The Norfolk Botanical Gardens got their start in 1938, when 220 African-American workers were set to work under a WPA grant to clear 30 acres of vegetation, and plant the seeds that would become one of the largest collections of azaleas, camellias, roses and rhododendrons on the East Coast.
The Norfolk Botanical Gardens consists of over 155 acres, and is home to 30 themed gardens, as well as 95 bird species and 30 butterflies species.
A new garden was opened in 2009 called the "World of Wonders – A Children’s Adventure Garden" which consists of 3 acres where kids can "explore the connections between plants, international culture and the environment – all while having fun!"
A tram takes visitors in a circle pattern through the gardens about every thirty minutes. Visitors may exit the tram at any point, and walk around until the tram returns, or continue walking on their own. (The elderly may have a problem with the tram, as the step up is rather hight. The driver should have a little step for the use of such guests.)
At certain times there is a 45-minute boat tour, which takes visitors on a narrated tour of the Garden as seen from the canals that run throughout the garden.
The gardens are open all year round (but closed of course on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.)
Some of the gardens bloom during each season, so there is always something to see, although rose lovers will want to visit at the height of spring to see the various types of roses in all their glory.
Get your directions using 6700 Azalea Garden Road as the street address. You'll reach the gardens just before you get to the Norfolk International Airport. (Indeed, one of the airport's runways runs adjacent to the gardens, and plane watchers can be found on a knoll enjoying the site of planes taking off and landing.
What are the gardens?
Some of the gardens are:
Japanese Garden
Hofheimer Camellia Garden
Holly Garden and Turner Sculpture Garden
Tropical Display House
Conifer Garden
Sunken Garden
Winter Garden
Bicentennial Rose Garden
Border Walk
Colonial Herb Garden
Enchanted Forest
Rhododendron Glade
There is a lot of walking to be done, so wear comfortable shoes, and have a hat to protect yourself against the sun. A small cafe provides sandwiches and drinks. There is also a gift shop.
Cost? For adults, $7, for children 3-18, $5. The tram is free, the boat tour costs extra.
Official Site
http://www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org
