Tucked away near Lake Hamilton lies one of Arkansas’ most treasured attractions – Garvan Woodland Gardens. Whether you’re chasing vibrant blooms, strolling serene forest paths, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of Hot Springs, a visit to Garvan is an experience you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
Just a short drive from all Overnight Digs properties, Garvan Woodland Gardens offers the perfect balance of relaxation, inspiration, and fun for couples, families, and groups of all ages. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and the camera roll fills up fast.
A Different Experience Every Season
What makes Garvan Woodland Gardens truly special is how it transforms throughout the year. No matter when you visit, the gardens offer something new and breathtaking.
Spring is perhaps the most iconic time to explore. With over 150,000 tulips in bloom and dogwoods, azaleas, and cherry blossoms creating a painterly canopy, spring is peak garden season. Guests visiting Hot Springs in March or April will find the grounds buzzing with color and life, perfect for sunny strolls and spontaneous family photos.
In summer, the canopy provides natural shade, and the gardens stay cool and lush, making it a peaceful afternoon escape. Children love running through the open lawns, and the koi pond becomes a favorite spot for a quiet break.
Fall is all about the colors. Golden ginkgos, fiery maples, and deep red oaks light up the paths from late October through early November. For Overnight Digs guests booking a fall retreat, this is a can’t-miss activity, especially paired with local hikes or a lakeside sunset.
And in winter, the gardens shine in a whole new way. From mid-November through December, Holiday Lights at Garvan Gardens transforms the property into a glowing wonderland. With over 5 million lights, animated displays, and hot cocoa stations, it’s a holiday favorite for families staying nearby.
Can’t-Miss Highlights Inside the Gardens
The 210-acre property offers far more than just flowers. As you wander the paved paths and winding trails, you’ll find architectural gems, water features, and storybook structures hidden among the trees.
Anthony Chapel is one of the most photographed spots in the state and for good reason. This awe-inspiring glass and wood chapel stretches 57 feet high with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the forest like a painting. Whether you’re walking through during a quiet moment or attending a special event, the experience is unforgettable.
The Evans Children’s Adventure Garden is a must-visit for families. With bridges, caves, waterfalls, and interactive areas, this space encourages kids to engage with nature in a playful, hands-on way.
Another favorite? The Canopy Bridge, suspended above the gardens, offering elevated views and a fun walk through the trees. It’s ideal for photos and gives a whole new perspective on the landscape.
Don’t miss the Garden Railway, especially if you’re traveling with kids or rail fans. This miniature train display winds through a landscaped setting and adds a little magic to the visit.
Family-Friendly Fun and Perfect Photo Moments
Garvan Woodland Gardens is built for discovery, and it shows. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, the gardens are easy to navigate and packed with photo-worthy backdrops. From whimsical fairy houses to massive stone sculptures and trickling streams, every turn feels like a new adventure.
For guests of Overnight Digs properties, Garvan makes a perfect outing between lake days and downtown excursions. Bring a stroller, pack some snacks, and wear comfy shoes because it’s easy to spend a few hours exploring.
If you’re visiting with a group, consider bringing a picnic to enjoy at one of the garden’s designated rest areas. The wide-open spaces make it easy for everyone to spread out, relax, and reconnect.
Visiting from Overnight Digs: What to Know
Getting to Garvan Woodland Gardens from your Overnight Digs rental is a breeze. Most of our properties are located within 10 to 20 minutes of the entrance, with easy parking available on-site.
Hours and admission vary seasonally, so we recommend checking the official website before your visit. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate, and children under 3 are free. Be sure to allow at least 2 to 3 hours to explore everything at a comfortable pace – especially if you want to see both the chapel and children’s garden.
Our guests often plan a morning at Garvan followed by lunch in downtown Hot Springs or a scenic drive around Lake Hamilton. It’s also a great pairing with other nearby attractions like Hot Springs National Park or a relaxing evening back at your lakefront rental.
Pro tip: If you’re visiting during the Holiday Lights display, arrive early to find parking and avoid long entrance lines. Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends.
Why It Belongs on Your Itinerary
If you’re planning a trip to Hot Springs, Garvan Woodland Gardens is a true highlight – whether it’s your first visit or your fifth. It’s not just a walk in the park, it’s a fully immersive experience that blends the natural beauty of Arkansas with world-class landscape design and architecture.
For guests staying with Overnight Digs, Garvan offers the perfect off-the-water adventure: peaceful, family-friendly, and full of inspiration. Whether you’re taking family photos among the tulips, wandering hand-in-hand down a pine-lined path, or simply taking in the view from a shady bench, it’s the kind of place that makes you slow down – and want to come back.
Ready to plan your perfect Hot Springs escape? Book your stay with Overnight Digs and make Garvan Woodland Gardens part of your unforgettable itinerary.