Our story

Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum is a place where community grows, traditions are honored, and the natural beauty of East Knoxville and East Tennessee is preserved for future generations. More than a garden, it is a destination for horticultural excellence, immersive education, and meaningful connections with nature. Every corner honors this storied landscape, inviting discovery, learning, and inspiration.

For nearly 220 years, this land was home to the Howell family nurseries. The Howells introduced pink dogwoods, pioneered innovative business practices, installed iconic stonework across the region, and preserved this land for the community. Their legacy lives on in the Garden. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, these 44 acres feature 16 historic structures, two miles of stone walls and walking trails, abundant wildlife, a level one arboretum, and 18 display gardens with local, ornamental, and exotic flora.

Open to all from dawn to dusk every day of the year, the Garden is a defining piece of Knoxville’s cultural identity. At its heart, we create spaces that nurture community connections, support well-being, and inspire emotional attachment to the natural world. As stewards of this unique and historic resource, we are committed to sustaining and enhancing it for generations to come.