Memphis, September 29, 2025
News Summary
The Memphis Botanic Garden is launching an Entry Courtyard project aimed at improving accessibility and enhancing visitor experience. Scheduled to commence on September 29, the project will include new plantings, additional seating, and updated pathways. The facility will direct guests to an alternate entry point during construction, minimizing disruptions. Additionally, plans for a new Youth Education and Tropical Plants Glass House have been approved, set to enhance educational programs and open in spring 2024. The garden also announced its upcoming concert series for 2025, featuring notable artists.
Memphis
The Memphis Botanic Garden is set to commence its Entry Courtyard project on September 29, 2025, with the aim of enhancing accessibility and improving the overall experience within its expansive 96-acre campus. The project is expected to be completed by late November 2025.
The plans for the Entry Courtyard project include new plantings, seasonal displays, additional seating areas, and upgraded pathways to facilitate better movement throughout the garden. The Executive Director noted that this redesign will significantly elevate the guest experience when visitors arrive at the garden. Construction will incorporate ramps and pathways to ensure all guests can enjoy the facilities.
During the construction period, visitors will be directed to an alternate entry point to minimize disruption. Officials emphasize that the Entry Courtyard serves as a crucial aspect of creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for the thousands of guests that visit each year.
In addition to the Entry Courtyard, the Memphis Botanic Gardenโs Board of Directors has approved a new Youth Education and Tropical Plants Glass House, which will be part of the gardenโs $5 million Rooted and Cherry capital campaign. As of now, fundraising efforts have exceeded 67% of the $5 million goal, thus allowing the project to move forward. Estimated to cost $2.2 million, this new facility will span 3,400 square feet and will be located along Cherry Road, just west of the Canale Rose Garden. Construction is slated to begin in April 2026.
The Tropical Plants Glass House aims to expand youth education programs, with a projected increase in participation from 40,000 to 52,000 school children annually. This project will also include an outdoor classroom, horticultural prep house, and a large event patio. The Horticulture Director described the glass house as offering a unique experience, featuring plants from various continents and a vibrant display of tropical foliage.
Enthusiasts will be able to see the glass house prominently from Cherry Road, especially at night due to a colorful lighting system that will enhance its appeal for special occasions. The facility is expected to open to the public in spring 2024.
In addition to exciting developments in the garden, the Memphis Botanic Garden has announced its lineup for the 2025 “Live at the Garden” concert series, which kicks off on June 21 with Third Eye Blind. Other notable artists scheduled to perform include Parker McCollum, Darius Rucker, ZZ Top, and the Steve Miller Band.
Concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers while enjoying food trucks and bars available on-site. Tickets for the concert series will go on sale beginning April 21, with prices ranging from $70 to $500.
FAQ
When will the Memphis Botanic Garden’s Entry Courtyard project begin?
The Memphis Botanic Garden will break ground on its Entry Courtyard project on September 29, 2025.
What is the completion date for the Entry Courtyard project?
Completion of the Entry Courtyard project is expected by late November 2025.
What features will be included in the Entry Courtyard project?
Plans for the project include new plantings, seasonal displays, additional seating areas, and improved pathways.
What is the cost and size of the new Tropical Plants Glass House?
The $2.2 million project will involve constructing a 3,400-square-foot facility located along Cherry Road, west of the Canale Rose Garden.
When is the expected opening for the new glass house?
The facility is expected to open to the public in spring 2024.
When does ticket sales start for the 2025 “Live at the Garden” concert series?
Ticket sales for the concert series start on April 21, with prices ranging from $70 to $500.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Courtyard Project | Improving accessibility with new plantings, seating areas, seasonal displays, and upgraded pathways. | Begins on September 29, 2025, and completes by late November 2025. |
| Tropical Plants Glass House | A 3,400-square-foot facility to enhance youth education programs with an outdoor classroom and large event patio. | Construction begins in April 2026; opening expected in spring 2024. |
| Live at the Garden Concert Series | Features artists such as Third Eye Blind, Parker McCollum, and more with food vendors available. | Tickets go on sale April 21, 2025, prices range from $70 to $500. |
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Additional Resources
- WREG: Memphis Botanic Garden to Break Ground on New Entry Courtyard
- Fox13: Memphis Botanic Garden Unveils 2025 “Live at the Garden” Lineup
- Action News 5: Youth Education Tropical Plants Glasshouse Approved
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis, Tennessee
- Google Search: Memphis Botanic Garden
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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