What is a
Botanical Garden?
A botanical garden – or botanic garden – is a place where plants are cultivated for display, education, research, conservation and enjoyment. Atlanta is home to one of the nation's best.
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in Atlanta, but don’t take our word for it! Since opening in 1976, the Garden has been named to countless “best botanical gardens” or “best botanic gardens” lists – either is correct – and has earned many awards for its innovative exhibitions, programming and horticulture.
2021 APGA Award for Garden Excellence
American Public Garden Association: Started in 2003, the Award for Garden Excellence is given annually to a public garden that exemplifies the highest standards of horticultural practices. Selected by its peers, the award recipient is a public garden that has shown a commitment to supporting and demonstrating best gardening practices.
Best Gardens to Visit Around the U.S.
Marthastewart.com: “With 30 acres of outdoor gardens open to visitors, you could spend an entire day (or weekend) exploring all that Georgia’s Atlanta Botanical Garden has to offer. A unique Canopy Walk takes you through the Storza Woods, while the Skyline Garden gives you an extraordinary botanical view.”
America’s Most Gorgeous Spring Gardens
Forbes.com: “[Atlanta Botanical Garden] nurtures one of the prodigious collections of orchid species in the U.S. At 30 acres, this urban oasis proves that big jewels can come in small(er) packages.”
The South’s Best Garden Tours
Southern Living: “This beautiful green space in busy Atlanta, Georgia, offers both self-guided tours and guided tours led by Garden docents. It’s 30 acres of outdoor fun with attractions for all, including the Children’s Garden, Canopy Walk, and Skyline Garden.”
30 Best Things to Do in Atlanta
Travel + Leisure: “Indoor and outdoor gardens comprising plants from around the world include nationally recognized collections of magnolias, maples, and more. Plus, you can take classes to learn how to up your at-home gardening game.”
Best Things to Do in Atlanta
Trip Advisor: “Step into a world of magic and serenity at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, where features like the Fuqua Orchid Center treat visitors to a rare collection of high-elevation orchids never before grown in the southeast.”
Best Things to Do with Kids in Atlanta
Time Out: “Looking for a floral fix? The Atlanta Botanical Garden will do the trick. Prepare for dazzling displays that’ll put you in touch with nature without leaving the city. If you’re hesitant to bring the little ones, don’t be discouraged: The Lou Glenn Children’s Garden, chock-full of climbing nets, a water painting wall and a super-cool treehouse, will keep kids occupied all afternoon long.”
10 Best Family Things to Do in Atlanta
Hotels.com: “Beyond its rare plants and flower collections, Atlanta Botanical Garden offers families an inspiring day out with its combination of natural and manmade artistry. Fountains in the park cradle brightly colored blown-glass masterpieces. Kids will love the enchanted garden features, such as the Earth Goddess, which is beautifully composed of sculptures formed and grown from flowering plants, looking like something out of a fairy tale.”