Oxen Pond
1 / 10

Memorial University Botanical Garden St John's

4.7
·581 reviews·St. John's, Canada

A hidden horticultural gem in St. John's, featuring diverse gardens, tranquil trails, and educational displays on local flora.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Spring/Early Summer

Rhododendron season is magical

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Oxen Pond

Memorial University Botanical Garden St John's

Best Time

Late Spring/Early Summer

Rhododendron season is magical

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A hidden horticultural gem in St. John's, featuring diverse gardens, tranquil trails, and educational displays on local flora.

4.7
(581 reviews)

"An absolutely beautiful collection of different types of gardens from rock gardens to Japanese style gardens."

Vertical photo
TIP

Don't Miss the Crevice Garden

This unique rock garden is a highlight! :seedling:

Explore the Trails

Well-kept and kid-friendly paths offer easy walks and beautiful scenery. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spectacular Crevice Garden

Spectacular Crevice Garden

Rock Garden Area

A unique display of alpine plants thriving in a rocky, naturalistic setting. A true horticultural marvel.

Vibrant Heather Collection

Vibrant Heather Collection

Heather Garden

Explore a diverse array of heather species, offering stunning colors and textures, especially in late summer.

Lush Greenhouse

Lush Greenhouse

Greenhouse

Discover a thriving grapevine laden with massive bunches of grapes, a testament to the garden's nurturing environment.

Peaceful Nature Trails

Peaceful Nature Trails

Various trailheads

Gently sloping paths wind through natural landscapes, perfect for an easy, refreshing walk with educational signage.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Best Kept Secret in St. John's?

Often overlooked, this botanical gem offers stunning gardens and peaceful trails just a short drive from the city. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore its diverse collections and learn about local flora.

Timing is Everything

While beautiful year-round, consider visiting during peak bloom for rhododendrons or heather for the most vibrant displays. Weekday afternoons offer a quieter experience, allowing you to truly soak in the tranquility.

Best Times

When
Late Spring/Early Summer
Why
Rhododendron season is magical
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Summer
Why
Heather blooms paint the landscape
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Enjoy tranquility, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A quick look at the spectacular crevice garden at the Memorial University Botanical Garden, St. John's, Newfoundland. #newfoundlandgardening
todd.boland
204 likes • 2.1K views

Don't Miss the Crevice Garden

This unique rock garden is a highlight! :seedling: Instagram

Explore the Trails

Well-kept and kid-friendly paths offer easy walks and beautiful scenery. :hiking_boot: Reddit

Loved showing Ronan (and Dean and David) all the nooks and crannies where I used to eat my lunch and read or photograph flowers the two summers, 2006 and 2007, I worked at the @mun_botanical_garden. 🌺🌺🌺 My father planted these rhododendrons. 👨‍🌾 Rhododendron season is magical. Amazing that Newfoundland will bless us with rhododendrons, laburnum (golden chains), lupins, and more all in bloom at t...
zarenhealey
28 likes • 368 views
Heather collection at the Memorial University Botanical Garden in St. John's, Newfoundland. #calluna #heather #munbotanicalgarden #newfoundlandandlabrador
todd.boland
87 likes • 681 views

Visit During Bloom

Rhododendrons and heather offer spectacular color. :flower: Instagram

Go Near Closing

You might have the place to yourself for a peaceful experience. :clock1: Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Don't Miss the Crevice Garden

This unique rock garden is a highlight! :seedling: Instagram

Explore the Trails

Well-kept and kid-friendly paths offer easy walks and beautiful scenery. :hiking_boot: Reddit

Visit During Bloom

Rhododendrons and heather offer spectacular color. :flower: Instagram

Go Near Closing

You might have the place to yourself for a peaceful experience. :clock1: Reddit

Discover the Heather

A stunning collection of heather species awaits. :purple_heart: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(581 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the beauty and tranquility of the Memorial University Botanical Garden, often calling it an overlooked gem. Many highlight the diverse garden collections, peaceful walking trails, and the overall well-maintained nature of the grounds. While some wish it were more widely promoted, the consensus is that it offers a delightful and enriching experience for all ages.

"It isincredible that this is not one of the more recommended places on blogs or vlogs. It’s a 15 minute drive from St John’s harbour. This is an absolutely beautiful collection of different types of gardens from rock gardens to Japanese style gardens.
There is even a green house with a grapevine growing profusely with massive bunches of grapes. An absolute must for all the gardeners and those with botanical conservation and nature interests. There is a wonderful pollinator garden and beehive.
In addition to the gardens there are trails most gently sloping and low inclines with lots of signs for teaching information about the wild plants and berries. Definitely senior friendly trails with exception one that is clearly labelled as rugged."

Carolyn Emma

"The Botanical Garden was not on our to-do list as it’s not mentioned anywhere on any “Things to do in St John’s” sites. But since we had a gap in our schedule, my daughter wanted to go see it. Boy aren’t we happy we did! We did all 4 trails and the garden. The trails are well kept and clean. The air is fresh. The hike is very kid friendly. I highly recommend if you like a little easy walk in nature."

Karen Lee

"Wow. This place has a lot of love evident. It's beautifully done with gorgeous samples everywhere you look! So many fun features in it, and the staff were wonderful. You can easily spend a couple hours taking everything in!"

