Nature-Inspired Sanctuary: Margie's Garden, a Captivating Hideaway Embracing the Allure of the Wild
Nestled away like some secret from a storybook, Margie's Garden is more than just a slice of nature; it's a nirvana that merges imagination, Mother Nature, and family memories together.
Constructed with whimsy and warmth, this charming refuge calls out to visitors of all ages to take a pause, take a deep breath, and absorb the world's natural beauty through playful interaction.
From leisurely walks amidst blossoms to immersive moments for the young and curious, Margie's Garden presents a welcoming retreat from the mundane.
Each visit feels like stepping into a living fairy tale, where butterflies dance amidst native flowers, and children are free to ramble, interact, and dream.
What's the Scoop on Margie's Garden?
Margie's Garden isn't just another green space; it's a masterfully created, fairy tale-like haven where earth and imagination interlace.
This unique kid's garden takes root within the Boerner Botanical Gardens in Hales Corners, Wisconsin. This innovative space was born from a heartfelt idea - to link children and families with the natural world's beauty in an engaging and profound way.
The garden was cleverly inspired by Margie Schlueter, a cherished teacher, mother, and nature enthusiast who championed the significance of outdoor play, hands-on learning, and the quiet enchantment found within nature's embrace.
Here, education rubs shoulders with enchantment. Storytelling is a part of the fabric of every corner, and memories are only a picnic blanket away beneath the open sky and shady trees.
Where's Margie's Garden Hiding, and How to Get There?
If you're on the hunt for a playground where kids can learn, explore, and experience the great outdoors, Margie's Garden is your destination.
You can find it tucked within the stunning Boerner Botanical Gardens nestled within Whitnall Park. Its address goes something like this:
Location- 9400 Boerner Drive, Hales Corners, WI 53130
Navigating Your Way There
Margie's Garden can be conveniently accessed by car and is clearly marked inside Whitnall Park. For travelers coming from downtown Milwaukee or nearby suburbs:
From Downtown Milwaukee: Take I-43 South to Highway 100 (S. 108th Street). Go south to College Avenue, and then proceed west into Whitnall Park.
Once inside the park, follow signs for the Boerner Botanical Gardens, and you'll stumble upon the garden just steps away from the Education & Visitor Center.
Best Time to Pay a Visit
Margie's Garden is operated seasonally, usually from mid-April to late October, aligning with Wisconsin's growing season. It's enjoyed most during:
Late Spring (May-June): When flowers' vibrancy meets the mild weather
Early Mornings or Late Afternoons: Cooler temps and fewer crowds
Weekdays: For a more serene and less bustling experience
No matter the time, Margie's Garden dispenses a healthy dose of joy mixed with nature, imagination, and outdoor frolic, and it's all just a short ride away.
Top Attractions at Margie's Garden for Children and Grown-ups
Margie's Garden was designed to be more than just a pretty picture; it's an interactive, immersive space where visitors of all ages can discover, play, and rekindle their connection with the magic of nature.
Storybook Wonderlands - Magical Walkways
The garden's winding pathways are like the pages of a storybook. As you weave your way through kaleidoscopic blooms and towering trees, imagination unravels with each step.
As you traverse these enchanting pathways, children will be delighted by hidden surprises like signposts from a talebook, tiny fairy homes, and whimsical creatures lurking among the plants.
Natural Playscapes - Creative Playgrounds
Open-ended play is at the heart of Margie's Garden. Designated natural play areas invite children to climb, balance, construct, and explore using ordinary materials such as logs, stones, and sands.
These areas encourage free play and sensory discovery, fostering coordination and curiosity.
Enchanting Sculptures and Artistic Inspiration
Artistic flair supplements the landscape, as whimsical sculptures pepper the garden, adding personality and charm. From playful animal figures to interactive pieces you can touch and move, each sculpture spins a tale and beckons visitors to become part of it.
Sensory Gardens - Calming Retreats
Designed with every sense in mind, the sensory gardens provide a peaceful haven filled with fragrant flowers, textured plants, wind chimes, and tinkling water features.
These areas provide comfort for quiet reflection, particularly helpful for kids and grown-ups who thrive in peaceful, sensory-rich environments.
