Skip to content
Mainepedia
Back to Best Of

Best Botanical Gardens

From the world-class Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens to hidden historic gems and Japanese-inspired retreats.

1

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

New England's largest botanical garden, over 325 acres. Famous for its five giant wooden trolls, the Alfond Children's Garden, and the 'Gardens Aglow' light display in winter.

View Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Guide
2

Asticou Azalea Garden

A stunning Japanese-style stroll garden designed by Charles Savage. It is famous for its reflection pond and sand garden. Peak bloom for azaleas is late May.

View Town Info
3

Thuya Garden

Perched on a granite cliff overlooking the harbor. Accessible via a beautiful terraced trail. It features English-style flower beds and a rustic lodge.

View Town Info
4

McLaughlin Garden & Homestead

A historic garden famous for its massive collection of lilacs (over 200 varieties). The smell in late May is intoxicating.

View Town Info
5

Viles Arboretum

A 224-acre free botanical garden and arboretum with 6 miles of trails. Features the 'Hostal Hosta' collection and sculptures throughout.

View Town Info
6

Merryspring Nature Center

A 66-acre park with walking trails, herb gardens, and rose gardens. A quiet escape just off Route 1.

View Town Info
7

Ecotat Gardens and Arboretum

A hidden gem near Bangor with 55 gardens and extensive trails, maintained entirely by volunteers.

View Town Info

Maine’s gardening season is short but explosive. Because of the cool summer nights, perennials thrive here with an intensity of color you don’t see further south.

Peak Bloom Times

  • Late May: Lilacs, Azaleas, Rhododendrons.
  • Late June: Lupines, Peonies.
  • July: Daylilies, Roses.
  • August: Hydrangeas, Phlox, Coneflowers.

The “Mount Desert” Style

Many of Maine’s most famous gardens (Asticou, Thuya) are located on Mount Desert Island and were influenced by Beatrix Farrand and Charles Savage. They feature a unique blend of formal design using native materials like pink granite and moss.

Explore More of Maine

Looking for more inspiration? Browse our full directory of towns or explore by region.

Browse All Towns View Regions