Green Bay Botanical Garden | Green Bay

The Green Bay Botanical Garden is a sprawling 47-acre living museum located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, at 2600 Larsen Road. As a nonprofit, community-supported organization, it serves both as a vibrant public garden and an educational resource, attracting visitors year-round with its diverse plant collections, thoughtfully designed garden spaces, and engaging programs.

The garden is home to over 120,000 plants spread across 33 specialty gardens and natural areas, each carefully curated to showcase a range of horticultural styles, plant varieties, and ecological themes that thrive in Wisconsin’s climate. This diversity allows visitors to experience everything from formal garden designs to naturalistic landscapes.

One of the garden’s key highlights is the Bell Children’s Garden, an interactive 2.5-acre area designed specifically for children and families. It offers nature-based play features that inspire curiosity and learning about plants, wildlife, and the environment. The garden’s design encourages hands-on exploration, making it both educational and fun for younger visitors.

The Magnolia Grove is another standout feature, as it houses Wisconsin’s only nationally accredited collection of magnolias. This collection draws plant enthusiasts and horticulturists interested in seeing a variety of magnolia species thriving in this region. Adjacent to this, the Rose Garden bursts with color during the summer months, showcasing an impressive assortment of rose varieties that appeal to casual visitors and gardeners alike.

The English Cottage Garden offers a charming contrast with its colorful mix of perennials and annuals, arranged in a traditional cottage garden style, evoking a sense of nostalgic beauty. Meanwhile, the Fountain Garden captivates visitors with ornamental lilies and bold annuals framing elegant water features, creating a serene environment ideal for relaxation and reflection.

Throughout the year, the garden hosts numerous educational programs and workshops tailored for all ages and skill levels. These programs cover topics ranging from gardening techniques and sustainable practices to art in nature and environmental stewardship. The garden’s role as an educational institution is central to its mission, fostering greater appreciation and understanding of plant life and ecosystems.

Seasonal events bring additional vibrancy to the Green Bay Botanical Garden. During the winter months, the WPS Garden of Lights transforms the grounds into a dazzling holiday light display, enchanting visitors from late November through New Year’s Day. Summer evenings come alive with live music in the Grand Concert Series at the Billie Kress Amphitheater and the Sanimax Concert Series at the Schneider Family Grand Garden, combining natural beauty with cultural enrichment.

Accessibility is a priority at the garden. About 20 of the 47 acres feature paved walkways that accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. The garden also provides wheelchairs and motorized scooters free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis during the main visiting season (April 1 to November 1). Additionally, personal care attendants accompanying guests with disabilities are admitted free of charge, ensuring an inclusive experience.

Admission fees vary by age and membership status, with discounted rates for seniors, students, military personnel, and participants in the Museums for All program, which offers reduced pricing for families receiving food assistance benefits.

Overall, the Green Bay Botanical Garden is more than just a collection of plants; it is a dynamic cultural and educational hub that celebrates the beauty of the natural world while fostering community connection, environmental awareness, and lifelong learning. Its diverse gardens, seasonal programming, and commitment to accessibility make it a treasured destination for residents and visitors seeking inspiration, relaxation, and knowledge amid the lush landscapes of northeastern Wisconsin.