When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
International Peace Gardens
Why International Peace Gardens is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nestled at the heart of the Turtle Mountains, the International Peace Garden is a remarkable sanctuary that celebrates over 80 years of peace and friendship between Canada and the United States. Spanning a stunning 2,339 acres, this vast botanical park offers an exceptional environment for friends to meet, relax, and immerse themselves in natural beauty. Visitors can stroll through meticulously maintained formal gardens, experience the world-class cacti and succulent conservatory, and explore the diverse natural landscapes including prairies, forests, and serene lakes. The garden's picturesque picnic areas and modern campgrounds provide perfect spots for social gatherings, leisurely lunches, and meaningful conversations amid tranquil surroundings. With more than 100,000 visitors annually, the garden serves as both a symbol of international harmony and a versatile venue for reconnecting with friends in a peaceful and inspiring setting. Whether enjoying a leisurely walk, admiring unique plant collections, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, the International Peace Garden offers a memorable and enriching experience for all ages.
Here's what people think of International Peace Gardens
As of recent, International Peace Gardens holds a 4.7-star rating based on 2034 reviews.
Community feedback reflects overwhelmingly positive experiences at the International Peace Garden, with many visitors highlighting the garden's breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Positive reviews often mention the extensive and diverse plant collections, especially praising the spectacular cacti and succulent conservatory as a unique and unexpected highlight. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds, comfortable picnic areas, and availability of amenities such as restrooms, parking, and a café offering delightful meals. Many recount family outings, romantic strolls, and gatherings with friends as restorative and joyful experiences amid the garden's harmonious setting. On the other hand, some less favorable comments focus on the extensive walking required to fully experience the gardens, which some found tiring without adequate preparation or rest. A few mentions also suggest occasional variability in staff availability or wait times at the café area. Overall, the majority of visitors express deep satisfaction, recommending the gardens as both a peaceful retreat and a meaningful cultural landmark. The reviews collectively underscore the garden's status as a cherished place for reflection, social connection, and the celebration of peace.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nick Lemoine
Great place to stroll around on a Saturday evening. Beautifully maintained gardens with themes from all over the world. We saw two marriage proposals this Saturday!
Charles Sim
This is very much a peaceful park tucked away being another park. Very well planned and thought out. There's a lot of people that come here for photo opportunities, that's loads of places for portraits and nature photography. Good place to come contemplate your life.
Elena Kreyder
🌿 A lovely, calm, and cozy garden — perfect for a quiet stroll or a peaceful break. The area is very clean and beautifully maintained, with plenty of vibrant flowers all around. However, it did feel a bit empty, and I was hoping to see the Ukrainian garden, which, unfortunately, I couldn’t find during my visit.
Marc Fluhrer
Coming from out of town visiting salt lake City, this was a pleasant place to walk around and see what could have been some really nice peace between some Nations that don't have peace right now, but still a great walk. We're here at the end of March and the weather was absolutely beautiful, grass was starting to come back from the winter and did not encounter any homeless throughout the whole Park.
Savageplayz 32
It was a amazing garden, I will say some nations had underwhelming plants or architecture. It had amazing walking paths and beautiful flora nonetheless
How to reach International Peace Gardens
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Why International Peace Gardens may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at International Peace Gardens with your friends?
Gathering with friends at the International Peace Gardens offers a unique combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and inspiring symbolism that makes any meetup special and memorable. Situated on the international border between the United States and Canada, this vast 3.65-square-mile botanical sanctuary celebrates peace and unity, providing a meaningful backdrop for meaningful conversations and shared experiences. The garden's rich history, intricate landscaping, and diverse floral displays create an inviting environment that encourages relaxation and connection away from the noise of everyday life. Whether your group enjoys peaceful strolls surrounded by over 150,000 blooming flowers or appreciates cultural monuments that symbolize harmony, the garden’s serene atmosphere fosters a sense of calm and camaraderie. The accessibility from both countries without customs formalities simplifies meeting logistics and enhances the visitor experience. In addition, the well-maintained picnic areas, open green spaces, and thoughtful design make it easy to engage in both energetic activities and quiet reflection. This blend of natural splendor, peaceful intent, and practical amenities makes the International Peace Gardens an ideal location to rally with friends or family, creating lasting memories in an inspiring setting.
What activities are available at International Peace Gardens?
The International Peace Gardens offers a variety of activities well-suited for groups, allowing visitors to explore, relax, and connect through shared experiences. One of the main draws is the botanical showcase featuring over 150,000 flowers planted annually, including an impressive 18-foot floral clock that captivates visitors with its vibrant design and horticultural artistry. The garden’s numerous walking trails offer a scenic way to wander amid beautifully landscaped areas, fountains, and international monuments dedicated to peace and friendship, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike. Groups can take advantage of large picnic areas furnished with classic picnic tables set in peaceful wooded surroundings, encouraging meals outdoors and casual socializing. There is also a playground area for families with children, ensuring entertainment for all age groups. Visitors can explore the North American Game Warden Museum located within the gardens, adding an educational element tied to natural resource conservation. Additionally, the garden hosts special events and seasonal programs, making return visits rewarding. The lush greenery, shaded spots, and rest benches scattered throughout the park allow visitors to rest or simply soak in the calming ambiance. Overall, the intricate blend of gardens, historical monuments, recreational spots, and cultural exhibits enriches every visit, providing diverse activities that cater to all interests and make group gatherings enjoyable.
