Visiting botanical gardens is a great activity for people of any age. Plus, it is one of the few family activities that all generations can enjoy. So grab your grandkids and aging parents and head for a botanic garden this weekend.
But what is the proper etiquette for visiting a botanical garden? Are there specific botanical garden outfits you should wear? Read on to learn all about what to expect before you head out to visit botanical gardens in your area.
What to Wear to Botanical Gardens
It might seem silly, but there are clothes that are better for a botanical garden visit than others. The most important thing to remember is to dress comfortably but also appropriately for the local weather.
Most botanical gardens are located outdoors, even though some of the best botanical gardens do have indoor greenhouses that are out of the cold year round. A comfortable pair of pants with a t-shirt is a good place to start, then you can add a sweater and a jacket as needed. It is a good idea to always bring an outer layer to botanical gardens, even in the summer, as you never know when the weather may change.
All botanical garden outfits should be paired with thick socks and comfortable walking shoes. If you have shoes with prosthetic inserts, definitely wear those. It is recommended to also wear a hat or visor, and sunglasses to keep the sun from your face and eyes.
What Colors to Wear to Botanical Gardens
While the colors you wear won’t make a big difference, it is important to know that bees can be attracted to clothing which is the color of flowers. So consider grabbing tan or green instead of that bright red or purple shirt.
Additionally, black can quickly get warm, so try to avoid wearing something too dark. In the past, we’ve worn light green or light brown (tan) as an alternative.
It is also worth noting that you may want to skip your perfume on the day of your botanical garden visit as it may attract bugs. Instead, just use a little deodorant and bring your perfume in your purse to apply after your visit.
What to Bring With You to Botanical Gardens
Although botanical garden visiting isn’t as remote as hiking or other outdoor sports, it is important to bring a few things with you to ensure you have a good experience.
- Water: Always bring at least one bottle of water per person in your group. You can usually refill these bottles somewhere in the garden, but know that water points can be few and far between.
- Sunscreen: While it is best to cover as much of your skin as possible with clothing, you should also bring a bottle of sunscreen for your face and arms if you take your jacket off during your visit.
- Snacks: Snacking isn’t allowed in all areas of botanical parks, but there typically are designated food places where you can eat, and having a protein bar or some trail mix can help keep your energy up all day long.
- Camera/Cell Phone: Botanical gardens are known for being picturesque, and you’ll definitely want to take some photos!
- Cash: Bring a few dollars just in case you want to buy a cold drink from a vending machine or place a donation in a donation box.
A small backpack is the best way to carry all of these items, as a bag with a single shoulder strap can cause neck and shoulder pain. If you have a large group, you’ll want to take turns carrying the backpack and have multiple backpacks so the weight doesn’t fall on one person.
If you or anyone in your party uses mobility aids like a walker or scooter, inquire in advance if they are allowed, and if they are, bring them along!
Are Botanical Gardens Wheelchair Accessible?
If anyone in your group has a wheelchair, it is important to call the garden in advance. While almost all are ADA accessible, some require you to swap your personal wheelchair for one of theirs, or you may have to take a specific path through the garden to traverse safely.
Even if you don’t need a wheelchair, if someone in your group needs a stroller, you should also call in advance. Some botanical gardens have restrictions on strollers or require you to rent one of theirs when visiting the gardens.
Botanic Garden Rules
Most botanical gardens have rules which will be posted near the entrance. Below are general rules that apply to most, if not all, botanic gardens.
- Bicycles, rollerblades, and skateboards are prohibited.
- Dogs and other pets are usually not allowed.
- Do not leave the established walkway.
- Do not wade in ponds or fountains.
- Do not allow children to climb on statues or rocks in the park.
- Do not pick any of the plants in the park or remove any seeds.
- Drones are usually prohibited.
- Catching and releasing animals is prohibited.
- Smoking is usually prohibited except in designated areas.
- Sporting equipment is usually prohibited.
It’s important to remember that botanical gardens are supposed to be a place of nature and relaxation. Try to be respectful of other groups as you are there, and don’t leave trash or waste on the ground.
Always watch out for signs. While you usually can sit on grassy areas in botanical gardens, there are some occasions when you are unable to do so. There may also be some parts of the park closed due to weather or because they need repair.
Some botanical gardens allow patrons to bring collapsible seating for their enjoyment, however, the majority do not. Ensure you are physically fit enough to walk the majority of the park without stopping for a break. While there are usually benches, they aren’t guaranteed. If you are with an elderly family member who may not walk that well, consider renting a wheelchair so they can enjoy the gardens without stress.
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