Minnesota Landscape Arboretum — Attraction in Chanhassen

You need more than a day to take in all of its vast 1,200+ acres, 28 variety gardens, 18 stunning displays, and rolling landscapes. That is not to mention its dining options, gift center, walking pathing, and multiple plant collections. It is a great way to identify local plant species and varieties that I consider for my own gardens. Be sure to take in the horticultural field laboratories and public seasonal display areas in the countryside.

It is worth going multiple times to catch different seasons. They do a remarkable job of having something blooming Spring, Summer, and Fall. The rhododendrons are stunning starting in March. In summer months I love the roses and lush beds on bright annuals blooming. The camellias are in full bloom in early May.

We went recently as a group and had an enjoyable time driving through the various gardens. It’s nice this is well laid out and marked as it is too much to walk for some guests and time frames.

We took in lunch but by 1:15 PM most salad options were gone and few sandwiches available too. So, I really recommend going early. Staff is helpful at the lobby’s front desk. In previous years when I had an annual membership, we picnicked more often here. Tables are available at the Ordway Picnic Shelter and nearby Trex Deck. You can also access them easily if you drive to the Sensory Garden parking lot.

As it’s Google Knowledge Graph announced, reservations and purchasing entrance tickets are a requirement. Lots of parking, but it can still be challenging on popular days, like warm weekends. Check out parking lots past Parking Lot 1 and Parking Lot 21, where most people first arrive. It was posted years ago that people could go for FREE on the third Tuesday of each month. However, the Arboretum staff confirms that it is not offered today.

I recommend that you order your tickets online before going. They do not let you purchase at the entrance. The app requires your personal details before you can buy a ticket - and it charged me double the cost. This a place MN residents can be really proud of - we are grateful to have it!

The fall color image was shared with me by...

Online tickets only: $20 non-members (16+) - needed barcodes are emailed to you. Parking: lots of parking, ♿ handicapped located in the first row. Tours: 🛺 rides are offered for outside grounds. Leon C. Snyder building: automatic entrance doors, visitor info booth by west entrance, bathrooms beyond visitors info booth next to the art displays that are for sale $$$$, cafe is located on the top floor accessible by stairs or elevator, gift shop located first floor east side, library has a gorgeous wood interior but is open certain times of day, and gardens accessible by multiple exits of the building. Educational building: down the road from the parking lot is a building dedicated to the youth including learning exhibits and educational classes. 3-Mile drive around the rest of the property where you'll find a maze (see photo), Chinese garden (see photo), sculpture garden, and much more. The gardens: they have a Japanese garden, Chinese garden, rose garden, kitchen herb garden, shrub garden, waterfalls, picnic areas, fountains, and much more.

Open all year, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is such a beautiful place to go! No matter what season it is, they have flowers and plants to display in the Leon C. Snyder building or grounds. If you go in the spring, you'll see blooming flowers and art vendor fairs; autumn, you'll see foliage, pumpkins and a hay building on the grounds; winter, you'll see tons of Christmas lights outside and inside as well as the largest Christmas trees I've ever seen next to served hot coco/cider. They also offer moonlight walks along the trails. There is so much to see and do here. I 100% recommend this to anyone and everyone. There is almost nothing to complain about. However, I only have 2 things that bother me hence the minus 1 ⭐. 1) the Chicken Cranberry Salad is bland BUT the Chop Chop Salad is delicious! 2) the Chinese Garden is lacking and looks...

My visit to the landscape Arboretum was magnificent. I’m still reeling from the sheer beauty and tranquility of the experience. As soon as I stepped through the gate, I was enveloped in this serene oasis missed the bustling city. The property is a master class in landscape design with rolling Hills, sparkling, lakes, and meandering paths that invite exploration. The gardens are meticulously maintained with an incredible variety of plant species and thoughtfully arrange to create a sense of discovery around every band. I noticed one of the fountains was misbehaving and lo and behold, a whole crew showed up and got it up and running in no time. It was awesome to witness the speedy devotion of the employees. Also, they all took time to wave at my baby, which was so cute. You could tell that they really take pride in their role of creating a beautiful experience. From the vibrant colors of the prairie garden, to the quality of the Asian-inspired garden, each area was a feast for the senses. what truly stole my heart was the natural beauty of the arboretum’s native landscapes. The way the sunlight filtered through the trees, casting shadows on the floor was nothing short of breathtaking. The songs of birds, the wrestling leaves, and the water features created a symphony of natural harmony. The sculptures and art installations throughout the property were stunning pieces that added an extra layer of depth and meaning to the experience. I spent hours meandering, taking in the sites,and feeling my worries melt away with each step. I’m so happy that my baby got to see nature in this way. If I’m being completely honest, I think I might’ve spent more time than intended exploring this incredible space. It was hard to tear myself away from the charm, and the roaming turkeys were such a treat. The Minnesota landscape arboretum is a true gem and I cannot wait to return and explore more of...