Despite the fact that Utah is a desert and receives very little rain each year, we have some of the most beautiful gardens to visit. They showcase the many varieties of flowers, grasses, shrubs, bushes and trees that do well in Utah's arid climate. Some of these beautiful Utah gardens also offer classes, entertainment, and community events. (The cost listed is for entrance to the garden, classes, special events and photography passes may cost extra.)
Salt Lake County
Red Butte Garden and Arboretum – $7-$14 – 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City : Red Butte Botanical Garden is located in the foothills near the University of Utah. It is 100 acres with 21 acres of developed gardens and 5 miles of hiking trails and has over 200,000 visitors annually.
International Peace Gardens – Free – 1060 S 900 W Salt Lake City : Dedicated in 1952, the International Peace Gardens has 26 sections that are planted to represent 26 nations. It was started as a lesson in peace and understand among different nations. I personally think this is one of the most interesting gardens in Salt Lake City.
Sego Lily Gardens – Free – 1472 E Sego Lily Dr, Sandy : This garden's focus is to be an outdoor classroom for water conservation for Sandy residents. Go to their website for more information about programs and events including a printable scavenger hunt.
Jordan Valley Conservation Garden – Free – 8275 S 1300 W, West Jordan : This is a beautiful garden that focuses on water conservation strategies and designs. They offer many classes in the Education Center. Wheelchair accessible.
Temple Square – Free – Between North and South Temple and West Temple and State Street in downtown Salt Lake City: Owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, there are 10 acres of beautiful gardens surrounding the Mormon Temple, Tabernacle and Church Administration Buildings.
Davis County
USU Botanical Center – Free – 725 S 50 W, Kaysville : This is a USU distance education site that offers tons of classes and educational activities on 94 acres. It also includes an arboretum, themed gardens and a conservatory.
Weber Basin Water Conservation Learning Garden – Free – 2837 Hwy 193, Layton : They have some wonderful free classes and educational opportunities at the Weber Basin Water Conservation Learning Garden.
Juab County
Nephi Federated Women's Club Memorial Rose Garden – Free – 100 E North St, Nephi: This small rose garden honors veterans of World War II from the area.
Millard County
Territorial State House Rose Garden – Free – 50 W Capitol Ave, Fillmore : Located next to the Territorial State House Museum, is an All American Rose Garden.
Utah County
Central Utah Gardens – Free – 355 W University Parkway, Orem : Central Utah Gardens was created to encourage water conservation. There are classes, tutorials and even concerts.
Bertrand F. Harrison Arboretum and Botany Pond – Free – 400 E 800 N, Provo: On the edge of the BYU campus is a collection of trees representing the different areas of the United States. It was started as a place of “study, relaxation and reflection” by Professor Bertrand Harrison who taught Botany for 43 years.
Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point – $15-20 – 3900 N. Garden Dr, Lehi : Ashton Gardens are one of the most costly gardens on our list but they are also some of the largest and most impressive on the list. There are 55-acres of manicured lawns, stately gardens, and a huge man-made waterfall.
Summit County
Swaner Preserver and Ecocenter – Free, though a $5 donation suggested: Explore engaging exhibits and enjoy the views of the Preserve. Connect with nature by taking a walk on our 400 ft. pier out onto the Preserve or venture up the four-story tower to look for wildlife.
Washington County
Red Hills Desert Garden – Free – 1851 S Dixie Dr, St. George : This is a really fun 4.5-acre garden with replica red rock and over 5000 different water wise plants. There are beautiful trails and shade spots to enjoy too.
The Garden – Free – 1851 S Dixie Dr, St. George : Open in 2002, this 2-acre garden aims to demonstrate water efficient landscapes and is operated by the Washington County Water Conservancy District.
Weber County
Ogden Municipal Gardens – Free – 25th Street Grant Ave, Ogden: About 5 acres of flowers and landscaped grounds. Includes a park for the kids, water feature, and amphitheater.
Ogden Nature Center – $3-$5 – 966 W 12th Street, Ogden : The Ogden Nature Center is not a garden with floral displays like many of the others but is a 152-acre nature preserve with and educational focus.
Ogden Botanical Gardens – Free – 1750 Monroe Blvd, Ogden : Open since 1994, Ogden Botanical Gardens is an 11-acre public garden located along the Ogden River run by Utah State University.
Do you have any other recommendations for beautiful Utah gardens? Leave a comment we'd love to include it on our list!
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