Discover the Best Public Parks, Gardens, Nature Centers and Arboretums in Every State

Whether you're looking for a lush flower garden, a park for leaf-peeping or a natural area filled with native plants and wildlife, you'll find incredible green spaces in each of the 50 states. Our guide to US public parks, gardens, nature centers and arboretums will point you to beautiful places and top outdoor experiences across the US.

Before you go, check each website to verify open days and times, which may be seasonal or affected by weather. While these destinations are free to enter, some suggest a small donation or sell tickets for optional attractions and experiences.

Shown here: Bienville Square in Alabama. While we associate Mardi Gras with New Orleans, it began in Alabama in the early 1700s. Today, Mobile's Bienville Square is the site of the state's Mardi Gras festivities. This historic park takes up an entire city block and also hosts events like weddings, live concerts and Kids Days. Damaged by Hurricane Sally in 2020, the Square reopened in spring 2024, just in time to mark its bicentennial. Its large trees, iconic cast iron fountain, lawns, benches and paved paths make it a favorite.


Read the HGTV.com article about all 50 states' best outdoor spaces here