Green Animals Topiary Garden
Discover the oldest topiary garden in the U.S., featuring over 80 whimsical animal-shaped shrubs and stunning Narragansett Bay views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak flower bloom
Green Animals Topiary Garden
Best Time
Peak flower bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the oldest topiary garden in the U.S., featuring over 80 whimsical animal-shaped shrubs and stunning Narragansett Bay views.
"A charming, whimsical wonderland perfect for garden lovers and families, offering unique sculpted art and serene coastal vistas."
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Bring your camera! This garden is a dream for photographers, with whimsical shapes and beautiful blooms.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be strolling through 7 acres, so wear comfy shoes to explore all the nooks and crannies.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Whimsical Topiary Animals
Throughout the garden
Discover over 80 sculpted shrubs shaped into playful animals and geometric forms. A true living wonderland!
Narragansett Bay Views
Waterfront edge of the garden
Enjoy sweeping vistas of Narragansett Bay from various points within the garden. Perfect for a peaceful moment.
Vibrant Flower Gardens
Various garden beds
Explore colorful flower beds, including daffodils and tulips, that add bursts of color to the sculpted greenery.
The Bamboo Grove
Specific section of the garden
Wander through a unique and serene bamboo section, offering a different textural and visual experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Peak Bloom
Ticket Value and Garden Size
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Bring your camera! This garden is a dream for photographers, with whimsical shapes and beautiful blooms.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be strolling through 7 acres, so wear comfy shoes to explore all the nooks and crannies.
🧺 Picnic Potential
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawns overlooking the bay.
🎟️ Bundle Ticket Value
If visiting other Newport Mansions, a bundle ticket can offer better value than a single entry.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Bring your camera! This garden is a dream for photographers, with whimsical shapes and beautiful blooms.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be strolling through 7 acres, so wear comfy shoes to explore all the nooks and crannies.
🧺 Picnic Potential
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawns overlooking the bay.
🎟️ Bundle Ticket Value
If visiting other Newport Mansions, a bundle ticket can offer better value than a single entry.
🧸 Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunt
Kids often enjoy scavenger hunts to find all the different topiary animals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Green Animals Topiary Garden a charming and unique addition to a Rhode Island trip, especially for garden enthusiasts and families. While some find the admission price a bit high for the garden's size, many appreciate the whimsical topiaries, beautiful flower displays, and serene waterfront views. The garden is often described as a peaceful escape and a photographer's delight.
"A fun addition to our trip to Newport. As garden fans, we enjoyed this spot immensely. We even went back the next day to snap some photos of geraniums we couldn’t stop thinking about."
Amanda Russell
"Such a beautiful garden. Mid July I'm told is peak season for the flowers. We will definitely return next year!"
Charlotte
"Beautiful afternoon walking. Benches spaced well . Lots to see . A delight for the senses .We were not told we could tour the home. Bathrooms not handicapped assemble. Enjoyed the bamboo section.Lked the floral colors and varieties."
Mary Cain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, between Bristol and Newport. It's accessible by car, and parking is available on-site. Many visitors combine a trip here with visits to other Newport Mansions.
Yes, Green Animals Topiary Garden is located in Portsmouth, RI, which is very close to Newport. It's often visited as part of a Newport Mansions tour.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Green Animals Topiary Garden. Public transportation options are limited in this area.
If you are staying in Portsmouth, it might be walkable depending on your location, but most visitors arrive by car.
Yes, the garden is part of the Newport Mansions collection, and other historic mansions like The Breakers and Marble House are nearby in Newport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $25 per person for a single entry. Bundle tickets are available if you plan to visit multiple Newport Mansions. 
Tickets can usually be purchased online through the Newport Mansions website or at the garden entrance. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and purchasing options.
Bundle tickets for multiple Newport Mansions often provide a discount. Check the Newport Mansions website for any seasonal promotions or special offers.
The garden is seasonal, typically opening in mid-April and closing in October. Hours vary, so it's best to check the official Newport Mansions website for current operating times.
While reservations are not always mandatory, it's advisable to check the Newport Mansions website, especially during peak season, to ensure entry and avoid disappointment.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Absolutely! The whimsical topiary shapes, colorful flowers, and waterfront views make it a photographer's paradise.
Early morning or late afternoon generally offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow.
Occasionally, special exhibits like Lego sculptures have been featured, adding an extra layer of fun, especially for families.
Yes, children often enjoy the playful animal shapes and can participate in scavenger hunts to find them.
It's described as peaceful, charming, whimsical, and like stepping into a storybook or a real-life Alice in Wonderland.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site dining facilities. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnics to enjoy on the grounds.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are plenty of open spaces and benches to relax and enjoy a meal with a view.
Yes, the nearby towns of Portsmouth and Newport offer a variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments.
Portsmouth offers a range of dining, often featuring fresh seafood and New England classics. Newport has a more extensive culinary scene.
It's recommended to either pack a picnic or plan to dine before or after your visit, as there are no food services within the garden itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for special exhibits like Lego sculptures that add an extra layer of engagement. The expansive lawns are perfect for kids to explore and burn off energy. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, as there are no food services on-site.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
The vibrant flower beds and sweeping views of Narragansett Bay provide diverse backdrops, especially during peak bloom in mid-July. Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the most flattering light.
🌿 Garden Enthusiasts
Explore the herb and vegetable gardens, wander through the serene bamboo grove, and appreciate the meticulous care given to the entire 7-acre estate. The waterfront location offers a unique setting, and many visitors return to experience the garden during different seasons to witness the full spectrum of its floral beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Topiary at Green Animals
These living sculptures, shaped over decades by skilled gardeners, depict a whimsical array of animals, birds, and geometric forms. Visitors often delight in identifying familiar creatures like elephants, giraffes, bears, and dogs, transforming the garden into a playful safari. The artistry lies not just in the shapes themselves, but in the ongoing maintenance required to keep these forms pristine and vibrant throughout the season. The history of the garden dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the estate originally belonging to the Brayton family. The topiary collection was a passion project, evolving over time. Today, managed by the Newport Mansions, it continues to captivate visitors with its unique blend of horticulture and sculpture. The dedication to preserving this living art form is evident in the meticulous care given to each plant.
Many visitors, like those on Reddit, appreciate the unique nature of the garden, though some reviews mention that the 'realism' of the topiaries can vary, especially towards the end of the season.
Beyond the Sculptures: Gardens and Views
These colorful displays provide a stunning contrast to the sculpted greenery, creating a feast for the senses. Wander through pathways lined with diverse plants, explore charming arbors, and discover fruit trees and vegetable gardens. The garden's prime location also provides breathtaking panoramic views of Narragansett Bay.
Benches are strategically placed throughout the grounds, offering perfect spots to sit, relax, and soak in the serene coastal scenery. This waterfront aspect adds a layer of tranquility and natural beauty that complements the sculpted artistry. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the estate grounds also include a historic house (though not always highlighted in tours), fountains, and even a pet cemetery, adding layers of history and intrigue to your visit.
Family Fun and Activities
The playful shapes of the topiary animals spark imagination, and many visitors mention that kids love trying to spot all the different creatures. The expansive lawns provide ample space for children to run around and explore, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
Tips for families include bringing snacks or a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, as food services are not available.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit