Remember the good old days, as kids, when we would read fairy tales, wishing we were part of such magical stories? Storybooks often lit our imagination on fire, with bold characters and intricate drawings of enchanted woodlands, winding paths, and those oh-so-perfect footbridges. Those enchanting images leap to life at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden in Pennsylvania, an idyllic backdrop for a daytrip.
Step into the pages of a storybook - or at least feel like you have - when you explore Pittsburgh Botanic Garden in Oakdale.
If you're a fan of nature, you'll discover countless opportunities to take Pittsburgh Botanic Garden photos.
The 65-acre garden gives off a fairytale vibe with stepping stones that make it easy for you to cross the picturesque pond.
The garden has ample parking and is just a short walk to the visitor center and gift shop. You'll have to pay an admission fee for your visit to this Pittsburgh attraction.
If you prefer, you can also cross on the storybook footbridge. Explore a variety of gardens, including the Garden of the Five Senses, and a meadow.
The winding paths are easy to follow and will take you past gorgeous natural scenery. If you're visiting in the summer, as I did, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and bring water. There are benches along the way where you can sit to admire the scenery or just take a break.
Eventually, as you trek through the lush forested area, you'll arrive at Bookworm Glen, which is sure to set your imagination on fire.
You'll need at least a few hours for your visit. During my visit on a sunny summer afternoon, the garden was pretty quiet, and we encountered other visitors only a few times. There was plenty of shade, but you'll definitely want to carry water and sunscreen along, too.
Relax in the oversized bird's nest. It's also perfect for snapping photos and enjoying the quiet of nature.
Keep an eye out for fairies in the magical fairy houses that dot the path. You never know what surprises - natural and human-made - await around every corner.
You might even run into a whimsical creature or two.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too, including deer, squirrels, and rabbits. Even if the garden gets busy, you can still enjoy solitude and it's quiet enough to hear the birds tweeting.
The kiddos will love the stone house that's child-size. Peek inside as they sit in child-sized chairs and thumb through a few books.
You'll find so much to explore at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, including the Hillside Pollinator Garden, that you'll want to carve out at least a few hours for your visit.
The pollinator garden is brimming with flowers and is the perfect spot for watching bees.
The garden also hosts educational and other events throughout the year, so keep an eye out on the official website or Facebook for the latest news.
View days, hours, and more information on the official website of Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Or, visit the Facebook page of this botanic garden in Pittsburgh.
Before heading over, always check the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden hours.
If you've been looking for botanic gardens near me, you've just hit the jackpot! Have you been to Pittsburgh Botanic Garden in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Do you have any tips for others who plan to visit? Share your experience in the comments! For another adventure in a storybook setting, stop by Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse in Philadelphia.
Before you head out on any adventure, though, make sure you've got a pair of comfy shoes and plenty of water.
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