Tucson Botanical Gardens

 

 

click photo to enlarge		 The Tucson Botanical Gardens is 5.5 acres featuring more than 20 themed garden spaces—from the fragrant Herb Garden and shady Aloe Alley to the culturally rich Barrio Garden and interactive Children’s Discovery Garden. You can wander through desert-adapted landscapes and seasonal art installations. Originally founded in 1964 on private grounds by Harrison Yocum, the Gardens moved to its current historic Porter family property in 1974, preserving patio plants and century-old trees that reflect Tucson’s gardening heritage.

click photo to enlarge		 Highlights include the tropical Cox Butterfly & Orchid Pavilion (October–May), where hundreds of live butterflies float amidst orchids, and special features like a Prehistoric Garden, Zen oasis, model railroad, and educational compost or permaculture demonstrations.

click photo to enlarge