Missouri Botanical Gardens
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The mission of the Missouri Botanical Gardens, “To discover and share knowledge about plants and their environment, in order to preserve and enrich life.” is actually a very lofty goal but one the facility accomplishes with great vim and vigor.
Established in 1859 the Missouri Botanical Gardens are a National Historical Landmark and a must-see if you’re traveling in the area. Amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown St. Louis, this is 79-acre wonderland feels like a magical world.
Founder Henry Shaw’s 1850 estate, Tower Grove House, underwent a 2-year, $1 million restoration and reopened to the public in 2005. The Italianate-style home is surrounded by reflecting pools and stately sculptures, not to mention the delicate blossoms and sometime riotous blooms that decorate the grounds.
The 14-acre Japanese strolling garden, Seiwa-en, is the largest traditional Japanese Garden in North America and embraces a beautiful 4.5-acre lake. Using the ideas and principals of Zen Buddhist monks, the garden encourages visitors to slow down, contemplate and observe. Traditional Japanese aesthetic principals wind through and around the garden, intertwining beautifully with each other. Another delightful feature of the Gardens is the Climatron Conservatory, which brings an actual rainforest to the center of St. Louis. The native animals run (and fly) wild through the Conservatory and may grace visitors with a brief glimpse as they carom about, darting behind waterfalls, playing in the native hut and racing through lush foliage. St. Louis may not seem like the ultimate get away but a visit to the Missouri Botanical Gardens is sure to enrich your life.
Next post: A Visit to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
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