Wisconsin · Est. 1929
Boerner Botanical Gardens
A beautiful, formal garden located within an extensive park and arboretum.
Founded
1929
Size
40 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 5b
Best Season
May to October
About Boerner Botanical Gardens
Boerner Botanical Gardens features glacial fieldstone walls and original, handcrafted limestone statuary. The gardens offer a variety of themed displays including a renowned rose garden, peony garden, and daylily garden, providing a haven for city dwellers and a living tapestry across twelve distinct areas.
History & Heritage
The idea for the gardens was conceived around 1929 by Charles B. Whitnall, who sought to create a haven for city dwellers. He partnered with landscape architect Alfred L. Boerner to design the 40-acre space carved from Whitnall Park. The gardens were built with the help of Depression-era government work relief programs like the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration, and were officially named after Boerner in 1957.
Signature Feature
The Rose Garden
The Rose Garden is an original and signature space at Boerner, showcasing many varieties created by renowned rosarian William Radler, the creator of the Knock Out Rose. It serves as a vibrant centerpiece of the botanical gardens.
Photo Gallery
Lush green botanical garden
A pathway through the garden
A winding path through a rose garden
Notable Collections
Rose Garden
A signature space featuring varieties by renowned rosarian William Radler.
Peony Garden
A beautiful display of blooming peonies.
Daylily Garden
A vibrant collection of daylilies.
Trial Gardens
One of only 31 such displays nationwide, serving as a test kitchen for new plant varieties.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
May 1 - Aug 31: Sun-Thu 9am-8pm, Fri-Sat 9am-4pm; Sep 1 - Oct 31: Daily 9am-4pm
Best seasonal window: May to October
Parking & Arrival
Parking is available on-site.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
The Education & Visitor Center and most of the grounds are ADA accessible, including a paved path linking historic garden areas.
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- AAS Display Garden Design Award
- AHS Great American Gardeners Award (Second Place)
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
May to October
Address
9400 Boerner Drive, Hales Corners, WI 53130
Phone
(414) 525-5601
Hours
May 1 - Aug 31: Sun-Thu 9am-8pm, Fri-Sat 9am-4pm; Sep 1 - Oct 31: Daily 9am-4pm
Admission
Adults: $8.00 (Resident) / $9.00 (Non-Resident), Seniors/Disability/Students: $6.00
Parking
Parking is available on-site.
Accessibility
The Education & Visitor Center and most of the grounds are ADA accessible, including a paved path linking historic garden areas.
Insider Tips
- 1Visit the Margie's Children's Garden for family-friendly activities.
- 2Check out the original handcrafted limestone statuary by WPA artisans.
- 3Explore the Rain Harvest area to learn about water conservation.
- 4Stop by the FBBG Gift Shop in the Atrium of the Education & Visitor Center.
Nearby Attractions
- Whitnall Park (0 miles)
- Wehr Nature Center (1.5 miles)
- Milwaukee County Zoo (8 miles)