The garden is built on the site of the former residence of the Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.
It serves as a primary outdoor classroom for UW-Madison horticulture and landscape architecture students.
The garden design incorporates a variety of microclimates, allowing for the cultivation of plants with diverse environmental needs.
It is managed by a small professional staff supported by university student employees and community volunteers.
Allen Centennial Garden is a 2.5-acre living laboratory located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. It functions as an ornamental garden dedicated to both public enjoyment and academic horticulture research. The space features a diverse collection of themed areas, including a sunken garden and various native plant displays. Designed as a teaching tool, the site serves as a resource for UW-Madison students and faculty while remaining accessible to the general public. The garden is situated on the grounds of the former dean of the College of Agriculture’s residence. It maintains a rotation of seasonal plantings to demonstrate horticultural diversity throughout the growing year.
The central sunken garden area offers the most balanced perspective for capturing the diversity of the surrounding flower beds.
Check the garden's online event calendar before visiting to avoid days when the space is reserved for private academic functions or workshops.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain includes varying elevations and garden paths.
Bring a camera or sketchbook, as the garden is frequently used by university art students for plein air studies.
Attempting to visit during heavy snow months when most of the garden is dormant or covered for the winter.
The garden is largely inaccessible or dormant during the harsh Wisconsin winter months.
Stay on marked paths to protect delicate plant specimens and research plots; no pets are permitted in the garden.
