As the sun comes out, people push indoor activities aside. But one of the best ways to escape the heat and take in the season is by visiting a botanical garden. During the summer, landscapes are at their most vibrant. Many flowers are in peak bloom; from vibrant roses to lush greenery, the Ohio Botanical Gardens create the best seasonal displays.
Many gardens also host special summer events. You’ll find evening hours, live music, food vendors, and botanical-inspired drinks. Indoor gardens are the perfect way to spend an evening out.
Or, take the whole family! Many gardens offer educational and interactive experiences. With the kiddos out of school, it’s a great way to keep their mind sharp and activate their senses.
Here is your guide to botanical gardens across Ohio offering extraordinary displays and a full calendar for the summer.
Holden Forests & Gardens in Cleveland, Ohio
Holden Forests & Gardens is the 12th-largest public garden, which encompasses the Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden.
A Few Activities to Look For:
- First Friday Garden Tours
- Shell-Abration: Tortoises Turn 50 through May
- A variety of guided hikes
- Apollo’s Fire Concert Series through June
Toledo Botanical Garden in Toledo, Ohio
The Toledo Botanical Garden encourages exploration of the 60 acres of display gardens. It also showcases art, being a neighbor to two Roledo public Schools. It is a great sensory experience, and a blend of nature and human art.
A Few Activities to Look For:
- Secret Forest, a multi-level children’s discovery area
- Guided Walks & Night Hikes
- Fallen Timbers: Celebrating 250 Years of American History
- Paint & Sip
Krohn Conservatory in Cincinnati, Ohio
The Krohn Conservatory, located in Eden Park, is nationally recognized and showcases more than 3,500 plant species from around the world. Visitors walk through the Fern House, Palm House, Desert House, Orchid Houses, and the John Carroll Bonsai Gallery.
A Few Activities to Look For:
- Destination Monarch, through early August
- Fairies in the Oyamel Forest
Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens in Columbus, Ohio
Dating back to 1895, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a premier public garden. Spanning 13 acres, it includes the Conservatory building, a children’s garden, and the Grand Mallway. You can also view glass artworks with admission.
A Few Activities to Look For:
- A variety of craft, art, and cooking classes
- Story time for children
- 2026 Cocktails at the Conservatory- From Vine to Vintage
Your Next Ohio Garden Adventure Awaits
No matter what part of the state you are in, Ohio has a beautiful display of botanical gardens and forests awaiting your exploration. For you, the family, or a special date night, there is an activity to fill your summer itinerary
But wait, there’s more! For all you garden lovers, here’s another perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon, A Beautiful Kingwood Gardens Spring Bloom Walk to Experience.
