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Smith-Gilbert Gardens

4.6

·481 reviews·Kennesaw, United States

A serene 17-acre botanical garden featuring thousands of plant species, contemporary sculptures, a historic home, and a popular seasonal butterfly exh...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Spring to Early Fall

Peak bloom and butterfly season

CrowdMedium

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Smith-Gilbert Gardens

Best Time

Late Spring to Early Fall

Peak bloom and butterfly season

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 17-acre botanical garden featuring thousands of plant species, contemporary sculptures, a historic home, and a popular seasonal butterfly exhibit.

4.6

(481 reviews)

"A tranquil outing without navigating Atlanta traffic, Smith-Gilbert Garden is a place to visit."

TIP

🦋 Butterfly Exhibit Tickets

The butterfly exhibit has a separate fee but is well worth it for the immersive experience.

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on paved paths and garden trails.

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 481 reviews

Type

Botanical Garden

Address

2382 Pine Mountain Rd, Kennesaw, GA 30152, USA

Website

smithgilbertgardens.com

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Butterfly Exhibit: A Garden with Wings

Butterfly House

Immerse yourself in a world of native butterflies, learn about pollinators, and experience them up close. A truly magical experience!

Interactive Kids' Zone

Children's Area

Engage little ones with bubble stations, a dirt construction dig, a play stage, and an 'imagination station' sunroom. Fun for all ages!

Historic Home and Gardens

Historic House

Explore the beautiful 1800s building with its high ceilings and original features, surrounded by thousands of plant species.

Sculptures and Water Features

Various Garden Paths

Discover contemporary sculptures nestled among the flora, and find serene spots with waterfalls and koi ponds.

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Planning Your Visit

Butterfly Season is a Must-See

The Butterfly Exhibit, 'A Garden with Wings,' is a seasonal highlight, typically running through late September. It's an expanded, immersive experience that's a huge hit with families and nature lovers alike. Book tickets in advance, especially if visiting on a weekend, as it's a popular draw.

Accessibility and Stroller-Friendly Paths

Recent upgrades have made Smith-Gilbert Gardens more accessible. New walking paths are designed to be stroller and wheelchair-friendly, making it easier for everyone to explore the 17 acres of diverse plant life and exhibits.

Best Times

When

Late Spring to Early Fall

Why

Peak bloom and butterfly season

Crowd

Medium

When

Weekday Mornings

Why

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Crowd

Low

When

During Special Events

Why

Unique programming and classes

Crowd

Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw, GA is giving us all the butterflies! Stop by to experience their butterfly house now though August 3, 2024! #atlantassweetspot #cobbcounty #exploregeorgia #discoveratl #kennesawga #butterfly #butterflies #butterflygarden

@travelcobb

19.5K likes • 250.4K views

🦋 Butterfly Exhibit Tickets

The butterfly exhibit has a separate fee but is well worth it for the immersive experience. +1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on paved paths and garden trails.

Stop! Don’t toss those mums 🍂🚫 They’re perennials and will come back when planted in the ground 🌼 Give them a little trim, plant in the sun, let them root in and enjoy them again next fall 🌱💛 #smithsgardentown #fallgardening #mumseason #donttrashitplantit #perennials #northtexasgardening #gardenmums #plantrescue #wftexas

@smithsgardentown

8.8K likes • 709.3K views

travelcobb

223 likes • 3.8K views

☀️ Sun Protection

Bring hats and sunscreen, especially during warmer months, as much of the garden is exposed.

📸 Capture the Blooms

August blooms are stunning, and the gardens offer beautiful photo opportunities year-round. +1

The time has FINALLY arrived! 🌼 🐝 🌳 🦋 Smith-Gilbert Gardens is now open! “Explore the new walking paths, upgraded exhibits & interactive features for kids. Now open to the public, Smith-Gilbert Gardens is 17 acres of serene setting with thousands of plants, several rare in American gardens. United by woodland paths, the Gardens consist of separate groupings with individual elements of fascinat...

madelynorochena4kennesaw

16 likes • 351 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🦋 Butterfly Exhibit Tickets

The butterfly exhibit has a separate fee but is well worth it for the immersive experience. +1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on paved paths and garden trails.

☀️ Sun Protection

Bring hats and sunscreen, especially during warmer months, as much of the garden is exposed.

