Introduction
The weather is warming up, the sun is shining and it’s time to get outside! If you live near a botanical garden or arboretum, this is a great time to visit. These are some suggestions for things you can do at a local garden:
There are many ways to get close to nature. One of the best is visiting a botanical garden. These special places are, in essence, outdoor laboratories — places where people can see, study and learn about the natural world. Many offer classes, workshops and volunteer opportunities where you can learn even more about plants. Here are some suggestions for things to do at a local garden:
There are many ways to get close to nature. One of the best is visiting a botanical garden. These special places are, in essence, outdoor laboratories — places where people can see, study and learn about the natural world. Many offer classes, workshops and volunteer opportunities where you can learn even more about plants. Here are some suggestions for things to do at a local garden:
- Check out their website before going so you know what kind of exhibits and events they have coming up during your visit
- Take advantage of free admission days or memberships that offer discounted rates on certain days
- Find out if there’s an educational program or exhibit that will interest your child (or yourself!)
Take a hike
When you’re ready to go on a hike, there are a few things you should know.
First, bring plenty of water and food—you don’t want to get dehydrated or hungry out in the wilderness! If you need help packing your backpack, read this guide for advice on what clothes and snacks to bring: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-tips-and-articles/how-to/how-to-pack/.
Second, wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict movement and protect yourself from bugs by wearing long sleeves, pants and bug spray (or stay indoors). Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather; if it looks like rain then pack an umbrella just in case! And last but not least: watch where you step so that no one gets hurt by tripping over debris left behind by other hikers who may have been walking through before them (make sure everyone knows what time they’re going out).
Bring the kids
Your local botanical garden is a wonderful place to bring your kids. It’s an excellent way to teach them about nature, including plants and animals. Children can learn about conservation, sustainability and other important environmental issues through the gardens’ educational programs, which tend to be very hands-on.
Get a good look
The best way to get to know your botanical garden is to go on a guided tour. These are generally offered by volunteer docents (you might know them as park rangers) and take you through the most popular areas of the garden. You’ll be able to learn about different types of plants, flowers, trees and birds that inhabit those areas. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of some insects or butterflies! And if all goes well with your visit, there’s a good chance that at least one bee will fly by while you’re there!
Meet your local garden staff
- Meet the garden’s staff. When you visit a botanical garden, it’s always a good idea to talk with the staff members. They can tell you about their favorite plants and past events, as well as explain any special programs or volunteer opportunities.
- Ask about the history of your local garden. If you’re interested in learning more about how this particular botanical facility came to be, ask someone—a docent or volunteer—about its history! You’ll learn all kinds of things from these folks who know their way around every inch of our beautiful gardens.
- Find out what’s happening next at your local botanical garden. Botanical gardens are constantly hosting new events; make sure you stay on top of them by getting in touch with those who work at and run your local green space so they can keep track of all things related to gardening within the community!
Unplug — take a walk in the garden when you’re bored of your smartphone and need some time away from social media.
Unplug — take a walk in the garden when you’re bored of your smartphone and need some time away from social media.
Sometimes, we all need to unplug and go for a walk by ourselves. It sounds like something our grandparents used to do, but it’s actually really good for us! Not only does it clear our minds and refresh us after being glued to our phones, but it can also help boost creativity since we get out of our comfort zone and try something new with every step we take (which may be an unfamiliar path). And if nothing else, taking a break from all things digital helps reconnect us with nature—something that many people these days don’t often have time or opportunity to do.
Step outside and visit your local botanical garden or arboretum today!
Take a walk at your local botanical garden and see the world through different eyes. I guarantee you will discover something new about yourself, or at least, about the plant life around you. Consider visiting your local arboretum if you’re more interested in trees and shrubs than flowers.
Regardless of where you go, get out there! The world is beautiful and it’s important to take time to appreciate its beauty.
Conclusion
We hope you’ll take this opportunity to get out and enjoy the natural world — and get inspired to learn more about it!