Leadership identified the Children’s Garden as the priority project in the 2021 master plan (also developed with 3. Fromme Design and HDLA). This destination will be unique in the city and region, drawing adults and youngsters together in a fantastical one acre nature-based adventure. Fromme, HDLA, and the Gardens are currently in schematic design.

Water and plants weave the threads guiding visitors through a series of participatory experiences and features. The pollinator garden welcomes with color and motion and leads to the edible garden where youngsters may dig and plant. An adjacent open air pavilion hosts educational programs and rental events. The attached restroom and storage serves the Children’s Garden on one side and the overall garden on the other.

Bridges and stepping stones encourage youngsters to explore safely the floral and faunal denizens of a pond and wetland, including a showcase of insectivorous plants. A stream and shallows support free play and draw people uphill into the other spaces. Musical mushroom playhouses contain instruments and spark impromptu concerts. Richly detailed paving invites youngsters to play hopscotch and maze inspired games. Eager explorers climb boulders and dig in gravel pits. A waterfall shrouded grotto and tunnel provide the journey’s culmination. Oversized sculptures of native animals hold basins treating water in whimsical ways.