Norfolk Botanical Garden Autumn Family Garden Walks & World of Wonders Children's Garden

About this adventure

Immerse your family in natural beauty at the Norfolk Botanical Garden during Thanksgiving holiday weekend, encompassing 175 blooming and forested acres surrounded by Lake Whitehurst. Families can explore miles of paved paths through Japanese gardens, towering pine groves, and the centerpiece World of Wonders (WOW) Children's Adventure Garden. Spanning three interactive acres, WOW lets children journey through six international habitat zones, climb across rope play structures, discover sensory herb plants, and learn how seeds travel in autumn breezes. Thanksgiving weekend programming features seasonal garden scavenger hunts, leaf rubbings at the discovery pavilion, and leisurely strolls around the enchanting waterways where wintering herons and turtles sunbathe along the banks. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Exceptionally stroller-friendly with paved walking paths connecting all major gardens, plus smooth ramps throughout the WOW Children's Garden. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Modern visitor center offers private nursing rooms, clean family restrooms with changing stations, and plenty of benches under garden canopies. • Age Suitability: Designed for children from infancy through age 12; toddler play zones in the Children's Garden provide safe climbing and sensory exploration. • Sensory Tips: Peaceful botanical atmosphere filled with floral scents and soothing water features; outdoor open spaces allow children to wander without overwhelming noise.