San Antonio Botanical Garden in Texas

Recognized nationally for commitment to outstanding displays, botanical diversity, education, environmental stewardship, and experiences that connect people to the natural world, the Botanical Garden is a top San Antonio attraction that serves as a museum of plants, a tranquil escape, a living classroom, a research and conservation facility, and entertainment venue where art, architecture, music, and theater experiences come to life.

That’s a succinct portrayal of the Garden as stated on their website. Their mission is “enriching lives through plants and nature”.

San Antonio Botanical Garden has a wide range of plants from Texas and around the world spread out over 38 acres. The garden was first conceived in the 1940s by Mrs. R. R. Witt and Mrs. Joseph Murphy, who organized the San Antonio Garden Center. The two went on to develop a master plan for a city botanical center in the late 1960s.

What to do at the Garden?

Appreciate, learn from, and enjoy. The Botanical Garden’s tranquil 38 acres serve as a living museum of native and imported plant life. You will find there outstanding horticulture displays, botanical diversity, education, conservation, and experiences that will connect you to the natural world. For those of us who have mobility issues all areas are wheel-chair accessible.

Quick Facts

• 35 endangered and rare species in care
• 368,000 annual guests
• 12,575 supportive members
• 3,865 Museums for All guests

What do visitors have to say about their trip to the Gardens?

Well, we got some neat reviews of the place.

“The Botanical Gardens made for an enjoyable day with my grandson. The Family Adventure Garden was a great place for him to run and climb while experiencing the beauty of the fountains and gardens. We slowed the pace a little in the other sections of the garden to allow for a more educational experience”, says Taho, a visitor.

“If you had told me I would have enjoyed walking around outside in July in 100-degree heat, I might not have believed you. But we all did! It was a very expansive garden with lots of different sections to see and more was in bloom than expected for this time of year. And of course, we liked looking at the greenhouse offerings of cacti and orchids”, says Kristina.

If you are a nature lover, you will love it at the Gardens. There are signs everywhere telling you what you are looking at. There are many hidden gems to find there – different kinds of flowers and trees, all on a very nice trail throughout, rainforests in enclosed glass terrariums, an amazing lake right in the middle, beautiful landscapes and greenhouses and much more.

Want to plan a visit?

Timing:

• November – February
  9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Monday – Sunday
• March – October
  8 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Monday – Wednesday; Friday – Sunday
  8 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Thursday

-Hours subject to change for special events

Fee: Adults – $16;
Children ages 3 – 13  – $13
$2 extra on Fridays and weekends.