Lily pads rest on the still surface of a pond, turtles soak in the sun, and flowers bloom in a riot of color all around. Although this scene might sound far removed from an urban environment, it doesn’t take long to arrive at this idyllic spot from Boston.
Garden in the Woods is located at 180 Hemenway Road in Framingham.
This pocket of natural beauty is cared for by the New England Wild Flower Society and, once you're here, you'll discover an abundance of native plants — both common and rare.
A visit to the 45-acre garden is a magical experience; you may even think you've climbed inside the pages of a fairytale!
Start by following the one-mile long Curtis Path, which lures you along a gentle route, through serene woodland. Stroll under a canopy of trees, while a brook trickles nearby.
At the pond, see if you can spy turtles…
…and perhaps frogs (princes not guaranteed).
In fact, you never know what wildlife you'll stumble upon in this enchanting garden.
There are surprises around every corner.
It's hard to believe that this land once belonged to a railroad company that used it as a source of gravel.
You can't help but be inspired by the Idea Garden, which includes a petite fruit orchard and this little building with a green roof. Doesn't this look like it should belong to a pixie?
There are so many fun and creative places to explore...
From a bog with native cranberries to a sandplain filled with coastal grasses.
A visit to Garden in the Woods is a soothing way to spend an afternoon. Just sit back and forget about your worries for a while…
As you’d expect, the setting shifts with the seasons and the prettiest time to visit is in spring, when you may be fortunate enough to spot a carpet of bluebells.
Garden in the Woods reopens for the season on April 15, 2018. Admission costs $12 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $6 for kids (kids under three and active service members plus their spouses can enter for free).
Have you visited this lovely garden yet? Let us know in the comments!
If you're looking to escape into nature, you may also enjoy a day trip to this stunning state park.
If you love the natural beauty found all across our stunning state, check out our Massachusetts Nature Lovers group on Facebook to see fantastic photos snapped by fellow Massachusettsans and share your own shots from your adventures!
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