Garvan Woodland Gardens | Hot Springs

Garvan Woodland Gardens, located just outside Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a breathtaking botanical garden that blends cultivated artistry with the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains. Spanning 210 acres along the shores of Lake Hamilton, the gardens are part of the University of Arkansas and were originally developed as a private retreat by Verna Cook Garvan, a local philanthropist and businesswoman who had a lifelong love of gardening. Today, it stands as one of the state’s premier attractions, celebrated for its landscapes, seasonal displays, and architectural highlights.

History and Origins

Verna Cook Garvan began developing the property in the mid-20th century, carefully curating its layout with winding paths, serene water features, and plant collections. Upon her passing in 1993, she donated the land to the University of Arkansas to preserve it as a public garden. Since then, it has grown into a showcase of horticulture and design, with new structures and exhibits added over time.

Highlights of the Gardens

Anthony Chapel: Perhaps the most iconic feature, this soaring glass and wood chapel seems to rise seamlessly from the forest. It hosts weddings, concerts, and quiet reflection, with sunlight streaming through its tall windows.

Japanese Garden of Pine Wind: A meditative space with koi ponds, bridges, stone lanterns, and carefully arranged plantings, offering a serene retreat reminiscent of traditional Japanese landscapes.

Seasonal Flower Displays:

Spring: Thousands of tulips, daffodils, and azaleas create a riot of color.

Summer: Roses, hydrangeas, and tropical plantings flourish.

Fall: Maples, oaks, and other hardwoods blaze with reds, oranges, and golds.

Winter: Holiday lights transform the garden into a glowing wonderland.

Treehouse and Children’s Garden: A whimsical space designed to engage children with nature, featuring interactive play areas and elevated walkways among the treetops.

Water Features: Cascading waterfalls, tranquil ponds, and lakeside views add soothing sound and movement to the landscape.

Visitor Experience

Walking through the gardens feels like a journey of discovery. Winding trails reveal quiet benches tucked into corners, sculptures hidden among the greenery, and sudden views of Lake Hamilton shimmering through the trees. Many visitors describe the experience as peaceful, almost spiritual, with moments of surprise-such as turning a corner to find an explosion of blooming tulips or stumbling upon the graceful Anthony Chapel.

The gardens host concerts, art installations, and seasonal events, with the holiday light festival being one of the most popular. In December, the grounds are illuminated with millions of lights, drawing families from across Arkansas and beyond.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere shifts with the seasons:

In spring, the air is scented with blossoms and buzzing with bees.

In summer, shaded trails and fountains provide cool relief.

In autumn, the crunch of fallen leaves accompanies every step.

In winter, twinkling lights and crisp air create a magical, almost storybook quality.

It is both contemplative and joyous, a place where visitors linger not just to look, but to breathe in the rhythm of the natural world.

Practical Information

Location: 550 Arkridge Road, Hot Springs, a short drive from downtown.

Hours: Open year-round, though hours shift with the seasons.

Admission: Paid entry; discounts for children, students, and members.

Accessibility: Paths are well maintained, with many accessible routes.

Best Time to Visit: Spring for peak blooms, or late fall for vibrant foliage. The Christmas light display is also a major seasonal highlight.

Garvan Woodland Gardens is more than a botanical showcase-it’s a carefully designed space that balances human creativity with the quiet power of the natural landscape. Whether admired for its architecture, its seasonal flowers, or simply as a peaceful escape, it leaves most visitors with the sense that they’ve wandered into a living work of art.