulture expert.

Today, the Hahn Horticulture Garden is home to a variety of different gardens and landscapes. There are several different areas within the garden, including a Japanese garden, and a demonstration garden. The garden is also home to several different notable landmarks, including the Alumni Grove and the Water Wheel.

The Hahn Horticulture Garden is a popular tourist destination, and there are a variety of different activities that visitors can enjoy. Some of the most popular activities include taking a walk through the gardens, picnicking in the Alumni Grove, and watching the water wheel turn. The garden is also home to several educational programs, which offer visitors the opportunity to learn more about horticulture and gardening.

Overall, the Hahn Horticulture Garden is a beautiful and unique garden that offers something for everyone. If you’re ever in the Blacksburg area, be sure to stop by and check it out!

7. Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is a botanical garden in Harrisonburg, Virginia. It’s different from other gardens because it specializes in woody plants, meaning trees and shrubs. It has over 4,000 different kinds of plants, making it one of the largest collections of woody plants in the eastern United States. The arboretum was founded in 1978, and it covers 105 acres.

There are a lot of things to do at the arboretum. You can go for a walk through the garden, check out the greenhouse, go on a nature hike, or take a class. There are also special events held there throughout the year, like art shows and concerts.

The arboretum is a great place to learn about plants and nature, and it’s a beautiful place to spend a day.

8. Chesapeake Arboretum

The Chesapeake Arboretum is a garden in the city of Portsmouth, Virginia. The arboretum is different from most gardens because it not only has plants and trees but also includes monuments and sculptures. The arboretum was founded in 1965 and has since grown to include over forty acres of land. There are several different sections of the arboretum.

The Heritage Garden is one section of the arboretum that celebrates the region’s history. It features replicas of early American homes, as well as monuments to important figures from the area’s past. The Forest Walk is a nature trail that winds through a forested area on the property. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings, as well as learn about the types of plants and trees that grow there.

The Children’s Garden is a popular spot for families with young children. It includes a large play area, as well as a variety of plants and flowers that kids can learn about. The Sensory Garden is another section designed specifically for kids. It has different areas where visitors can touch and smell different plants, as well as a water feature where they can play.

The Chesapeake Arboretum is a great place to spend an afternoon outdoors. Visitors can explore the different gardens and exhibits, or take a walk through the forested trails. There are also several events held at the arboretum throughout the year, including concerts and art shows. For nature lovers and families with young children, the Chesapeake Arboretum is a must-see attraction in Virginia.

9. Maymont Park

Maymont Park is a park located in Richmond, Virginia. It’s different from other parks because it contains a mansion, gardens, and a farm. The park is also home to many animals, such as deer, bison, and elk. Maymont Park has a rich history that began with James Dooley and his wife Sallie. The two purchased the land in 1893 and began developing it into a country estate.

In addition to the mansion and gardens, they built a deer park and an Italian-style garden. After James died in 1925, Sallie continued to operate the estate until she died in 1938. Following Sallie’s death, the estate was given to the City of Richmond with the stipulation that it be used as a park.

Today, the park is home to more than 100 species of animals and plants. It’s also a popular destination for weddings, picnics, and other events. The park covers 470 acres and has more than 20 miles of trails. Some of the most popular spots in the park include the Maymont Mansion, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, Children’s Farm, and Wildlife Gardens.

There’s also a nature center, playground, and plenty of places to picnic. Admission to the park is free, but there may be a charge for some special events.

10. Highland Park

The Highland Park in Virginia is a beautiful public garden that offers a unique experience for visitors. The park features different gardens, each with its distinct character and history. The largest garden in the park is the English Garden, which takes up over 6 acres of land. There are also Italian, Japanese, Rose, and American Gardens. Each one has its features and attractions that make it worth exploring.

Highland Park has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. It was originally founded as a memorial to Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War. The park was later opened to the public in 1924. Since then, it has become a popular destination for people from all over Virginia.

There are many things to do at Highland Park. Visitors can explore the different gardens, take a walk through the nature trails, or visit the playgrounds and pavilions. There is also a large lake where people can enjoy fishing or renting a boat. And for those who want to learn more about the park, there are several museums and exhibits located on-site.

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to spend a day, Highland Park in Virginia is worth visiting. With its expansive gardens and rich history, it’s sure to be an experience you won’t forget.

