From the conservatory to the Gaffield Children’s Garden, where young kids can learn about nature, Matthaei Botanical Gardens is an Ann Arbor fave. This spot educates and informs families about nature through its greenhouse, native plant gardens and more. And now, this University of Michigan gem is marking a big anniversary with a new spring exhibit, Celebrating 50 Years on Dixboro Road.
Back in 1957, regent Frederick Matthaei Sr. and his wife, Mildred Hague Matthaei, dreamed of the day the university would have its own botanical gardens. So, in an effort to make their vision a reality, the couple donated 200 acres of land that would later become Matthaei Botanical Gardens.
To showcase the expansion and progress of this local landmark, Matthaei Botanical Gardens welcomes families to check out its temporary exhibit, open daily from Feb. 25 to April 8, 2012.
Take a little trip to the gardens, without leaving your seat! Check out MetroParent.com’s Going Places Video.
The exhibit features photographs from onset of construction, along with special highlights on historical plants – some of which still grow in the conservatory today.
Families are welcome to stop by Matthaei Botanical Gardens from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, or from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays. Admission is free.
If you haven’t explored the area, now is the perfect time. And if you want to give your little one an education in nature, be sure to check out that Gaffield Children’s Garden while you’re there!
See the Metro Parent listing for more on the spring exhibit, Celebrating 50 Years on Dixboro Road at Matthaei Botanical Gardens in Ann Arbor.