Throughout the year we look forward to days that bring sun and the ability to feel the breeze on our faces. That can happen any time of year here in New Hampshire, but we especially love when meandering around the garden can comfortably be a daily habit. And when we really want to up the peacefulness that the outdoors here provides, we head straight to this spot where butterflies are drawn to the carefully curated array of plants and flowers.

Kirkwood Gardens is part of Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness and it's one of the most peaceful spots to visit in the state.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
The gardens have been around since 1996 and were the dream of "Sunny" Grace Kirkwood, a member of the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center board.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
The mission of the science center is to allow people to get closer to nature. Kirkwood Gardens provides the perfect place for both children and adults to come experience the magic of butterflies and other living creatures who flock to the carefully curated array of plants and flowers.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
But it's truly the butterflies that we look forward to each spring.
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center / Facebook

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Each and every flower here has been selected to attract these beauties. And the one-acre layout provides plenty of room to explore.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
The garden sits on the grounds of the Holderness Inn and there are lots of places to take in different views. There are even some lovely shaded spots to rest.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
The upper garden is home to the plants that appreciate more shade, including things like ferns, azaleas and rhododendrons.
nhnature.org
The lower garden is filled with sun and is home to perennials, plants and shrubs that soak it up to thrive.
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center / Facebook
There's a handy map to help guide you through the garden, but there's a good chance you'll prefer to simply follow the paths and see what comes!
nhnature.org

Kirkwood Gardens is open to public year-round and has no admission fee. You can learn more about the gardens by checking out their website. You can learn more about Squam Lakes Natural Science Center by visiting their website or following them on Facebook. You can reach Kirkwood Gardens on 603-968-7194.

Looking forward to more quiet moments outside? Fuller Gardens in New Hampshire will completely transform when the flowers bloom this spring!

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Kirkwood Gardens, 900 US-3, Holderness, NH 03245, USA