11. Boxerwood Nature Center and Woodland Garden

The Boxerwood Nature Center and Woodland Garden is a beautiful nature reserve and garden in the heart of Virginia. The center is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the natural and cultural history of the region and features miles of hiking trails, a nature center, an arboretum, and a woodland garden.

The woodland garden is one of the most unique features of Boxerwood. It was designed by renowned landscape architect Olin Teague in collaboration with the Boxerwood staff and is based on the traditional English herbaceous border. The garden is divided into nine different gardens, each with its unique theme: rose garden, butterfly garden, bog garden, children’s garden, etc. There are also miles of nature trails to explore, and a nature center with exhibits on the natural history of the region.

Boxerwood is a great place for a day hike, or for spending an afternoon exploring the gardens. There are also several exciting events held at Boxerwood throughout the year, including concerts, nature workshops, and art shows.

12. Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia is one of a kind. It tells the story of the valley and the people who have lived there through exhibits, gardens, and programs. It’s different from other museums because it has interactive exhibits, beautiful gardens, and exciting programs for visitors of all ages.

The museum is located on 95 acres of land and has nine different spots that visitors can explore. Each spot is unique and has its history and features. The museum has a visitors center, art galleries, history galleries, children’s gallery, pioneer village, nature trails, demonstration farm, apple orchard, and herb garden. There are also two ponds and a creek on the property.

The museum offers a variety of programs for visitors. Some of the programs include tours, workshops, concerts, and special events. The museum is also home to the Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir. The choir is made up of students from pre-kindergarten through high school. They perform at various venues throughout the valley.

The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley is a great place to visit for people of all ages. There is something for everyone to see and do. We highly recommend visiting this unique museum if you are in the Virginia area.

13. Tidewater Arboretum

The Tidewater Arboretum is a beautiful garden in Virginia that is home to many different types of plants and trees. It’s different from most gardens because it features a variety of landscapes, including wetlands, forests, and meadows. The arboretum also has a rich history, dating back to the 1930s when it was first established.

Today, the Tidewater Arboretum is a popular spot for visitors who want to enjoy the beauty of nature. There are over 100 acres of land to explore, and each section has its unique features. For example, the Wetlands Trail is home to many different types of birds and wildlife, while the Forest Trail has towering trees that provide shade on hot days.

An arboretum is also a great place for activities like hiking. There are several trails to choose from, and each one offers a different experience. The arboretum is open every day of the week, so you can come anytime you want.

If you’re looking for a beautiful garden to explore, the Tidewater Arboretum is worth a visit. Be sure to check out their website for more information on what to expect.

14. Green Spring Gardens

Green Spring Gardens is a public park and botanical garden located in Alexandria, Virginia. It covers 314 acres and contains more than 20,000 plants. The gardens are open every day of the year from 8:00 am to dusk.

The gardens were founded in 1967 by Jeannette DuPont Scott and her husband John E.B. Stuart, Jr., as a memorial to their daughter, Green Spring Stuart. The gardens are divided into several areas, including a Japanese garden, rose garden, herb garden, demonstration kitchen garden, and children’s garden. There are also miles of hiking trails through the woods.

The gardens are home to many interesting events throughout the year. They include an annual spring plant sale, a summer concert series, a haunted forest in the fall, and a holiday market in the winter.

Green Spring Gardens is a great place to spend a day with family or friends. There are so many different areas to explore and things to do, you could easily spend hours here and not get bored. We highly recommend visiting this wonderful park if you’re ever in the Alexandria area.

15. Dehart Botanical Gardens

The DeHart Botanical Gardens in Virginia is a beautiful place to visit. It has different gardens with diverse types of plants, making it a great place to learn about botany. The history of the garden goes back to the 1800s when the land was first purchased by the DeHart family. They planted various types of trees and flowers on their land, and the garden has been growing ever since. Today, the DeHart Botanical Gardens covers over 12 acres and includes many different gardens and attractions.

One of the most interesting things about the DeHart Botanical Gardens is the fact that it’s constantly changing. New gardens are added every year, and old ones are redesigned or replaced. This means that there’s always something new to see and explore in the garden. Some of the highlights include several walking paths, a duck pond, and a playground for kids.

