From spring until autumn, you don’t have to go far to see a beautiful Maine garden. Not only does it seem that every house is a showcase for blooming things, open fields and road sides are brightly colored, mostly with blossoming weeds!
In addition to private gardens, there are some outstanding ones open to the public, and over the next couple of days I invite you to visit. First stop is a personal favorite, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens near Boothbay. It is a place of wonder.
While every area of the gardens is luscious, my favorite is the Children’s Garden, perhaps because it brings such sheer delight to young visitors.
There is so much to see and do in this one area, one can spend several hours there.
Whether “catching” a lobster,
taking a boat ride,
washing clothes and hanging them to dry
or watering the garden, kids have such fun, and watching them in such a creative play space brings smiles to the adults!
Need a break? There is a reading room filled with, I think, every children’s book with Maine as a subject!
Throughout the gardens, sometimes in surprising places, are works of art,
some gently moved by the breeze.
There are quiet spaces for thoughtful reflection
and everywhere water features to calm the soul.
What makes the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens so special is that with its combination of formal gardens, forested areas, antique rock walls and a stretch of waterfront, it captures the essence of Maine. When you are traveling the coast, these gardens are not to be missed.
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Lulu's Musings 
The next time we are in Maine, those gardens are definitely on the itinerary…beautiful…love the water gardens..so peaceful and soothing for the soul.
The reading room looks delightful. but of course it was the gardens that I would want to linger over. a lovely tour
Claire, I didn’t even show the vegetable garden. There is much to linger over.
I could just see myself hanging out there for hours. Sometimes you just need to get away – contrary the “Cheers” theme song – where NOBODY knows your name and where you can just BE. Cute little kids in the photos!
I am sure you would love it and there’s nary a tablescape to think about or photo. The boys are my daughter’s 3, pretty close to the same age and a handful.
Have been to that garden so I enjoyed the visit.
wonderful pics from your garden! thanks for sharing with us 🙂
Love seeing your grandson. He is precious. The gardens are so pretty and I can image what a wonderful day that was exploring and enjoying the delight of family.
Glad you enjoyed the journey. Actually, the little ones are 3, ages 1, almost 2, almost 3. My daughter is a busy gal!
So beautiful. I need to get back to Maine.
Thanks for “taking” me there with you 😉 Just the break I needed on a hot and humid, New Jersey day!
Glad you enjoyed the visit. It’s a wonderful place.
Wonderful garden!
Absolutely gorgeous! Love it all, but the childrens garden is my favorite. Love those little cottages. We are building an out building next Spring. I had planned on making a clothes line like I did at a previous home. One with wooden crows on top. I think I may need to copy this cute one for a change. Visiting from Simple Sunday. Thanks for the tour.
I couldn’t believe how fascinated the kids were to wash and hang clothes! It kept them busy for an hour. Thanks so much for your visit.