The Atlanta Botanical Gardens are located in Midtown Atlanta adjacent to Piedmont Park. Visitors can enjoy weaving through the trails of seasonal flowers and blooming plants, taking educational courses and experiencing family friendly special events in this serene attraction.
Parking and public transportation at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Paid parking is available in the SAGE parking deck onsite and street parking can sometimes be found on nearby residential roads. MARTA Bus #27 drops off at the entrance and the red or gold line MARTA trains can be taken to the Midtown MARTA station which is a short roughly half mile walk to the park.
Best and worst time to go to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
The Gardens are stunning during November through early January when over 1 million lights are on display. The Gardens are open rain or shine and are predominantly outside, so dress accordingly and be aware that refunds for inclement weather are not available. Check the Gardens calendar for exhibits, displays, classes and other events throughout the year. The Gardens can be enjoyed year round when dressed appropriately and get very busy during holiday season.
Admission to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
During regular business hours when there isn't a special event, children under 3 are free along with Garden members, adult admission is $18.95 and children ages 3-12 are $12.95. The Gardens are closed Mondays with the exception of special events and are open 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Check the website for information on extended hours during events. Annual membership is also available.
Must see/do at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
For those visiting with small kids, the Children's Garden has a seasonal splash pad and many things to climb, touch and explore. Don't miss the Dale Chihuly's Parterre Fountain Installation, which is especially beautiful when lit up at night. The Lily Pond/reflecting pool is another beautiful sight to see.
Other places to visit near the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Piedmont Park is adjacent to the Gardens and offers miles of walking trails and the great restaurant for people watching and outdoor dining, Park Tavern. Midtown Atlanta has tons of restaurants and shopping as does nearby Virginia Highlands. Several museums are also located close by.
Insider tip for visitors to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
For those visiting the Garden Lights during the holidays, consider going Christmas Eve when lines are typically much shorter than other dates leading up to it.
Author's bio: Hastings Malone is an Atlanta, GA local who manages the Marketing, Events and Writing consulting business Southern Charm Communications. She is a freelance contributor to a variety of publications.