The DeHart Botanical Gardens is a great place to spend a day with your family. There’s plenty of room to roam around, and there are always interesting things to see and do. You can also learn about plants and gardening, which is a fun activity for kids.

16. Southern Virginia Botanical Gardens

The Southern Virginia Botanical Gardens are located in the town of Buena Vista, Virginia. The gardens were founded in 1997 and have since become a popular tourist destination. The gardens occupy 110 acres of land and feature a wide variety of plants and trees. There are also several ponds and lakes in the garden, as well as several miles of hiking trails.

One of the things that make the Southern Virginia Botanical Gardens unique is the fact that they are home to the world’s largest collection of American dogwoods. There are also several species of azaleas and rhododendrons, as well as many rare plants.

The gardens are also home to the Southern Virginia Railway Museum, which features several locomotives and train cars from the early 20th century.

17. Quarry Gardens at Schuyler

The Quarry Gardens are a beautiful sight to behold. They are different from most gardens because they were once an old quarry. The rocks and cliffs that were mined here in the 1800s make up the garden’s features. There is a lovely waterfall, ponds, and streams. Many interesting plants grow here, including hemlock, rhododendron, and mountain laurel.

The Quarry Gardens span 16 acres and there are plenty of activities to do at the Quarry Gardens. The area is full of beautiful gardens, a playground, and a quarry pond. You’d love to come here to enjoy the scenery and take a walk around. There’s also a small cafe on site that serves light refreshments.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can explore the quarry itself. It’s been converted into a swimming area with diving boards and a slide. Make sure to check out the schedule before you go, because the quarry is only open during certain times. All in all, the Quarry Gardens are a great place to spend an afternoon with your family or friends.

18. Glenward Gates

The Glenward Gates is an estate located in the rolling hills of Virginia. The gates were designed by the famous American architect, Jefferson Davis Smith and constructed in 1907. The estate spans over 1,000 acres of pristine gardens and forest land. Several different features make the Glenward Gates unique, including its location on top of a hill, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, and its many winding paths that offer visitors a chance to explore the property in depth.

The Glenward Gates is also home to a variety of different gardens and landscapes. There are formal gardens with clipped hedges and statuary, wildflower meadows, woodlands filled with native trees and shrubs, and even a working farm. Each garden is beautifully maintained and offers something different to explore.

19. Tidewater Arboretum

The Tidewater Arboretum is a botanical garden in Virginia Beach, Virginia. It’s different from most gardens because it has both public gardens and display gardens. The history of the Arboretum dates back to 1933 when the Virginia Beach Garden Club was organized. The club started working on a project to create a municipal park with flower beds and trees. Over time, the project grew bigger and in 1957, the city donated 18 acres of land to the club for use as a botanical garden.

Several features make the Tidewater Arboretum special. One is the variety of gardens, which includes the Elizabethan Garden, the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Butterfly Garden. There’s also a herb garden, a sensory garden, and a children’s garden. The Arboretum is also home to a nature center, which has exhibits on local wildlife and ecology.

One of the things that make the Tidewater Arboretum so special is its size. At over 40 acres, it’s one of the largest botanical gardens in the region. This means there’s plenty of space for visitors to explore. And with more than 2,000 plant species, there’s something for everyone to see.

The Tidewater Arboretum is also a great place for recreation. There are nature trails for hiking and biking, a pond for fishing, and a playground for the kids. The Arboretum also hosts special events throughout the year, including concerts, art shows, and festivals.

If you’re looking for a unique place to visit in Virginia Beach, the Tidewater Arboretum is worth checking out. With its variety of gardens and exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So be sure to pay a visit soon!

20. Native Plant Trail

The Native Plant Trail in Virginia is a beautiful garden that is home to many different types of plants. What makes this garden so unique is the fact that it showcases plants that are native to the area. This means that you can find plants here that you won’t see anywhere else.

The trail was created in 2001, and it spans over 12 acres. There are several different sections to the trail. One section, for example, is dedicated to showcasing wildflowers. Another section is home to a variety of trees and shrubs.

One of the best things about the Native Plant Trail is that it’s perfect for all ages. There are plenty of activities for kids, including a playground and a nature scavenger hunt. Adults will enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to learn more about the plants that grow in Virginia.

