If you’re looking for a escape filled with natural beauty, inspiring landscapes, and family-friendly experiences, the Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan, is the perfect place to explore. No matter the season, the gardens offer a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature.

A Garden for every Season

Dow Gardens spans over 110 acres of curated landscapes, woodlands, streams, and gardens. Each season offers something unique, from spring blooms and summer greenery to vibrant fall foliage and peaceful winter scenes. Whether you’re walking among tulips, crunching leaves underfoot, or enjoying the peaceful nights with carolers and crunching of the snowy paths, the beauty here is always changing and always worth the trip.

What to see and do

Canopy Walk

One of the highlights of Dow Gardens is the Whiting Forest and its soaring Canopy Walk - the longest in the nation. Suspended high among the trees, it offers breathtaking views of the forest below and a sense of adventure for visitors of all ages.

the Children’s Garden

The Children’s Garden is hands-down our favorite stop. I always plan to be in this area of the park by snack/lunch time. There are plenty of tables and chairs to enjoy a picnic while the kids run around and play. This space was designed to engage kids with nature through play and imagination. It is full of interactive elements like whimsical sculptures, tunnels, bubble tables, and water features. During the late summer, guests are invited to taste the fresh produce grown in this section of the park. The area is mostly enclosed and beautifully maintained, making it easy for parents to relax while their little ones explore. You can also find a bathroom building with one side for “Big people” and one side for “Small people”, the bathroom is designed perfectly for independent kids. Seasonal programming and activities add extra excitement, so be sure to check the calendar when planning your visit.

Tour The Homes

Outside of the park, you can tour the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio. This guided tour will allow you to explore where the innovative architecture of Alden B. Dow, son of Dow Chemical founder Herbert H. Dow, comes to life. With colorful interiors, geometric details, and fascinating stories, the tour is a must for anyone interested in architecture, design, or Midland’s history.

The Pines home, where Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow built their family, has recently opened for tours. This home is filled with treasures and details that were cherished by the family. The best part of the tour is the guide and the stories she tells. Having grown up with the family, she shares fond memories throughout the tour that make the artifacts and the Dow family story come to life. The tour lasts about an hour and will include stairs.

The Cafe Experience

After a stroll through the gardens, we enjoy ending our trip by taking a break at the Dow Gardens Café, located near the visitor center. With cozy indoor seating and a patio overlooking the grounds, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a light lunch, coffee, or sweet treat. The café serves a rotating menu of fresh, locally inspired options, including sandwiches, salads, baked goods, and beverages. Whether you're fueling up for more exploring or simply soaking in the view with a latte in hand, the café adds a delicious touch to your visit.

Previously, we would grab a bite to eat or a frozen treat and head over to the nature-based playground. But the gardens’ have since decided to remove the playground and to replace it was a more natural space.

The Conservatory

No matter the weather outside, the Dow Gardens Conservatory offers a warm and lush retreat that delights the senses. Step inside and you’re instantly transported to a tropical paradise filled with vibrant blooms, cascading greenery, and the soothing sound of water features. The Conservatory is home to exotic plants from around the world, including orchids, bromeliads, palms, and more—many of which you won’t find outdoors in Michigan’s climate.

Events to Attend

Dow Gardens offers a vibrant array of events throughout the year, enriching the visitor experience with music, art, education, and seasonal celebrations. Here's a glimpse into some of the standout events that make each visit unique:

Festival of the Senses
Held annually in May, the Festival of the Senses is a springtime celebration that engages all five senses. Visitors can enjoy live music, art installations, and culinary delights amidst the blooming gardens. This event marks the rejuvenation of nature and offers a multisensory experience for all ages.

Lunchtime Concert Series
From June through August, the Lunchtime Concert Series invites guests to relax under the canopy of the Birch Grove while enjoying live performances by local musicians. These midday concerts, held every Wednesday from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m., provide a perfect backdrop for a picnic and a musical interlude in nature.

Herbert Dow's Garden Tours
Offered on select Fridays, these guided tours delve into the history and design of the original Dow family gardens. Participants gain insights into Herbert H. Dow's vision and the evolution of the gardens over time.

Butterflies in Bloom
A seasonal favorite, Butterflies in Bloom features thousands of brilliantly colored butterflies in a tropical conservatory setting. This interactive exhibit allows visitors to observe and learn about various butterfly species up close. Note: The 2025 exhibit has concluded, but it is anticipated to return next spring.

Educational Workshops and Tastings
Dow Gardens hosts a variety of workshops and tasting events throughout the year, such as the "Culinary Containers: Cocktails and Mocktails" class and herbal tea tastings. These events offer hands-on learning experiences in a picturesque setting.

Tips for your visit

Whether you’re planning a family day out, a solo stroll with your camera, or a peaceful date in nature, Dow Gardens caters to all kinds of visitors. There’s space to play, space to wander, and space to breath.

Check the official Dow Gardens website for current hours, admissions, and event details.
Wear comfortable walking shoes - there is PLENTY to explore.
Pack a picnic or enjoy the Cafe.
Don’t forget your camera!
If you are bringing kids, you may want to bring spare clothes and a stroller or wagon.

Getting there

Dow Gardens is located in Midland, Michigan, and is easy to access with ample parking. Whether you're local or visiting from afar, it's a must-see destination for anyone who appreciates beauty, nature, and a thoughtfully designed outdoor space.

Dow Gardens is more than a garden—it's an experience. Peaceful, inspiring, and always changing, it's the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again. No matter the time of year, there’s always something new to discover.

Must Visit Flower Gardens In Michigan: Exploring the Dow Gardens, Midland