KENNESAW, Ga. (August 20, 2025) – Smith-Gilbert Gardens is thrilled to announce its reopening to the public on Monday, September 1, at 9 a.m. The reopening will feature a special soft opening on Labor Day, with regular hours resuming the following week: Tuesdays through Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A formal ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Friday, September 5, at 10 a.m.

The Gardens have undergone extensive renovations designed to improve visitor experience and accessibility. Upgrades include the addition of accessible restrooms, nearly a mile of paved walking paths, enhanced parking accessibility, improvements to the bonsai and butterfly exhibits, and new garden beds and interactive features designed for children in the Living Laboratory garden area. A new covered pavilion will also provide a versatile space for events and educational programming. Following the reopening, the historic Hiram Butler House will receive further enhancements funded by the State of Georgia. These improvements support Smith-Gilbert Gardens’ mission to be a resource for conservation, education and the enjoyment of horticulture, fine arts and historic preservation.

A highlight of the reopening is the expanded Garden with Wings Butterfly Exhibit, opening Monday, September 1. The exhibit will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and offers an immersive experience showcasing native butterflies and their full life cycles. Visitors will explore host and nectar plants essential to butterfly survival, including tulip poplar and passionflower vine.

Timed-entry tickets are required for all visitors to the Butterfly House, including members, and may be purchased online or at the Gardens Gift Shop for $3 per person. Due to limited capacity, advanced ticket purchase is strongly encouraged. Members enjoy complimentary access but are asked to reserve tickets in advance. All guests will check in at the Hiram Butler House, where wristbands and timed entry cards will be distributed.

Please note that the Butterfly House is not fully ADA-accessible due to narrow pathways, and strollers are not permitted. However, wheelchairs are allowed and accommodation for guests with mobility needs will be provided whenever possible.

Returning this season is the popular Adopt a Butterfly campaign. For a donation of $20 or more, supporters receive a waterproof vinyl sticker set featuring custom artwork of a monarch butterfly and eastern tiger swallowtail. Adoptions are available online and at the Gardens Gift Shop. Proceeds benefit the Smith-Gilbert Gardens Foundation and support the Butterfly Exhibit.

For more information about Smith-Gilbert Gardens, the Garden with Wings Butterfly Exhibit, or to reserve tickets, visit www.smithgilbertgardens.com.