I have been looking forward to visiting the Botanical Center for some time now, ever since I first learned of it years ago while volunteering on a service project in Roger Williams Park.

My partner and I visited today as part of a day trip to Providence with my mother and were looking forward to spending an hour or two enjoying the warmth of the garden on such a cold winter’s day.

After paying for admission at the gatehouse, we were surprised at the level of noise and commotion with which we were greeted upon entering the greenhouse. Apparently a wedding was being held there the same evening and the vendors had arrived early to stage the event. There were many (unmasked) people coming and going, making a lot of noise moving tables and chairs, dropping large clanging metal pieces. It was difficult to walk around and even more difficult to enjoy the greenhouses as a result. We only saw a portion of the smaller greenhouse because the greater part of that greenhouse was occupied by workers setting up and dressing tables for the function later. The main greenhouse was also dominated by the vendors.

I was very disappointed by my visit today. I let the gatekeeper know this and he apologized and said that the vendors must’ve come early today. We felt rushed and in the way, and left after about twenty minutes due to the commotion. Especially in winter, when the rest of the gardens are closed, it does not make sense to have people pay to enjoy a leisure space which is being used as a workspace.

I would advise that in the future the RWPBC close early or offer free or reduced admission rather than continue to admit people at full cost for a sub-par experience. RWPBC should also disclose this upfront, both in person and on the website. We had alternative plans to visit the RISD art museum this afternoon which we were unable to do because we chose to go to RWPBC instead.

I saw a number of other couples who I’m sure, like ourselves, may have been visiting in part to consider the Center as a possible venue for a future special event such as a wedding. I can confidently say that after today’s experience, we are crossing RWPBC off of our list due to the apparent lack of communication and coordination skills exhibited.

I hope that the Center will be more mindful when coordinating events in the future and disclose to guests when such events are taking place so they can decide to go elsewhere before paying for disappointment.