All plant museums to visit in Massachusetts

Immerse yourself in the world of plants at 17 museums in Massachusetts dedicated to botany. These museums explore the diversity, biology, and importance of plant life.

Do you love plants and nature? Here are the must-visit botanical gardens in Massachusetts:

  1. Harvard Museum of Natural History1

    Harvard Museum of Natural History

     Cambridge, MA
    The Harvard Museum of Natural History (HMNH) is a prominent natural history museum situated on the campus of the renowned Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse collections of the museum while also experiencing the vibrant academic atmosphere of one of the world's leading universities.
  2. Harvard University Herbaria2

    Harvard University Herbaria

     Cambridge, MA
    The Harvard University Herbaria and Botanical Museum are situated within the premises of Harvard University, specifically at 22 Divinity Avenue in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This location is easily accessible and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich botanical collections and exhibits housed within these institutions.
  3. Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University3

    Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University

     Boston, MA
    The Arnold Arboretum is open to the public every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, offering free access to all visitors. This makes it a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy nature at any time of the year. Whether you're an early bird who enjoys the peace of the morning or a night owl who prefers the tranquility of the evening, the arboretum is available for you to explore at your leisure.
  4. Garden in the Woods4

    Garden in the Woods

     Framingham, MA
    Garden in the Woods is a botanical garden that spans 45 acres. It is nestled within a forest in Framingham, Massachusetts, in the United States. This serene location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and botanical diversity, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts alike.
  5. New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill5

    New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

     Boylston, MA
    The New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill is a sprawling 171-acre botanic garden and arboretum situated in Boylston, Massachusetts. It is conveniently located approximately 8 miles north of central Worcester in Worcester County, Massachusetts, making it easily accessible for visitors.
  6. The Polly Hill Arboretum6

    The Polly Hill Arboretum

     West Tisbury, MA
    The Polly Hill Arboretum is a beautiful and historic location situated on Martha's Vineyard at 809 State Road, West Tisbury, Massachusetts, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a variety of plant species in a serene environment.
  7. Stanley Park7

    Stanley Park

     Westfield, MA
    Stanley Park, located in Westfield, Massachusetts, is a non-profit privately owned park that includes an arboretum and botanical garden. The park is open to the public daily without charge from May to November, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its diverse flora and fauna.
  8. Lyman Estate Greenhouses8

    Lyman Estate Greenhouses

     Waltham, MA
    The Lyman Estate, also known as The Vale, is a historic country house situated in Waltham, Massachusetts. It is currently under the ownership of the nonprofit organization, Historic New England. This estate offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur of historic American architecture and landscape design.
  9. Berkshire Museum9

    Berkshire Museum

     Pittsfield, MA
    The Berkshire Museum, located in Pittsfield, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, is a unique blend of art, natural history, and ancient civilization. Founded in 1903 by local paper magnate Zenas Crane, the museum was inspired by renowned institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum's collections are broad and varied, featuring over 40,000 objects from virtually every continent.
  10. Wellesley College Botanic Gardens10

    Wellesley College Botanic Gardens

     Wellesley, MA
    The Wellesley College Botanic Gardens are situated on the campus of Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. These botanical gardens are a significant attraction for tourists, offering a diverse range of plant species and a serene environment for visitors to explore.
  11. Berkshire Botanical Garden11

    Berkshire Botanical Garden

     Stockbridge, MA
    The Berkshire Botanical Garden is a significant botanical garden that spans across 15 acres. It is situated in the charming town of Stockbridge, Massachusetts, in the United States. This expansive garden offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a wide variety of plant species in a serene and picturesque setting.
  12. The Botanic Garden of Smith College12

    The Botanic Garden of Smith College

     Northampton, MA
    The Botanic Garden of Smith College boasts a diverse selection of plant life. This includes woody trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. A highlight of the garden is The Lyman Conservatory, which houses an impressive collection of tropical and subtropical plants. This variety of plant species provides a rich and educational experience for visitors.
  13. Hadwen Arboretum13

    Hadwen Arboretum

     Worcester, MA
    The Hadwen Arboretum is a sizable 26-acre forest nestled in the Columbus Park neighborhood of Worcester, Massachusetts. The main entrance to this green oasis is conveniently located on Lovell St. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.
  14. Mount Holyoke College Botanic Garden14

    Mount Holyoke College Botanic Garden

     South Hadley, MA
    The Mount Holyoke College Botanic Garden is a comprehensive botanical destination located in South Hadley, Massachusetts. It includes the college campus, an arboretum, various gardens, and the Talcott Greenhouse. This diverse collection of botanical spaces offers visitors a wide range of plant life to explore and appreciate.
  15. Hebert Arboretum15

    Hebert Arboretum

     Pittsfield, MA
    The Hebert Arboretum, situated in Springside Park in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, United States, is a place where visitors can explore a diverse collection of trees and other plants. The arboretum is set in a natural environment, providing a serene and tranquil setting for those who appreciate nature and its beauty.
  16. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History16

    Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

     Brewster, MA
    The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, located in Brewster, Massachusetts, is a compact institution that concentrates on natural history and archaeology. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the local natural history and archaeological findings.
  17. Fisher Museum - Harvard Forest17

    Fisher Museum - Harvard Forest

     Petersham, MA
    Harvard Forest, located in Petersham, Massachusetts, is a 3,000-acre ecological research area owned and managed by Harvard University. This expansive area is dedicated to the study of forest biology and conservation, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a natural environment that is both scientifically significant and beautifully preserved.