A Guide to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Explore New England's largest botanical garden. From giant wooden trolls to the magical 'Gardens Aglow' winter light show.
Located on 295 acres of rocky shorefront in Boothbay, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (CMBG) is a world-class horticultural destination. Since opening in 2007, it has become one of Maine’s top attractions, drawing nature lovers, families, and garden enthusiasts from around the globe.
It is not just a collection of flowers; it is a massive landscape art project that integrates Maine’s mossy forests and granite ledges with cultivated beauty.
The Giant Trolls
In 2021, the gardens introduced “Guardians of the Seeds,” an installation by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
- What are they? Five massive trolls built from recycled wood found on the property.
- The Quest: Visitors can follow a map to find Roskva, Lilja, Birk, Gro, and Soren hidden throughout the deep woods trails.
- Why it matters: The exhibit teaches a message about conservation and protecting the forest. It has been a massive hit with kids and adults alike.
Key Gardens to Explore
1. The Children’s Garden
Inspired by Maine children’s literature (like Blueberries for Sal and Miss Rumphius). It features a “whale” rock to climb, a play cottage, and interactive water features. It is arguably the best children’s garden in New England.
2. The Lerner Garden of the Five Senses
Designed to be accessible and sensory-rich. You are encouraged to touch the fuzzy leaves of Lamb’s Ear, smell the chocolate cosmos, and listen to the water features.
3. The Vayo Meditation Garden
A quiet, Japanese-influenced space featuring a massive granite basin and intricate stone paving. It’s a place of Zen in the middle of the busy gardens.
4. The Butterfly House
A Gothic-style hoop house filled with native Maine butterflies and moths (like the Luna Moth). Note: Seasonal.
Gardens Aglow (Winter)
From mid-November to December 31, the gardens transform into Gardens Aglow.
- The Spectacle: Over 750,000 LED lights wrap the trees, buildings, and trolls. It is the biggest light display in Maine.
- Tickets: You must buy tickets in advance online. They sell out weeks ahead, especially for weekends.
Visiting Tips
- Wear Walking Shoes: The campus is huge. You will easily walk 2-3 miles if you see everything.
- Accessibility: The central gardens are ADA compliant, with paved paths and modest grades. Electric scooters and shuttles are available for rent.
- Dining: The Market and Hungry Gardener Food Truck offer decent local food (soups, salads, sandwiches). You can also bring a picnic.
- Tickets: Buying online in advance is highly recommended, especially in summer.
Location: 132 Botanical Gardens Drive, Boothbay Season: Open May 1 – late October (Regular Season); Nov – Dec (Gardens Aglow).