📸 Capture the Blooms

August blooms are stunning, and the gardens offer beautiful photo opportunities year-round. +1

💧 Stay Hydrated

Limited snacks are available, so bring your own water, especially on hot days.

What Travellers Say

4.6

(481 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Smith-Gilbert Gardens for its tranquil atmosphere, diverse exhibits, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. It's considered a great value and a highly family-friendly activity, with recent upgrades enhancing accessibility and the overall experience, particularly the popular Butterfly Exhibit. Some find it smaller than competitors but appreciate its unique offerings.

"If you're looking for a tranquil outing without navigating Atlanta traffic, Smith-Gilbert Garden is a place to visit. Though smaller in scale than its competitors, its not lacking in diversity of exhibits/activities presented. Staff members were friendly, knowledgeable and accessible. Plenty of parking available. Definitely a multi-generational, family-friendly activity. Areas ADA compliant are clearly identified on maps. There is a gift shop and limited snacks offered on site for sale. Pricing is perfect for what you'll experience. Free parking on site."

Ashley Malone

"I hadn’t visited since 2016, but today I returned with my Girl Scout Troop and had a wonderful experience. Our program instructor, Nia, was fantastic! The updates to the parking area, the beautifully expanded garden, and the addition of the butterfly house were all amazing. The lady that gave us the tour inside the butterfly House was absolutely fantastic and very educational. Even on a hot 90° day, it was such a nice visit."

Becky Curtis

"Thank you so much for the butterfly exhibit. I am sure it is a great deal to maintain and your staff did a wonderful job explaining what butterflies like to eat, different species, a butterfly, and what flowers butterflies love the most.
It is truly appreciated to experience this exhibit so close to home."

Simeta Avery

What People Like

Beautiful Butterfly Exhibit

Kid-friendly activities

Knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Smaller scale than some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Smith-Gilbert Gardens is located in Kennesaw, GA, about 30 minutes from Atlanta. Driving is the most convenient option, with plenty of free parking available on site.

While public transportation options exist to get to Kennesaw, direct public transit to the gardens is limited. Driving is generally recommended for ease of access.

The gardens offer ample free parking, with updated areas making it easier to find a spot. +1

Yes, ADA compliant areas are clearly identified on maps, and recent upgrades have improved accessibility with stroller and wheelchair-friendly paths. +1

Typically, pets are not allowed in botanical gardens to protect the plants and wildlife. It's best to check their official website for the most current pet policy.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Smith-Gilbert Gardens is generally open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The Butterfly Exhibit has specific hours, typically 9 AM to 3 PM. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours. +1

Pricing is considered perfect for the experience. While general admission covers the gardens, the Butterfly Exhibit has an additional fee, which is highly recommended. +1

It's advisable to book tickets in advance, especially for the popular Butterfly Exhibit and during peak seasons or weekends, to ensure entry.

Information on discounts for seniors, children, or groups is usually available on their official website. Check for any special promotions or membership options.

The beloved Butterfly Exhibit, 'A Garden with Wings,' typically runs through late September.

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the immersive Butterfly Exhibit, interactive kids' play areas, a historic 1800s home, contemporary sculptures, and diverse plant collections.

Absolutely! The gardens are extremely kid-friendly with dedicated play zones, a 'sun room' imagination station, and the captivating butterfly house.

The gardens boast thousands of plant species, including many rare varieties, with seasonal blooms showcased throughout the year. +1

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended for an educational and engaging experience, especially for the Butterfly Exhibit. +1

This program, featured in September and October, offers wellness-focused programming and classes covering mind, arts, fitness, and family activities.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The gardens offer limited snacks for sale on-site. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks, or plan to dine at nearby restaurants in Kennesaw.

Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in designated areas, making it a great spot for a picnic.

Kennesaw offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes like The Local Doe Coffee House to ramen spots like Shibuya Ramen, catering to different tastes.

📸 📸 Photography

The Butterfly Exhibit, the historic house, seasonal blooms, sculptures, and water features offer numerous picturesque opportunities. +1

Policies for professional photoshoots may vary. It's best to contact the gardens directly to inquire about permits and guidelines.

Generally, personal photography is allowed, but commercial or professional shoots might require special arrangements. Always be respectful of other visitors.

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the gardens and avoiding harsh midday sun.

The Butterfly Exhibit is a major draw for photos, as are the vibrant seasonal blooms and the charming historic building. +1