Children's Garden
Explore and Learn in the Children's Garden
The Children’s Garden is designed so youngsters can experience the great outdoors by observing wildlife; digging in the dirt; climbing a one-hundred-year-old mulberry tree; or simply doing nothing at all. You can also “climb” the universally accessible Klaus Family Tree House. It’s 13 feet off the ground, but a series of sloping ramps make climbing easy, even for those in wheelchairs. All can enjoy a wonderful bird’s-eye view of the lake and surrounding gardens.
International Village & Adventure Pathway
The International Village in the Children’s Garden brings the world home through globally inspired architectures, cultures, and indigenous plants.
The Adventure Pathway winds among prairie, butterfly meadow, and evergreen environs, while the universally accessible Leafy Overlook and Klaus Family Tree House reveal the world from a birds-eye view.
Waterway
Open during warm months, our brand-new Waterway splash pad is the perfect place for children to keep cool. Waterway is designed for toddlers to age ten and consists of two sections: a shallow streambed for our youngest visitors to sit and play in the flowing water, and a section with sprays and jets for older children to engage in interactive play. Waterway is wheelchair-accessible.
The Jane Quinn Saunders Farm Garden
At the Farm Garden, children are invited to plant and nurture wholesome fruits and vegetables, with several hundred pounds annually donated to the feeding of central Virginia’s hungry children.
The Discovery Breezeway
The Discovery Breezeway encourages exploration of animals, weather, and natural materials in the property’s original Carriage House during summer months, as the plaza and shaded awning hosts special programs and performances.
The Garden Keeper’s Cottage
Children are introduced to gardening concepts at the Garden Keeper’s Cottage. It is staged for playtime any time and sometimes the Garden Keeper herself makes a visit.
Investigation Station
Investigation Stations in the Children’s Garden combine educational learning opportunities with a fun family atmosphere.
KidQuest
Families follow clues to six special spots throughout the Garden. Along the way, they make seasonal discoveries, record their findings, and receive a prize after completing the quest. Available at the Admissions desk or by download on the website.
Mulberry Tree & Other Interesting Plants
There is a wide array of plant species in the Children’s Garden — including a 100-year-old Mulberry Tree that’s perfect for climbing. Our Weird and Contrasting Plants area illustrates nature’s amazing diversities and adaptions to the environment, while the greenhouse demonstrates propagation and planting techniques
Fun in the Children's Garden
Check out children’s programming and events in this interactive garden area.