Turkey
ParkOhio, US
Inniswood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve
Inniswood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve offers 123 acres of stunning botanical displays and natural beauty in Westerville, Ohio.
About
Inniswood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve offers 123 acres of stunning botanical displays and natural beauty in Westerville, Ohio. Part of the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system, this unique destination seamlessly blends meticulously cultivated gardens with expansive natural woodlands and tranquil streams, providing a serene escape for all.
Visitors can explore a diverse collection of over 2,000 plant species, spread across specialty collections and enchanting themed gardens. Highlights include the vibrant Rose Garden, boasting hundreds of hybrid tea, grandiflora, and floribunda roses, and the engaging Sisters' Garden, a 2.8-acre children's haven featuring interactive elements like a whimsical tree house and a captivating water feature. Beyond the formal gardens, a network of trails, such as the accessible Brookwood Trail and the scenic Boardwalk Trail through a beech-maple forest, invites exploration of the preserve's varied ecosystems.
Inniswood is a year-round destination, offering free admission and a continuous source of inspiration for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike. Whether seeking a peaceful stroll, a family adventure in the Children's Garden, or an opportunity to immerse oneself in horticulture, its ever-changing beauty and educational opportunities make every visit memorable and inspiring. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.
Inniswood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve originated from the vision and generosity of sisters Grace and Mary Innis. In 1960, they acquired a 38-acre estate, cultivating extensive gardens while preserving the natural woodlands. Grace, a passionate horticulturist, particularly loved peonies, daylilies, iris, daffodils, and hostas, while Mary cherished the deep woods and its wildlife. Their desire to share their beloved property led them to donate the land to the Metro Parks system in 1972, with the park officially opening to the public in 1984 as the eighth Columbus and Franklin County Metro Park. Over the years, the preserve expanded to its current 123 acres in 2000, continuing the sisters' legacy of connecting people with the plant world. Their former residence, the Innis House, now serves as an education center and horticultural library for visitors.
What to do here
Stroll through meticulously curated themed gardens, enjoy leisurely walks along natural trails like the Boardwalk Trail, observe local wildlife, and engage with educational programs. The Children's Garden offers interactive play and discovery for younger visitors.
Seasonal info
Spring: Wildflowers begin to emerge, and daffodil collections bloom.
Summer: Peak season for roses, daylilies, hostas, and most flowering plants. The Summer Concert Series might also take place.
Fall: Enjoy vibrant autumn foliage, colorful berries, and educational events like the Fall Harvest Festival.
Winter: A peaceful time for quiet walks, with some winter blooms like hellebores. Look for the Holiday Greenery Sale.
Accessibility
Many pathways within the gardens are paved, and several trails, including the Brookwood Trail, are ADA accessible, making much of the preserve enjoyable for visitors using wheelchairs or strollers. Public restrooms are conveniently located near the parking lot and the Sisters' Garden.
Don't miss
1
Don't miss the interactive Sisters' Garden, the fragrant Rose Garden, the diverse Conifer Garden, and the tranquil Woodland Rock Garden. The Memorial Garden, featuring the original Inniswood gate, also provides a historical touch.
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.
Loading map…
Good to know before you go
Wear comfortable footwear
** Many trails and garden paths are paved, but others may be natural surfaces, making comfortable shoes ideal for exploring the extensive grounds.
Check the seasonal bloom calendar
To catch specific plants or gardens at their peak, check the Inniswood website for what's currently in bloom.
Bring a camera
The diverse plant life and scenic landscapes offer numerous photographic opportunities throughout the year.
Utilize accessible paths
For visitors with strollers or wheelchairs, focus on the paved trails like the Brookwood Trail and the main garden pathways.
Pack water and observe etiquette
While picnicking is not allowed in formal garden areas, bringing water is advisable. Remember to stay on designated paths and do not pick flowers or collect seeds.
Visit the Innis House
Explore the historic home of the Innis sisters, which now functions as an education center and houses a horticultural library.
Frequently asked questions
- No, Inniswood Metro Gardens offers free admission, making it an accessible destination for everyone to enjoy its botanical beauty and natural settings.
- Pets are generally not permitted within the main garden areas to protect the plant collections and ensure visitor tranquility. However, leashed pets are welcome on the 0.6-mile paved Chipmunk Chatter Trail located on the exterior of the gardens.
- The Sisters' Garden is a beloved 2.8-acre children's garden dedicated to the founders, Grace and Mary Innis. It's designed to inspire curiosity about nature in children and features interactive elements such as a charming tree house, a digging pit, and engaging water features.
Recent snaps at this place
More park guides
View all ›.JPG)
Park30 sightings21 species
Massachusetts, US
Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens
You might spot Virginia Bluebells and Great Golden Digger Wasp.
View guide →
.jpg)
Park30 sightings20 species
Maryland, US
Herring Run Park
You might spot White-Tailed Deer and Japanese Knotweed.
View guide →
Park22 sightings20 species
Illinois, US
Sauganash Trail
You might spot White Mulberry, House Finch, and Scissor Grinder.
View guide →
Park166 sightings19 species
Maryland, US
Rock Creek Regional Park
You might spot Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, and White-Tailed Deer.
View guide →