Smith-Gilbert Gardens
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
Peak bloom and butterfly season
Smith-Gilbert Gardens
Best Time
Peak bloom and butterfly season
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.
"A tranquil outing without navigating Atlanta traffic, Smith-Gilbert Garden is a place to visit."
🦋 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.
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!
+1
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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Butterfly Season is a Must-See
+1Accessibility and Stroller-Friendly Paths
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦋 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.
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.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Limited snacks are available, so bring your own water, especially on hot days.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The updated paths are stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate the grounds with young children. Consider visiting during the 'A Healthier You' program in the fall for additional family-friendly wellness activities.
Pack snacks and water, as while there are limited snacks available, bringing your own is recommended for longer visits. 🌸 Garden Enthusiasts & Nature Lovers
+1 The contemporary sculptures interspersed throughout the gardens add an artistic layer to the natural beauty. Don't miss the tranquil waterfall and koi pond for moments of quiet contemplation. The gardens are also a great place to learn about local flora and pollinators, especially during the Butterfly Exhibit.
📸 Photographers
The seasonal blooms offer vibrant colors throughout the year, and the Butterfly Exhibit is a dream for capturing close-up shots of nature. +1Look for opportunities at the waterfall and koi pond, as well as the contemporary sculptures that add visual interest to the landscape. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance your photos, creating a softer, more atmospheric feel.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Butterfly Exhibit
+1Reviewers consistently praise the educational aspect and the magical feeling of butterflies flying around and even landing on them. The staff's knowledge and enthusiasm in explaining butterfly life cycles, favorite flowers, and different species add significant value to the experience. It's a must-visit for families and anyone interested in nature.
While there's an additional fee for the Butterfly Exhibit, most visitors find it to be well worth the cost, describing it as a truly special and memorable part of their visit. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak times.
Family-Friendly Fun and Activities
The 'imagination station' sunroom is another highlight, described as a dream for kids, providing a creative and stimulating environment. These thoughtful additions ensure that younger visitors remain entertained and engaged throughout their visit, making it a truly multi-generational destination.
The recent upgrades to the walking paths have also made the gardens more accessible for families with strollers, further enhancing the overall family experience. The combination of natural beauty and playful activities makes Smith-Gilbert Gardens a top choice for a family outing.
Exploring the Historic Charm and Botanical Diversity
A significant draw is the beautiful historic building, dating back to the 1800s. This charming structure features impossibly high ceilings, brick floors, and original built-ins, offering a glimpse into the past. Its presence adds a unique architectural element to the garden's serene setting.
Visitors can also discover tranquil spots like a waterfall and koi pond, providing moments of peace and reflection amidst the vibrant botanical displays. The combination of historical architecture, diverse plant life, and artistic installations creates a rich and varied experience for all visitors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit