The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, located on 128 acres of land with 3,600 feet of tidal shore frontage in Boothbay opened in June 2007. This spectacular site and gardens are the result of the generosity and vision of a few mid-coast Maine residents who shared the belief that northern New England in general, and Maine in particular, were in need of a botanical garden.
Their mission is to protect, preserve, and enhance the botanical heritage and natural landscapes of coastal Maine for people of all ages through horticulture, education, and research.
This botanical garden feels like a park, largely comprised of the natural habitat you would find in the coastal regions of Maine, enhanced by local flowers and plants. There are pathways that take you through the woods, which feel like a gentle hike more than a visit to a botanical garden. I found these pathways so lovely and tranquil.
In addition to the woods and floral gardens, there is a vegetable or kitchen garden, a rose and perennial garden, a children’s garden, a garden of the five senses, an education center, a rhododendron garden, a meditation garden, a flower drying shed, and lots of open green space with trails.
There are interesting structures along the way, from benches, to pine cone sculptures to the entirely unexpected, like the bed in the vegetable bed. Yes, it was a little corny!
If you are in the neighborhood, this botanical garden is a beautiful spot to spend a couple of hours. There is much to see, including the terrific gift shop with wonderful gardening essentials. Kuddos to whomever is doing the buying there!
