It was as if it was a picture taken from the enchanted garden as you walk directly into the garden as it was hidden in the woods surrounded by trees and a very nice bog with charming Lilly pads. The price was right and my mom and I really enjoyed it. Nothing but peaceful all around. read more

Garden In the Woods - Stegosaurus sculpture made of branches and bark - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Framingham, Massachusetts

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Excellent little jaunt through the flowery woods on crushed gravel trails lined with many varieties of plants and blossoming flora. Possibly the best prize for labeling as many species as possible. So many gardens do not provide good and legible labels on their plants, trees, bushes, ferns, and flowers. This was joyfully, thoroughly well-labeled. As was the path itself on the loop trail. There is an additional outer trail you could take if you're channeling your inner Thoreau but we stuck with the anti-Frost and took the road more traveled. Stay on the path. Recommendations say you can walk the loop in 30mins. You probably could. But we found plenty to keep us oohing and aahing for 90 mins! Turtles, frogs, dragonflies, butterflies, and some fab funghi in the lily pond. Unique and colorful small flowers every which way. The trail has mostly small inclines here and there, but the hike at the end to return to the visitor center is a bit huffy puffy. While there were beautifully carved benches throughout other parts of the loop, there were no benches on this steepest part and there really should be at least one halfway up the hill. Take your time. Wear proper shoes, bring a water bottle. Small parking lot. Bonus gift shop, plant shop, and proper rest rooms. read more

I absolutely loved my experience at Garden in the Woods. The property is kept in immaculate condition, the staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, all of the walkways were clearly marked and free of debris. You have no time limit when you're visiting so you can really take your time to enjoy each exhibit. They also have an excellent children's area that promotes creativity and literacy. I am looking forward to visiting this nature preserve again in the future. read more

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Peaceful, beautiful outdoor location with friendly staff. Lily pond had a lot of turtles swimming and sunbathing. Takes about an hour to walk the main path. The path is stroller friendly laid with gravel. Tons of benches along the way to rest or just relax and view your surroundings. They have guided tours or an app you can use for your walk along with boards With information on that area. Not a huge amount of parking, I think overflow is on the road? Tips: Bring bug spray! It was windy the day I went but in certain spots like the kids activity area it was mosquitoville. Get a library pass, admissions is $6 read more

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What a pleasant surprise. A forest oasis filled with native flora. What a beautiful, peaceful discovery and nature walk. Even though we all have GPS nowadays, it could use more signage outside of the grounds around town to draw more visitors. It's a hidden gem in the middle of a suburban neighborhood that should be better advertised, in my opinion. read more

Garden in the Woods is a beautiful escape nestled in North Framingham. The loop trail with numerous side loops is an easy walk filled with beautiful native plants. If you're looking for just a pretty walk, make a leisurely trip around the loop. If you're looking for a more educational tour, use your phone to scan the QR code at the entrance for an audio tour. It's a great way to spend an afternoon. I will say the price for admission is steep, but if you're local, a yearly membership pays for itself in just two trips and makes for a more economical way to visit. Plus kids under 5 are always free. I'm looking forward to visiting in different seasons as the garden is sure to undergo substantial seasonal changes. read more

Beautiful spot filled with a large number of very interesting plants and flowers. The trails were nicely paved and maintained. It was a little bit hilly for some members of my group, but still manageable. Entrance fee seemed a little high, but we were happy to support this organization. read more

Rather obscure and kinda hard to get to, Garden in the Woods is a nice hidden gem. There a variety of native and lesser-known plants. I liked the small area with western plants. Reminds me of the Huntington Library just outside of LA... I also enjoyed the various trails around the main paths. Although there isn't much to see in terms of plants or flowers, it's a nice quiet hike. No one really went on those paths, so it's not noisy at all. The Hop Brook Trail is particularly peaceful, with a nice little brook to gaze on the side. The lily pond is cute and particularly beautiful during the summer. The Idea Garden is a bit disorganized and uninteresting. The volunteers and staff are all very nice and helpful. There's a garden shop too for those who want some cool plants. Like other reviews have indicated, do bring some bug spray. read more

