That’s just what you’ll find at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens… more than just a garden.

Trees, wildflowers, bushes, shrubs, bulbs, they are all here to see, smell, and reflect upon their serene beauty. In addition to a superb luncheon Café, and library, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are multipurpose facility.

Across the 67 acres of lush greenery you’ll find just about every type of tree, flower, and sculpture you could imagine! The gardens are setup in a very simplistic meandering trail across the premises.

The walkways offer a unique view down the flowing stream lined by wildflowers, to terraces created entirely from herbs; you’ll also see all manner of plant life along the path. The Crape Myrtle Garden is a definite must see for all visitors. These vibrant pink buds offer superb sun protection, lining the stone walls and ceiling.

Though the trails offer a great place to walk and enjoy the scenery, the Formal Garden is the most stunning. Lush and vibrant greens flood your senses as the whole area seems to be descended from heaven itself. A small pond glistens in the sun alongside the path shaded by the budding Crape Myrtles. It is a beautiful garden, offering a safe and majestic walking or jogging trail for anyone who just wants to enjoy the excellence of nature.

Before you even consider leaving the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, there is one last stop you must make, at the Japanese Gardens. Opened in 1967, this seven and a half acre garden is truly a breathtaking site.

The garden is a unique mix of small shimmering ponds, curved-top torii, and flowing green trees. A small section of this garden has been set aside as a tribute to the Japanese culture and the stunning centerpiece of this portion of the garden is the Japanese tea house. The small structure was created using traditional Japanese methods, tools, and materials. This beautiful tea house is one of about ten in the United States, and its intricate structure and building will truly amaze you.

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a stunning representation of beauty and serenity in Alabama. It is one of those places that you will remember for years to come and one place that I am quite sure you will plan to re-visit on your next Alabama vacation.