Gardens around Maine provide some fantastic opportunities to enjoy nature, relax, and learn about an incredible diversity of life. From arboretums to nature centers, Maine has lots of options for everyone. Here are five of the best gardens in the state.
Asticou Azalea Garden, Northeast Harbor
Mount Desert Island might be best known for Acadia National Park, but one of its best (and littler-known) destinations sits just a few miles away. Nestled around a pond, the Asticou Azalea Garden brings a little Japanese flavor to the coast of Maine. Enjoy a peaceful walk when you need to escape the bustle of Bar Harbor. Stop by during the day from May through October and enjoy.
Don’t miss the nearby Thuya Garden as well, a tranquil piece of the island a stone’s throw from Asticou!
For more information about Asticou, Thuya, and nearby trails, visit the Land & Garden Preserve site.
Admission: $5 suggested donation
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay
Open from mid-April through October, Boothbay’s Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are well-known for their expansive displays of a variety of flowers and plants as well as some lovely connected trails. From a meditation garden to a native butterfly house, you’ll always be able to discover something new. The gardens are also home to New England’s biggest lights display during the holiday season.
Learn more on the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens site.
Admission: $22 for adults with discounts for seniors and children; children under 3 free; family rate available
Ecotat Gardens and Arboretum, Hermon
With over 1,500 varieties of perennials and 280 varieties of trees, Ecotat is a must-see for anyone visiting the Bangor area. This year-round attraction is open every day for free, and they offer a variety of educational programs during the summer season.
Learn more at ecotat.org.
Admission: Free (donations welcome)
Merryspring Nature Center, Camden / Rockport
Venture a couple of miles away from the village and harbor in Camden to a 66-acre park with walking trails, educational programs, and a fantastic variety of plant life. Admission to Merryspring is free, and the property is open during daylight hours year-round.
Read more about Merryspring on merryspring.org.
Admission: Free (donations welcome)
Littlefield Ornamentals Trial Garden, Orono
Tucked away in the Hilltop area of the University of Maine campus in Orono, the Littlefield Ornamentals Trial Garden is a favorite for students looking for a change of scenery for studying and for area residents who want a bounty for the senses. Enjoy a large variety of flowering plants, trees, and more, and take a few minutes to sit and relax by the pond near the back of the garden.
Learn more on the University of Maine‘s site.
Admission: Free
