Independence Park Botanic Gardens

Independence Park Botanic Gardens is a public park with multiple planted sections throughout its grounds in Baton Rouge. The space includes rose gardens, crape myrtle groves, sensory gardens, and a dedicated children's forest area with native and ornamental plantings.

The site once belonged to Goodwood Plantation and was later used as a municipal airport until operations ceased in 1975. After the airport closed, the land was converted into a public botanical garden and park for community use.

The garden center within the grounds hosts seasonal flower shows and plant sales events. Local gardening clubs and horticultural societies use the space as a gathering place to share growing tips and plantings ideas.

The grounds are open during daylight hours with no admission fee and provide free wireless internet access throughout. Multiple marked walking paths guide visitors through different sections, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

The Louisiana Iris Garden features rare varieties, some developed by Joseph Mertzweiller, a local horticulturist who advanced iris breeding in the region. These specialized hybrids show how one dedicated gardener helped shape local plant culture.

Location: Louisiana

GPS coordinates: 30.44460,-91.10590

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:06