The US is known for its stunning and diverse natural beauty, with some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. While it’s unrealistic to see them all in one trip, RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival has you covered. From the 4-9 July head down to see Trailfinders and Visit The USA show-stopping garden, America’s Wild that transports you to three natural landscapes designed to be instantly recognisable as North America: desert, forest and prairie.
While there, if you find yourselves inspired and itching to head Stateside and see some of these stunning landscapes and flora in their natural habitat, we’ve rounded up five of the best US gardens to visit. Whether it be the multi-colour wildflower prairie meadows of Austin, Texas; the fiery orange desert landscapes of Phoenix, Arizona; or the vine-covered forest maples of Portland, Oregon, you’re spoilt for choice…
Explore America’s oldest public garden: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston, South Carolina
As the most visited plantation in Charleston and the oldest public garden in the U.S., Magnolia Plantation and Gardens encapsulates the history and heart of Lowcountry life. Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, the plantation has survived the American Revolution, the Civil War, and today houses an illustrious collection of colourful azaleas, ancient camellias and massive oaks draped in Spanish moss. The Audubon Swamp Garden is a particular highlight, where thousands of species coexist amongst the cypress and tupelo gum trees surrounded by blackwater, with herons strolling right next to the walking path.
Admire endangered species: Hoyt Arboretum in Portland, Oregon
For almost 100 years, Hoyt Arboretum has played a central role in conserving endangered tree species as part of its spectacular ridge-top location just minutes from downtown Portland. Home to 2,300 species of trees and shrubs, including stately redwoods, vine-covered maples, and groves of flowering dogwoods, there are 12 miles of hiking trails to soak up the serenity of this awe-inspiring Oregon forest. The arboretum offers engaging weekly classes for those who want to deep-dive into the secrets of the forest, with forest bathing, photography and writing workshops available at affordable prices.
Indulge in a wildflower oasis: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Centre in Austin, Texas
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Centre has been at the heart of conservation efforts to restore and celebrate the beautiful prairie landscape of Texas. The Centre’s native plants sprawl across 300 acres of wildflower meadows, butterfly gardens and an arboretum, and serve as a calm resting place to feel re-invigorated and inspired by the power of nature. The garden is so well loved that in 2017, it was officially designated as the Botanic Garden of Texas. Don’t miss the Centre’s ‘Nature Nights’ that entertain the whole family whilst educating visitors about the native flora and fauna that call the garden their home.
Soak up golden hues: Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona
Venture into the ‘Valley of the Sun’ and discover why the desert landscape of Arizona continues to inspire everyone from filmmakers and novelists to avid travellers. There’s no finer starting point than the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, which houses one the world’s best collections of arid plants across an impressive 140 acres. Take your time exploring five thematic trails amidst the red rocks of the Papago Buttes, or to go on a true desert adventure by booking onto the Garden’s Desert Discovery Camps that run throughout the summer months.
Longwood Gardens- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
For a taste of multiple landscapes in one location, visit Longwood Gardens, now highly regarded as one of the great gardens of the world. Originally a Quaker farm, the garden boasts nearly 200 acres of lush formal gardens, open meadows, woodlands, and a grand conservatory. Don’t miss the three spectacular fountain gardens, which are lit up on evenings between May and September as part of the Festival of Fountains. Another summer delight, be entertained by the summer performance series at the garden’s Open Air Theatre amidst a serene meadow backdrop. Longwoodgardens.org
Inspired? Visit ‘America’s Wild’ at RHS Hampton Court Palace Festival
Inspired by the gardens of America? Visit the ‘America’s Wild’ show garden at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival from 4-9 July. ‘America’s Wild’, presented by Trailfinders and Visit The USA, takes visitors on a journey through the desert, forest and prairie landscapes of the U.S., inspiring their next adventure to the great American outdoors. Tickets start from £23.85. For more information, visit: https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-hampton-court-palace-garden-festival.
Want to head to the US yourself? Here’s how to book your next trip!
To book your next great outdoors-inspired trip to the U.S., call Trailfinders on 0207 368 1200, visit one of their 43 stores nationwide or go to www.trailfinders.com; and to discover more about the boundless diversity of American travel experiences, visit www.VisitTheUSA.co.uk.