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AAA members save 20% off adult admission to Garden in the Woods, otherwise it is $10 - payable at the Gift Shop. We spent a short time there one afternoon in the Autumn and found it decorated with pumpkins carved with silly faces placed here and there. I didn't get much of an experience this time around, but enough that I'd be happy to go back some day in the Spring time. Tip: The only bathroom is located in the Gift Shop. read more

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Took my girlfriend here for an outdoor date during free museum day. Love how it's very relaxing and small enough to go for a nice little walk or you can go for the loop if you want to walk a little longer. We probably went off season because the garden wasn't as colorful as I expected. Although, whatever flowers we did come across, they were very beautiful! Also, admission is $12, so even if you have to pay, the price isn't too shabby. read more

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Love, love, love this place! Whenever I need to meet someone and they want to do something outdoors, I will suggest this place. I even took my then 15 year old son during spring vacation. Anytime he can use his awesome walking stick and go on a "hike", he will. I enjoy coming the different times of the year and seeing what is up and the changes taking place. I like to see what things are growing and knowing what "weeds" are popping up in my yard and the names of them. This year, I discovered that a weed in my yard is actually an herb that is used extensively in Persia. I also learned how to utilize it. Now, that is neat! Although we did not do it this year, I think if you are there and the season is beginning it is so worth getting the membership especially if you like it here and have family or friends you know will enjoy it with you. read more

Garden In the Woods - Good times hiking! - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Framingham, Massachusetts

My skepticism was met with joy on my first visit. The garden was beautiful especially for a fairly new mom in a fairly new home that I hope to landscape into oblivion one day. It was even worth the $14 pp entry fee (free for under 5 yo). Well maintained paths, even handicap accessible (push), as we brought the stroller. The only stairs we encountered that did not offer an adjacent ramp was on the Ridge trail (as far as I know). Walking from the visitor center to the lily pond was great for viewing many different flowering trees and plants (beautiful this week, Trillium Week). We even saw snakes and turtles. Loved every moment (except the wait in the visitor center to pay at the register. Competing with those who were purchasing plants from the plant shop/ plant wagons inside... didn't quite work well). Families will find entertainment for their little ones every other week (check website for updates). We got some art time, music, and dancing with Ms. Elaine who was so great with our 4 yo and 8 mo. So worth the trek for us! read more

Garden In the Woods - May 11, Trillium Week, welcome ferns! - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Framingham, Massachusetts

Awesome place. $12 admission for adults seemed steep but after walking the grounds for almost two hours, it was well worth it. Saw two deer on the ridge trail which was a bonus. read more

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If you're looking for an off the beaten path activity for your family, out of town visitors or just as a solo adventurer, Garden in the Woods is perfect. The nature conservancy consists of multiple trails and paths that lead through woods, water (a lily pond and a brook), plants and wildflowers. There are occasionally benches to rest on, and at one point there is a clearing for children to play in. Otherwise, it is a fairly low frills, self-guided kind of place. Stop at the visitor center for advice, coffee, or really nice souvenirs of your stay. What's on display in the park varies depending on the season, so it's definitely worth a return trip! read more

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there was this lady when i went and she was very rude raising her tone at me and racially profiled me. I did not like my experience here and would not recommend it. read more

Listen as she speaks to you Hear the voices flutter through The barriers arranged by you Close the shutters draw the shades Filter out the everglades Glistening with evening dew Thunder calls through waterfalls Rising tides and ocean walls I can hear you when you sigh Listen as she speaks to you Hear the voices flutter through Watch them fall and let them lie I can hear you when you sigh Through the garden in the woods not bad transition there huh? anyways yelps, I liked the garden in the woods which seems way out of place in the middle of Framingham. on one hand its nice having an alternative to visit other than target, but on the other hand, if you have been to say, muir woods or something else as grand as that example, GitW is kinda lame. The paths were well planned out and there were no bugs (watershed and all) and the cost was right , 6 bucks with a student id, yes, I still have an id so therefore I am a student. the whole trail, the curtis trail, the main one, took about an hour, you don't need hiking shoes or anything like that, however, they do have a few more trails that you can explore. bring a camera, lots of fun and a fine way to spend an afternoon. read more

