Ever wondered what gardening looks like in one of the coldest states?
Imagine stepping into a garden in Alaska, where hardy plants defy the frost and create beauty despite the chill.
From the lush greenhouses of Anchorage to the floral splendor of Fairbanks, Alaska offers some truly remarkable gardens.
What makes these gardens stand out? They can thrive in conditions that might make most plants shiver!
Think you’ve seen it all? Let’s explore ten of the best gardens in Alaska, each showcasing nature’s resilience and offering a delightful escape.
Hi, I’m Hasan, In this article, we will Discover the 10 Best Gardens in Alaska! Explore stunning landscapes, vibrant blooms, and unique botanical wonders in the Last Frontier.
Table of Contents
10 Best Gardens in Alaska (Must-See)
01. Alaska Botanical Garden
The Alaska Botanical Garden, founded in 1993, is a living example of nature’s resilience.
Nestled within 110 acres of woodland in Far North Bicentennial Park, this garden at 4601 Campbell Airstrip Road, Anchorage showcases hardy species that can withstand the chill.
On a recent visit, my family and I explored the garden’s well-maintained trails, even in the rain.
My toddler was thrilled by the fruit bushes, while my grandfather enjoyed the art and peaceful walkways.
With a 4.7-star rating from 801 reviews, it’s clear that this family-friendly spot is a hit for locals and visitors alike.
And don’t worry about any surprise encounters with local wildlife; the garden is thoughtfully fenced to keep moose and bears out.
If you love plants and a serene outdoor experience, this garden is a must-visit.
For more information, visit their official website, call them at (907) 770-3692, or connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
02. Gardens at Bragaw
Looking for a green escape in Anchorage? The Gardens at Bragaw offer a refreshing urban garden experience at 3901-3951 E 4th Ave.
With a solid 4.6-star rating from 22 reviews, this spot features 44 community plots for growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Open from April to October, it’s perfect for those who lack garden space at home but crave a touch of greenery.
I’ve seen firsthand how community gardens, like this one, bloom with life and connection.
Each plot is carefully managed by Anchorage Parks and Recreation, which also provides amenities like portable toilets and garbage cans.
Popular times are around 11 AM, so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter visit.
The garden’s official website, here, offers all the details you need. For more info or to join the community, email or call (907) 343-4355.
03. Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
Looking for a weekend escape that combines stunning scenery with a touch of adventure?
Glacier Gardens Rainforest, located at 7600 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, is your perfect spot.
Established in 1984 by Steve Bowhay and his wife Cindy, this family-run gem offers a 4.6-star experience that’s not to be missed.
Hop onto their ATV for a thrilling ride up the mountain while learning about the area.
At the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views that are perfect for snapping photos.
Remember to check out their gift shop for a quick snack or a charming souvenir, like a Christmas ornament.
With no wait on weekends and a reservation recommended, Glacier Gardens promises a delightful escape into nature.
Contact Information:
- Phone (Tours): 907-790-3377
- Phone (Nursery): 907-789-5166
- Email (General Inquiries): info@glaciergardens.com
- Email (Nursery): nursery@glaciergardens.com
- Official Website: http://www.glaciergardens.com/
04. Centennial Rose Garden
If you ever find yourself in Anchorage, you’ll quickly understand why it’s called “the City of Lights and Flowers.”
It’s not just a nickname—Anchorage goes all out with around 80,000 flowers planted in 460 city beds, making it a bloom-filled paradise.
Among these treasures is the Centennial Rose Garden, nestled in the heart of Delaney Park.
This garden is a fragrant haven, featuring 150 tea rose bushes and another 4,000 annuals scattered throughout the park, offering visitors a sensory delight with every step.
Anchorage has been working hard to ensure this garden, along with the entire city, continues to thrive.
Since 1975, Visit Anchorage has been representing the city’s charm to visitors both in the U.S. and worldwide.
Their efforts not only boost tourism but also ensure that places like the Centennial Rose Garden remain beautiful and accessible for everyone to enjoy.
