Olbrich Gardens – Revisited

Visiting Olbrich Gardens has become a tradition for me and my friend from Indiana, every time we meet in Madison, Wisconsin.

An overview of Lake Monona in the distance, from the climbing tower in Olbrich Gardens.

This botanical garden has an indoor, tropical conservatory, 16 acres of gardens in the outdoor area, and an interesting gift shop. The admission is free if you stay outside, and that is where we always want to be! Some years, when we have visited Olbrich in late October, there has been snow on the ground, but even then, it’s a pleasant walk.

A stone pot with overflowing green grass and a wooden stick ball in the center makes for a beautiful visual display.

This year when we visited, there was no snow, an above normal temperature, and the sky was a beautiful blue with bright sunshine. Although it was later in the season, we did find a few lingering blooms before winter brings it to a halt. 

The sunlight on this pink rose blossom made it even more stunning.
A lone wild geranium bloom.
A sweet red rosebud.

A couple years ago we discovered an interesting tree called the Full Moon Maple. We enjoy its fringed leaves and the vibrant red/orange color it turns at this time of year…and we like the name!

Full Moon Maple. Photo October 2020
Frances and me near the Full Moon Maple. 2021

There is a permanent display with a kaleidoscope to look through onto a pot of colorful greens and flowers you can spin around. I always enjoy looking at the geometric patterns through a kaleidoscope, especially when focusing on plants at botanical gardens. I’ve seen these displays at other gardens. What a creative idea someone had.

The kaleidoscope focused on a pot of grasses and flowers.

The gardens are open to enjoy all year. There is a special event in December, “Holiday Express” that would be fun to go back and see…model trains, poinsettias and fresh greens. 

Four blooming red roses.

It’s an easy drive to Madison from Northfield, and Madison always feels welcoming and is easy to get around. It seems to have many interesting things to do and see, including many bike trails. We have more exploring to do!

Another trio of fall blooming crocuses. I saw these for the first time a couple weeks ago. It was interesting to see more in another place, never having seen them before this year.

But, it’s good to know we can revisit Olbrich Gardens to find respite, and a peaceful place to enjoy nature, every time.

6 thoughts on “Olbrich Gardens – Revisited”

  1. Thanks for taking me to one of my favorite spots in Madison. I love these gardens and have visited multiple times. You are making me miss Madison today…and Caleb (although he now lives in Indiana) and Miranda.

  2. Especially fun to see your picture with Frances. Such a special time with your special old friend. Happy Thanksgiving. We are thankful for you and sure do enjoy your blogs.

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