Odd location but indeed a garden in the woods. Esoteric options for floral aware and you'll be questioning the entire drive in I assure you. A nice hour long walk through unbelievably well tended specimen plants is the least you can do but if in a hurry there is no doubt the gift shop is unbelievable and the plants on sale will turn your head. For those that garden this is a must! read more

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Went there today for a late afternoon stroll and oh my god it was amazing! Everything is gorgeous, and so peaceful! The staff is friendly and helpful, the grounds are wonderful, and it's just a really nice place to lose yourself for a while. So many wonderful plants, and a few quirky sculptures (though the stegosaurus sculpture I was hoping to see was out for repairs :( ) and we're definitely hoping that maybe we'll get a membership, I can definitely see trips here in the future. read more

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After looking at the website I thought this would be a great Sunday afternoon walk. The pictures on the website were beautiful and intriguing. I was less than impressed when we were done our walk. I know there are certain times during the season that things are in bloom, but it wasn't just that. Along the pathway, on either side, everything was messy and overgrown. I thought the price of admission would allow for the upkeep to be much better than what it was. I understand not wanting to disrupt nature, but with the price of admission I thought they'd use that money to make things more landscaped. The education center wasn't open. I never saw any of the giant bugs and one of the bridges shown on the website was closed off and messy because of renovation. There were no signs of it being touched. I was very disappointed and somewhat upset that I just spent $18 for my daughter and I to walk through something I could've seen in the woods near my home for free! I would highly suggest, if you are not a horticulturist, not to waste your money. read more

This is the perfect place to take a nice stroll to unwind and enjoy nature with your loved ones. I love the various flowers, shrubs, trees and little creatures that live in the garden. It's like a depiction of Alice in Wonderland, but with no wicked queen in sight. I highly recommend the Garden in the Woods. It's an adventure you won't forget.. unless you simply just don't enjoy the outdoors. read more

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If you are a Hortie, this is THE PLACE! Why? Well, everything they grow on site is Native, and you'll learn tons, just by trolling through the site. Next, they've started a Nursery, now. You can buy Native Plants through them. The selection is premium, honestly. I've been in the field 27 years now, and it's the best I've seen for retail. But, go to Allandale, too (smile). Now, I snubbed this place for a bit, because an old Director had a major attitude-and I have an allergic reaction to snottiness. However, I went to a couple of events this past year, and was astounded. So, if you want a couple hours walking through forest glens of flowers, and seeing fantastic displays of native shrubs, trees, and perennials: come here. They have a great roster of classes, too. The gift shop is great, too. Honestly, the only place I've been to that matches this place, is Westonbirt Arboretum in England. Now, I love the Arnold Arboretum, but they don't give you the whole Flora Experience. Their new Perennials Pavilion is a horrid joke. Why not incorporate perennials, vines and shrubs among the beautiful plantings they have? That's the whole point of the place. Natural setting & natural plant schemes. Duh! Frederick Law Olmsted, and E.O. Wilson are spinning in their graves. Back to Garden In The Woods: they do it right. Come here, and enjoy it. read more

I'm very glad I visited Garden in the Woods. They showed me that most of what I've planted in my shady woodland-esque garden are fitting to the area. I love the fact that everything they have is native. No forced roses that you have to fight with nature to keep alive, just lovely native plants that bloom in their healthy environment. I am mad, but only at myself because I missed the idea garden the first time around and meant to backtrack back to it. Then I forgot, der! I hope that the grass alternative does well in my very shady backyard. I'm pretty sure I have some it mixed in with my pitiful grass now but we shall see. I will say that the lady at the front desk was a bit standoffish. The gentleman that was there when we were buying our plants later on was much nicer as was the woman who was working outside with the plants. My only gripe is that for what it is, it's a little pricey at $10 to get in. read more

