These must see botanical gardens are located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. As a registered National Landmark filled with amazing history, the beautiful gardens and grounds of the manor can be seen at every turn. As you explore the area you’ll experience the sounds of water streaming from iconic fountains, heavenly smells of flowers, and brightly colored trees & foliage in the fall. There are over 40 acres you must see at the historic Cranbrook Botanical Gardens. Explore the manor as you wander scenic trails throughout the grounds.

Explore the Must See Historic Botanical Gardens at Cranbrook

When to Visit the Gardens

ADMISSION & HOURS

Spring

If you’re interested in sunshine and warmer temperatures, I recommend visiting in the beginning of May. You’ll see spring flowers on trees, blooms throughout the Cranbrook grounds and trails, and cooler temperatures. Spring & Fall are my recommended times to visit the Botanical Gardens based on temperatures and drastic changes to the plants. Spring months are between April – May. March is cold and rainy.

Summer

The weather in the Great Lakes State changes often and quickly. The weather forecast can go from sunny & 80F to rainy and 50F within a couple hours. The flowers are thriving in the summer, and you’re guaranteed tons of beautiful flower blooms. Summer months are between June – August and will sometimes continue into September.

Fall

The fall season starts in mid September, ending around end of October, beginning of November. In the first two weeks of October the leaves start changing into brilliant colors of yellow, orange, & red. The fountains may not be in service depending on weather temperatures. In fall the leaves start to change turning the green trees orange, red, and yellow colors.

Winter

Unfortunately the gardens are not open for winter.

How to Get to Cranbrook Botanical Gardens

The nearest major airport to Birmingham is Detroit Metropolitan International Airport, (DTW). The airport is about 31 miles from the city center. Flint Bishop International Airport is the second major airport. Unfortunately it is not as budget friendly as Detroit. Flights are limited, and the airport is located 49 miles from Birmingham. If you are parking at your departure airport, save time by making a parking reservation.

You can rent a car from the airport to get around the city and explore more of what Michigan has to offer.

Download the Cranbrook App for tours, interactive maps, visitor info, and more. The grounds are 40 acres and you can easily get lost, which is fun if you have the time!

Cranbrook House

Cranbrook is located on the Cranbrook Educational Community campus is filled with rich history, beautiful craftsmanship, iconic sculptures, and . The campus is a National Historic Landmark, home to the oldest manor house in metro-Detroit. The gardens are maintained by a local volunteer-run organization.

The Cranbrook house was designed in 1908 by local renowned Detroit architect Albert Kahn, and home to the family of George & Ellen Booth for 40 years! As you explore the grounds you’ll see the best craftsmanship of that time reflected in each area of the house, landscapes, and gardens.

Rainbow Fountain

*2021 Update*

Due to the monetary strain caused by the pandemic, unfortunately the fountains and water features will not be running this year. The fountains are beautiful even without being turned on. So I still recommend visiting them on your trip to Cranbrook Botanical Gardens.

Sunken Gardens

The sunken gardens are one of the most BEAUTIFUL places at Cranbrook Botanical Gardens. They were my favorite garden throughout the entire visit. Bright colors popped in long symmetrical lines of flower beds surrounded by a castle wall.

During our visit the lovely couple above were taking their engagement photos. I asked if I could photograph them while in the garden, and they happily said yes. Doesn’t she look so beautiful next to colors of the flowers with her dress? 😍

Japanese Garden

The Japanese Garden is surrounded by different types of beautiful bright colored Japanese Maples, and includes the famous red bridge.

One of the oldest Japanese Gardens in North America, you’ll see mature trees that are HUNDREDS of years old, towering high up into the sky. Cranbrook’s Japanese Garden is a peaceful garden surrounded by natural beauty. You’ll see large areas of big leaf Petasites, bright purple Liriope, and even some Tree Peonies. 

Top Hiking Trails in Cranbrook Botanical Gardens

Japanese Garden Trail

Cranbrook’s Japanese Garden is located on the eastern edge of Kingswood Lake. You can reach the trailhead if you head east from upper north terrace. The garden started as a quaint rock garden and lily pond.  

Altar of Atonement

Location: The brow of a hill overlooking the Meeting House

Directly across Lone Pine Road from the altar is Christ Church Cranbrook. Built in 1927, this beautiful structure was given as a gift to the community.

The Altar of Atonement is a symbol of man’s need for atonement with God and with other human beings.

The Bridge

The Bridge Trail will take you through a short woodsy whimsical stroll. Trail starts from the center of Cranbrook Botanical Gardens, known as the mountain leading you to the Greek Theatre.

Kingswood Lake

Take a leisurely stroll around Kingswood lake. So you can admire the lake views, spot wildlife, and listen to the quiet sounds of nature. The walk around Kingswood Lake is around 0.65 miles, suitable for all ages.

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Best Hiking Trails Near Cranbrook Botanical Gardens

Clinton River Trail

One of my favorite trails in the area is the 16 mile Clinton River Trail. Walk or bike along the low elevation abandoned rail line. You will go through the heart of Oakland County, into the cities of Sylvan Lake, Pontiac, Auburn Hills, Rochester Hills and Rochester. The trail rides along the Clinton River and is surrounding lush woodsy landscapes. Along the trail are cities downtowns, residential areas and parks.

West Bloomfield Trail

The West Bloomfield trail frequently crosses the Clinton River. It continues as the Clinton River Trail to the east than the Macomb Orchard Trail. In downtown Rochester, you can break off from Clinton River Trail to the Paint Creek Trail via the Rochester Riverwalk taking you north to Lake Orion (the town I grew up in 🙂).

The Metro Connector Trail

The Metro Connector Trail closes the gap between two local favorites in Novi: the M-5 Metro Trail and the I-275 Metro Trail. Beginning on 13 Mile Road the trail pivots south along Meadowbrook Road. The M-5 Metro Trail further connects to the Michigan Air Line Trail.

Kingswood Lake

Take a leisurely stroll around Kingswood lake. So you can admire the lake views, spot wildlife, and listen to the quiet sounds of nature. The walk around Kingswood Lake is around 0.65 miles, suitable for all ages.

Social Distancing in Cranbrook Gardens

You are encouraged to follow social distancing and other guidelines recommended by the CDC and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Orders. The bathroom facilities at the botanical gardens are not in service during the pandemic so keep that in mind as you plan your trip!

Guests are required to maintain at least 6 ft of distance from the grounds gardeners while they work. Logan and I chose to wear masks outside out of precaution. There were many people visiting as it was a Saturday. Be mindful as some of the paths are narrow.

Courtyard Garden

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