Matthaei Botanical Gardens

This is an absolutely fantastic garden. Admission is free, though they do suggest donations and parking costs a few dollars (or as of this writing about $8 for a day). Every bit of the botanical gardens is meticulously kept, with educational and informational signs/ exhibits integrated into the planted areas themselves. Its an excellent place to bring little kids, horticulture buffs, lovers of the outdoors, and really anyone who likes to look at cool plants. Would highly reccomend if you are in the area!
5 8 years ago (29-05-2018)

I love this place. Beautiful and diverse collection of truly unique plants. It is seperated into two parts: an area with more tropical climate plants and an area with desert plants. They also have an upper walkway so that you can view there garden from above as well. Perfect place to go on the winter time, and free of charge although parking is not free.
5 8 years ago (26-05-2018)

Me and a group of photography friends went to the Orchid Festival. The orchids were so beautiful and there were a judging competition for which one was first place in the auditorium. The conservatory is open year round and also a great photo opportunity. There are so many exotic plants from tropical to a desert setting, all under one roof. A great place to bring the family on weekends.
5 8 years ago (16-05-2018)

The botanical gardens are great. Free (suggested donation of $5), and if you drive you have to pay for parking. There is a conservatory with tropical and desert plants, as well as grounds around the garden. There is a tea garden, a children's area, an herb garden, and various hiking trails. A great area to get job touch with nature at all times of the year in Ann Arbor.
5 8 years ago (13-05-2018)

I went for the orchid festival, admission was free but parking was not, which I didn't see on their website in regards to the festival. $5 gets you parking for the whole day though, so not bad, or you can pay $1.60/hr. Parking had really overflowed so we had to walk a little less than 1/4 mile even though we paid. Small orchid show and vendor area. The facility itself seems nice with multiple bathrooms, a large conservatory separated into tropical, temperate, and desert zones with lots of beautiful plants. There's a large gift shop with lots of nature related things including reasonably priced house plants. There is also a classroom and looked like a large outside area I would've explored had it been warmer out. The staff was friendly and helpful directing people and answering questions.
4 8 years ago (17-03-2018)