wow, i was starting to think the olive garden was my only bet for a cheap date in framingham. garden in the woods is so gorgeous! lush and green with hundreds of different native plants (small plaques label different species throughout the trail- if that's your thing). a wonderful place to take a nice long romantic stroll, but just as rewarding on your own. bring a camera, maybe even a book (although this is more of a trail than a place to sit and read- i did see a couple benches) and enjoy nature at its best. we went right before closing (early evening) and the sun was low and peeping through the trees- it was almost ethereal- like i wouldn't have been surprised if a wood nymph ran by. i can't wait to go back and see how it changes with the seasons. as an added bonus we got free admission by reserving tickets at the natick morse library. read more

Garden In the Woods - big bugs exhibit - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Framingham, Massachusetts

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I have lived in Framingham for nearly three years now and it wasn't until last summer that I finally made my way to the Garden in the Woods and I was immediately disappointed I had waited so long to visit. My primary interest in Garden in the Woods was for photography. As an avid photographer there were many interesting plants, bugs, and more to take photos of. In fact, two of my favorite photos of all time came from my visit last summer. If I had visited without my camera I probably would have enjoyed it a bit less (I am a guy after all and walking around looking at flowers for a few hours can get tiresome). However, if you're looking for a different experience you won't be disappointed. You can easily spend a few hours here or just an hour and see the whole place. Definitely a unique place to visit and find in the middle of the suburbs and I can't think of any other places like it anywhere nearby. I'm not sure how exciting of a repeat visit it is, instead you may want to try visiting different times of the year (FYI - it's closed in the winter) to see different plants as they go in and out of bloom. read more

I had my wedding there! It's a wooded location with local foliage. We had our ceremony near a small pond with a gravel path around it. There is also a store and a function hall where we had our reception. Nothing fancy but simple suited us. They have other events there (sculptures and local plant sales) as well as education events for kids (they were featured on an episode of Curious George and showed kids identifying animal tracks). My hubby and I also have volunteered there to do "yardwork" (raking) in the autumn. It's nothing fancy but makes for a nice location to walk around and learn about the native plants. read more

This is a gem, and we are lucky to have it in our community. The student membership is a steal; $38 for the year and that includes a $25 gift card to the White Flower Farm online catalog to use to buy plants. The whole place, including the side trails, takes me about an hour if I am walking for exercise or 1.5 hours if I am stopping to smell the (native) roses. read more

Garden in the Woods is truly a hidden jewel - I hate that saying but it really is! The garden is tucked away into a neighborhood - once you hit the trails you certainly forget that you are in Framingham. Kids will have a lot of fun on the trails doing a scavenger hunt or searching for butterflies, turtles and frogs in the pond. There are also programs for children throughout the year including one called animal ambassadors. Make sure to check the website to see what's in bloom before you go - some weeks are better than others although anytime is nice. I partially like visiting when the rhododendrons are in bloom and also in August when the wildflowers are blooming. Food is not allowed on the trails but there are some tables at the entrance to have lunch. Bring bug spray! read more

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A lovely little paradise of green! I visited last spring and fell in love with the long paths surrounded by themed gardens. I even saw a frog! Now that's exciting! Plus, you get a great understanding of native plants and wildflowers, labeled as you go so you can learn their names. This is a great place to take your sweetie for a long, rambling date on a Spring Day. Drawback is it's only accessible by car. read more

I went to Garden in the Woods on the Saturday before Mother's Day. We arrived at 9:45 and were the 5th car lined up at the closed gate. At 10am sharp the gates opened and we parked and waited for my in-laws to arrive. They got a little lost because the garden sits in the middle of residential neighborhoods. After we purchased tickets at the gift shop from a friendly, helpful and informative front desk person, we began our stroll through a real life "fairy garden" full of blossoming tress and shrubs and many exquisite spring blooms under the canopy of Oaks and beech trees. I cannot day enough about this once in a lifetime garden stroll. May 11th had many wonderful blooms ready for our enjoyment! read more

