Garrard Ardeneum

The Garrard Ardeneum is a botanical garden spread across multiple acres in McAlester featuring plants native to the region and educational displays. The grounds include pathways through different planting areas with cultivated specimens and informational stations.

The garden was established in 1990 and later registered in the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition acknowledged its importance as a horticultural institution in the region.

The place attracts people curious about regional plant life and local heritage, bringing together gardeners and history enthusiasts. The mix of botanical displays with historical objects creates a setting where natural science and community memory intersect.

Visitors should plan for both outdoor garden areas and indoor exhibition spaces, as the site combines walking the grounds with viewing historical displays. It is helpful to contact ahead to confirm current opening hours and ask about guided tour options.

The site houses a notable collection of local historical objects alongside its plant collections, an unusual combination for a botanical setting. This merger of natural history and local heritage creates a distinctive experience that goes beyond typical gardens.

Location: Oklahoma

GPS coordinates: 34.93310,-95.76640

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:01