Go Public Gardens

Go Public gardens

Go Public Gardens is an evergreen year-round Association initiative to drive the public to visit, value, and volunteer at public gardens.

FIND A GARDEN

The American Public Gardens Association champions and advances nearly 600 member organizations in North America and internationally. Together, we lead, advocate and innovate in the conservation and appreciation of plants.

FIND GARDEN

UPDATE GARDEN PAGE

Association Member Gardens are featured on our Go Public Gardens Map. Member gardens can find out how to update their garden page here.

LEARN MORE

DATES

The Friday before to the Sunday after Mother’s Day in the United States
2025: May 9-18
2026: May 8-17

BEING SOCIAL

tag APGA’s social media channels:

Instagram: @americanpublicgardens
Facebook: facebook.com/publicgardens
LinkedIn: American Public Gardens Association

#GoPublicGardens and #GoPublicGardens2025

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT

Join the American Public Gardens Association’s Public Garden Photo Scavenger Hunt during our Go Public Gardens Days 2025! Each day from May 9-18, will feature a different scavenger hunt theme of something to “go find” at your local public garden or arboretum. Post your photos on your social channels on the day that matches the theme and be sure to tag: #GoPublicGardensDays and #GoPublicGardens.

The Association will share as many photos as possible across our Instagram and Facebook stories.

MAY 9 - SPRING BLOOMS

Kick off the Photo Scavenger Hunt by snapping your favorite spring bloom!

MAY 10 - MIGRATORY BIRDS

Find a bird to photograph to celebrate #WorldMigratoryBirdDay.

MAY 11 - MOTHER'S DAY

celebrate #MothersDay by sharing a photo of your mom or mother figure

MAY 12 - BUTTERFLIES!

Capture a photo or short video of a butterfly enjoying the spring blooms.

MAY 13 - NATIONAL TULIP DAY!

Find and post a tulip to celebrate #NationalTulipDay!

MAY 14 - NEW TO YOU

Spot a spring bloom or plant that’s new to you and share it —don’t forget to include its name!

MAY 15 - ART IN THE GARDEN

Find and post an art sculpture in the garden.

MAY 16 - ENDANGERED SPECIES

Ask a staff member to point out an endangered plant or tree in the garden and include this hashtag #EndangeredSpeciesDay (encompasses both plants and animals).

MAY 17 - SPRING BLOOMS 2

Ask a staff member at your local public garden to show you their favorite spring bloom. They’re welcome to be in the photo with you or simply take a photo of their favorite flower to share!