The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden

This 2-acre garden is the largest horticulture project ever undertaken by the Conservatory. Featuring numerous unique, interactive experiences celebrating the Ohio landscape, the Children’s Garden will focus on introducing and connecting children to the natural world, as well as renewing that connection for their parents and caregivers.

The Children’s Garden will support the Conservatory’s outreach and education mission, promoting active learning for all ages, with emphasis on health and the natural sciences.

The Children’s Garden is open year-round, with the exception of various water features. The Floating Path in the Wetland Explore will close for the season starting on Oct. 12th. The Sandstone Creek and Misting Boulders will close for the season starting on Oct. 17th.

Educational Offerings

Columbus City Schools and Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens have created fun educational activities for families to enjoy. Each is modeled on activities available at the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden at the Conservatory.

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Educational Programs

In the interest of health and safety, all of the following Education Programs have been canceled until further notice. Please use this information to adjust plans accordingly. Typically, programming runs from early April through late October.

Discovery Stations | This interactive station offers fun and hands-on, drop-in style programming for kids of all ages. The station explores a different topic each week related to the weekly theme. The Discovery Station is located at the Learning Pavilion in the Children’s Garden.

Discovery Backpacks | Enhance your exploration of nature with backpacks filled with activities and tools related to plants, trees, animals and more. Backpacks are free, first come, first serve and can be checked out at the Learning Pavilion.

Discovery Guests | Special guests regularly visit the Children’s Garden for a family-friendly program about Ohio wildlife.

Nature Storytime | Enjoy stories that celebrate gardens, art, plants and nature. For ages 3–8 years old who are accompanied by a caregiver.