Nothing says spring like gorgeous flowers and beautiful greenery. And while you may not always have that in your own backyard, you can see it by taking a trip to some of the largest, most interesting, and even the best botanical gardens in the world. Get your floral fix with these amazing attractions in North America, Australia, and Europe.
1. Kew Royal Botanic Gardens in London, England
With some of its structures existing since the 1700s, Kew Royal Botanic Gardens in London also has one of the most extensive collections of plants in the world. It sits on 326 acres and has over 8.5 million species of plants and fungi living within its parameters and near its several historic buildings. There’s so much to see and do here that it’s hard to fit it all into one trip. Some highlights include the Pagoda, Kew Palace, the botanical art gallery, the Princess of Wales Conservatory, the Palm House, and the Treetop Walkway.
The second botanical garden on the list is right here in the United States near Philadelphia. The 1,077-acre Longwood Gardens is made up of woods, meadows, greenhouses, and dozens of distinct indoor and outdoor gardens. Longwood started as a family arboretum back in the 1700s when the Peirce family purchased the land and eventually planted rows of native and exotic trees. Many of those trees still stand today. Other points of interest to check out when you visit include the Main Fountain Garden, Italian Water Garden, the Flower Garden Walk, and the Rose Garden. Be sure to check out Longwood’s seasonal events as well, which range from live music to holiday celebrations.
3. Jardin Botanique de Montréal in Montreal, Canada
If you’re planning a trip to Canada this spring, take a trip to the Montreal Botanical Garden, or, as the locals call it, Jardin Botanique de Montréal. It opened its doors in 1931 and now attracts visitors from all over the world. In 1976, it was even a site for some parts of the Olympic Games. Some must-see highlights when you visit include the Chinese Garden, the Alpine Garden, the Japanese Garden, the First Nations Garden, the Rose Garden, and the famous Lion de la Feuillée statue.
You probably already know that Hawaii is home to gorgeous plants and flowers, but the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is one of the more beautiful places in the entire state. At 17 acres, it’s definitely not the largest botanical garden in the world, but it’s rainforest setting makes it one of the most unique. You’ll see over 2,000 species of plants, waterfalls, creeks, and lovely views of Onomea Bay. If you visit, some must-see exhibits include the Onomea Waterfalls, the orchid garden, Lily Lake, Founders Birdhouse, and the monkeypod trees.
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney, Australia, which opened in 1816, are some of the older botanical gardens in the world. Many of the gardens’ 74 acres are open most days of the year with seasonal hours. Despite the attraction’s proximity to the city, you can kick back and relax, take a tour, learn about Aboriginal history, see stunning views of Sydney Harbour, and do much more. Be sure to check out the Australian Rainforest Garden, the Palace Rose Garden, the Tropical Garden, and Succulent Garden.
Explore your love of all things natural with a trip to one of these botanical gardens.
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