Most People Have No Idea There's A Fairy Garden Hiding In Pittsburgh And It's Magical
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on March 20, 2024(Originally published April 04, 2019)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Pittsburgh’s bursting with so many hidden gems that when we discover a new one it’s kind of like Christmas morning. Give yourself an unforgettable gift with a visit to one of the best botanical gardens in Pittsburgh. However, that’s just the beginning of the magical moments that await at the sprawling, secluded botanical garden that will make you feel as though you’ve stepped straight into a fairy tale.
Start your magical adventure among nature at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden at the Visitor Center. There, you'll pay your admission fee and receive a map of the 452-acre botanical garden.
If you're like me and like to just go where the path takes you, you can do that, too. While I took a map during my visit to Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, my kiddo and I just kind of meandered along one path, veered off of it if we saw something that interested us, and explored that way.
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Stroll along the shaded paths that will take you to Bookworm Glen, a magical fairy garden that will delight adults and kids of all ages.
If you've been searching Google for "botanical gardens near me," you've found a bucket list-worthy one.
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But, first, take a moment to visit the life-sized bird's nest. If you've ever wondered what it feels like to be a bird, have a seat on one of the eggs before taking photos.
The bird's nest is the perfect opportunity to snap photos and selfies. It really is as big as the photo shows, too.
After that, hike up a small hill that will take you to Bookworm Glen, a series of adorable fairy houses, all under the shade of the towering trees around it.
You probably don't want to attempt to go in the cabin if you're claustrophobic. It really is made for the littles.
One of the best gardens in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden exudes fairy-tale vibes, right down to the footbridge that looks as though it's leaped from the pages of an old-fashioned storybook.
The footbridge crosses over the lotus pond. You can walk over the pond on the footbridge, or have a little fun by hopping from stepping stone to stepping stone, where you'll likely see at least a few dragonflies flittering about. We chose the stepping stones.
Ready for a breather? Sit down on one of the numerous benches strategically placed throughout the garden before continuing your exploration.
Have you been to Pittsburgh Botanic Garden? Do you agree it’s one of the best botanical gardens in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! After a day of exploring, you’ll probably be pretty hungry. Head over to Ritter’s Diner, an old-school diner in Pittsburgh, for a scrumptious meal. If you want to experience more of the natural beauty of Western Pennsylvania, follow one of the best hiking trails in Pittsburgh.
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More to Explore
Best Hikes In Pittsburgh
Beth Price-Williams|March 20, 2024
What are some of the best hikes in Pittsburgh?
After you’ve explored Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, one of the best botanical gardens in Pittsburgh, get out and see more of the city. Here are some of the best urban hikes in Pittsburgh:
The more than 10-mile North Shore Riverfront Trail will take you along part of the longer Three Rivers Heritage Trail. You’ll pass such iconic landmarks as Mister Rogers' statue, Heinz Field, and PNC Park.
Be prepared for a mighty workout along the 3.8-mile South Side Steps and Hills Walk that features, well, a lot of steps and hills.
The 3.6-mile Eliza Furnace Trail will lead you past Schenley Park and the Allegheny County Jail. Don’t expect too much quiet on this trail that features significant noise from the parkway.
At nearly two miles, Panther Hollow Trail travels through Schenley Park in Oakland and to Panther Hollow Lake.
