About Dow gardens
Dow Gardens: A Botanical Haven in Midland, Michigan
Nestled in the heart of Midland, Michigan lies a botanical haven that has been enchanting visitors for over 120 years. Dow Gardens is a sprawling 110-acre garden that boasts an impressive collection of plants and flowers from all over the world. With its winding trails, serene ponds, and vibrant flower beds, Dow Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike.
History
The story of Dow Gardens began in 1899 when Herbert H. Dow purchased the land as a personal retreat for his family. Over time, he transformed the property into a beautiful garden with exotic plants and trees from around the world. After his death in 1930, his son Alden B. Dow continued to expand and develop the gardens until they were opened to the public in 1963.
Today, Dow Gardens is owned by The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation and managed by an experienced team of horticulturists who work tirelessly to maintain its beauty year-round.
Attractions
Dow Gardens offers visitors an array of attractions that cater to all ages and interests:
1) The Main Garden - This is where you'll find most of the gardens' iconic features such as The Pineside Trail (a winding path through towering pine trees), The Rose Garden (a fragrant oasis filled with hundreds of roses), The Herb Garden (a sensory delight filled with herbs from around the world), among others.
2) Whiting Forest - This recently opened addition to Dow Gardens features over 50 acres of forested land with miles of walking trails suspended high above ground level on canopy walkways.
3) Children's Garden - Designed specifically for children aged two through twelve years old this interactive garden provides hands-on learning experiences about nature while having fun at play areas like "The Treehouse" or "The Maze."
4) Butterfly House - Open during summer months only; this exhibit showcases hundreds of butterflies fluttering about inside an enclosed space designed specifically for them!
5) Art Exhibits – Throughout each season there are various art exhibits displayed throughout different parts within both Whiting Forest & Main Garden areas showcasing local artists’ works inspired by nature.
Events
Throughout each season there are various events held at both Whiting Forest & Main Garden areas including concerts featuring local musicians or national acts performing under starry skies; educational workshops on topics ranging from gardening techniques to bird watching; seasonal festivals celebrating everything from spring blooms to fall foliage displays; holiday-themed events like Halloween trick-or-treating or Christmas light displays throughout both gardens!
Facilities
Dow Gardens offers several facilities designed to make your visit comfortable:
1) Visitor Center – Located near main entrance it houses restrooms along with gift shop selling souvenirs related items such as books on gardening techniques or locally made crafts inspired by nature;
2) Café – Located near visitor center it serves up delicious sandwiches salads soups baked goods coffee tea etc;
3) Picnic Areas – There are several picnic tables scattered throughout both gardens perfect spot enjoy lunch while taking break admiring natural beauty surrounding you;
4) Restrooms – There are multiple restrooms located throughout both gardens making it easy access no matter where you happen be exploring!
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're looking for a peaceful escape into nature then look no further than Dow Gardens! With its stunning collection of plants & flowers from around globe combined with numerous attractions facilities available onsite there's something here everyone enjoy regardless age interest level! So come explore what makes this place so special today!