The Northeastern region of the United States boasts geographical wonders ranging from seaside beaches to lush mountain forests. In Maine, land meets the sea in a picturesque and tranquil setting, making for great views and must-see destinations. In between treating your travelers to seafood boils, boating excursions, and historical sites dating to the early days of America, consider including a peaceful, relaxing activity to your next group tour itinerary.
Maine’s botanical gardens are more than pretty places for an afternoon stroll—they are centers of education, conservation, and community engagement. Many also include an element of historical intrigue, perfect for the avid gardener and history buff alike.
The Blaine House Gardens & Grounds in Augusta has been home to the state’s governors for more than 100 years. Built in 1833, this home was donated to the people of Maine in 1919 to preserve the state’s history and is now a tranquil historic site, apple orchard, and garden that features rotating florals depending on the season. The grounds are designed by landscape architecture firm the Olmsted Brothers, known for designing New York City’s Central Park.
Credit: Visit Maine
Schedule a tour for your group to get an intimate look at the lives of Maine’s most historic political families and peruse the scenic estate. Also in Augusta, the Pine Tree State Arboretum spans over 224 acres and features an array of plant species. This arboretum, whose name references the state’s nickname, offers extensive walking trails, a rock garden, and thematic gardens that showcase Maine’s native flora. Group tours will find plenty to explore, from the arboretum’s butterfly house to its educational exhibits on plant ecology and conservation.
Hamilton House, a Georgian mansion overlooking the Salmon Falls River in South Berwick, is another lesser-known botanical haven group tours will appreciate. This National Landmark has been home to shipping magnates, farmers, and socialites over its long history, and groups can now tour the first floor of the house and its gorgeous grounds, which feature a lively orchard and colorful perennial gardens.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens sprawl across 300 acres of lush greenery and florals, including the Native Butterfly and Moth House and Giles Rhododendron and Perennial Garden. Get a deeper look at these botanical treasures with a themed guided tour, led by knowledgeable docents who can illuminate elements of garden design, native plant care, and biome-specific information. In addition to its plentiful natural beauty, enjoy botanically inspired artwork, photography, and sculptures showcased at the garden’s rotating exhibits.
Credit: Visit Maine
Nestled in the rolling hills of New Gloucester, The Gardens at Pineland Farms is a horticultural treasure. This garden spans 5 acres and showcases a variety of perennial and annual flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Group tours can enjoy guided walks through meticulously designed flower beds, explore educational displays on sustainable farming practices, participate in hands-on gardening workshops, and sample the farm’s award-winning cheeses.
For an educational experience, take your groups to Colby College in Waterville, Maine, and tour the Perkins Arboretum, a 128-acre natural haven featuring a diverse collection of plant life. Guided tours can take visitors along manicured trails, highlighting the native plant species. Perkins Arboretum offers an excellent educational resource, with programs on tree identification, ecological research, and environmental stewardship. Plus, the adjoining bird sanctuary is a great place to share and connect with aviary enthusiasts from all over.
A hidden gem in South Paris, McLaughlin Garden and Homestead is home to New England’s largest collection of lilacs. Established by Bernard McLaughlin in the 1930s, this 2-acre garden has been lovingly preserved and expanded over the decades. In addition to the lilacs, groups can enjoy plentiful primroses, irises, and wildflowers across the grounds. Or, if your group prefers the romance of roses, visit Deering Oaks Park in Portland, a historic urban park that includes The Rose Circle, a beautiful garden featuring a wide variety of rose species. The surrounding park offers additional attractions such as duck ponds, playgrounds, and walking paths perfect for sightseeing.
By Katherine Lawless
Main Image: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay; Credit: Visit Maine