21. Freedom Park

The Freedom Park gardens were first planted in 2000, and they feature a variety of plants from all over the world. There are more than 500 different types of plants in the gardens, and they’re divided into six different gardens: the English Garden, the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Children’s Garden, the Friendship Garden, and the Healing Garden.

The Freedom Park gardens are also a great place to get some exercise. Several hiking and biking trails wind through the park, and they’re perfect for getting some fresh air and enjoying nature. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, there’s also a playground in the park that’s perfect for kids of all ages. And if you need to take a break from the sun, there’s a covered pavilion that’s available for use.

Freedom Park is a great place to visit any time of year, but it’s especially beautiful during the spring and fall. The park is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, so be sure to check out the park’s website for a calendar of upcoming events. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or an exciting place to spend the day, Freedom Park is worth checking out.

22. Birdsong Pleasure Garden

The Birdsong Pleasure Garden is located in Virginia and it is a unique place because it is the only botanical garden in the United States that is devoted to native plants. The garden has a rich history, dating back to the 1700s when it was originally known as the “Garden of Paradise.” One of the features that make the Birdsong Pleasure Garden so special is its size – it covers more than 100 acres! There are many different areas to explore in the garden.

You can visit the Native Plant Meadow. This meadow is full of beautiful wildflowers, including several species that are native to Virginia. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the garden.

Then there is the Woodland Garden. This garden is home to a variety of trees and plants, including ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. It’s a great place for a nature walk, and you might even see some wildlife!

Check out the Perennial Garden: This garden is full of blooming flowers, which change with the seasons. It’s a great place to take photographs or just enjoy the sight and smell of flowers.

The Birdsong Pleasure Garden is a great place to visit any time of year. There’s always something new to see and do, so you can never get bored!

23. Seven Oaks Lavender Farm

Seven Oaks Lavender Farm is located in Virginia and is a family-owned business. The farm grows lavender, which is used to make essential oils, lotions, soaps, and more. There are many different varieties of lavender at the farm, including English lavender, French lavender, and Spanish lavender.

One thing that makes Seven Oaks Lavender Farm unique is that it grows all of its lavender. The farm has been in operation since 2004, and it has more than six acres of lavender gardens. There are also picnic areas, walking trails, and a play area for children.

When you visit the farm can purchase products made with lavender, or they can enjoy activities such as picking lavender, taking a tour of the farm or simply relaxing in the garden. Seven Oaks Lavender Farm is open from May to October each year.

24. River Farm

The River Farm is a historic site in Virginia that has been open to the public since 1974. The farm is located on the banks of the Potomac River, and it was once owned by George Washington. These days, the River Farm spans over eighty acres and features a beautiful garden, as well as a variety of other attractions.

One of the things that make the River Farm so special is its history. George Washington himself used to live on the property, and there are still some of his original buildings standing today. Plus, the farm is home to one of America’s oldest botanical gardens. Established in 1786, the garden contains more than five thousand different plants from all over the world.

Another great thing about the River Farm is its size. At eighty acres, it’s one of the largest open spaces in Northern Virginia. This makes it the perfect place for a day out with the family. There’s plenty to do and see here, from exploring the gardens to taking a walk along the riverbank. And if you get hungry, there are several restaurants and food stalls there.

So if you’re looking for a fun day trip outside of Washington, D.C., be sure to check out the River Farm. You’ll be able to explore America’s history and enjoy some beautiful scenery at the same time.

25. Oatlands Historic House and Gardens

The Oatlands Historic House and Gardens is a stunning location in Virginia that offers visitors a unique glimpse into America’s history. The estate was built in 1802 by George Carter, and it is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. What makes Oatlands so special is the fact that it features both a historic house and beautiful gardens. There are plenty of activities to enjoy at this attraction, including exploring the acres of gardens, touring the historic home, and participating in special events such as concerts and festivals.

One of the most popular spots at Oatlands is the Rose Garden. This garden is made up of more than 2,000 roses and covers nearly an acre. It’s worth a visit if you’re looking for a beautiful place to relax and take in the fresh air. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also explore the rest of the gardens, which cover a whopping 12 acres! There’s something for everyone at Oatlands, so be sure to check it out during your next visit to Virginia.