Don't miss this oasis in the city. Easy to get to but it feels like you're miles away from everything in a cool and quiet special spot. So many styles of gardens and plantings: herb gardens, cacti and succulents, wildflowers, barrio gardens, historical gardens. Native American garden, hummingbird garden, Zen garden, moonlight, birdsong, a miniature railroad garden, even a prehistoric garden. A highlight is the tropical butterfly house with lots of colorful butterflies and orchids as well as brightly colored tropical frogs (in season). This is to name only some of the exhibits. There is also a lovely café with bargain treats like warm homemade scones served with butter and local jams and cooling drinks. Very nice gift shop too.
I LOVED the Tucson Botanical Gardens!! I was visiting Tucson recently, and on my last day there went with a couple friends. Welcoming staff, beautiful gardens, plus the butterfly house- it was a lovely way to spend my last day in Tucson! I visit the area often, and plan to move there in the near future- I plan to go back again and again!
We were lucky enough to visit during their Butterflies exhibit. The Butterflies were truly amazing. The garden are beautiful.
We have been visiting Tucson for many years, but somehow missed this lovely attraction until now. The grounds are an oasis of beautifully laid out paths that wind from one area to another. On this visit, we had 3 small children with us. Though the entire area was interesting to them (especially with all the signs that helpfully identified the desert plants), they absolutely loved the butterflies and dart frogs. We spent at least 45 minutes in that area alone...when we wanted to leave to see the rest of the gardens, the oldest (only 4 years of age) didn't want to go!
These gardens offer everything from a unique children's discovery area to an extensive butterfly house! There's a very interesting agricultural section with a native crop land area with a variety of composting ideas, live chicken "houses", ocotillo fencing, and raised beds. It's easy to follow the map given to you once you've paid the admission fee (which is reasonable) and off you go for several hours of total enjoyment!
I have been here twice. Once in 2000 and again many years later. The fauna and flora is absolutely beautiful along with the native animals. A must see if you are in the area.
Took out of town relatives here. What a spectacular garden !! (we had considered getting married here 25 years ago and it has only gotten better since). The butterfly pavilion is quite special and not to be missed. Love the gardens and the fact that they have everything labeled so you know what plants are what. Quite extensive grounds, and it's right in the middle of town - but once you are inside, you'd never know it.
We gave these gardens a miss on our first two trips to Tucson, by they are wonderful. They are beautifully laid out and provide a shady oasis in the desert. There are many different gardens as well as a wonderful orchid and butterfly house which also has several frog varieties in great colors, like deep cobalt blue.And the cafe is not to be missed . It serves fresh, mostly organic food on a beautiful patio. Do not miss the fresh lime juice Popsicles.
My wife was most impressed…..the children enjoyed it….I dropped them off and went for a drive as it didn't appeal to me. As it was Christmas time, it was extra special. Apparently, I missed out.
We got some amazing pictures here, it was definitely something to see. I loved all the gardens, the gift shop and the butterfly exhibit was so fun