Step into Austin’s living history at the Zilker Botanical Garden, a 28-acre oasis nestled within Zilker Metropolitan Park. More than just gardens, this site is a tapestry of Austin’s heritage — shaped by fossil discoveries, cultural gifts, restoration efforts, and community stewardship.
On this tour, you’ll:
- Uncover the vision that gave birth to the Garden and explore key chapters in its evolution: from the Hartman Prehistoric Garden—where fossil tracks and Cretaceous flora tell a 70-million-year-old story—to the Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden, a gift of peace and beauty that reflects international friendship.
- Wander through themed gardens that mirror Austin’s cultural influences: the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, Mabel Davis Rose Garden, the Herb & Fragrance & Succulent gardens, and more.
- Learn about the Garden’s role as a public space and how it is sustained: owned by the City of Austin, maintained by its Parks & Recreation Department, but managed and enhanced through a robust public-private partnership involving the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy (ZBGC) plus the Austin Area Garden Council (AAGC) and garden clubs.
- Hear about recent improvements and restoration projects, like the Butler Window restoration, infrastructure upgrades, and master planning to increase accessibility, improve visitor experience, and protect historic features.
Whether you’re new to Austin or rediscovering a familiar landmark, this tour brings to life how Zilker Botanical Garden stands at the intersection of nature, history, and community.
Note: Yoga will be conducted on the grass. If you wish to travel with your own mat, you are invited to do so.