Gardens to Explore in Charlotte
Relish the beauty of seasonal blooms all around the Queen City.
by Emily Nobles
In Charlotte, “May flowers” isn’t just a colloquial calendar expression; it’s a reality. With the sun out and the occasional breeze keeping toasty temperatures at bay, detach from your phone and take a stroll through one of Charlotte’s many majestic gardens.
Charlotte Serenity Garden
Area: South Charlotte
Tucked away just two miles from SouthPark Mall is a woodland haven. The garden seamlessly blends a natural setting with artistry through a curated collection of plants, trees and thought-provoking sculptures that complement the verdant landscape. Stroll the pathways of this hidden gem to find these sculptures, along with a water feature and scenic sitting areas.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Area: Belmont
Located on 380 acres, this garden boasts spectacular blooms, sparkling fountains, and a conservatory dedicated to displays of tropical plants and orchids. Enjoy plentiful nature trails at your own pace, or join in on a guided group tour, horticulture walk or birding walk. The garden also plays host to various public events throughout the year, including holiday events.
The Duke Mansion
Neighborhood: Myers Park
Four and a half acres of immaculately kept grounds beckon at The Mary D.B.T. Semans Gardens, located on the grounds of The Duke Mansion. Soak up the sunshine or bring a book and find the perfect shady spot to relax the day away.
Historic Rosedale
Neighborhood: NoDa
Built in 1815 and located just minutes from Uptown Charlotte, a visit to Historic Rosedale will help you take a step into the past. Learn about the historic home and grounds, which feature stunning gardens and treasure trees that only serve to enhance the magnitude of the property’s storied past.
McGill Rose Garden
Neighborhood: NoDa
This hidden gem is tucked away behind Rosie’s Coffee & Wine Garden. Featuring hundreds of rose bushes in more than two hundred varieties, the rose garden is best known for the flower that gives it its name – but keep an eye out for the numerous annuals, perennials and herbs throughout the grounds.
UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens
Neighborhood: University City
Learn about a wide array of plants by exploring the 10 acres of beautiful outdoor gardens, eight on-site greenhouse rooms and six themed collections on UNC Charlotte’s campus. This splendor includes a collection of plants that prey on insects, as well as the Dinosaur Garden where a T. rex skeleton roams and prehistoric vegetation flourishes.
Wing Haven Gardens & Bird Sanctuary
Neighborhood: Myers Park
This peaceful oasis is home to three public gardens that serve as a respite for birds and other wildlife, as well as a variety of flora and fauna. The staff puts on educational programs and events throughout the year, including garden tours, bird walks and family gardening, so plan your visit accordingly.
Article originally written by Emily Nobles. Updates by Arielle Patterson in April 2025.
