Come explore Smith-Gilbert Gardens, the City of Kennesaw’s botanical garden. With more than 4,000 plant species in a serene, 17-acre garden setting, surrounding the historic Hiram Butler House (c. 1880), there is something for everyone. Collections include

  • The Rose Garden
  • The Paladino Camellia Garden
  • An American Conifer Society Reference Garden
  • The first public Crevice Garden in Georgia
  • The top bonsai exhibit in the southeast
  • 30 garden sculptures created by nationally recognized artists
  • Koi ponds and a waterfall
  • Audubon Society Certified Wildlife Habitat

Only a mile from Kennesaw City Hall, Smith-Gilbert Gardens is a convenient place to get away and get in touch with nature. Visitors enjoy taking a leisurely stroll along the woodland path, or quietly meditating near the waterfall. Birders appreciate our location on a major migratory route that sees hundreds of species pass through each spring and fall.

Smith-Gilbert Gardens promotes conservation. Each July “A Garden With Wings” opens, featuring a native butterfly house and pollinator garden where visitors can witness the full life cycle of a butterfly. In September the Hummingbird Banding event draws hundreds to learn about our tiniest native birds. The Great Backyard Bird Count in February is a fantastic introduction to the diversity of wild bird life in North Georgia.

The Gardens inspires gardeners and crafters. Spend a Saturday morning learning how to create bonsai or how to make worm compost. Scouts learn skills and earn badges at Badge Day workshops. Classes for adults and children range from wreath-making to robotics and beyond.

To learn more about what’s happening at the Gardens, view the events calendar. Smith-Gilbert Gardens is located at 2382, Pine Mountain Road, Kennesaw, GA 30152. Open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Call (770) 919-0248 for more information.

 

  • bonsai display

    Photo by Debbie Wolfe

  • Girl holding hummingbird

    Photo by TCPICS

  • photo of garden

  • photo of outdoor water pond

  • photo of outdoor statues

  • photo of woman and boy

    Photo by TCPICS