The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden encompasses more than 50 acres (20 hectares) and features 16 different themed gardens. The garden’s 63-foot-high (19-meter) classical domed conservatory is the only one of its kind in the state and houses more than 200 orchids as well as other tropical plants. See roses and lotus flowers in summer, maples in fall and a stunning light display during the year-end holiday season.
Explore the garden’s vast Conservatory, an 11,000-square-foot (1,020-square-meter) complex that has exotic plant species from around the world. In the center of the conservatory is the Palm House, which holds the garden’s palm and cycad collection. The East Wing contains orchids, while the West Wing is filled with cacti. The North Wing hosts rotating theme displays, including a butterfly house in summer.
View more than 70 types of rose bushes, which are collected in the hillside Louise Cochrane Rose Garden. The hillside setting takes advantage of natural air movement, which helps prevent the growth of harmful fungus. More than 2,000 rose bushes are artfully arranged here amid stone arches and pavilions.
Take the kids to the fun-filled Children’s Garden, which features a unique 13-foot-high (4-meter) tree house. A series of sloping ramps makes the tree house wheelchair accessible and the top offers lovely views of the surrounding gardens.
Wander along the Cherry Tree Walk, a picturesque path winding along Lake Sydnor. Follow the path through the daffodils and daylilies of the Lucy Payne Minor Garden and look for dwarf evergreen trees in the Margaret Streb Conifer Garden. When you’re ready for a break, enjoy lunch at the Robins Tea House restaurant overlooking the lake.
The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is open daily, with regular holiday closures. There is an admission fee. The garden is located in Richmond, close to several major interstate highways. It hosts regular classes and other events throughout the year, so find out if anything special is taking place during your visit. Learn about plant life as you relax in this serene, natural environment.
