Dow Gardens, The Pines and Whiting Forest

Herbert Henry Dow was one of the world’s most famous scientists, but he was also very down to earth – literally.

The well-known Dow Gardens was started in 1899 as landscaping around Dow’s Midland home. Eventually spreading over 110 acres, the gardens feature flowers, shrubs, trees, ornamental grass, rocks and water in a series of lush, eye-pleasing vistas. The grounds are now open to the public, annually attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors.

The collection of plants comprises some 1,200 different woody trees and shrubs and 300 different perennials, wildflowers and unique ground covers. Among the outstanding displays are rhododendrons, crab apples, wildflowers, native trees and shrubs, roses, herbs, 25,000 tulips and 10,000 bedding plants. A display greenhouse is adjacent to the former Dow Homestead.

A children’s garden was developed and opened to the public in July of 1999. This hands on garden gives young and young at heart a chance to interact with fruit trees, agronomic crops, vegetables, wildflowers and aquatic plants. This 1½-acre interactive garden is explored and touches. 

The visitor entrance is located next to the Midland Center for the Arts at the corner of Eastman Avenue and St. Andrews Street. Pets are not allowed and an adult should accompany children 10 and younger.

Special tours may be arranged by contacting the gardens in advance of desired date to check availability. For additional information call (989) 631-2677 or (800) 362-4874. Admission fee. Visit the web site at www.dowgardens.org.

Whiting Forest is the newest area of Dow Gardens - it's located just north of the Grace A. Dow Library on Eastman Avenue in Midland. Whiting Forest came about through our interest in the native plants and forest types of mid-Michigan. Make time for a visit to our newest addition to enjoy seven different types of forest, a spacious Visitor Center, hiking trails, covered bridges, ponds and more.

Hours: Open all year 10 a.m. until dusk, except major holidays.