Jardin de l'État Saint-Denis Réunion
A historic green oasis in Saint-Denis, featuring exotic plants, the Natural History Museum, and a popular playground.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Jardin de l'État Saint-Denis Réunion
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic green oasis in Saint-Denis, featuring exotic plants, the Natural History Museum, and a popular playground.
"Lovely garden in the city, space to relax and breathe."
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy a meal amidst nature; there's a small restaurant and artisan bakery nearby. No alcohol allowed.
Feed the Fish 🐟
Bring stale bread to feed the fish in the garden's ponds. Kids love this activity!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural History Museum
Southern end of the garden
Uncover the island's past and natural wonders, including exhibits on the Dodo.
Exotic Plant Collection
Throughout the garden
Wander among thousands of exotic plants and trees, a testament to the garden's colonial past.
Kids' Play Area & Water Games
Near the entrance
A fun spot for children to play, with a playground and water features (check if operational).
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Oasis
History and Nature Combined
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy a meal amidst nature; there's a small restaurant and artisan bakery nearby. No alcohol allowed.
Feed the Fish 🐟
Bring stale bread to feed the fish in the garden's ponds. Kids love this activity!
Check for Events 🎉
The garden hosts various events like parades and festivals. Check schedules beforehand.
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy a meal amidst nature; there's a small restaurant and artisan bakery nearby. No alcohol allowed.
Feed the Fish 🐟
Bring stale bread to feed the fish in the garden's ponds. Kids love this activity!
Check for Events 🎉
The garden hosts various events like parades and festivals. Check schedules beforehand.
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and museum.
Museum Entry 📚
Entry to the Natural History Museum is free, making it a great addition to your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Jardin de l'État a pleasant and peaceful green space in the heart of Saint-Denis, offering a welcome respite from the urban environment. While some feel it could be more focused on indigenous plants and better labeled, its historical charm, the free museum, and family-friendly amenities make it a worthwhile visit for relaxation and a touch of local culture.
"It's a nice park. To call it a botanical garden is a bit of a stretch. I think I've only seen a handful of name tags on the plants. Too bad there wasn't more focus on the indigineous plants. Bar/restaurant place is top though."
gilles van strydonck
"It's free. Not very "botanical", as very few plants or trees are identified. But there're still some big specimens and the garden is agreeably shady. They close on stormy days. Security guards. Toilets. Water games still out of use. August 2023.
Where are the birds , their "house has been empty for a few years now.?
Water games are back in use but due to recent cyclones the park has lost some of its charm. 2025"
eric leroy
"Lovely garden in the city, space to relax and breathe. Small restaurant on site. Also a artisan bakery close to the entrance. Pack a picnic and relax! (no alcohol)"
Hannelie Hartman Sanders
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jardin de l'État is centrally located in Saint-Denis, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by public transport or a short walk from the city center. Many visitors find it a convenient stop while exploring the town.
Parking can be challenging in the city center. It's recommended to use public parking lots or consider walking if you're staying nearby.
Yes, several bus lines serve the Saint-Denis city center, with stops within walking distance of the Jardin de l'État. Check local bus schedules for routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Jardin de l'État is a public park and entry is free for all visitors.
The garden is generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check for any specific closures, especially on stormy days.
The Natural History Museum, located within the garden, offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural experience.
While not explicitly stated, it's common for public parks to have restrictions on pets. It's best to check local regulations or leave pets at your accommodation.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Enjoy a peaceful walk among exotic plants, visit the Natural History Museum, relax in shaded areas, and let children play in the designated play area. 
Absolutely! It features a playground and water games (check if operational), and kids often enjoy feeding the fish. The museum also has engaging exhibits.
There is a small restaurant on-site, and an artisan bakery is located near the entrance. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy in the park.
No, alcohol is not permitted within the Jardin de l'État.
The garden paths are generally well-maintained, making it reasonably accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though some areas might be uneven.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush greenery, the historic museum building, the fountain, and the tree-lined avenues. The vibrant flowers and unique trees offer many picturesque opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed in the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. The garden is also beautiful on a slightly overcast day, providing diffused light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bringing some stale bread to feed the fish is a simple yet highly engaging activity that kids adore. The free Natural History Museum within the garden also provides educational entertainment, with exhibits that can spark curiosity about the island's natural world. Consider packing a picnic to make the most of your family outing in this pleasant green space. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History
Today, it serves as a vital green lung in the heart of Saint-Denis. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of exotic plants and trees, though some reviewers note that not all are clearly identified, making it feel less like a strictly curated botanical garden and more like a beautiful, historic park.
The Natural History Museum Connection
The museum houses a variety of exhibits that delve into the island's unique biodiversity and geological history. One of the highlights for many, especially families, is the opportunity to learn about the island's extinct fauna, most notably the Dodo.
The museum's free admission makes it an accessible and enriching part of any visit to the garden, providing a deeper understanding of the natural heritage of La Réunion. Community Hub and Events
+2These events transform the serene park into a lively venue, showcasing the island's rich cultural tapestry and fostering a sense of togetherness.
Whether it's a music festival, a community gathering, or a family-oriented event, the garden provides a beautiful and accessible backdrop. Visitors interested in experiencing local culture should check the schedule for any upcoming events during their stay. 
Social
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