So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, a stop at this well-maintained garden will provide a peaceful retreat right in the city’s center.
Anchorage might be famous for its rugged wilderness, but the Centennial Rose Garden proves that it also knows how to bloom with the best of them.
Contact Information:
- Phone: (907) 257-2363
- Official website
05. Dimond Greenhouses
When you’re looking for the best place to buy plants in Anchorage, Dimond Greenhouses should be at the top of your list.
Nestled at 1050 W Dimond Blvd, this family-owned treasure has been thriving since 1989.
With over 100 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.7 rating, it’s easy to see why locals consider it a must-visit.
The best time to explore this lush oasis? September. That’s when fall pansies, which love cooler weather, are in full bloom.
These hardy beauties will even brave the Alaskan winter, making them a perfect choice for your garden.
What sets Dimond Greenhouses apart is their careful selection of plants suited for the Alaskan climate, ensuring that your green thumb efforts pay off year-round.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, you’ll find top-notch plants and unbeatable prices here.
No wonder folks say it’s the best in Anchorage.
Contact Information:
- Official website
- Phone: (907) 349-2552
06. Georgeson Botanical Garden
Ever wondered how plants thrive 100 miles from the Arctic Circle?
At Georgeson Botanical Garden in Fairbanks, Alaska, this botanical wonder is the answer.
With a remarkable 4.7-star rating from over 500 Google reviews, it’s clear this garden is a must-visit.
Established in 1989, the garden carries on the legacy of Charles Christian Georgeson, the USDA special agent who came to Alaska in 1898.
George’s mission was to see if this rugged land could support agriculture, and today, his vision lives on in this vibrant garden.
Spanning nine cultivated acres, Georgeson is celebrated for its extensive peony collection, with 139 cultivars blooming in June and July.
Located on the Fairbanks Experiment Farm, the garden is part of the University of Alaska Fairbanks and features a kids’ garden and a charming bridge.
Visitors can enjoy seasonal events, music, and more, all for free.
While smaller than some gardens in the lower 48, Georgeson’s diverse plant selection and zero cost make it a fantastic destination.
I remember strolling through, admiring the well-kept grounds and delightful scents, all without a wait or cost.
If you’re near Fairbanks, make a day of it—bring a lunch and enjoy this lovely, free activity!
Contact Information:
- Phone: 907-474-5211
- Official website
07. Mann Leiser Memorial Greenhouse
Looking for a tropical escape in the heart of Anchorage? The Mann Leiser Memorial Greenhouse might just be the perfect getaway.
Nestled in Russian Jack Springs Park North, this gem is more than just a greenhouse—it’s a mini paradise where you can leave the birch and spruce behind.
Rated 4.8 on Google with 52 reviews, it’s clear that this spot has a special place in locals’ hearts.
The greenhouse is managed by the Horticulture Division of Anchorage Parks and Recreation.
They juggle an impressive portfolio: over 76,000 annual flowers across 81 sites, a whopping 52,000 square feet of greenhouse space, and 215 acres of turf.
That’s no small feat!
Open daily, the greenhouse features a fish pond, and a small aviary, and is fully ADA accessible.
It’s especially great for school-aged kids who want to dive into plant education or enjoy storytime in a unique setting.
And if you’re planning a small wedding or special event, the space is available for rent from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
Though it’s a bit busy on weekends—photo shoots abound—it’s worth a visit.
You can explore the whole space in less than 30 minutes and enjoy a refreshing change of scenery.
Contact Information:
- Phone: (907) 343-4717
- Email: russianjack@muni.org
- Official website
08. Secret Garden Cannabis Dispensary
Ever wondered what it’s like to explore a cannabis dispensary that grows its product?
If you’re in Anchorage, you’re in luck! Secret Garden Cannabis Dispensary at 726 E 15th Ave is a top spot to check out.
With a stellar Google rating of 4.6 based on 460 reviews, it’s clear this place knows how to impress.
