13 Secret Gardens in America

[Carmen Elsa Irarragorri Wyland]

America is adorned with some beautiful public gardens worth viewing. But if you are in the mood to do a little exploring of gardens less well known, here are 13 secret gardens that open their gates to the public a mere once or twice a year.

1. Stone Acres: Stonington, CT

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

With over a quarter mile of manicured hedges, this traditional English-style garden is a wonder to walk through. It even boasts a rose arbor, and what has been termed a 'ha ha' - a recessed garden wall that doesn't block views. 

2. Murray Gardens: Glastonbury, CT

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

Once you've walked pass the stone gate, two private acres of twisting garden paths, sculptures, beds of daylilies, as well as a waterfall surrounded by Japanese maples, and much more await you. 

3. Garden of Barbara Baker: Fort Worth, TX

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

This garden is inspired by English traditions. It also features sectioned-off rooms, and behind this blue gate (pictured) you will find a butterfly garden. 

4. Garden at Elm Tree: Chicago, IL

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

Garden at Elm Tree is a stately piece of land, filled with spring flowering bulbs. It has undergone extensive renovation since 2006 and has recently introduced a rose garden and an outdoor fireplace.

5. The Woodlands: St: Louis, MO

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

Complete with a Tudor style house, this estate, completed in 1927, has seen many residents, each of whom were avid gardeners. 

6. Alice Platt: Taghkanic, NY

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

You'll happen across this glorious garden at the end of a country lane. The garden features bridges and paths that embrace the natural vegetation, rather than competing with it. 

7. Garden of Jane Garmey: West Cornwall, CT

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

It is hard to look into this dramatic scene from the outside, as centuries-old sugar maples block the view. But, if you are lucky enough to step inside, you will find a birdhouse village and a home that dates back to 1827.

8. Kennelston Cottage: Far Hills, NJ

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

This pretty garden has a European feel to it. The garden features a courtyard space with a reflecting pool. It also features a sunken garden with a stone foundation. 

9. Arthur Garden: Fuquay-Varina, NC

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

This garden's foundation was originally a tobacco field. The current owner of this suburban Raleigh garden uses it as a food-growing laboratory. 

10. Bird Haven Farm: Pottersville, NJ

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

Harriet Stratemeyer Adams, the creator of the Nancy Drew series used to live in the 19th century stone house located in this secret garden. 

11. The Gardens at Ball: Chicago, IL

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

This secret garden is set on 10 acres of land. The gardens are typically open to wholesale horticultural customers. Once a year the thousands of annuals, perennials, and shrubs can be seen by the public.

12. Frog Song Farm: Point Arena, CA

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

This garden features colorful plants that thrive in a Mediterranean-like climate. You'll likely see some chickens too.

13. The Koi Garden: Olympia, WA

image: The Garden Conservancy, source

The main feature to watch out for in this secret garden is the koi pond - which the owner says is the 'piece de resistance'. Nevertheless, its leaf castings and unique birdhouses are equally special.