Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens
add photosIn 1989, Daniel J. Stowe, a retired textile executive from Belmont, North Carolina, reserved 450 acres of prime rolling meadows, woodlands and lakefront property and established a foundation to develop a world-class botanical garden. A lifelong nature lover and gardening enthusiast, Dan Stowe and his wife, Alene, envisioned a complex evolving over several decades to rival other internationally renowned gardens.
# Drinks and snacks are available in The Garden Store. Picnics and coolers are welcome anywhere on the property. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis on the terrace or at picnic tables. Please leave grills and pets at home.
Don’t forget to bring a camera, insect repellant and sunscreen.
6 Reviews for Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens
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"Fields of flowers to spark the imagination"
Stowe Botanical Gardens is one of those great destinations where young children can run and explore while parents can stroll and relax. Face it, with a 3 year old and a 5 year old, how often does that happen?
My children enjoyed imagining they were fairies, then butterflies, as the zoomed in between the flowering plants. We also took time to talk about what plants need to live and how plants are different from animals. It was educational, but not stuffy.
I'd recommend going on a warm day, maybe late Spring, or during Christmas. The Christmas decorations are out of this world!
The only downside is the location -- they really aren't convenient to anything. Still, I would argue it is worth the drive to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the sunshine!
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"Beautiful Rolling Meadows "
About 110 of the 400 acres of beautiful rolling meadows and woodlands donated to be developed as a garden are now open at this facility, which is quickly developing a reputation as one of the finest gardens in the Southeast. Four themed gardens include walks, fountains, and plaques describing the flora and fauna. Kids shouldn’t miss the tunnel fountain, but they better move through it quickly or face getting wet! A half-mile woodland trail is rough but under development. A stained-glass dome tops off the visitor center, which houses a great gift shop for kids and adults and serves as a base for hands-on workshops and other events. An orchid conservatory opens in January 2008.
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"Gorgeous Gardens"
This was a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. The gardens were beautiful & distinct. The kid's maze was interesting. My young kids really enjoyed viewing the numerous fountains on site. In particular, they had the most fun with the main fountain when the timers shut off several times. A perfect way to cool off in the hot NC summer weather! Tickets are nominal & you can find discounts online. To further save, you can bring in lunch/snacks. This is definitely a place that I'll return to.
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"A relaxing place"
Looking for a low key day outdoors with the family? Well look no further. Winding paths lead through beautifully tended garden after beautifully tended garden. And interspersed through these are water features any kid young or old will enjoy. From beautiful blooms to exciting insects the gardens offer something to intrigue anyone!
1 family found this helpful
"Save this one for summer, or Christmas"
Daniel Stowe is beautiful - and definitely eye pleasing for adults. But kidwise, it leaves a lot to be desired on an every day basis. However, during the summer months - your kids will LOVE the many fountains that dot the gardern - including ones that are made to get you wet!! During the Christmas season, Daniel Stowe is lit up with a beautiful Christmas display.... millions of lights, choral performances, and Santa are the highlights. Definitely make it on your "to do" list this holiday season.
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"Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens"
We went on a field trip this past school year to Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens. The educational programs left a lot to be desired and the kids were only excited to be out of school. I enjoyed seeing the flowers and could have spent more time walking in the gardens but the kids (6th graders) were bored out of their minds. I can't imagine trying to spend a day with my own kids here!
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