Where Are The Best Botanical Gardens In Montana?

Spring has arrived in Montana! However, by most standards, Big Sky Country tends to be a late bloomer, as cold temperatures often linger well into April and May. Nevertheless, the calendar says it's spring, and before we know it, the warmth will return.

One of the best things about spring here is the explosion of wildflowers, painting the hillsides with vibrant colors. While there are plenty of places to soak in Montana's natural beauty, I was curious about the top botanical gardens in the state.

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After a deep dive into some good ol' Google research, here are my top picks for Montana's best botanical gardens!

Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum / Jefferson City, MT

Just south of Helena is a beautiful privately owned garden that is open Mother's Day through October. The garden was started in 1997 by Richard Krott and Belva Lotzer. The garden was a passion project that was started by the couple, and now they share it with the world. They also have a VRBO cabin that is 140 years old and situated by Prickly Pear Creek, making it a perfect relaxing getaway.

Memorial Rose Garden / Missoula, MT.

This garden was established in 1946 as a memorial for the Missoula area casualties of World War II. When it was first created, members of the Rose Society planted 650 rose bushes surrounding a stone memorial that bears the names of the fallen. Not only is the garden a beautiful sight, but it also serves as a place to pay respects to our nation's fallen heroes.

Old Lexington Stamp Mill and Gardens / Butte, MT.

The Old Lexington Stamp Mill and Gardens is located in the heart of the Buttes Historical District. These gardens are situated on what is known as "The Richest Hill on Earth," the site of Butte's first stamp mill and smelter. One of the most striking features of this garden is the full-scale recreation of a butterfly that was originally displayed from 1899 to 1973.

Gatiss Gardens / Creston, MT.

I found this garden particularly fascinating because most of the perennials come from a homestead in England before 1898. The garden is spread out over 5 acres, and they have more than 2000 varieties of flowers. They are open on Memorial Day through Labor Day, and it is a free garden to enjoy!