Now that most schools are back in session, everyone is probably looking forward to a long Labor Day Weekend. Instead of braving the beaches and parks, where you’ll have to lug around a cooler for lunch and undoubtedly forget something, come connect with nature at the Garden. Our kiosk is stocked with outdoor essentials, Dottie’s has delicious options for lunch, and our 87 acres are open for you to explore. Below are 5 ways to spend Labor Day Weekend at the Garden. Mix and match them or do them all for a full day of fun.
1. Visit Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea: If you’ve been to the Garden recently, you’re sure to have noticed the 16 colorful sculptures scattered throughout the Garden that are made of ocean debris. While each sculpture is its own marvel to look at, the Washed Ashore team added another level of fun; each sculpture’s sign features its own ‘eye-spy’ game to get guests interacting with the sculptures. Other fun elements include a special boat for taking a picture with Great and the Great White Shark and a Hidden Mickey on Brody the Adélie Penguin. This exhibit is spread throughout the Garden, making it a great way to explore our 87 acres while also seeing the beautiful areas in-between.
2. Grab a bite to eat or drink at Dottie’s: If you’ve been to Sunset Series or visited the Garden during the weekend, you might have already had one of Dottie’s delicious creations. Serving meals like warm paninis, savory brat sausages, and fresh salads with chicken, Dottie’s is a delicious stop along your adventure in the Garden. Add an ice-cold lemonade, chilled soda, or our signature Butterfly Palmer to make your meal complete. Enjoy your meal within the beautiful space right in front of Dottie’s which includes a beautiful view of our Living Wall and the Dorothy and Allen Lay Staghorn Fern Collection. Dottie’s will be open 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, September 2 through Monday, September 4.
3. Take a Hike: Take a walk on the wild side and explore our more than 5-miles of hiking trails. Once you pass the first third of the Garden, you’ll begin to see some trails that break off from Tram Road. Parts of these trails are shaded with trees and surrounded by nature. If you listen closely you may even hear birds chirping or see one of our native butterflies.
4. Relax in a Meadow: Our meadows are large and open, offering plenty of space to set up a blanket and let your little ones play. Many of our meadows and lawns also feature artwork from our Hide and Seek or Washed Ashore exhibits to observe. Bring a book for a self-done story time in the Garden or play a game of tag to keep the fun going.
5. Shop the Kiosk: When people visit the Garden, they often forget one important item; sunscreen. Luckily, our kiosk is stocked with sunscreen, hats and cold water to help everyone stay safe and hydrated. In addition to the essentials, the kiosk also has other snacks, drinks, plants, seeds, stationery, T-shirts, reusable water bottles, and other merchandise.
Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature this Labor Day. Click here for tickets.
