About
When creating a sightseeing itinerary for Midcoast South, be sure to include Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Conveniently located near other landmarks like Pemaquid Beach Park and the lighthouse, it makes planning a day of outdoor adventure easy.
What started as a friendly conversation in 1991 blossomed into one of the country's beloved garden destinations. A small group of Midcoast Maine residents dreamed of building a world-class public garden that would help the local economy and the region's spirit.
After 16 years of planning, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens opened in the summer of 2007. The team called it a "People's Garden," and the 325-acre green space welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities to wander, learn, and connect with nature at their own pace.
As the largest botanical garden in New England, it showcases 17 acres dedicated to gardens with native Maine plants and other northern coastal species. The remaining acreage stretches into woods, wetlands, and shorelines. The gardens and surrounding landscape change with the seasons, offering unique perspectives anytime you visit.
The botanical gardens connect visitors with nature and supports plant conservation through horticulture, education, and plant science. That sense of purpose is evident in the guided tours and the expertly tended beds.
When you visit, you'll be joining the more than 300,000 guests who visit worldwide every year.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens offers an immersive nature study on your getaway with its stunning blooms, tours, and seasonal events.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Aside from the stunning gardens, the facility's setting is equally awe-inspiring. Here, the mile of tidal saltwater frontage connects you to the salt air and ocean views on your stroll. Add the 17 acres of cultivated gardens weaving through this coastal shoreline, and you've got a property that is a fusion of wildness and well-manicured spaces.
One of the most appealing amenities is the Native Butterfly House, a 2,160 square-foot, Gothic-style hoop house. Here, shade screening and a planting scheme supports the entire life cycle of moths and butterflies native to the area. Imagine standing amidst fluttering wings of monarchs, mourning cloaks, American ladies, painted ladies, red admirals, and black swallowtails. It's a magical, memory-making experience!
The Bibby and Harold Alfond Children's Garden is two acres of theme gardens inspired by well-known children's books by Maine authors. Children can experience a learning garden, greenhouse, chicken coop, story barn, play cottage, small pond, treehouse, and maze lawn inspired by an English design.
The bee exhibit features 16 working apiaries (bee hives) and interactive displays offering a safe way to learn about bees. The surrounding fence ensures that bees fly above visitors' heads, protecting both bees and guests from interaction.
Then there are the giant, friendly-looking trolls crafted by artist Thomas Dambo. Known as the Guardians of the Seeds, these towering wooden sculptures hide throughout the wooded areas. The challenge is to find the trolls and uncover their teachings. Once you find them all, you combine the clues to learn the secret of the Guardians of the Seeds. This quest has become one of the most talked-about family-friendly reasons to visit.
Another appealing aspect is its accessibility. A shuttle runs periodically to carry guests around the property, while ADA-approved paths allow more people to enjoy the gardens. The 90-minute Accessible Cart Tour (ACT) carries up to 5 passengers in its electric cart. Reservations are required for the docent-led tour that costs $18 per person.
Lastly, space doesn't allow us to discuss the ponds, trails, lawns, tours, and special events at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Combine all of these, and it's easy to understand why it's one of America's popular destinations!
Local Tips
- Wheelchairs and scooters are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Wear comfortable shoes since the campus covers many acres.
- Pack sunscreen and bug spray during spring and summer visits.
- The ACT tour is free on Wednesdays!