Why is International Peace Gardens perfect for a group meetup?
International Peace Gardens is exceptionally suited for group meetups due to its ample space, diverse attractions, and peaceful environment. The garden’s vast area spanning more than three square miles means groups can spread out comfortably, finding quiet corners or engaging in collective activities without feeling crowded. This expanse also allows simultaneous enjoyment of multiple interests whether some want to explore the floral displays and monuments while others prefer the playground or picnic sites. The garden’s dual-national location adds a distinctive cultural dimension, encouraging cross-border friendship and providing a powerful symbol of unity that can inspire group discussions or themed meetups around peace and cooperation. Practical considerations such as convenient parking, ease of access from both Canadian and American sides without customs hassle, and available restroom facilities contribute to a stress-free visit. The garden’s natural seating areas and picnic tables are ideal settings for casual conversations, shared meals, or group games, making it easy to relax and enjoy one another’s company in a scenic setting. Furthermore, the quiet, natural surroundings foster a calm atmosphere, enhancing emotional connection and making group interactions more meaningful. The International Peace Gardens’ beautiful landscape combined with its symbolic importance and visitor-friendly amenities creates an inclusive and inviting environment for groups of friends, families, or community organizations to gather and celebrate togetherness.
What should groups know before planning a visit to International Peace Gardens?
When planning a group visit to International Peace Gardens, there are several key points to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. First, there is a nominal entrance fee, which grants access to this expansive and well-maintained site. Groups should budget accordingly, especially for larger gatherings. Second, while the garden is open year-round, the best time to visit is during the warmer months when the flowers are in full bloom and outdoor facilities are fully accessible. Visitors should check the garden’s official website or contact them for updates on any seasonal closures or special events. Due to its unique location on the US-Canada border, it is important to verify any current travel advisories or requirements, especially for mixed-nationality groups; however, the garden can be accessed from either country without customs processing, simplifying logistics. Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but some review feedback suggests occasional need for maintenance, so groups might consider bringing any additional necessities for comfort. Lastly, because the garden covers a large area, comfortable walking shoes and water are recommended to fully enjoy the experience. Organizing carpooling or coordinating meeting spots within the garden can help groups stay connected during their visit. By preparing these practical details ahead of time, groups can focus fully on the peaceful and enriching experience that International Peace Gardens offers.
How does the symbolism of International Peace Gardens enrich a group visit?
Beyond its natural beauty, the International Peace Gardens holds profound symbolic value that uniquely enhances group visits by providing a deeper context for connection and reflection. Established as a monument to the enduring peace and friendship between the United States and Canada, the garden physically straddles the border, inviting visitors to traverse an international boundary symbolically unified in harmony. This theme of peace is expressed through various architectural features such as the floral clock, memorials, and intricate garden designs that celebrate cross-cultural respect and understanding. For groups, this symbolism fosters an environment ripe for meaningful dialogue about cooperation, global unity, and shared values. Whether the group is gathered for a social occasion, educational outing, or cultural exchange, the garden’s spirit encourages a sense of global citizenship. The tranquil surroundings paired with powerful reminders of peace inspire thoughtful interaction, lending the meetup an added layer of significance beyond simple recreation. The opportunity to collectively reflect on peace and unity within such a potent setting can strengthen bonds and leave each participant with a lasting, enlightening impression. The garden thus serves not only as a recreational destination but also as a catalyst for thoughtful engagement and intentional community building among groups.
What makes International Peace Gardens stand out compared to other parks and gardens?
International Peace Gardens distinguishes itself from other parks and botanical gardens through its unique bi-national setting and its dedication to peace as a core theme. Unlike most gardens confined within a single nation’s borders, this garden physically unites two countries, symbolizing international friendship and mutual respect in tangible form. Its size—over 3.5 square miles—is impressive, allowing for extensive floral displays and diverse landscaped environments. The sheer number of flowers planted yearly and the iconic floral clock combine horticultural excellence with artistic expression. In addition to natural beauty, the garden incorporates historical monuments, museums, and cultural symbols that deepen visitor experience by connecting nature with human values. This dual focus on aesthetics and meaning makes any visit both visually delightful and intellectually stimulating. Furthermore, the International Peace Gardens features well-maintained picnic spots, playgrounds, and walking trails designed for ease of access and relaxation, accommodating a wide range of visitor needs and group sizes. Visitor feedback often highlights the welcoming atmosphere and the garden’s ability to feel both peaceful and inspiring at once, qualities that are not always balanced as effectively in other parks. This distinctive combination of beauty, scale, symbolic importance, and visitor-friendly amenities makes International Peace Gardens a standout destination for group meetups seeking both recreation and resonance.