Gabe

What People Like

Beautifully diverse gardens
Peaceful walking trails
Well-maintained grounds

What People Dislike

Under-promoted attraction

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The garden is conveniently located about a 15-minute drive from St. John's harbour. Driving is the easiest option, with ample parking available. Public transport options may be limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving. Reddit

While driving is recommended, it's worth checking current local bus schedules as routes can change. Some visitors have found it accessible, but it may require a longer journey. Reddit

Most visitors opt to drive, as it's a quick and easy trip from downtown St. John's. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also viable options if you prefer not to drive. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's generally ample, especially during off-peak hours, making it easy to access the gardens. Reddit

No, it's quite close! It's only about a 15-minute drive from St. John's harbour, making it an easy excursion. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and any special event closures. Reddit

While not always strictly necessary, purchasing tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak season. Check their website for online booking options. Reddit

Admission fees are typically reasonable. Check the official Memorial University Botanical Garden website for current pricing for adults, seniors, and children. Reddit

Look out for potential discounts for seniors, students, or group rates. It's always a good idea to inquire about any available concessions when booking. Reddit

The garden's accessibility and open areas may be limited during winter months due to weather conditions. Always verify their winter operating status before planning a visit. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the spectacular crevice garden, the vibrant heather collection, and the lush greenhouse with its impressive grapevine. The pollinator garden with its beehive is also a fascinating stop. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, there are several well-kept trails, most with gentle slopes, offering beautiful views and educational signage about local plants and berries. One trail is marked as rugged. Reddit+1

Absolutely! The trails are very kid-friendly, and toddlers often love exploring the different garden areas. It's a great place for families to enjoy nature. Reddit+1

Yes, photography is encouraged! It's a beautiful spot for capturing nature's beauty, especially during bloom seasons. Instagram+1

The garden typically offers restrooms and often has a shop and cafe where you can relax and purchase refreshments or souvenirs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early morning or late afternoon light provides the softest, most flattering light for photography. Golden hour can be particularly magical. Instagram+1

The crevice garden, the heather collection, and the greenhouse with its abundant grapes are all highly photogenic. The variety of plant life offers endless opportunities. Instagram+1

Focus on macro shots of flowers and textures, wider shots of the garden landscapes, and capture the unique features like the crevice garden's rock formations. Instagram+1

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the garden staff or their website to confirm if tripods are permitted, especially during busy times. Instagram

Late spring and summer offer the most color with blooming flowers. However, the garden's structure and textures can be beautiful even in autumn or with a dusting of snow. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Memorial University Botanical Garden is a fantastic outing for families. The well-kept and kid-friendly trails are perfect for little legs to explore, offering an easy and engaging walk in nature.Reddit Your toddler will likely love discovering the different plants and flowers, and the educational signage can spark curiosity about the natural world.Reddit Pack some snacks and water, and plan to spend a good couple of hours letting the kids roam and discover the wonders of the garden. It's a safe and beautiful environment for them to burn off energy while learning.

🌿 Garden Enthusiasts & Nature Lovers

For those with a passion for botany and conservation, this garden is a must-visit. The diverse collections, from the unique crevice garden to the extensive heather display, offer a rich horticultural experience.Instagram+1 You'll appreciate the dedication to showcasing local and specialized plant species. The informative trails also provide valuable insights into Newfoundland's native flora.Reddit It's a place where you can easily spend hours admiring the beauty and learning about plant life, making it a truly rewarding visit for any garden lover.

🚶‍♀️ Seniors & Those Seeking Gentle Activity

The majority of the trails at Memorial University Botanical Garden are gently sloping and low-inclined, making them ideal for seniors or anyone looking for a relaxed walk.Reddit You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air without strenuous effort. The well-maintained paths ensure a comfortable experience, and the educational signage adds an enriching element to your stroll. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon outing.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Diverse Gardens

The Memorial University Botanical Garden is a meticulously curated space showcasing a remarkable variety of plant life. Visitors rave about the spectacular crevice garden, a unique feature where alpine plants thrive amongst rocks, creating a miniature mountain landscape.Instagram This area is a testament to the garden's dedication to showcasing plants in their naturalistic settings. Another highlight is the vibrant heather collection, which transforms the landscape with a tapestry of colors, particularly in late summer.Instagram These specialized gardens offer a glimpse into the resilience and beauty of diverse flora.

Beyond these specialized areas, the garden boasts other captivating sections. The greenhouse is a must-visit, home to a profusely growing grapevine that produces massive bunches of grapes, a surprising and delightful sight.Reddit For those interested in ecological balance, the pollinator garden with its active beehive provides an educational and engaging experience, highlighting the importance of these vital creatures. The overall design emphasizes natural beauty and horticultural excellence, making each section a discovery.

Walking the Tranquil Trails

Beyond the cultivated garden beds, the Memorial University Botanical Garden offers a network of peaceful nature trails that invite exploration and gentle exercise. Most of these paths are designed with low inclines and gentle slopes, making them accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of visitors, including seniors and families with young children.Reddit+1 The trails wind through natural landscapes, providing a refreshing escape and opportunities to connect with the local environment.

Informative signage along the routes educates visitors about the wild plants and berries native to Newfoundland, adding an educational layer to the walk.Reddit While the majority of the trails are easy to navigate, one is clearly marked as 'rugged,' offering a slightly more challenging experience for those seeking it. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a light hike, these trails provide a serene way to experience the garden's natural beauty and fresh air. Many visitors find these walks to be a highlight, offering a welcome break and a chance to appreciate the outdoors. Reddit+1

You may also like