We've made two Meanders to Midland, one last fall and one most recently to visit the Butterflies in Bloom Exhibit at Dow Gardens. The majority of our time in Midland has been spent at the Dow Gardens.
The Dow Gardens were founded by Herbert Dow, also founder of Dow Chemical Company, in 1899. He started the gardens with just 8 acres and through the efforts of Herbert's son, and grandson, there are 110 beautiful acres. In addition to the beautiful gardens of flowers, herbs, streams, waterfalls, and bridges, the Dow Gardens include a conservatory, which is currently featuring the various seasonal exhibits, the Pines Home, home to Herbert Dow and his family, many unique sculptures, including Frank Lloyd Wright's Water Nymph, other beautiful and pieces of art, a children's garden, and the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio a very unique home built in 1941. The visitor's center also includes a gift shop with jewelry, clothing, lotions, items for the home, mostly made in the USA and many by Michigan companies and artisans.
Butterflies in Bloom is located in the sanctuary and is fun for both kids and adults. The sanctuary is filled with thousands of butterflies, starting at the chrysalis stage, emerging as butterflies flying all over the sanctuary. Many had the experience of butterflies landing on them, especially those wearing bright colors.
Dow Gardens most anticipated edition, Whiting Forest is coming in 2018. A 1400 foot, 5 story high, Canopy Walk over the Whiting Forest, 54 acres of native Michigan forest, meadow, and wetland. The canopy walk will be the longest in the nation. The forest will include an orchard and a 13,600 sq foot children's park that includes a beach and flowing water.
See the Dow Gardens Website for more information on hours, pricing, scheduled tours and events.
Just north of Dow Gardens is the Dahlia Hill Society of Midland is an award-winning, very unique site with eight terraces that are home to 3,000 dahlias made up of over 300 varieties of dahlias. In addition to the dahlias, there are garden sculptures. At the top of Dahlia Hill are two museums, called
Equiline, containing original artwork of Charles Breed. Breed uses plastic as a medium for the floral and botanical based artwork.
Downtown Midland is a gorgeous bridge with three separate walkways, connecting in the middle, named appropriately, the Tridge. Built in 1981, it connects the Chippewassee and St. Charles parks and is also where the Tittabawassee and Chippewa rivers meet.
More to come from the mind of ...
To see all the photos from Meander through Marshall, use either the Google or Facebook Link below:
This looks like a really amazing place. You were lucky to visit it. I hope my friends agree to visit this place with me. Otherwise I will have to come alone haha.
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