Come explore Smith-Gilbert Gardens, the City of Kennesaw’s botanical garden and a 17-acre destination for conservation, education, horticulture, fine arts and historic preservation. Centered around the historic Hiram Butler House (ca. 1880), the Gardens feature thousands of plants, woodland paths, tranquil water features and 31 sculptures in a serene setting just one mile from Kennesaw City Hall.
Originally purchased in 1970 by Richard Smith and Dr. Robert Gilbert, the property was thoughtfully developed over the following 35 years with an emphasis on unique plantings and art. Today, visitors can explore a variety of distinct garden areas and collections, including:
- The Palladino Camellia Garden
- One of the largest bonsai collections in the Southeast
- An American Conifer Society Reference Garden
- The first public Crevice Garden in Georgia
- Japanese Maple Grove
- Knowlton Meadow
- The Living Laboratory children’s garden
- Garden with Wings butterfly house
- Sensory Garden
- 31 sculptures by nationally and regionally recognized artists
- Koi ponds and a waterfall
Smith-Gilbert Gardens is a Level II accredited Arboretum through ArbNet and a designated Certified Wildlife Sanctuary by Birds Georgia. As a member of the American Public Gardens Association and American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program, the Gardens also connects visitors with a broader community of public gardens and horticultural organizations.
Conservation is at the heart of the Gardens’ mission. Sustainable gardening practices, including limiting pesticides and herbicides, help support pollinators and wildlife. Birders can enjoy the Gardens’ location along a major migratory route, while visitors of all ages can discover native plants, butterflies, birds and other wildlife throughout the property.
Throughout the year, Smith-Gilbert Gardens offers seasonal exhibits, educational programs and special events. In spring, Art Blooms combines spring blooms with temporary sculpture exhibits, artist workshops and other creative experiences. Each summer, Garden with Wings features a native butterfly house and pollinator garden where visitors can observe butterflies throughout their life cycle. The Living Laboratory gives children an opportunity to explore pollinators, vegetables and plants that thrive in the Georgia climate.
Monthly and seasonal programs provide opportunities to learn more about the Gardens and its collections. Discover Bonsai, held the second Saturday of each month, offers visitors the chance to observe staff and expert volunteers as they care for the Gardens’ extensive bonsai collection. Programs for children and families include Little Sprouts Garden Storytime, Art in the Garden for Kids, Saturday Nature Explorers and Homeschool Day, while adult offerings include the Garden Learning Series, Forest Bathing and Meditation in the Gardens and monthly art workshops.
Whether you’re interested in horticulture, art, wildlife, history or simply looking for a peaceful place to spend an afternoon, Smith-Gilbert Gardens offers something for everyone. Plan to spend at least 1.5 hours exploring the Gardens’ winding paths, collections and exhibits.
To learn more about what’s happening at the Gardens, view the events calendar.