You don’t have to be a botanist—or even own a garden—to fall head over heels for these destinations. From bloom-covered hillsides to hidden herb havens, there’s something magical about visiting places where plants take center stage. And yes, they’re just as relaxing, inspiring, and photo-worthy as they sound.
Whether you’re looking to walk through lavender fields that stretch for miles, sip tea under a century-old fig tree, or explore a tropical greenhouse that feels like another planet, these spots are worth building your summer plans around. Think of it as plant therapy, but with better views and no watering schedule.
So grab your sunhat and sandals—these 15 places prove that the best summer escapes are rooted in nature. Some are world-famous, others are quiet gems you’ve never heard of. But all of them have one thing in common: they’ll leave you a little more grounded, and a lot more inspired.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, nestled in the heart of New York City, offers an urban oasis of tranquility and beauty. Springtime transforms this garden into a pink paradise as cherry blossoms take center stage. Visitors delight in the fragrance of the rose garden and the meditative Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. With its diverse plant collections, Brooklyn Botanic Garden is not just a visual treat but a sanctuary for city dwellers. This garden draws in botanists and casual visitors alike, each finding a moment of peace amidst the hustle of the city.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Home to one of the largest and most diverse botanical collections, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is a world-class destination for plant lovers. The iconic Palm House is a Victorian masterpiece housing tropical wonders. Kew’s rich history is woven into its every corner, offering educational insights alongside stunning visuals. Whether wandering through the treetop walkway or exploring the vibrant color of the Great Broad Walk, Kew provides endless fascination. This garden is an invaluable resource for research and a delightful escape for anyone seeking natural beauty.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Singapore Botanic Gardens, the only tropical garden recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to the island’s commitment to biodiversity. The National Orchid Garden dazzles with over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, offering a feast for the eyes. Visitors revel in the garden’s lush landscapes and innovative design. This urban refuge harmoniously blends nature with culture, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Singapore. It’s a place where botanical treasures meet historical significance.
Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens in British Columbia is a floral fantasyland that enchants visitors with its meticulous landscapes and vibrant blooms. Nestled in a former quarry, the Sunken Garden is a masterpiece of transformation, showcasing nature’s resilience and beauty. Throughout the year, Butchart Gardens offers a changing tapestry of colors and scents. Visitors wander through themed gardens, each telling a unique story through its design and plant selection. This Canadian gem inspires awe and admiration from all who visit.
Montréal Botanical Garden
Montréal Botanical Garden is renowned for its thematic gardens and exceptional greenhouse collection. During the Gardens of Light festival, the garden becomes a magical wonderland with glowing lanterns and artistic displays. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, from arid deserts to tropical rainforests, all within the garden’s expanse. The Japanese Garden offers a serene retreat with its elegant design and koi-filled ponds. As a hub of horticultural excellence, Montréal Botanical Garden captivates with its blend of artistry and nature.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Kirstenbosch, set against the backdrop of Cape Town’s Table Mountain, is a botanical paradise showcasing South Africa’s unique flora. The garden is a celebration of indigenous plants, featuring proteas, cycads, and fynbos. Visitors meander along pathways that seamlessly integrate with the natural landscape. Kirstenbosch’s Tree Canopy Walkway offers breathtaking views over the garden and beyond. This garden is not only a conservation success but also a place of inspiration for botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Desert Botanical Garden
Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, this garden is a tribute to the beauty and resilience of desert flora. The Desert Botanical Garden showcases an impressive collection of cacti and succulents, thriving in their arid environment. Visitors experience the stark beauty of the desert, with its unique plant life and striking landscapes. Educational programs and art exhibitions enhance the garden’s appeal, offering insights into the desert’s ecological importance. This oasis of desert flora is a testament to nature’s adaptability and allure.
Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech is a masterpiece of color and design, created by French painter Jacques Majorelle. The garden’s bold blue buildings and diverse plant collection create a striking visual impact. Visitors wander through pathways lined with exotic plants, discovering hidden nooks and tranquil water features. The garden is also home to the Berber Museum, offering cultural insights alongside botanical beauty. As a source of artistic inspiration, Jardin Majorelle is a harmonious blend of nature and human creativity.
Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania is an epitome of horticultural excellence, offering a spectacular array of gardens and fountains. The grand conservatory houses a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Seasonal displays transform the garden into a living artwork, enchanting visitors with each visit. Longwood’s fountain shows are a visual delight, combining water, light, and music in perfect harmony. This garden is a masterful blend of innovation and tradition, captivating all who explore its vast grounds.
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden in Thailand is a captivating blend of garden artistry and cultural heritage. The garden’s design reflects traditional Thai aesthetics, with elaborate topiary sculptures and themed sections. Visitors are treated to cultural performances and demonstrations of traditional Thai crafts. The garden’s vast collection of tropical plants and palms showcases the region’s botanical diversity. Nong Nooch is a destination where horticulture meets culture, offering an immersive experience for all who visit.
Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington in California is a cultural and botanical treasure, home to expansive gardens, a renowned library, and an art museum. The garden’s diverse collection ranges from desert landscapes to formal rose gardens. Visitors can explore the Japanese and Chinese gardens, each offering a unique cultural perspective. The Huntington seamlessly integrates art, history, and horticulture, providing a rich experience for all. With its beautiful landscapes and cultural offerings, it’s a place of discovery and reflection.
Claude Monet’s Garden
Claude Monet’s Garden in Giverny, France, is a living canvas that inspired many of Monet’s masterpieces. The garden’s design reflects the artist’s love for color and light, with vibrant flowerbeds and tranquil water gardens. Visitors cross the iconic Japanese bridge, captured in Monet’s paintings, to view the famous water lilies. Giverny is not just a garden; it’s an experience that immerses visitors in the world of Impressionism. This garden is a testament to the harmony between art and nature.
Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens is a horticultural haven offering diverse plant collections and innovative landscapes. The garden’s design highlights sustainable practices and showcases native Colorado flora alongside exotic species. Visitors can explore themed gardens, such as the Japanese Garden and the Dryland Mesa. The Science Pyramid offers interactive exhibits and insights into plant science. Denver Botanic Gardens is a place of learning and inspiration, where nature’s beauty is celebrated in every season.
Lotusland
Lotusland in Santa Barbara is a hidden gem where horticulture and art converge. The garden’s creator, Madame Ganna Walska, infused her eclectic style into every corner. Visitors wander through unique themed gardens, each reflecting her creativity and passion for plants. Lotusland’s exotic collections include cacti, cycads, and of course, lotuses. This whimsical garden offers an enchanting escape, inviting guests to explore its imaginative landscapes. It’s a testament to personal vision and botanical artistry.
Adelaide Botanic Garden
Adelaide Botanic Garden, located in the heart of South Australia, is a delightful mix of historical charm and contemporary design. Visitors are drawn to its Palm House, a Victorian glasshouse with exotic plant species. The garden’s Mediterranean garden showcases plants adapted to a dry climate, reflecting the region’s ecology. Educational programs and guided tours enrich the visitor experience, offering insights into plant conservation. Adelaide Botanic Garden is a vibrant space where nature and history unite.
Hakone Gardens
Hakone Gardens in Saratoga, California, is a serene retreat that captures the essence of traditional Japanese garden design. Visitors are greeted by koi ponds, tea houses, and meticulously manicured landscapes. The garden embodies Zen principles, offering a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle. Seasonal changes bring new beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and vivid fall colors. Hakone Gardens is a place of reflection and tranquility, inviting guests to pause and appreciate the harmony of nature.
Missouri Botanical Garden
Founded in 1859, Missouri Botanical Garden is a historic gem offering a wealth of plant diversity and educational opportunities. The iconic Climatron, a geodesic dome conservatory, houses a tropical rainforest where visitors can explore exotic flora. The garden’s design emphasizes sustainability and conservation, with themed gardens showcasing plants from around the world. Seasonal events and festivals enhance the visitor experience, making the Missouri Botanical Garden a dynamic and engaging destination.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Florida is a living museum dedicated to the study and conservation of tropical plants. Visitors explore a lush landscape filled with palms, orchids, and exotic blooms. The garden’s butterfly conservatory offers an up-close encounter with these delicate creatures. Educational programs and art installations enrich the experience, highlighting the importance of tropical ecosystems. Fairchild is a vibrant celebration of tropical biodiversity, attracting botanists and nature enthusiasts from around the world.