Cool Views
It’s summertime in Texas, so you’re probably looking for a good place to chill. From water features to shady spots, the Wildflower Center has you covered!
We recommend beginning your visit at Courtyard Spring, which was designed to resemble Jacob’s Well in Wimberley, Texas. Right now, it’s surrounded by blooming scarlet rose mallows (Hibiscus laevis). Pro tip: Grab a hibiscus iced tea from the nearby Wildflower Café before exploring the rest of our gardens.
Head west, and you’ll soon see our tranquil Woodland Stream, where water glides over rocks and past two of our favorite native ferns, river fern (Thelypteris kunthii) and Southern maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris). Have a seat in the shade and you just might spot our resident tree frog (Hyla cinerea) lounging on the leaves of a dwarf palmetto (Sabal minor)!
You may be tempted to sit near near the Woodland Stream forever, but we encourage you to keep walking. Our Theme Gardens are straight ahead and they’re bordered by two wood arbors covered in native vines, including mustang grape (Vitis mustangensis), American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens) and coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempevirens). Beneath these structures, you’ll find plenty of shade and photo opportunities!
Photo: Pam Penick
If you have children in tow, the Family Garden is a must. There, you’ll find Dinosaur Creek with its ever-flowing waterfall. Pro tip: Adventure awaits in the caves behind the falls!
Looking to get in your steps? Head to the Texas Arboretum and find swings of every type under a canopy of escarpment live oaks (Quercus fusiformis). Feel the breeze in your hair as you swing away all of your troubles. Repeat visits are encouraged!
