Beautiful gardens to explore in Vienna, Virginia

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is part of the NOVA Parks system and located in the Virginia town of Vienna. The park has a very large parking lot, picnic area and visitor center with restrooms. Check out the exhibits, pay your fee and then set out on the paved trails to explore the many different garden areas in the park. This park is truly beautiful in all seasons, well-maintained and very peaceful. 

Due to its peaceful setting and tranquil atmosphere, there are rules at Meadowlark that are different from most parks. No food may be brought into the garden but there is a large picnic area right next to the parking lot at the entrance. The picnic area is grassy with lots of shade and many tables to choose from. Bicycles, skateboards, and rollerblades/skates are also not allowed but you may bring a wagon or stroller. The park does not allow dogs inside the gates so plan to leave your furry friends at home. There are shady spots but also plenty of time in full sun so be prepared with hats and sunscreen!

The paths through the gardens are all stroller-friendly with the main issue being they are steep as you enter the gardens and as you exit. Be aware that there are several bodies of water in case you have curious little ones who want to run ahead. The park has plenty of benches, Adirondack chairs and gazebos making it easy to stop for a rest while you explore. The bathrooms are located inside the Visitor Center and were very clean with a changing table as well. 

Our favorite spots were the Fairy Garden, Children's Garden, and the Gazebo. The Fairy Garden is the closest to the visitor center with a lot for little ones to see! The visitor center is located at the top of a very steep hill, you go down the hill to explore the rest of the gardens but the promise of seeing the fairies again encouraged my kids to walk back up the hill at the end! The Children's Garden is thoughtfully designed with a tea party area with seating as well as many forest friends to greet. The Gazebo is large and overlooks a pond full of koi and turtles. The kids had a lot of fun watching the fish and the turtles are huge! 

We saw people of all ages having a great time at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, it really is a magical place! Check out the Meadowlark Winter Walk of Lights which runs from mid-November to early January during the holiday season for an extra way to enjoy the park.