Why You Should Visit
Clark Gardens is the classic storybook garden come to life. Visit for a tranquil and relaxing walk through numerous gardens and water features. History buffs will enjoy the Historic Tree Trail. Train enthusiasts will not be disappointed in the model trains winding through miniature towns and landscapes.
Great Field Trip for These Topics:
- Botany/Native Plants
- Texas & US History
- Railroads & Trains
Where to Begin Your Field Trip
Begin at the Visitor Center. Purchase admission, pick up a map, and you’re good to go!
What Can You Expect to See & Do While Here?
Near the entrance you will find the Channel Gardens, sitting alongside a large tented area and a bowling green.
Further in, through a winding, well shaded trail, is the edible garden area.
Clark Gardens has an abundance of water features, and they are all beautiful. Each of the “lakes” has a uniquely inviting pavilion to sit and take in the scenery or have a picnic lunch.
This is the first time we had heard of a Historic Tree Trail, such an interesting concept. Each of the trees on the trail is descended from an ancestral tree of historical significance. Interpretative signs along the path tell the stories. Find a tree from the home of anyone from Betsy Ross to Elvis Presley.
The miniature train is a must-see. Indoor model railroads cannot hold a candle to the charm of this outdoor railroad town.
Furthest from the entrance, is a fragrant rose garden, with an arbor and large pavilion.
Before you leave, make sure you walk all the way around the White Garden. It would be easy to miss this hidden treasure. Shaded waterfalls, whether natural or man-made, are a real treat during the Texas summers.
Give yourself at least 2 to 3 hours to see everything.
The Basics
567 Maddux Road
Weatherford, Texas 76088
Open Daily in the Spring and Fall: (Check their website here for exact dates.)
Monday-Saturday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- $9.00 adults
- $7.00 seniors (65 and over)
- $5.00 children (4 to 12 years of age)
- Free for children under 3
Tips for Visitors
The Historic Tree Trail has a phone number you can call for an audio tour.
Wear closed-toed shoes, not all areas are paved.
Strollers and wagons are allowed.
Dogs are allowed.
Picnics are allowed.
Group Tours are available by appointment.
Clark Gardens participates in the American Horticultural Society (AHS) Reciprocal Program. Visit their AHS Reciprocal Admissions Program Policy page for details.
Additional Resources
Clark Gardens has put together a Butterfly and Bird guide listing species that can be seen here.
Children’s Book: Gardening Lab for Kids: 52 Fun Experiments to Learn, Grow, Harvest, Make, Play, and Enjoy Your Garden
Toy: My Fairy Garden Nature Cottage – Grow & Play Set
Arts & Crafts: Melissa & Doug Decorate-Your-Own Wooden Train Craft Kit, Standard Packaging
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