I loved my hike here. It's gorgeous, there's a touch of interactive art. Plenty of informative signs, lots of land and plants to explore. The goal of a diverse display of Massachusetts fauna is achieved. I recommend it. It feels natural but exciting. Heads up, I'd say it's not exactly handicap friendly, as it requires you to hike a bit. read more

We used our local library pass for this garden and it is amazing. It is located right in the suburbs so it might be hard to find. You couldn't have guessed there was such a huge and nice garden just driving here. We spent half a day here and got a tour as well. If you are member of the horticulture society, then your membership pass may be good here as well. Definitely worth checking out if you live on the outskirts of Boston. read more

I just started doing volunteer work for this nonprofit. After my work, I took a brief stroll in the woods. It's definitely very relaxing in there. Lots of greens and flowers to see. I also bumped into a frog at the pond they have. One drawback is that there are tons of mosquitoes so I got bitten all over. I'd be smarter next time with some bug spray! They have many trails that you can trek. I proclaim this my summer spot for practicing photography! read more

Great place for a one day summer vacation trip!! This place is beautiful!! Great place for Weddings or professional pictures!! We went as kids during the summer with out gram and we had so much fun!! Lanscapes and views are devine! I love flowers and they had really beautiful ones!! Very dense and gorgeous! Great place to bring your girlfriend/fiance for a nice date that is inexpensive!! It's worth it!! read more

Wow, waste of $12 per person for a quick walk in the woods on 06/24/17 to not see anything unusual. We go for free walks in the woods in other forests and see the same plants and trees. We didnt see plants that were on their board as being out there. read more

Garden in the Woods is BEAUTIFUL! The gardens are stunning. You must go at least once if you're in the Framingham area. The kids will like it, too. Bring bug spray because it can be a bit buggy. read more

No flowers were in bloom and the walk was nowhere near 1 mile (maybe 0.5). The plants are overgrown. Unfortunately just not much to see here. read more

A beautiful spot. Wonderful trails. Late summer flowers. Very peaceful. Friendly staff. Well marked and informed. Overall a great experience. read more

I would like to update my previous review about my unfortunate experience with Garden in the Woods. I had intended to visit the gardens with my family who were in the area visiting from Minnesota, and I had purchased a Groupon to use. However, I was told they changed the expiration date of the Groupon and was turned away. That being said, the communications director just contacted me, as he saw my yelp review, and kindly explained that the employee had not been trained in Groupons and was unfamiliar with the process. Therefore, he offered me 10 complimentary passes to enjoy the Woods. I have yet to receive them and check out the Woods, but when I do I hope to come back and update my review for five stars. Though my first impression was not strong, it is clear that customer satisfaction is important to the company, that much I know. I hate to be the one negative review, but I had an awful experience with this place. I ordered a Groupon good for five admissions, which was to expire on October 31 2011. I arrived at the gardens with my family, (who had flown out from the Midwest to visit), on October 7, and I was turned away. They informed me that they decided to change the expiration date (which you cannot do...) and that my voucher was no longer valid. They were completely inflexible and also quite rude. That said, I guess I cannot comment on the quality of the gardens or the trails as I was not allowed to view them. I will certainly not return. read more

A great way to spend an hour or two in Framingham. This garden has walking tours (10am weekdays and 2pm weekends) and hiking trails for you to enjoy. There's plenty of places to walk around and things to see. This is like a small combination of a botanical garden and conservation area put together. The paths are very well marked and the trails are small so don't expect a true hiking trail. The staff can drive visitors around in a powered vehicle so many areas are handicapped accessible. I used a museum pass for admittance but entry is apparently $8. read more

Finally became a member, yay! I've been coming here since the ice age, and they've done wonderful things with the property. You'll definitely think you're lost getting here, because it's wedged incongruously into a suburban neighborhood, but it's a good-sized chunk of land. They sell native plants and are very friendly and knowledgeable. They have an annual plant sale that is delightful mayhem as people rush for transplantable lady's slippers and rare trillium. I wish they'd add a full cafe! read more