Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Honestly one of the most calm and relaxing places I’ve ever been to. I couldn’t stop saying “wow” as we walked through. Parking was easy and convenient. It’s the perfect spot when it’s cold outside but you still want to take a peaceful stroll surrounded by greenery. There are benches throughout where you can sit, work, read, or just slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. It truly feels like a place where you can breathe and reset. The gift shop was adorable too. My daughter loves the little duck we got her. We’ll definitely be back.

We had an absolutely wonderful time! Everything was beautiful and well maintained. Carole was incredibly informative and I really enjoyed learning about the century tree. She even retrieved photos to show us of it growing through the roof! And thanks to her, my dying succulent now has the proper soil and a chance at survival!

I am a wedding & portrait photographer in Ann Arbor and I love shooting at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. This place is beautiful inside in out! I have shot weddings, families, maternity and engagement sessions here and it always is one of my favorites backdrops.

As a photographer, it's such a privilege to have a lovely botanical space like this in the community (especially in the frigid winter months!) Not only is it a great spot for photos, it's just a great place to visit if you're into plants + nature, or if you just like a fun weekend activity with a friend, significant other or kids. I love that its free to visit and is so well maintained by the lovely staff. It's also a pretty spot for a wedding ceremony in the summer months when all the flowers are in bloom (though keep in mind there are still visitors wandering the conservatory and gardens during your designated time block).

I had an absolutely wonderful time visiting the botanical garden. Unfortunately it was cold and snowy so I was only able to explore the green house. This is a three part green house with a lot of informational signage and well as recipes from around the world near plants that are edible.