3 min read

Amarillo Botanical Gardens

An unexpected oasis in the dryness of the Texas Panhandle, the compact Amarillo Botanical Gardens are centered around a humid tropical conservatory.
Amarillo Botanical Gardens desert plants
Desert plants at Amarillo Botanical Gardens

Born of a garden center developed by the Amarillo Garden Club to develop test gardens in the high plains of the Texas Panhandle, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens grew into a botanically diverse showcase of plants that are able to thrive with assistance in this arid environment.

Inside the Gardens

Only 4.4 acres in size, these seasonal gardens pack an outstanding amount of diversity into a small space.

Flanked by the Medical Center Park and looking across green space along a small waterway, they are partly shaded and partly in full sun.

Cannas at Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Cannas growing against a backdrop of the Tropical Conservatory

In addition to the popular Mary E. Bivins Tropical Conservatory, these terraced gardens are broken up into thematic areas.

The showiest garden area is the Japanese Garden, as you see it immediately upon entering the gardens from the Entry Court.

Japanese garden pagoda at Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Sitting area for relaxation and meditation in the Japanese Garden

Its architectural elements and water features draw your attention down the terraces.

Of course, the Conservatory is a must-visit for its humid air. It feels like a rainforest inside, with mist rising and birds fluttering and strutting along the pathways.

Mary E. Bivins Tropical Conservatory
Inside the Mary E. Bivins Tropical Conservatory

Tucked beneath the back corner of the conservatory at the base of the Terrace is a Little Free Library with botanical and garden-themed books.

Among the many gardens, most of which are credited to specific garden clubs or individuals in the area, are a small children's garden, a rose garden, and a desert garden.

Desert garden and mosaic at Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Desert garden and mosaic

One of the delights of this garden for visitors like ourselves is its native plant collection, with plants from across Texas labeled and displayed so as to help you learn what they look like in their native habitats.

Texas Native Plant Garden at Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Texas Native Plant Garden

Walk through the gardens with us through our gallery of photographs.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens, Amarillo TX - Watula Images
A respite from the dryness of this corner of Texas, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens offers an oasis of blooms and greenery.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 1400 Streit Dr, Amarillo, TX 79106
Phone: 806-352-6513
Hours: Vary seasonally. Nov-Apr, Mon-Fri 9 AM-5 PM, Sat 1-5 PM, closed Sundays. May-Oct, Mon-Fri 9 AM-7 PM, Sat & Sun 1-5 PM.

The gardens are accessible, with ramps leading between the different levels.

Special thematic events are held on a regular basis and may affect garden hours. Restrooms are located at the garden offices.

Directions

The gardens are along the western edge of Amarillo north of Interstate 40. Westbound along I-40 from downtown, use exit 66 for Wolfin Ave.

Turn right on Port Ln and cross under Amarillo Blvd. Make the first right onto Streit Dr, immediately past the Ronald McDonald House. Parking and the gardens entrance are on the left.