Norfolk Botanical Garden

Norfolk Botanical Garden is a 158-acre botanical garden in Virginia featuring specialized sections including rose gardens, Japanese gardens, and extensive plant collections arranged throughout the grounds. The various sections are organized as distinct garden rooms, each with its own focus and design character.

The garden was founded in 1938 when over 200 African-American women and 20 men cleared the land through a Works Progress Administration grant. Their original labor shaped the foundation that visitors experience today.

The Japanese Garden section honors Norfolk's partnership with the Japanese city of Kitakyushu and displays traditional elements of water, stone, and plant arrangement that visitors can experience firsthand. This space brings East Asian design principles to life through its authentic landscaping approach.

The grounds are open daily and require admission to visit. Wear comfortable shoes since exploring the space involves walking considerable distances through different themed areas.

The Renaissance Garden contains eleven marble statues created by artist Sir Moses Jacob Ezekiel that complement an Italian-style landscape. These sculptures are rare artworks that bring classical elegance to the space.

Location: Virginia

Official opening: 1938

Address: 6700 Azalea Garden Road

Website: http://norfolkbotanicalgarden.org

GPS coordinates: 36.90280,-76.20610

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:47