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Know Before

You Visit

Huntsville Botanical Garden is a living museum containing diverse ecosystems and carefully curated collections, outdoor exhibits, and natural spaces.

To help us preserve these special spaces and provide a safe, enjoyable visit for everyone, please follow posted signage and directions from Garden staff and volunteers. These guidelines apply to all guests, including those attending private events.

Because the Garden is an outdoor environment, guests may encounter changing weather conditions, native wildlife, and a variety of path surfaces throughout their visit. We encourage you to explore thoughtfully, stay aware of your surroundings, and enjoy the Garden responsibly.

If you have questions or need assistance during your visit, our staff will be happy to help.

Accessibility Information

We are committed to providing an enjoyable experience for all guests.Visit the Accessibility page for information, accommodations, mobility resources, sensory-friendly offerings, service animal policies, and more.

Get Accessibility Information

Garden Safety

Welcome to the Garden!

As you explore the Garden, please be mindful that:

  • Paths may include paved, gravel, and natural surfaces.
  • Weather conditions can change quickly.
  • Plants may have thorns, prickles, or other natural defenses.
  • Wildlife is a natural part of the Garden ecosystem.

Please stay aware of your surroundings and use caution while exploring.

Explore Responsibly

We encourage curiosity and discovery. Feel free to enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of the Garden while respecting plants, wildlife, exhibits, and fellow guests.

Our flowers are happiest here—please leave all plants, flowers, and natural materials where they belong.

Personal Responsibility

Guests enter and interact with the Garden at their own risk. Huntsville Botanical Garden is not responsible for personal injury, loss, or damage to personal property.

Reporting an Incident

Please immediately notify a staff member if:

  • Someone is injured on Garden property
  • You observe damage to Garden property
  • You encounter a hazardous condition

Prompt reporting allows us to respond quickly and appropriately.

Emergencies

See Something, Say Something.

To report an emergency, suspicious activity, or a safety concern:

  • Notify the Admissions Desk or the nearest staff member immediately.
  • Call 911 if emergency services are needed.

If you contact emergency services directly, please also notify the Admissions Desk so Garden staff can assist first responders in reaching the appropriate location.

Garden Etiquette

To help everyone enjoy their visit:

  • Respect wildlife and observe from a safe distance. Do not touch or feed animals.
  • Walking on lawns is permitted unless otherwise posted.
  • Do not climb trees, structures, fences, or exhibits.
  • Dispose of litter in designated receptacles.
  • Lakes and ponds are for viewing only.
  • Public restrooms are located in the Guest Center, Anderson Education Center, and at the south end of the Mathews Nature Trail.
  • Shirts and shoes are required in all buildings. Shoes should be worn throughout the Garden.
  • During severe weather, seek shelter in a covered area. In the event of a tornado warning, proceed to the Guest Center.

Garden Policies

Admission & Entry

  • Admission or membership is required for entry. *Certain events may require separate ticket purchases.
  • All guests should enter through the Propst Guest Center unless otherwise directed by Garden staff. 
  • Unauthorized entry, trespassing, or remaining on Garden property outside operating hours is prohibited.

Pets

  • Dogs and cats are welcome only during designated pet-friendly events and days.
  • Service animals trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities are welcome at Huntsville Botanical Garden. Emotional support, comfort, therapy, or companion animals that are not trained service animals are only permitted on designated pet-friendly days.

Prohibited Activities

  • The following are not permitted:
    • Bicycles, scooters, skateboards, roller skates, or similar recreational equipment
    • Drone operation without prior written approval
    • Smoking or vaping
    • Outside alcohol
    • Firearms
    • Open flames, fireworks, or sparklers

Photography & Video

  • Questions about photography at the Garden? Learn more about photography policies and sessions.
  • Entry into Huntsville Botanical Garden constitutes consent to be photographed or recorded for promotional and marketing purposes.
    • Guests wishing to opt out should notify Admissions staff prior to entering the Garden.