The landscape at Garvan Woodland Gardens is ever-changing, making it a guest favorite to visit any time of year. Situated on a scenic 210-acre peninsula along Lake Hamilton near Hot Springs, Arkansas, this wooded botanical garden offers a spectacular show in every season. Whether you are taking in the 150,000 tulips in spring, exploring lush summer annuals and perennials, admiring the stunning fall foliage, or marveling at the magical Holiday Lights in winter, there is something beautiful waiting around every corner.
A Season of Successive Blooms
While nature runs on its own schedule, here are the approximate bloom times for some of our favorite seasonal highlights in Central Arkansas:
Spring (March – May)
March: Millions of vibrant spring bulbs—including over 150,000 tulips, camellias and azaleas.
April: Peak bloom for spring azaleas, dogwoods and redbuds.
May: Late-spring blooms, lush green woodland foliage, and wildflowers.
Summer (June-August)
June: Roses, colorful daylilies, and lush hydrangeas.
July: Flowering shrubs and vibrant annuals, cannas and hardy perennials.
August: Late-summer annuals, hibiscus, and hostas found in the shaded woodland areas.
Fall (September – November)
September: Black eyed Susans, coleus, and native American beautyberries.
October: Chrysanthemums, early fall foliage.
November: Peak fall foliage early in the month, followed by the beloved Holiday Lights display opening November 21, 2026. Please note: During Holiday Lights (Nov 21 – Dec 31), the gardens are closed during the day and open only in the evening at 5:00 p.m. *For an inside look at the event, check out our Complete Guide to Garvan Gardens Holiday Lights.
Winter (December – February)
December: Holiday Lights continue through 12/31 (evening admission only at 5:00 p.m. ; closed Christmas Day).
January: Gardens are closed for annual maintenance.
February: Daffodils, hyacinths, crocus, and early tulips.
Special Temporary Exhibit: "Where the Wind Lives"
In addition to the seasonal flowers, there is a captivating new reason to visit this summer. A temporary exhibit called "Where the Wind Lives" is on display at the gardens through October 19.
This unique installation features three different wind-activated displays full of movement, light, and color. Suspended above the natural landscape, these pieces react to the summer breezes coming off Lake Hamilton, creating a dynamic experience that changes every time you look up.
Architecture and Nature Intertwined
Located on a sprawling 210-acre peninsula on Lake Hamilton, Garvan Woodland Gardens is much more than just flowers; it is a world-class botanical destination. The woodland setting is home to iconic architectural marvels, including:
The Anthony Chapel: A soaring glass-and-wood masterpiece that feels like a part of the forest.
The Bridge of the Full Moon: A stunning spot for photos and reflection.
Diverse Garden Styles: Explore the serene Garden of the Pine Wind, wander the nature preserve, or find your inner child at the Evans Children’s Adventure Garden, including a 3-level treehouse!
Make it a Getaway
To make your visit even more relaxing, we’ve bundled garden tickets into our most popular stay packages. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a trip where every detail is handled with a personal touch, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the blooms.
· Girls’ Getaway Package: The ultimate retreat for friends or family. This package includes massages and facials for two at Nuyu Rejuvenation Spa in Hot Springs, plus two tickets to Garvan Woodland Gardens.
· Unplug and Unwind Package: The perfect way to trade screen time for garden paths and starlight. This package includes two tickets to Garvan Woodland Gardens and a S’mores kit to enjoy by the fire pit when you return to Tiffany's that night.
Plan Your Visit
Garvan Gardens is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for general daytime admission (February through October).
* Holiday Lights Season (Nov 21 – Dec 31): The gardens transition to evening-only hours, opening at 5:00 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Daytime garden admission is not available during this event.
* January: Closed to the public.
Admission is $30 for adults. However, when you book one of our bed and breakfast packages, we take care of the tickets for you, ensuring you get the best value and a seamless experience.
If you are looking for a complete Hot Springs experience, consider making us your home base. Start your morning with a hearty, home-cooked breakfast at Tiffany’s to fuel your walk through the gardens. After a day of exploring the trails and floral displays, you can return to the quiet of the woods for a restful night’s sleep in a truly cozy atmosphere. A stroll through the gardens pairs perfectly with a weekend of historic downtown sights and local dining. Let us help you map out the perfect trip with our complete 36-hour Hot Springs itinerary.