If your childhood was anything like ours, if you sat nice and still outside during the summer there was a good chance you’d find a butterfly. You may have hoped it would come land on you, or you may have been happy to appreciate it from afar. They do have those creepy bug-like feet, after all! Regardless of how close you wanted to get, it was always so lovely to see them flutter around. And that’s why we love this butterfly garden in New Hampshire. It’s been planted specifically to attract these wonderful creatures.
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center has been around since 1966, working to bring people close to nature. And within it lies Kirkwood Gardens, a beautifully curated area filles with plants and flowers.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
We have “Sunny” Grace Kirkwood, who served on the Board of Trustees for the Science Center for many year, to thank for this beautiful garden. She designed the one-acre garden on the property of the Holderness Inn.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
The goal was to plant a variety of different plans that would be extra attractive to birds, bees, and butterflies.
That makes this beautiful spot a great place to relax and take in the wildlife of this region of New Hampshire.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
Head to the west side of the Holderness Inn to access a beautiful patio that will let you see the garden from afar.
The upper garden features things like ferns, azaleas, rhododendrons, and other plants that love shady areas.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
After enjoying the shady area, head down the granite steps leading down into the center area which is bright and sunny.
The lower area is filled to the brim with shrubs, trees, and perennials that love the sun.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
And of course, the most lovely part is the butterflies.
Find yourself a nice place to sit and watch them flutter around the plants and flowers they love.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m You can learn all about the other things they offer to the public on their website. You can reach them at 603-968-7194.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
Address: 23 Science Center Road, Holderness, NH 03245
Want more beautiful New Hampshire gardens. Put all 6 of these on your summertime must-visit list!
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