The gardens feature a collection of five giant trolls created from reclaimed wood by artist Thomas Dambo.
The property contains more than 17,000 feet of shoreline along the Maine coast.
The Bosarge Family Education Center was the first building in Maine to earn LEED Platinum certification.
The Lerner Garden of the Five Senses features non-toxic plants specifically selected for their texture, scent, and sound.
The site was established by a group of local citizens who opened the grounds to the public in 2007.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens spans 325 acres of landscape, featuring nearly a mile of tidal saltwater frontage on the Back River. It is the largest botanical garden in New England, focusing on native plants and coastal ecosystems. The property includes the Lerner Garden of the Five Senses, specifically designed for accessibility and sensory engagement. The Bosarge Family Education Center is a LEED Platinum-certified building that demonstrates sustainable design principles. Visitors can traverse miles of woodland trails that connect formal display gardens to rugged, naturalized coastal environments. The site hosts the 'Guardians of the Seeds,' a series of massive wooden sculptures created by artist Thomas Dambo. Extensive rock formations and granite outcroppings are integrated into the garden design to reflect the Maine coastline. The garden maintains a mission of horticultural education and conservation of the local environment. Horticulture displays transition from early spring bulbs to late-season perennial borders.
The wooden troll sculptures situated along the woodland trails.
Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes to navigate the extensive woodland trails and uneven granite paths.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching along the tidal riverbanks.
Utilize the complimentary shuttle service if you have mobility concerns, as the gardens cover a significant area.
Do not attempt to see the entire 325-acre property on foot in a single hour; prioritize specific sections like the Shoreland Trail or the Sensory Garden.
Open seasonally from late spring through late autumn; check the official website for annual winter closure dates.
Stay on marked paths to protect sensitive coastal flora and fauna.
