Garden Destinations and Architectural Digest both named Ladew Gardens one of the top five topiary gardens in the world.

Topiary is the practice of clipping perennial plants to maintain a shape (think of the Palace of Versailles in France). Marylanders, and neighbors, are lucky to have a renowned stunning area to go for a stroll in that models this specialty.

You want to make sure to take your camera or have your phone ready to take pictures of the trees, flowers, garden fountains, and butterflies. The butterfly house opens on July 6th through late September. It is included in the entrance fee but you have to ask at the entrance for timed tickets. The staff at the butterfly house love their work and it shows. They will share some information before entering and are eager to answer your questions once inside. And, the house is small enough that you will get to have a close encounter with the butterflies. 

The nature trail is a little bit hidden on a road past the butterfly house and past the wildflower meadow. There is a metal door that appears to be closed but it is in fact the entrance. It is a mile walk and perfect for escaping the weekend crowd or do some hiking without getting too tired.  

When to go 

Ladew Topiary Gardens can get crowded over the weekend (lunchtime picnics are rush hour here) but luckily the area is large enough that you don’t feel crowded. And if you do, there is always another area where you can have more privacy.  

Mornings are the best time to go – it opens at 9:00 am Thursday to Tuesday. The garden is less crowded then, and the weather is cooler.  

Note that there is only one public restroom in the Manor house. Important to remember when bringing little ones. 

What to bring 

There is not a lot of spots with shade so you definitely want to be prepared for hot weather. Sunscreen, bug spray, hat, sunglasses. If you just want to walk through the gardens you can use flip flops or fancier shoes, but if you are planning on also going on the nature walk then walking/running shoes are highly recommended.  

My family has also visited Ladew Topiary Gardens on rainy days. It is equally beautiful and the weather ensures that you get the entire place for yourself! 

Where to eat 

There are picnic tables close to the registration area that are large enough to host three/four families. They are generally taken on weekends, unfortunately. If you missed those, there are plenty of smaller picnic areas throughout the garden. Or you can lay a picnic blanket on the “great bowl,” a large open green space next to the Manor House.  

If you call a day in advance you can order a picnic that will be given to you at the entrance (phone number: 410-356-1666). The menu is under “Ladew Café” on their website. The food is good and the children’s portions are quite large. 

Keep an eye out for ...

Some homes close by grow their own vegetables. In late spring and summer, they put signs out advertising their harvest. You can quickly stop on the side of the road and pick up some tomatoes, corn, or other seasonal vegetables. They have a sign with the cost, you take your produce and leave the cash in a box. The tomatoes are usually superb.