Munsinger Gardens — Attraction in St. Cloud

We were extremely disappointed with our experience at Munsinger Gardens. After hearing glowing recommendations from multiple people who had their wedding photos taken here without any issues or permits, we decided it would be the perfect location for our own photos. Unfortunately, what should have been a special and memorable moment quickly turned into a stressful and upsetting ordeal.

Upon arriving, everything seemed to be going smoothly until a staff member approached us in an extremely unprofessional and hostile manner. Without any prior explanation, she began yelling at our group, calling us inappropriate names, and threatening to call the police. We were informed—rudely and abruptly—that a permit was required to take photos, something that was not posted anywhere on the grounds or made clear in advance. Given that we had no prior knowledge of this requirement,(Our photographer has previously taken professional photos here with no permits. She had no idea permits were required) we calmly asked if we could purchase a permit on-site in order to continue our session, but were met with more shouting and were refused.

Our entire wedding party remained respectful throughout the interaction. As we were trying to figure out an alternative location (no photos were being taken at that time), the same staff member returned and continued to berate us for not leaving immediately.

This experience was both shocking and disappointing. If photo permits are indeed required, that information should be clearly communicated on the grounds. Furthermore, no one deserves to be treated with such disrespect, especially during such a meaningful occasion.

For those considering Munsinger Gardens for wedding or professional photos, I would strongly advise looking elsewhere. Not only are there restrictive photo policies, but the treatment we received from staff was inexcusable. St. Cloud offers many other beautiful locations that are not only free to access but staffed by people who treat visitors with basic courtesy...

To bad our garden tour was very disappointing. It was raining off and on that day and the guide we had from the-forever well group was not very well informed on the trails and for the gift shop restrooms locations were out of the area where our bus transport parked. Seems rather confusing as we attempted to walk towards the area where the locations of restroom and or gift shop restroom was not set up for more than one individual the gift shop was closed because of the weather perhaps a phone call could have been made to avoid this issue as well as looking for some other place to spend time after our concert. The music was good enjoyed it however the seating was rather unpleasant our assigned seating was in the very front row of the concert hall, ready access however a concert included the entire stage to watch the entertainment as well as listen for the musicians were beautifully making music for our enjoyment I would recommend this ‘coffee concert’ with the St. Cloud orchestra, we were served coffee and cookies on arrival as well as the concert hall seating had cup holders, rather unusual for our group to take advantage of, a nice option as I am a coffee drinking person, I liked the concert as I also stopped in the gift shop as well as the pottery displayed throughout the lobby it was raining and the bus was allowed to park close to the entry for us to dispatch as well as afterwards . If not for the gardens this day was quite a nice day even though the rain made it rather uncomfortable, great bus driver and pleasant day with the YMCA forever well group trip. I am sure the gardens would be a good location for a future time with a little assistance as far as locations for ability to find the area positively explored. The flowers we saw were interesting and at a better day I would recommend a walk through the gardens would be very...

Munsinger and Clemens Gardens isn't just a beautiful place; it's a testament to community vision and dedication, making it a true gem of the Midwest and a must-visit destination in St. Cloud. The story begins with Munsinger Gardens, which took root in the early 1900s on the site of a former sawmill along the Mississippi River. In the 1930s, under the guidance of the city's first park superintendent, Joseph Munsinger, the gardens truly blossomed thanks to the efforts of the Works Progress Administration (WPA). They created the winding paths, flowerbeds, and the iconic lily pond that we enjoy today.

Later, across the street, the Clemens Gardens were lovingly developed, starting in the late 1980s and 1990s, through the generosity of Bill and Virginia Clemens. Inspired by European formal gardens and designed as a place of beauty that Virginia could enjoy even while facing health challenges, these gardens offer a stunning contrast to the more informal Munsinger Gardens. They feature distinct themed areas, incredible fountains, and meticulously manicured displays, including the breathtaking Virginia Clemens Rose Garden.

Together, these adjacent gardens offer a rich tapestry of horticultural artistry and a glimpse into St. Cloud's history and community spirit. It's a true garden oasis, perfect for a peaceful escape and a reminder of the beauty that can be cultivated and cherished over generations. Don't miss this incredible...