Activity Overview
Lovers of nature and garden enthusiasts will be thrilled with Yew Dell Gardens, an oasis of flower and vegetable gardens, magnificent trees, a woodland area, two ponds and plenty of hiking trails. The Gardens, former home of nursery owner Theodore Klein, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
At any time of the year, one can come and enjoy the beech, magnolia and camellia trees and also the gardens, containing perennials, annuals and tropical plants. The extensive vegetable gardens are proof of the site's commitment to sustainable agriculture.
The center is a leader in the field of research and horticultural education, as its staff travel to collect new plants for evaluation and then offer many programs, classes and community events relating to their findings.
Visitors will also appreciate the peek into life on a mid 20th-century farm with a look at the Klein family's former home, pool house and barn, which have been renovated and earned awards from architecture and history professionals.
Things to Do
- Choose a hiking trail amongst the Gardens' 30 acres. Trails are relatively flat and open at the same time as the Gardens except during hunting season.
- Check the calendar for special nature walks, gardening workshops, scientific lectures, concerts, festivals and more.
- Grab a Nature and Garden Backpack, scavenger hunt materials or a Books n Blankets package while visiting.
- Enroll the children in one of the Saturday morning programs about gardens and nature.
Yew Dell Gardens Insider Tips
- Access to the Gardens during the month of February is free.
- During the other months of the year, children 12 and under and active military personnel are free.
- Closed Sundays from late December until late March.
- Casual visitors to the Gardens are said to need about an hour to explore the premises. More serious gardeners could spend multiple hours.
- Tours must be scheduled two weeks in advance.
- Return to the Visitor Center at least 15 minutes before closing time when out on a hike.
