New England is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the United States, but beyond the well-known public parks and tourist-heavy botanical gardens, there are hidden gems that few people know about. These secret gardens in New England are tucked away in forests, coastal retreats, and historic estates, offering a serene escape from the crowds
Whether you’re a plant enthusiast, a photographer, or someone who simply loves peaceful places, these hidden gardens provide a one-of-a-kind experience.
Why Visit Secret Gardens?
While famous gardens like the Arnold Arboretum in Boston or Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are stunning, they often draw large crowds. Secret gardens, on the other hand, offer:
- A more intimate experience – Stroll through floral landscapes without the noise and tourist rush.
- Unique and rare plant collections – Some of these hidden gardens feature exotic species and rare native plants.
- Tranquil spots for reflection – These gardens are perfect for meditation, picnics, or simply enjoying nature.
Now, let’s explore the best secret gardens in New England!
Best Secret Gardens in New England
1. Bedrock Gardens (New Hampshire) – A Blend of Nature and Art
- Location: Lee, NH
- Why It’s Special: A unique mix of horticulture, sculpture, and landscape design
Bedrock Gardens is not your typical flower garden—it’s an artistic wonderland where whimsical sculptures blend into the landscape. It features wildflower meadows, Japanese gardens, and hidden pathways leading to surprise art installations.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for full floral displays.
- What to Expect: Butterfly gardens, fountains, and unusual plant species.
2. Blanchette Gardens (Vermont) – A Woodland Retreat with Rare Plants
- Location: Hartland, VT
- Why It’s Special: A privately owned, lush woodland garden
Tucked away in Vermont’s scenic countryside, Blanchette Gardens is an underrated sanctuary with rare rhododendrons, azaleas, and ferns growing in a peaceful forest setting.
- What to Expect: A tranquil woodland walk lined with flowers.
- Best Feature: A hidden reflecting pond surrounded by mountain laurels.
3. Ashintully Gardens (Massachusetts) – A European-Style Hidden Paradise
- Location: Tyringham, MA
- Why It’s Special: A breathtaking garden inspired by European landscapes
Ashintully Gardens is a historic retreat with stone staircases, water fountains, and lush flower beds, giving it the feel of a European castle garden.
- What to Expect: Scenic trails, marble structures, and formal gardens.
- Best Time to Visit: Fall, when the changing leaves add a golden backdrop.
4. Hollister House Garden (Connecticut) – A Classic English Garden in New England
- Location: Washington, CT
- Why It’s Special: A hidden English garden in the Connecticut countryside
This privately owned garden feels straight out of a Jane Austen novel, featuring structured hedges, cascading roses, and colorful perennials.
- Best Feature: Winding stone pathways leading to quiet seating areas.
- Best Time to Visit: Mid to late summer, when the roses are in full bloom.
5. Celia Thaxter’s Island Garden (Maine) – A Floral Oasis on a Remote Island
- Location: Appledore Island, ME
- Why It’s Special: A secluded island garden with ocean views
Located on an island off the coast of Maine, this historic flower garden was once tended by poet Celia Thaxter. Today, it remains one of the most remote and stunning gardens in New England.
- Best Feature: A boat-access-only experience with a breathtaking coastal backdrop.
- Best Time to Visit: July and August, when the island flowers are in full bloom.
Lesser-Known Botanical Sanctuaries
Garden in the Woods (Massachusetts) – A Native Plant Lover’s Dream
- Location: Framingham, MA
- Why It’s Special: A hidden woodland sanctuary filled with native plants.
- Best Feature: Rare wildflowers like pink lady’s slipper orchids.
Fuller Gardens (New Hampshire) – A Coastal Hidden Rose Garden
- Location: North Hampton, NH
- Why It’s Special: A formal rose garden near the ocean.
- Best Feature: Over 2,000 roses blooming in spring and summer.
Maine Coastal Botanical Labyrinth – A Secret Garden with Ocean Views
- Location: Near Boothbay, ME
- Why It’s Special: A maze-like garden with hidden paths.
Hidden Historical Gardens
Green Animals Topiary Garden (Rhode Island) – A Whimsical Secret Garden
- Location: Portsmouth, RI
- Why It’s Special: A magical garden with animal-shaped topiaries.
Naumkeag Gardens (Massachusetts) – A Historic Estate with Breathtaking Landscapes
- Location: Stockbridge, MA
- Why It’s Special: A grand historic garden with mountain views.
How to Find Secret Gardens
- Ask locals and garden clubs for hidden spots.
- Look for historic estates with private gardens.
- Explore small botanical conservatories instead of large parks.
Conclusion
Secret gardens offer a peaceful retreat from everyday life, providing a connection with nature in a more personal, undisturbed setting. Whether it’s a coastal garden with ocean breezes, a woodland retreat, or a historic estate garden, exploring these hidden gems is a rewarding experience.
So grab your camera, take a slow walk, and enjoy the beauty of New England’s secret gardens!