I recently visited with friends and had a fantastic experience.
Rosie, one of the knowledgeable staff members, helped me find exactly what I was looking for.
I was genuinely amazed by their state-of-the-art grow setup, the Infinite Room, which is on display right there in the store.
It’s not every day you see a dispensary with such fresh, in-house cultivated cannabis.
The dispensary’s hours are from 8 AM to midnight, every day of the week, and you can also shop online for pickup.
But remember, while the experience is first-rate, it’s important to note the health risks associated with marijuana.
Use it responsibly and keep it away from kids.
So, if you’re in Anchorage and curious about a top-notch cannabis experience, swing by Secret Garden. You might just find it as impressive as I did!
Contact Information:
- Phone: (907) 748-9333
- Official website
09. Jensen-Olson Arboretum
Looking for a slice of botanical heaven in Alaska? Look no further than the Jensen-Olson Arboretum in Juneau.
With a stellar 4.7 rating on Google from 23 reviews, this arboretum is a testament to beauty and botanical diversity.
Located at 23035 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, AK 99801, this gem opened its gates in 2007, thanks to Caroline Jensen’s generous donation of her historical property.
The arboretum now boasts over 1,200 native and cultivated species, turning it into both a garden paradise and a living laboratory.
From March to October, you can explore this vibrant spot Wednesday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.
During winter, it’s open Friday to Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm. The arboretum supports its projects through various fundraising efforts, including wine tastings and sales of arboretum merchandise.
While the arboretum offers no playground and doesn’t allow dogs, it’s a must-visit for plant enthusiasts.
The view is spectacular, and the variety of plants is impressive.
For a historical and botanical experience, Jensen-Olson Arboretum is a true treasure in Alaska’s wild beauty.
Contact Information:
- Phone: (907) 789-0139
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@FriendsofJensen-OlsonArboretum
10. Russian Jack Springs Park North
Looking for a park that’s as lively as it is charming? Russian Jack Springs Park North in Anchorage is your spot.
With a solid 4.4-star rating from over 500 reviews, it’s clear this park strikes a chord with visitors.
Even if the weather’s not perfect, like during my visit when we had a bit of rain, the park’s charm shines through.
From the enchanting FairyWalk with its forest-made mini houses to the chance encounters with local wildlife—like the moose I spotted at the stream—there’s something here for everyone.
For families, it’s a haven with plenty of play areas for kids to enjoy the sunshine.
Just remember, parking near the portable toilets isn’t the best idea.
Contact Information:
Phone: +1 907-343-4355
Address: 801 Pine St, Anchorage, AK 99508, United States
Conclusion
If you’re thinking of Alaskan gardens, brace yourself for a delightful surprise.
From the hardy blooms of the Alaska Botanical Garden to the tropical vibes at the Mann Leiser Memorial Greenhouse, Alaska’s gardens are like a breath of fresh, frigid air.
First up, the Alaska Botanical Garden in Anchorage is a must-visit.
With its 110 acres showcasing resilient species, it’s a testament to nature’s strength in the cold.
A recent visit with my family revealed the garden’s charm: my toddler loved the fruit bushes, and my grandfather enjoyed the peaceful art installations.
Gardens at Bragaw offers a community-focused retreat with vegetable and flower plots, while Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure in Juneau combines adventure with stunning mountain views.
The Centennial Rose Garden in Anchorage is a fragrant gem with its impressive tea roses.
Dimond Greenhouses and Georgeson Botanical Garden in Fairbanks highlight plants suited for Alaskan conditions, while the Mann Leiser Memorial Greenhouse provides a tropical escape right in Anchorage.
Secret Garden Cannabis Dispensary offers a unique twist with its in-house-grown products.
Finally, Jensen-Olson Arboretum in Juneau and Russian Jack Springs Park North in Anchorage showcase the botanical diversity and natural beauty of Alaska.
So, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just curious, Alaska’s gardens promise a refreshing and surprising experience.
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