Travel Tips
Best Botanical Gardens in the US
Everyone loves a good urban adventure! But when you find yourself missing a little greenery, head straight for these botanical gardens and urban greenspaces. Peaceful, romantic, and educational, botanical gardens are perfect for everyone from solo travelers to honeymooners to families. The only question is, which place would you add to our list of the best botanical gardens in the US?
The best US botanicals gardens range from urban escapes to desert landscaping masterpieces. Wherever your next adventure takes you, be sure to visit one of these stunning gardens along the way.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Pittsburgh, PA
Historically, Pittsburgh had reputation as an industrial, coal-clouded city, but today it’s one of America’s most livable and climate-conscious cities. Within the Steel City, you can find a beautiful botanical garden smack in the middle of one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods. The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, located in Schenley Park, features both indoor greenhouses and outdoor gardens so you can visit during any season!
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is a sprawling Southern city. Take a break from the hubbub with a visit to one of the best botanical gardens in the US, Atlanta Botanical Garden. Enjoy the day wandering through gorgeous flower displays and sculpture gardens. Visit during the holiday season to experience the magic of festive light displays. Not far beyond Atlanta lie some of the South’s best waterfall hikes and other fantastic wilderness areas with ample outdoor activities.
United States National Arboretum
Washington, D.C.
Incredible museum experiences are what Washington, D.C. is known for. However, make sure you don’t overlook outdoor attractions in the nation’s capital. The National Arboretum is off the beaten path in the Northeast metro DC area, making it a true urban escape. The mission of the arboretum is to enhance the economic, environmental and aesthetic value of landscape and ornamental plants. Wander beautifully manicured gardens and sculpture installations or attend one of their beginner bonsai classes or the annual summer 5K race.
Desert Botanical Garden
Phoenix, AZ
The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona is the epitome of desert oasis. The impressive lush vegetation combined with native desert plants and cacti species make this one of the best botanical gardens in the US. In such an arid climate, the park is nothing short of refreshing. Browse their spectacular community events like professional dance and music concerts.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn, NY
As if Brooklyn wasn’t already one of the coolest places in New York City, the eclectic borough has a botanical garden, too! Established in 1910, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden covers roughly 52 acres. Considering kids under 12 get in for free and they offer senior, military and student discounts, this is also one of the more affordable things to do in New York.
Virginia Robinson Gardens
Los Angeles, CA
If you dream of playing house like a Hollywood celebrity, then you need to visit the Virginia Robinson Gardens in Los Angeles. This is one of the best botanical gardens in the US simply for the vibes. The mansion property and its gardens were one of the first developed lots in Beverly Hills. Back in the day, the home was known for its lavish, star-studded soires. How Gatsby! Today, tours of the gardens are open to the public by appointment only.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden
Fort Worth, TX
Fort Worth Botanic Garden often plays second fiddle to its bigger, more popular neighbor in Dallas. Visitors should note, however, that this less-crowded botanical garden is one of the finest examples of Japanese landscaping in the United States. In autumn, it’s one of the best places to see fall foliage in the region. Plus, at 120 acres, this is one of the largest botanical gardens in the country. You know what they say—everything’s bigger in Texas!
These are just a handful of the best botanical gardens found across America. Stop and smell the roses during your next adventure, wherever you are!
