The 5 Best Botanical Gardens in Virginia

The Virginia State Arboretum, also called the Orland E. White Arboretum, is 172 acres and part of the larger Blandy Experimental Farm, operated by the University of Virginia. The state arboretum has many trees and other plants native to Virginia and focuses on local plant species. The collection of trees, including many boxwoods and pines, is particularly impressive. The boxwood garden hosts 162 different cultivars and is the backup for the National Arboretum. The Gingko grove has over 300 trees which turn a stunning shade of yellow in the fall. Smaller gardens include an herb garden, a pollinator garden, and a memorial iris collection. You can also plant a tree in honor or memory of a loved one through the memorial program.

The Historical Quarters building is at the center of the arboretum and makes a beautiful backdrop for photos. The gardens immediately around the Historical Quarters feature plants that are either native to Virginia or that have come from other locations but do well in the Virginia climate. Located in Boyce, Virginia, the arboretum and surrounding farm is west of Washington, D.C. in the Shenandoah mountains. As part of the Virginia countryside, this area is the perfect place not just for plants but specifically for Virginia native plants to grow and thrive.

The arboretum is free to visit and open 365 days per year. Special events hosted at the arboretum include a plein-air painting festival in the fall, Mother’s Day events in the spring, and holiday wreath-making workshops using natural materials from the grounds. Blandy Experimental Farm focuses on research and conservation, so hosts educational events like summer camps, seed swaps,

#3 Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens

Visit Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in the winter months to enjoy the spectacular light display.

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This garden in Richmond, Virginia is set on 50 acres and includes more than 10 themed gardens, such as a children’s garden, rose garden, and healing garden. There are plenty of walking trails through the garden with guides as well as photo tours. You can download an app to learn more about the plants in the garden. The children’s garden is a particularly pleasant walk for the whole family. It takes you past Sydnore Lake, over the scenic Lotus Bridge, and by the farm garden and international village space.

One of the most beautiful places to visit at Lewis Ginter isn’t a garden at all. The conservatory has a 63-foot glass dome that is unlike any other in the entire state of Virginia. You can enjoy a delicious lunch or coffee at the cafe in the Visitor’s Center on your way into the garden. Other spaces throughout the garden include the carriage house, tea house, and historic Bloemendaal House.

Like other botanical gardens, Lewis Ginter hosts special events. The ButterfliesLIVE! event is perfect for families and celebrates local butterflies visiting the garden. There are special events in the children’s garden as well as self-paced adventures you can take on your own in the garden. The main display is open in the Conservatory.

#4 Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Summer is a great time to visit Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, Virginia.

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As part of the Northern Virginia parks and rec system, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is a fantastic place to visit that only costs a few dollars. Ages 5 and under are free, while kids and seniors are $3. Tickets for patrons ages 18 through 54 are $6 for entry. If you visit often, you might want to opt for an annual membership. This can be for individual visitors or for the family. The membership also goes to support the park and its programs.

The gardens include plenty of places to enjoy nature, such as ornamental gardens full of blooming flowers, forests with conifers, and three small lakes. There is even an indoor garden in the Atrium to view flowers and plants during the winter months. The park also has sculptures throughout that add an element of art. Special programs include light displays in the winter months and educational camps for kids during the