It is finally Spring in Charlotte and that means that flowers are starting to bloom! If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and picturesque place to take a walk (or plan an Instagram photoshoot…) the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens are the perfect place!
The Claywells decided to check out the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens located directly on Campus. Stefanie went to UNC Charlotte (Go 49ers!) and never visited the Botanical Gardens. While on campus we had to stop at the Student Union to take in this amazing view of the main quad on campus!
The UNCC Botanical Gardens were founded in 1966 to create a living learning space for Biology students. The Gardens are over 10 acres and are home to thousands of different flowers and trees.
There is a parking lot directly at the Greenhouse, which is part of the Botanical Gardens. Parking there is limited, however there are plenty of parking decks within walking distance.
When entering the main entrance you can pick between two gardens. We decided to check out the Harwood Garden. The Harwood Garden is a diverse place with plants all around the world.
There are plenty of great picture spots. However, watch your step: we saw two snakes hanging out by the pond! The Harwood Garden has bridges, a Gazebo, an Asian Gate and a Moon Gate.
As we walked through the garden we noticed that each plant had a name tag. It was cool to learn about all the different types of trees, flowers, and bushes. Below are some pictures from the Asian Gate. It is located on the East entrance of the Garden.
The Moon Gate is probably the most famous Picture Spot in the Garden.
A Moon Gate is traditional architectural element in Chinese Gardens. Moon Gates have many different spiritual meanings. The roofs of the gate represent the half moon of the Chinese Summers. The purpose of these gates is to serve as an inviting entrance. The gates were originally only found in the gardens of wealthy Chinese nobles.
After the main attraction (Moon Gate), we walked back to the main entrance and took some pictures of the snakes (yikes). We were planning on visiting the Van Landingham Glen Garden, but it started to rain and the forecast called for thunderstorms. We took some more pictures on the way out and decided to come back when the temperatures are warmer and the Gardens are green.
If you are ever in the Charlotte area or are looking for a romantic date spot or just want to get the girls together for a fun photo shoot, keep the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens in your mind.
There is no entrance fee for the Greenhouse or the Botanical Gardens. Donations are welcome.