The Susie Harwood Gardens (UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens)
The Susie Harwood Gardens (UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens)
Highlight • Natural
The Susie Harwood Gardens (UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens)
Hiking
5.0
(2)
The Susie Harwood Gardens are a serene 3-acre horticultural space nestled within the larger UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens in Charlotte, North Carolina. Located at an elevation of approximately 211 meters in the state's Piedmont region, these gardens offer a tranquil escape on the university campus. They are renowned for their diverse plant collections, including dwarf conifers and Japanese maples, and distinctive Asian-inspired elements like an elegant gazebo, arched bridges, and a moon gate, making it a unique Japanese garden Charlotte NC.
Visitors consistently praise the Susie Harwood Gardens as a beautiful and free place to visit, often described as a hidden gem among Charlotte NC gardens. The blend of native and non-native plants, meticulously arranged along a maze of trails, creates a peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate the thoughtful design, which includes flowing creeks, waterfalls, and a serene pond, providing a refreshing contrast to the bustling university environment.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that the Susie Harwood Gardens are part of the broader UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, which also includes the McMillan Greenhouse and the Ralph Van Landingham Glen. The gardens are open daily from dawn till dusk, offering ample opportunity for exploration. Parking at UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens is available on campus, and while the terrain is generally accessible, comfortable footwear is recommended for enjoying the various pathways.
The best time to visit Susie Harwood Gardens is often during spring or fall when the plant collections are in full bloom or displaying vibrant autumn colors. The gardens are a popular spot for leisurely walks, photography, and simply enjoying nature. As a family-friendly destination, it provides a wonderful outdoor experience for all ages, with labeled plants offering an educational component for those interested in botany.
The Susie Harwood Garden itself features a network of paths that wind through its 3 acres, showcasing its unique collection of plants and architectural elements. While there isn't a single defined long-distance trail, visitors can easily spend an hour or more exploring the various sections, including the Asian Garden and its distinctive pagoda. The pathways are designed for easy walking, allowing for a relaxed pace to appreciate the Susie Harwood Gardens landmarks natural features.
Many visitors highlight the tranquility found within the Susie Harwood Gardens, noting the calming sounds of the waterfalls and the visual appeal of the arched bridges over the water features. The diverse plant life, from the delicate Japanese maples to the robust azaleas, provides a constantly changing landscape throughout the year. It's a place where one can truly connect with nature and find inspiration for their own home gardens.
For those looking to explore the natural beauty of Charlotte, the Susie Harwood Gardens offer a delightful experience. You can discover various walking routes and plan your visit to this botanical oasis using komoot. Whether you're interested in a short, peaceful stroll or a longer exploration of the entire UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, there are options for every preference.
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June 16, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Susie Harwood Gardens (UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens)
1
hikers
5.94km
01:33
40m
40m
This easy 3.7-mile loop combines the paved Cross Charlotte Trail with the diverse botanical landscapes of UNC Charlotte's gardens.
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Elevation 210 m
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Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in The Susie Harwood Gardens or the wider UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens?
While the gardens are a wonderful place for a stroll, pets are generally not permitted within the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, including the Susie Harwood Gardens. This policy helps protect the diverse plant collections and ensures a peaceful experience for all visitors. Service animals are, of course, welcome.
What are the parking options for visitors to The Susie Harwood Gardens?
Parking is available on the UNC Charlotte campus. Visitors can typically find parking in the Visitor Parking Deck (Union Deck) or other designated visitor lots. It's advisable to check the UNC Charlotte Parking and Transportation website for the most current information on visitor parking locations, rates, and any temporary restrictions, especially during university events.
Is there an admission fee or are permits required to visit The Susie Harwood Gardens?
No, there is no admission fee to enter The Susie Harwood Gardens or any part of the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens. They are free and open to the public daily from dawn until dusk. No permits are required for general visitation.
How can I get to The Susie Harwood Gardens using public transport?
The UNC Charlotte campus is accessible via Charlotte's public transportation system, CATS (Charlotte Area Transit System). The LYNX Blue Line light rail has a station directly on campus, the 'UNC Charlotte Main Station', which is a walkable distance from the Botanical Gardens. Several bus routes also serve the university. Check the CATS website for routes and schedules.
What makes The Susie Harwood Gardens particularly family-friendly?
The gardens are very family-friendly, offering easy-to-navigate pathways suitable for strollers and young children. Kids often enjoy the flowing creeks, waterfalls, and the serene pond. The diverse plant collections, including the unique 'Dinosaur's Garden' with its Deinonychus skeleton sculpture, provide engaging educational opportunities. It's a safe and beautiful environment for families to explore nature together.
Are the pathways in The Susie Harwood Gardens wheelchair accessible?
The Susie Harwood Gardens feature generally accessible terrain with paved or well-maintained gravel pathways. While most areas are designed to be accessible, some smaller, winding paths or slight inclines might present minor challenges. The main routes through the garden are typically suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, allowing most visitors to enjoy the collections.
What are the best times of year to visit for specific seasonal displays?
While spring and fall are popular for general beauty, specific seasonal highlights include:
- Spring: Vibrant blooms of rhododendrons, azaleas, and various wildflowers, particularly in the adjacent Van Landingham Glen.
- Summer: Lush tropical plants in the McMillan Greenhouse, and the full greenery of the outdoor gardens.
- Autumn: Stunning foliage displays from the Japanese maples and other deciduous trees, offering rich reds, oranges, and yellows.
- Winter: The McMillan Greenhouse provides a warm escape with its tropical and orchid collections, while the outdoor gardens offer a serene, stark beauty.
Are there any cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options near The Susie Harwood Gardens?
As the gardens are located on the UNC Charlotte campus, visitors have access to university dining options, including cafes and eateries, which are typically open during academic terms. For off-campus options, there are numerous restaurants and cafes along University City Boulevard and in the wider University City area, just a short drive away. Several hotels are also located nearby, catering to university visitors.
What unique plant collections can be found in The Susie Harwood Gardens?
The Susie Harwood Garden is celebrated for its collections of dwarf conifers, Japanese maples, viburnums, and azaleas. It also features a wide array of other trees, shrubs, vines, annuals, perennials, bulbs, succulents, and water plants from around the world. This garden contrasts with the native plant focus of the Van Landingham Glen by showcasing a more ornamental and diverse global flora.
How long does it typically take to explore The Susie Harwood Gardens?
While the Susie Harwood Gardens cover 3 acres, the network of paths allows for a leisurely exploration. Most visitors find that they can comfortably enjoy the main features and diverse plant collections in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. If you wish to explore the entire UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, including the Van Landingham Glen and McMillan Greenhouse, you could easily spend 2-3 hours or more.
Are there guided tours or educational programs available at the Botanical Gardens?
Yes, the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens often offer guided tours and educational programs for various age groups and interests. These can include plant identification walks, workshops, and special events. It's best to check the official UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens website for their current schedule of events and to inquire about booking a guided tour.