Adult's Corner - Wandering and Wondering Await
While children explore, adults can appreciate the thoughtful architecture, botanical variety, and cozy relaxation spaces, offering a break from the world outside.
Cozy benches, native plant beds, and pollinator zones create an environment where slowing down and taking in nature's serenity becomes effortless.
What to Expect Throughout the Year at Margie's Garden
One of Margie's Garden's most captivating elements is its evolution with the changing seasons, offering new wonders to experience with each visit.
Spring - A Colorful, Life-filled Beginning
As the ice melts, Margie's Garden welcomes its guests with an explosion of color and life. The garden is a riot of tulips, daffodils, and budding trees, with children chasing after dancing butterflies, and parents delighting in the return of birdsong and fresh verdure.
Spring is also a popular time for educational outings like school field trips and garden story walks, making it perfect for getting your little ones learning outdoors.
Summer - A Time for Play and Celebration
Summer in the garden overflows with joy, laughter, and a multitude of activities. The play zones buzz with energy as kids frolic in spray features or dig in nature play areas.
Blooming perennials paint the landscape in hues of vibrancy, while the garden often hosts special events like family nights, nature workshops, and outdoor concerts under the setting sun.
Autumn - An Exquisite Monochrome Canvas
When the leaves begin to change, Margie's Garden transforms into a peaceful retreat obscured by the golden tones of fall. Families will find themselves surrounded by crunchy pathways, cozy corners, and the enticing scent of late-season blooms.
It's the ideal setting for photography, leaf-themed crafts, and leisurely strolls with warm beverages in hand.
Winter - Calm and the Occasional Event
Although the garden sleeps in winter, the charm remains. Snow-covered sculptures, leafless trees, and evergreens create a silence that feels enchanting. On select days, winter-themed programs or holiday strolls offer visitors a reason to return, reminding families that nature's beauty is a 365-day gift.
Planning Your Visit - Hours and Admission
Before packing up your clan and indulging in a picnic, here's the need-to-know info to ensure you make the most of your visit to Margie's Garden.
From seasonal hours to family-friendly amenities, the garden offers a smooth, enjoyable experience for each visitor.
Opening Hours
Margie's Garden generally follows the Boerner Botanical Garden's seasonal schedule, typically open from late April to October.
Daily hours are generally from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though these times may fluctuate depending on special events or weather conditions. Always check the official website prior to visiting for the most up-to-date information.
Admission Costs
Admission to Margie's Garden is encompassed in the fee to enter the Boerner Botanical Gardens. As of the current update:
- Adults: $7
- Seniors (60+): $5
- Children (6-17): $5
- Children 5 and under: Free
- Milwaukee County residents: With a valid ID, locals may qualify for discounted rates.
Group rates and yearly membership options are also available for families who plan frequent visits.
Accessibility
The garden is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, featuring wide, paved pathways, gentle inclines, and tranquil resting spots throughout.
Restrooms with changing stations and accessible entrances are available nearby, ensuring families with diverse abilities feel welcome and comfortable.
Amenities for On-Site Enjoyment
Visitors can revel in:
- Free parking nearby the entrance
- Picnic areas within Whitnall Park
- A gift shop and visitor center with helpful staff
- Seasonal food and drink vendors (on select days/events)
Be sure to don comfy shoes, carry water, and bring that camera; there are countless photo-worthy spots throughout the garden.
The Final Verdict:
In a world racing forward, Margie's Garden extends a gentle invitation to slow down, look around, and rediscover the bond between you, nature, and simple joys.
This peaceful oasis marries storytelling, sensory play, and the beauty of native plants into an experience that feels both grounding and spellbinding.
As you witness your child chase dancing butterflies, listen to the whispers of leaves, or breathe in the scent of blooming flowers, each visit offers a new tale to unravel.
So gather your tribe, pack a picnic, and prepare for a day surrounded by nature's magic. Share roars of laughter, explore, and create memories that will blossom like the flowers in Margie's Garden.
Start your story at Margie's Garden today.
- Margie's Garden incorporates elements of 'home-and-garden' into its enchanting design, offering a whimsical and inviting space for children and families to interact with nature.
- At Margie's Garden, the 'gardening' experience goes beyond tending flowers, as the garden serves as an outdoor 'lifestyle' laboratory, fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world and 'relationships' with the environment.
