Best Botanical Gardens In Minnesota
Minnesota has quite a few impressive botanical gardens for one to soak in beauty and nature. The best botanical gardens in our state include a breathtaking combination of a few different things. Those include scenic landscapes, gorgeous floral displays, unique plant and tree varieties, interesting sculptures and a comfortable way to take all of it in. For a few of the top spots to check out amazing botanical gardens, see our five picks below.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
3675 Arboretum Drive
Chaska, MN 55318
(952) 443-1400
www.arboretum.umn.edu
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum offers many interesting options for those who come to enjoy the more than 5,000 plant varieties and species. For active visitors, walk or bike the scenic and slightly hilly three-mile drive past wildflowers, wetlands and sculpture gardens. For those looking for a more peaceful outing, stake out one of the many benches that dot the 1,100 acres of land and overlook lush trees, lakes, fountains and floral displays. Kids can explore the outdoor nature play areas or visit the learning center to plant or water flowers. Adults have many opportunities to learn as well, with a variety of tours and classes to take part in.
Marjorie McNeely Conservatory
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
1225 Estabrook Drive
St. Paul, MN 55103
(651) 487-8200
www.comozooconservatory.org
The indoor and outdoor gardens at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory allow for year-round enjoyment of the many exotic plants and sweet-smelling floral displays. The ’Sunken Garden’ is a picture-perfect area to take in the seasonal flower shows under a glass-covered roof. For a calm, outdoor stroll, head outside to the ‘Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden’ and experience tranquil waters, moss and rocks among a Japanese-inspired landscape. If you love orchids, don’t miss the ‘Orchid House’ to experience the award-winning varieties of orchid species.
Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden
12th Ave. E. and London Road
Duluth, MN 55812
(218) 730-4300
www.duluthmn.gov
Overlooking the shores of Lake Superior sits the lovely rose gardens of Leif Erickson Park. Over 3,000 rose bushes reside in the park, along with annuals, herbs, trees and other plants. The park also features a full-scale Viking ship, marble gazebo, fountain and direct access to more than three miles of walking and biking paths. Rose variations at this park include miniature, antique, thornless and other unique hybrids and colors.
Munsinger Clemens Gardens
Riverside Drive S.E.
St. Cloud, MN 56301
(320) 257-5959
www.munsingerclemens.com
Located next to St. Cloud State University, you’ll find the stunning Munsinger Clemens Gardens along the banks of the Mississippi River. These are actually two different gardens but are adjacent to one another. The Munsinger Gardens feature walking paths through 14 acres of pine trees, natural grasses and brilliant-colored flowers. The Clemens Gardens contain six distinct formal garden areas, including one showcasing roses and another highlighting perennials.
Lyndale Park Rose Garden
4124 Roseway Road
Minneapolis, MN 55409
(612) 230-6400
www.minneapolisparks.org
Lyndale Park Rose Garden is the second oldest public garden of its kind in the U.S. The layout of the garden is just as it was designed in 1908 with rectangular plots for over 3,000 roses. At its peak, the garden contains over 60,000 blooms for the public to enjoy for free. The park, which sits on the edge of Lake Harriet, also contains an Italian fountain and makes for a popular spot for wedding and family photos.
Related: Guide To Minnesota Children's Museum
Cortney Mohnk is a freelance writer covering all things Minnesota. She is also a public relations and event planning professional. Her most important job is mother to her young daughter, who is her partner-in-crime when checking out the family entertainment scene in the Twin Cities. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
