Frequently Asked Questions

The Garden at Elm Bank & Planning your Visit

Is the Garden at Elm Bank wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the grounds, buildings, and gardens are all wheelchair accessible.

What time of year are you open?

Our open season is April-November, with events and programs year round. The Garden opens for the season on April 1st and closes for the season the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Festival of Trees starts Black Friday and is a separate ticketed event.

Stay updated with what’s going on through our Facebook, newsletter, and our upcoming classes!

What are the hours of operation of the Garden at Elm Bank?

During our open season, The Gardens are open 7 days a week. Monday - Thursday 10am-7pm, and you must enter by 5:30pm. Friday- Sunday 10am - 4pm, last entry at 3pm. Some days we close early for private events, you can see a full list of early closing days here.

Is there an entrance fee for the Garden at Elm Bank?

Admission is $14 for adults, $5 for Youth 3-17 years old, and free for children 2 years and under. Members get in free. Learn more here.

General Admission excludes special events, festivals and ticket add-ons.

Are there restroom facilities at the Garden at Elm Bank?

Yes, there are! There are men's, women's, and a gender-neutral bathroom. They are located in the Education Building.

Are dogs allowed in the Garden?

We do not allow pets in The Gardens.

I am a professional photographer, how do I schedule a photography session at the Garden at Elm Bank?

You must schedule a session in order to take professional photos in the Garden. To find out more information, please visit this page.

How many different gardens are there?

We have 13 different landscaped gardens. You can find out more information about each individual garden here.

How do I get to the Garden at Elm Bank?

We are located at 900 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482. You can get directions here.

Can I schedule a private garden tour?

Yes! To find out more information and schedule a tour, fill out the form on this page.

Where can I park?

We offer free parking in our paved/dirt lot for Garden Visitors. All parking is within 150 yards of the entrance to the Garden.

All other visitors who will not be entering the Garden at Elm Bank during their visit to Elm Bank Reservation must park at DCR-managed lots located throughout the Reservation. Anyone in MHS parking who is not visiting the Garden (including MHS Members) will be asked to move their cars.

Education & Events

Where can I see upcoming classes and events?

You can find all of our upcoming classes & events here.

What programs do you offer for families and children?

You can see all of our exciting youth programs here.

I am interested in volunteering as an individual or small group. How do I sign up?

To find out more information about volunteering and to sign up, click here.

I am interested in a corporate or company volunteer program. How do I sign up?

To find out more information about corporate volunteering and to sign up, click here.

Membership & Donations

How do I know when my membership expires?

Memberships expire one (1) year after purchase. Your membership expiration date is listed on your membership card.

How do I renew my membership?

You can fill out our Membership Renewal form here. If you would like to renew by mail, you can mail a check payable to Massachusetts Horticultural Society and sent to Massachusetts Horticultural Society 900 Washington Street Wellesley, MA 02482.

How can I donate?

There are many ways to support MHS! You can donate with a credit or debit card here, or you can mail a check payable to Massachusetts Horticultural Society and sent to Massachusetts Horticultural Society 900 Washington Street Wellesley, MA 02482. For more information on additional honor and memorial giving opportunities, please contact our Philanthropy & Outreach Department at 617-933-4963 or giving@masshort.org. Thank you for your donation!

What are the membership levels?

You can see all of our membership levels, benefits, and cost here.

I lost my membership card, how do I get a new one?

You can request a new membership card by calling our Membership Associate at 617-933-4961.

Weddings & Private Events

I am interested in booking a wedding or private event at the Garden at Elm Bank. Who do I contact?

Please fill out this form with the details of your event and someone will be in touch shortly. You can find out more information about weddings and private events here.

Growing Together

SINCE 1829

Massachusetts Horticultural Society helps people change their lives and communities for the better through growing plants together.