The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, originally a private collection of Henry Edwards Huntington and his wife Arabella, opened to the public in 1928 after their deaths. It is known for its extensive library and art collection, including rare manuscripts and paintings by famous artists. The 130-acre botanical garden features over a dozen themed gardens, such as a Japanese garden with a moon bridge and ceremonial teahouse, and the largest outdoor collection of cacti and succulents in the world at the desert garden.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York, designed by the Olmsted brothers and opened in 1911, is a popular destination in the city. The 52-acre garden is home to over 14,000 types of plants, with highlights including over 200 cherry blossom trees that bloom in April, and a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the spring and summer months. Visitors can enjoy live jazz performances in the evenings during the summer months.
The Denver Botanic Gardens in Colorado is another must-visit botanical garden, spread across 23 acres and featuring a variety of themed gardens. Popular attractions include the 3.5-acre Mordecai Children’s Garden, designed to educate children about plants and the environment, and the iconic Glasshouse, which houses tropical and subtropical plants year-round. The garden also hosts events and programs for visitors of all ages throughout the year.
The Atlanta Botanical Garden in Georgia is a 30-acre garden located adjacent to Piedmont Park. Highlights include the 16,000-square-foot Fuqua Orchid Center, home to one of the most extensive orchid collections in the United States, and the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot-long elevated walkway through the treetops. The garden also features a variety of themed gardens, including a rose garden, Japanese garden, and conservation garden.
The Chicago Botanic Garden in Illinois is a 385-acre garden featuring 27 display gardens and four natural areas. Highlights include the Elizabeth Hubert Malott Japanese Garden, designed to evoke the essence of Japan’s culture and landscape, and the Enabling Garden, which provides accessible gardening opportunities for visitors with disabilities. The garden also offers education programs, events, and concerts throughout the year.
In conclusion, botanical gardens offer a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the beauty of plants and flowers from around the world. Whether you visit The Huntington in California, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York, the Denver Botanic Gardens in Colorado, the Atlanta Botanical Garden in Georgia, or the Chicago Botanic Garden in Illinois, you’re sure to be amazed by the diversity of plant life and the beauty of these curated spaces.
