Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Rate this place

Parks

Virginia

Nearby: Laney Lost Valley Park Clarks Crossing Park

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is a beautiful public garden situated in Vienna, Virginia.

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

It is located on 95 acres of land and features a vast collection of native and exotic plants, trees, and shrubs, as well as a host of beautiful natural features and man-made structures.

There are numerous good reasons to visit Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, including the chance to explore the various gardens and trails, participate in various seasonal events and programs, and enjoy the peaceful and serene environment that the garden provides. One of the most popular attractions is the Korean Bell Garden, which features a traditional Korean pavilion and a large bronze bell that is rung to mark special occasions.

Other points of interest include the Shade Garden, which is filled with a variety of plants and trees that thrive in low-light conditions, and the Meadowlark Visitor Center, which provides visitors with information about the garden's history and mission. There are also several walking trails, a large pond, and a variety of wildlife that can be seen throughout the garden.

Interesting facts about Meadowlark Botanical Gardens include that it was originally created as a private garden by the founder of the American Horticultural Society, and that it has grown to become one of the most popular botanical gardens in the region. The garden is also committed to sustainable practices, including using native plants and minimizing the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

The best time of year to visit Meadowlark Botanical Gardens depends on personal preferences and interests. Spring is a popular time to visit, as the garden is filled with blooming flowers and trees, while fall offers stunning foliage displays. Winter is also a great time to visit, as the garden is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive decorations and lights.

Overall, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, gardening, or simply looking for a peaceful and beautiful escape from city life.

Explore Interactive Map

MEADOWLARK BOTANICAL GARDENS

Parks • Parks • Recreation

December 5, 2025

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.

Related References