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The Green Bay Botanical Garden provides a peaceful retreat in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This 47-acre nonprofit space features more than 120,000 plants representing both native and international species. It serves as a year-round destination for education, relaxation, and appreciation of horticulture.
The idea for the garden began in 1978 when community members sought to create a dedicated green space. Renewed efforts in 1982 led to collaboration with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. The garden officially welcomed the public in 1996 and has continued to expand since then.
Community involvement has driven much of its growth. Volunteers and donors have helped shape its development over the decades. Today it stands as a popular regional attraction focused on plants and people.
The garden is located at 2600 Larsen Road in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Free parking is available on site for all visitors. The facility offers accessible pathways throughout most areas.
Winter hours from January through March run Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. Spring and summer schedules extend to daily openings, with May through August staying open until 8 pm. Holiday closures occur on days such as New Year’s Day and Christmas.
Last admission is typically 30 minutes before closing time. Special events may cause early closures on select dates. Checking the current schedule before traveling is recommended.
General adult admission costs $15 per person. Seniors and military personnel receive a discounted rate of $13. Children aged 3 to 17 pay $5, while those under 2 enter free.
Membership provides unlimited year-round access for individuals and families. Weekly specials, including buy-one-get-one offers, appear during peak summer months. Online ticket purchases often include a small per-person discount.
The garden features a variety of themed areas that evolve with each season. Well-groomed paths make navigation simple and enjoyable. Different sections highlight specific plant collections and design styles.
The Carol & Bruce Bell Children’s Garden covers 2.5 acres of interactive outdoor space. Young visitors enjoy imaginative play structures and nature-inspired features. The design encourages hands-on learning and exploration.
Accessible elements ensure the area welcomes all families. Seasonal plantings keep the space fresh and engaging. Many parents find it becomes a favorite stop during visits.
The Lux Foundation Rose Garden displays a wide selection of hybrid teas, floribundas, and shrub roses. Blooms reach their peak between June and August. A central gazebo provides a picturesque spot for photos or rest.
Adjacent perennial beds feature peonies, daylilies, and ornamental grasses. These areas offer changing color schemes throughout the growing season. They attract numerous pollinators and butterflies.
The Mary Hendrickson Johnson Wisconsin Woodland Garden highlights native understory plants beneath mature trees. Shaded trails wind through wildflowers and ferns. This section offers a cool, quiet contrast to sunnier parts of the garden.
The Arendt Conifer Garden showcases dwarf and miniature conifers in creative arrangements. Textures and subtle color variations provide interest even in winter. It serves as an important reference collection in the region.
Seasonal installations bring fresh themes throughout the year. Outdoor sculptures and water features enhance the landscape. Regular programming includes guided walks, workshops, and family activities.
Classes, lectures, and youth camps focus on gardening and environmental topics. The on-site education center supports many of these programs. Trial gardens test new plant varieties and share results with visitors.
Sustainable gardening practices receive emphasis across the property. Volunteers contribute significantly to maintenance and plant propagation. Gardeners of all experience levels can find practical inspiration here.
Most pathways accommodate wheelchairs and strollers with gentle slopes. Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to the garden’s size. Bringing water is helpful, especially during warmer months.
Spring visits showcase early bulbs and flowering trees. Summer offers the fullest displays of color and fragrance. Each season provides its own unique experience worth exploring.
