 Allen Centennial Garden Located at 620 Babcock Drive, this garden is open daily from dawn until dusk, is free to visit, and is a lovely spot to find a bench and just enjoy the beautiful flowers, trees, and water features. They have drop-in bouquet classes most weekends. |
 The Botany Garden and Greenhouses: There is a beautiful little garden right where University Avenue and N. Mills Street meet. This spring the magnolias and tulips were spectacular. There are perennials and small shrubs, trees, and soon, a koi pond. Above it are the greenhouses used for research, to grow plantings for flower beds around campus, and the ferns they use for graduation ceremonies. Both are free. The garden is open daily from dawn until dusk. Self-guided greenhouse tours are from 8-4 M-F. |
 The UW Arboretum: Rent an e-bike from B-cycle on campus and take a ride through the arboretum. You’ll see beautiful trees, ponds, flowers, prairies, and lots of wildlife! If you like to get your hands dirty, they host work parties nearly every Saturday to help control weeds and invasive species. |
 Other Notable Spots: The Campus Farm and Eagle Heights Community Gardens, at 3016 Lake Mendota Dr. where they grow produce for campus dining. Take a walk on the trail around the Lakeshore Nature Preserve and stop at Picnic Point. |
 Too hot to be outside? Try the air-conditioned Mesozoic Garden, with trees INSIDE the Discovery Building at 330 N. Orchard St. |
Photos by Jeff Miller, Bryce Richter, and some unknown.
I don’t think it is listed here…but the D.C. Smith Greenhouse (google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kvrF3aSHinXsuVDJ8) is also a gem. They have a high humidity room near the entrance with water effects and beautiful foliage. Very calming and my go to for many a lunch.