8 Reasons to Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden

As spring quickly approaches, people tend to think more and more about plants and flowers and new life. The Atlanta Botanical Garden was first proposed by city residents in 1973. The doors officially opened in 1976. Since then, it continues its own growth as it delights old friends and new visitors. If the Atlanta Botanical Garden is not already on your list of things to do in Atlanta, this list of reasons will surely put it near the top of your list.

1. The Atlanta Botanical Garden has won numerous awards and recognitions.
   • In 2021 it received an American Public Garden Association Award for Garden Excellence.
   • It has been named one of the 30 best gardens in the country by marthastewart.com.
   • com has called the “urban oasis” one of America’s most gorgeous spring gardens.
   • It is one of 10 gardens on Southern Living’s The South’s Best Garden Tours of 2023.
   • Travel + Leisure and TripAdvisor both include the Atlanta Botanical Garden on their lists of the best things to do in Atlanta.
2. The Earth Goddess has become an iconic symbol of the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. The 25-foot sculpture was created as part of the Imaginary Worlds exhibition which graced the Gardens in 2013-2014. After the closing of the special exhibition, the Earth Goddess remained to become a permanent feature of the garden. Every spring she gains new life as 18,000 annuals are added to create her flowing locks of hair. The art is an ongoing process that must be maintained throughout the season. It is possible you will get to see the horticulturalists hard at work grooming the plants. Visit in the winter for Garden Lights, Holiday Nights when she transforms into an Ice Goddess. The Earth Goddess is a favorite spot for taking selfies.
3. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is home to one of the world’s largest orchid collections in a public garden. This garden highlight is celebrated throughout the year. Each year there is an Orchid Daze The 2024 exhibit runs February 14 through April 14; it features mixed media works of art by local artist Lillian Blades. Visitors will find Blades’ work in the Fuqua Conservatory Lobby, the Orchid Center Atrium, and the Orchid Center Display House. Throughout the year, guests can view over 2,000 species of orchids in two varied climate environments inside the Fuqua Orchid Center. The center boasts 16,000 square feet of indoor landscapes and seasonal displays.
4. There are many fun events and exhibits.
   • Atlanta Blooms: Species tulips bloom in the garden in March and April. To celebrate these flowers, there will be an evening Garden Party on March 23. The ticketed event features the Swingin’ Medallions band, French-themed food, bars, and a floral work market.
   • Cocktails in the Garden: Summer in Atlanta can be quite hot. The garden opens in the evenings from May through September on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights so everyone can explore in the cooler temperatures. Tickets are required for non-members. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the flowers in the evening light.
   • Scarecrows in the Garden: Scarecrows stand sentry throughout the grounds in October. The scarecrows are created by businesses, schools, organizations, and creative individuals. Anyone is welcome to enter their handcrafted creation. The scarecrows are then judged by a panel and prizes are given for first, second, and third place. Bring your flashlight and visit with the scarecrows in the evening on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays during October. The evening ticketed events include live music and specialty beers.
   • Garden Lights, Holidays Nights: Get into the winter holiday spirit as you stroll through tunnels of lights, watch dazzling light displays, and delight in model trains.
   • Valentine’s Day 2024 has already passed but visitors should watch for information about next year’s Valentines in the Garden event. The romantic evening features light bites, bars throughout the gardens, dancing, and an opportunity to renew your vows.
   • There are many smaller events throughout the year. Take a drawing class, practice tai chi, watch the conservation team feed the frogs, or learn the basics of hydroponics. Check the Events and Classes page to see what is happening during your Atlanta getaway.
5. When you visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden you are supporting local and global research and conservation efforts. The Garden’s Conservation and Research Staff actively monitors imperiled plants and works to restore appropriate habitats. They share their knowledge through outreach and educational opportunities. They are studying genetics, evolution, and demographics of plants and ecosystems. You can read more about their efforts in their magazine titled PlantIntel.
6. There are multiple art collections in the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Flowers and other plants are gorgeous specimens in their own right. They also serve as a lovely backdrop for other types of art.
   • Keep a keen eye out for sculptures as you stroll through the garden. They vary from a vibrant yellow icicle tower to a playful shaggy dog to a memorial to Helen Hardwick near the Japanese Garden.
   • Water is necessary for the plants in the garden. It also plays an important role in some artistic features of the garden. Look for fountains, a lily pond reflecting pool, and a splash pad where children can play.
   • Dale Chihuly is known for his fascinating blown glass sculptures. The pieces here were first put on display for a special exhibition in 2004. Many of the pieces have since become part of the permanent collection. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is pleased to be home to the largest permanent display of Chihuly’s work in a botanical garden.
7. The gardens are open year-round. Spring is not the only time to have fun at the gardens. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is open Tuesday through Sunday with hours varying based on the season. Have a friend who loves flowers but their birthday is in January? Visit the garden! Want to see fresh greenery but it is just too hot out in August? Visit an air-conditioned indoor part of the garden.
8. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is within walking distance of Stonehurst Place. Simply walk one block to Piedmont Park, then stroll through the Park along Lake Clara Meer, and arrive at the Garden. The entire walk is less than a mile. Of course, if you would rather save your energy for your time in the garden, you can always take a quick drive north along Piedmont Avenue. The proximity of this gorgeous location so close to our inn is like a little bit of magic.