It took almost 60 years for the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to go from endowment to reality— but it was worth the wait.

An easy 50-minute drive down I95 from Fredericksburg, this botanical garden offers something for everyone — especially parents and children.

The children’s garden features common plants found in Virginia, food and herb plants, and a more-than-100-year-old Mulberry tree that provides both an abundance of shade and a cool spot to enjoy ice cream from the nearby concession center.

If the ice cream isn’t enough to cool you down, there’s a large water fountain area — so bring your bathing suits.

Once refreshed, there’s an elevated wooden ramp to explore. It’s a cross between a walking path that gives a pleasing aerial view of the gardens, and a tree house that the Swiss Family Robinson would admire. 

Other spots to spend time in are a Japanese Tea Garden, rose garden, and a range of hidden gems. 

Not so hidden, but beautiful, is the centerpiece garden with a giant turtle made of plants.

What You Need to Know

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden has an easy-to-navigate website that is designed to help you plan your visit.

REGULAR GARDEN ADMISSION
Adults: $20
Seniors (age 65+) or Military/First Responders:$15
Youth (age 4-12): $10
Children (age 3 and under): Free
Garden Members: Free

For families with SNAP, WIC EBT Card or the Fresh EBT app, admission is available for adults at just $1, and kids up to 6 are free. 

The membership option is attractive if you plan to attend multiple times throughout the year.

A family membership that grants admission throughout the year for two adults and six children is $150. Couples can join for $125; individuals for $95. Students can join for $25. Full-time teachers receive $20 off the cost of a membership.

In addition to admission, membership provides a range of additional benefits.

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