Within the vast biomes of the Cleveland Botanical Garden, you will find a remarkable diversity of plant life. The park’s 4 hectares (10 acres) of land holds 20 different gardens along with the vast 930-square metre (10,000-square foot) glass domes. Take boardwalk paths through a woodland garden, encounter flora from the desert and from the rainforest, and enjoy a tranquil moment in the traditional Japanese garden.
The Cleveland Botanical Garden was founded in 1930, and it moved to its current premises in 1966. These grounds were previously home to the Cleveland city zoo. As you walk along the Woodland Garden’s boardwalks, look out for the old bear pit, a relic from the area’s zoo days.
Start your visit in the Campsey-Stauffer Gateway Garden, which covers half a hectare (2 acres) with ornamental plants during the winter and bright blooms during the spring and summer months. Head on to the glasshouse and marvel at spiky flora from the Madagascan desert. A spectacular contrast is made by the Costa Rican rainforest plants, as well as the tropical butterflies – visit before noon to see these little wonders at their liveliest.
Stroll through the well-resourced Herb Garden, which displays more than 4,000 scented, culinary, and medicinal plants. Try to find the plants that smell like chocolate or popcorn. Take the kids to the Hershey Children’s Garden, home to such delightful interactive features as a treehouse, a cave, and a bog. Recharge with a cup of tea at the Garden Café before continuing on with your journey.
The Cleveland Botanical Garden is located next to Wade Oval in the University Circle district, and metered parking is available. Admission costs a fee. The garden is closed on Mondays as well as major U.S. public holidays. Check online for opening times and for a schedule of events. The garden hosts several festivals over the course of the year, including the Big Spring in April and the RIPE festival in September.
