Discover 9 Secret (& Not-So-Secret) Gardens in Michigan

Michigan’s diverse landscapes offer more than just its Great Lakes shoreline; hidden within are serene gardens and parks, perfect for quiet reflection or a peaceful day out. These Michigan gardens provide a respite from the hustle and bustle, each with its unique charm.

Here are some of Michigan’s secret (and not-so-secret) gardens awaiting your discovery…

Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve | Niles

Nestled in the small town of Niles, Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve is a picturesque sanctuary that spans 105 acres. It offers visitors a blend of cultivated gardens and untouched natural landscapes, including prairies, forests, and riverfronts. The Japanese garden, complete with a traditional tea house, provides a peaceful setting for reflection, making Fernwood a hidden gem in southwestern Michigan.

Hidden Lake Gardens | Tipton

Owned and operated by Michigan State University, Hidden Lake Gardens is tucked away in the Irish Hills. This 755-acre botanical garden and arboretum is known for its serene beauty, featuring a conservatory with three distinct environments, a hosta hillside, and a bonsai collection. The winding drive offers stunning views of the hidden lake, surrounded by mature forests, making it a tranquil retreat for nature lovers.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum | Ann Arbor

While not entirely secret, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum in Ann Arbor offer secluded spots perfect for quiet contemplation. Spread across two locations, these University of Michigan gardens feature a variety of natural habitats, thematic gardens, and walking trails. The Gaffield Children’s Garden, in particular, is a hidden delight, offering a whimsical experience in a less frequented part of the gardens.

Dow Gardens | Midland

Dow Gardens, in the heart of Midland, is an extensive 110-acre botanical garden known for its stunning landscapes, floral displays, and innovative design. However, its lesser-known features, like the quiet trails through the Whiting Forest, offer peaceful solace away from the main pathways. The Canopy Walk, the longest in the nation, provides a unique perspective of the forest below, inviting quiet reflection amidst the treetops.

Secret Garden | Traverse City

A truly hidden gem, Secret Garden at Brys Estate is a private sanctuary open to the public from June to September. Located in Traverse City, this garden spans 12 acres, and is home to 6,000 lavender plants across 11 varieties, blossoming into a vivid purple spectacle from mid-June through July. Sections of the gardens are dedicated to U-pick experiences and picturesque photo ops.

Stone Cottage Gardens | Gladwin

Stone Cottage Gardens in Gladwin, Michigan, is run by David and Mary Moore, who have over 40 years of combined gardening experience. What began as a small plot of daylilies on their family farm has expanded into four acres of gardens and daylily fields over 20 years. The property features fourteen display gardens around an old stone cottage, showcasing hundreds of perennial plants in natural settings.

W.J. Beal Botanical Garden | East Lansing

Located on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing, the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden is a living museum dedicated to the study and appreciation of plants from around the world. Despite its educational mission, the garden offers a peaceful escape with its array of thematic collections, including a serene shade garden, a wetland garden, and historical plantings. It’s a place where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature amidst the bustling university campus.

Leila Arboretum | Battle Creek

Battle Creek’s Leila Arboretum is a 72-acre arboretum and garden that feels like a hidden world away from the city’s pace. Featuring a labyrinth, a peace garden, and over 2,500 labeled trees and plants, the arboretum offers numerous paths for quiet walks and reflection. The Fantasy Forest, with its intricately carved tree sculptures, adds a whimsical touch to the natural beauty of the space.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park | Grand Rapids

While Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids is more well-known, it encompasses many quiet corners and less frequented paths that provide a peaceful respite. The Japanese Garden, with its meticulously designed landscapes, water features, and Zen-style tranquility, offers a serene setting for contemplation. Visitors can also find solitude along the natural trails that meander through the wooded areas of the park.

Discover Michigan’s Secret Gardens

Michigan’s lesser-known gardens and parks are scattered across the state, each offering a unique escape into nature. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot for reflection or a peaceful day out, these hidden gems provide a serene backdrop away from the crowds.

This article was originally published by Awesome Mitten on June 4, 2024 and has been republished with permission.