Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden | Greensboro

The Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden is a meticulously landscaped 7.5-acre botanical and cultural space located in Greensboro, North Carolina. It was originally established in 1976 as part of the national celebration of the U.S. Bicentennial and was later renamed in honor of Stanley and Doris Tanger, who provided substantial support to enhance and preserve the garden. It is both a community gathering place and a peaceful retreat, blending art, nature, history, and horticulture.

Historical Background

Establishment: Created in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence.

Renaming: In 2006, the garden was named after the Tanger family, who played a significant philanthropic role in beautifying Greensboro.

Management: Managed jointly by the City of Greensboro and Greensboro Beautiful, a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to environmental and aesthetic projects across the city.

Key Attractions & Features

1. Chandler Wedding Gazebo

A prominent and elegant white gazebo often used for weddings, celebrations, and photography.

Seats up to 100 people.

Located in a central position, surrounded by blooming flowers and manicured lawns.

Equipped with electricity and close to restrooms and ADA-compliant paths.

2. Sensory Garden

A specialized area designed to engage all five senses.

Features plants with varying textures, fragrances, colors, and sounds (like rustling leaves and flowing water).

Ideal for visitors of all ages and particularly welcoming to those with sensory sensitivities.

3. Woodland Stream

A re-circulating stream winds through the garden, adding the relaxing sound of flowing water.

The stream area is shaded by mature trees and includes footbridges and seating.

4. The Old Mill

A 2017 addition designed to evoke the colonial-era mill operated by Reverend David Caldwell.

Includes a functioning wooden waterwheel and rustic stonework.

Serves as both a historical homage and a scenic spot for reflection or photos.

5. Camberly’s Garden

A memorial garden dedicated to children who have passed away, particularly inspired by Camberly Holliday.

Contains personalized elements like commemorative bricks and soft landscaping for reflection and remembrance.

6. Alexander Mangum Memorial Garden

Opened in 2020 as a meditative space with wind chimes, stone paths, and seating.

Serves as a quiet area for contemplation amidst nature.

7. Rain Garden

An eco-conscious design using native plants to capture and filter stormwater runoff.

Demonstrates sustainable landscaping practices while supporting local biodiversity.

8. Sculptures and Artworks

Several artistic installations, most notably:

“The Student” by Janos Farkas: a bronze statue symbolizing the educational legacy of the adjacent David Caldwell Historic Park.

Art pieces are interspersed throughout the garden and integrated into the natural landscape.

Operating Hours

January – February: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

March – April: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

May – August: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

September – October: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

November – December: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Closed on: Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

Event Spaces & Rentals

Multiple venues within the garden are available for rent, each with different capacities and settings:

Adelman Lawn: Accommodates up to 150 guests; open green space suitable for large events.

Camberly’s Garden: An intimate location for small gatherings or memorials (up to 25 people).

David Caldwell Lawn: Largest rental area with space for 200 attendees, nestled in a wooded section of the park.

Old Mill: Unique historic setting for medium-sized groups (up to 50 people).

Sensory Garden: Available for up to 125 guests, especially suited for receptions or nature-themed events.

Wooded Picnic Area: Accommodates up to 50, ideal for casual gatherings under native trees.

Rental Costs:

Hourly rates:

Guilford County residents: starting at $125/hour

Non-residents: starting at $150/hour

Full-day rental: $2,000

Reservations include photography permits but do not grant exclusive access to the entire garden.

Accessibility

Paved walking trails make navigation easy for wheelchairs and strollers.

ADA-compliant restrooms are available on-site.

Designated parking spaces for individuals with disabilities.

Rental facilities are accessible for all guests.

Contact & Location

Address: 1105 Hobbs Road, Greensboro, NC 27410

Garden Office Phone: (336) 373-4544

Event Reservations: (336) 373-5888

Summary

The Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden is a model of community engagement, environmental stewardship, and horticultural artistry. It provides a multifaceted experience—offering calm and scenic beauty, educational elements through historical interpretation, and practical spaces for community and private events. The integration of art, water, memorials, and sustainable design makes it a standout attraction in Greensboro.