This is where childhood comes alive, where the imagination lives! The Toledo Botanical Gardens is a feast for the eyes, with gorgeous flowers, grasses, & ground coverings, layers upon layers of textures, its beauty is bountiful. It’s a living classroom where kiddos can learn about pioneer times, explore the vegetable gardens, & most recently allow their imaginations to roam freely in the Secret Forest!

Toledo Botanical Gardens

Address: 5403 Elmer Drive Toledo, Ohio 43615

Phone: 419-270-7500

Website: https://metroparkstoledo.com/explore-your-parks/toledo-botanical-garden/

Hours: Open 7 a.m. until dark every day

Admission: FREE

Amenities: Picnic area adjacent as well as restrooms

 

 

Kiddos can climb, jump, run, & explore their way through the Secret Forest. As you stroll up it’s reminiscent of a Secret Garden, with just the roof of the treehouse peeking up from the trees below and the wood threshold acting as the gate to imaginary play.

 

 

 

Once one walks through it the magic comes alive! You’re greeted by a multi-level treehouse complete with a suspended bridge, entirely enclosed climbing rope netted tube, and rope bridge with rope netting surrounding it, and an overall atmosphere of adventure!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After visiting the Secret Forest stop off at Schmucker’s down the road for lunch, dinner, or a shake! Located at, 2103 N Reynolds Rd, Toledo, OH 43615 it’s a local piece of history, established in 1948…open daily 5am-11pm & closed Sundays.