Eastern Gray Squirrel
ParkGeorgia, US
Atlanta Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a vibrant 30-acre urban oasis in Midtown Atlanta.
About
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a vibrant 30-acre urban oasis in Midtown Atlanta.
This emerald jewel seamlessly blends stunning plant collections with captivating art and engaging educational experiences, inviting visitors into a world of natural beauty and horticultural wonder. From its towering conservatories housing exotic flora to its serene outdoor gardens, the Garden offers an immersive escape for all ages, emphasizing conservation, research, and enjoyment.
Explore iconic attractions like the Kendeda Canopy Walk, a 600-foot-long suspension bridge soaring 40 feet above Storza Woods, providing a unique bird's-eye view of one of Atlanta's last urban forests. Marvel at the vast and diverse orchid collection within the Fuqua Orchid Center, where tropical and desert plants thrive. Families will delight in the Lou Glenn Children's Garden, featuring an interactive splash pad, a treehouse complex, and fascinating carnivorous plants like Venus Fly Traps and Pitcher Plants.
Beyond its permanent collections, the Atlanta Botanical Garden continually evolves with seasonal exhibitions and events, making every visit a fresh and memorable experience. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll amidst blooming flowers, an educational adventure, or a magical holiday lights display, this garden offers a captivating blend of nature, art, and tranquility right in the heart of the city. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.
The Atlanta Botanical Garden's roots trace back to a petition by Atlanta citizens in 1973, leading to its incorporation as a non-profit organization in 1976. A significant turning point occurred in 1980 when a 50-year lease was negotiated with the city, securing the Garden's 30-acre site adjacent to Piedmont Park for future growth. Over the decades, the Garden has expanded significantly, adding key features that define it today. The Gardenhouse, its first permanent structure, was built in 1985, followed by the Fuqua Conservatory in 1989 and the Children's Garden in 1999. A major addition in 2002 was the Fuqua Orchid Center, housing one of the largest orchid collections in the U.S. The Garden further enhanced its unique offerings with the debut of the Kendeda Canopy Walk in 2010, linking the formal gardens with additional woodland areas.
What to do here
Stroll through themed gardens, explore conservatories, walk among the treetops, observe unique plant collections, and enjoy seasonal art installations. Engage in educational programs or attend one of the many special events like "Orchid Daze" in spring or "Garden Lights, Holiday Nights" in winter.
Seasonal info
Spring: Vibrant with blooming tulips, roses, and azaleas; "Orchid Daze" is in full swing.
Summer: Enjoy concerts in the Garden and temporary exhibitions. The splash pad in the Children's Garden is perfect for cooling off.
Fall: Experience stunning fall foliage and family-friendly events like "Scarecrows in the Garden."
Winter: Transformed into a magical wonderland for "Garden Lights, Holiday Nights," featuring millions of LED lights.
Accessibility
Nearly all areas are accessible for guests using wheelchairs and scooters, with mostly paved or firm pathways. The Kendeda Canopy Walk is elevator-accessible. Ramps and wide entrances are available in key buildings like the Fuqua Orchid Center. Accessible restrooms are located throughout the Garden. Wheelchair rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Some hilly areas exist, so consulting an accessibility map or staff for gentlest routes is recommended.
Don't miss
1
Kendeda Canopy Walk
A unique 600-foot-long skywalk offering unparalleled treetop views of Storza Woods.
2
Fuqua Orchid Center
Home to an extensive and renowned collection of orchids, as well as tropical and desert plants. Don't miss the amphibian displays.
3
Lou Glenn Children's Garden
Features a splash pad, treehouse, carnivorous plant bog with Venus Fly Traps and Pitcher Plants, and a bee house.
4
Edible Garden
Showcases edible and medicinal plants and hosts cooking demonstrations in its outdoor kitchen.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
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Good to know before you go
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 30 acres of diverse terrain, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Go cashless
The Garden is a cashless facility for admissions and purchases, including parking, so ensure you have a credit or debit card.
Check the event calendar
The Garden hosts numerous seasonal events, exhibitions, and educational programs; checking the schedule in advance can help you plan your visit around specific interests.
Arrive early
Especially on weekends or during popular events, arriving closer to opening time can help you avoid crowds and find better parking.
Stay hydrated and use sun protection
Much of the Garden is outdoors; bring water and wear sunscreen, especially during warmer months.
Utilize public transportation
The Garden is accessible via MARTA Bus #27, which stops directly at the main entrance on Piedmont Avenue, offering an alternative to driving and parking.
Frequently asked questions
- No, outside food or beverages are generally not permitted inside the Atlanta Botanical Garden, with the exception of water bottles that can be refilled at stations. The Garden offers on-site dining options, including the Longleaf restaurant and Quick Cafe.
- On-site parking is available at the SAGE Parking Facility, shared with Piedmont Park, located right next to the Garden's main entrance on Piedmont Avenue. Garden guests should park on Levels 4, 5, and 6. It is a cashless facility, so bring a credit or debit card. Event rates may apply during special events.
- The Kendeda Canopy Walk is a 600-foot-long, 40-foot-high suspension bridge that offers visitors a unique treetop perspective of Storza Woods, one of Atlanta's last remaining urban forests. It's a signature attraction, allowing for an immersive experience among oaks, hickories, and tulip poplars.
Recent snaps at this place
Jun 6, 2026
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Photo attribution
(c) Daniel Carr, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 7, 2026
Jun 7, 2026
Jun 7, 2026
Jun 7, 2026
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