As warmer weather approaches, the demand for outdoor venues increases. Beyond the usual patio, park, or pavilion, nature’s beauty is on full display at arboretums and botanical gardens that double as a stunning backdrops for events.
“Hosting events in a world-class botanical garden provides an exceptional and distinctive experience, offering a break from the typical conference setting,” says Lydia McConathy, director of private events at Fort Worth Botanic Garden. “The beauty of the surroundings can inspire creativity, elevate attendee experiences, and create lasting memories for guests.”
While conference rooms have their place, attendees might need the kind of mental and emotional refreshment that nature provides. “The corporate world can create a great deal of stress, which can lead to a loss of focus,” says Greg Lusk, executive director and horticulturist at Amarillo Botanical Gardens. “The tranquil environment the gardens provide creates the opportunity to expand the typical meeting space to include outdoor breakouts and restful places for fellowship. People are often more at ease in natural environments compared to the often-sterile meeting room.”
Planners also can count a focus on sustainability among the benefits of meetings at arboretums or botanical gardens. “Hosting an event at a venue that prioritizes environmental stewardship is increasingly appealing to businesses aiming to reduce their environmental footprint,” says McConathy. Before you book another indoor meeting, consider providing attendees with a bit of fresh air at some of these standout outdoor havens and let the beauty of Texas elevate your event.
Many arboretums and botanical gardens are oases in city centers, making them convenient to other amenities. Planners might also find free parking, accessibility, and dedicated event staff.
Christine Mansfield, senior marketing manager at Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, says the venue’s flexible areas can accommodate up to 400 attendees for anything from board meetings and retreats to galas and other fundraising events. “Houston Arboretum & Nature Center’s indoor and outdoor spaces are centrally located, include ample parking, and allow you to feel like you have left the buzz of the city without ever leaving the Interstate 610,” she says.
Downtown access also lets attendees explore all a city has to offer. “Located near the heart of Fort Worth, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden offers easy access to the city’s business district, hotels, restaurants, and cultural venues, making it a convenient location for both local and out-of-town attendees,” says McConathy. The venue boasts 23 specialty gardens, including a tropical conservatory, forest boardwalk, water conservation garden, and the popular Japanese Garden with cherry trees and koi fish ponds. Planners choose from 14 outdoor meeting areas and 16 indoor spaces.
In the case of inclement or unseasonal weather, arboretums and botanical gardens often provide indoor meeting spaces as alternatives to outdoor exposure. In the heat of Texas thunderstorm season during summer and fall, these indoor spaces might be the best way to enjoy the beauty of the gardens. Erika Tucker, director of hospitality at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, puts it this way: “Our event spaces showcase our landscape and bring the outdoors in.”
The 4.4-acre Amarillo Botanical Gardens is in the Amarillo Medical District. “We have indoor event rooms that will accommodate from a few up to 300 people, with larger number capabilities outdoors. The indoor spaces have dedicated restrooms and a catering kitchen available. Rentals come with tables, chair setups, and cleanup included,” says Lusk. Outdoor venues include an amphitheater and Japanese garden.
Of course, the biggest appeal to hosting a meeting at an arboretum or a botanical garden is the stunning scenery and the effect it has on attendees’ overall mood and energy levels.
“Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s lush greenery, beautiful landscapes, and serene surroundings offer a refreshing atmosphere that enhances focus, creativity, and relaxation,” McConathy says. “Attendees can take advantage of the peaceful garden environment to recharge during breaks. Strolling through the garden and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature can enhance mental well-being and help people stay energized throughout long meetings or conferences.”
Gardens provide a cheerful backdrop for networking. Being outdoors for brainstorming or small breakout sessions can help attendees clear their heads, leave the stress of daily work behind, and be inspired with new ideas.
The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center provides an environment that is a bit less conventional with access to amenities not typically offered at your standard convention center or hotel.
“Outdoor spaces like the arboretum are a welcome alternative to more traditional venues,” says Mansfield. “Include a nature walk, an outdoor session, or a social hour on our lawn to create an even more memorable experience for attendees.” The 155-acre venue, which also serves as an educational center and a sanctuary for native plants and wildlife, is on the west side of Memorial Park near downtown. Some 5 miles of nature trails, eight ponds and wetland areas, and Buffalo Bayou along its southern border give attendees plenty to occupy their break times. Flexible outdoor and indoor space can accommodate up to 400 attendees.
These venues also offer team-building activities and create chances for attendees to stand up and stretch their legs between sessions. “Our outdoor spaces are expansive, with endless possibilities for outdoor breakout sessions and team-building activities,” says Tucker of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, which has a mission to inspire native plant conservation. With both indoor and outdoor spaces for up to 150 attendees, all outdoor bookings come with a complimentary indoor option in case of inclement weather. “We offer on-site catering services that make the planning experience simple and easy,” Tucker adds.
“Fort Worth Botanic Garden offers several outdoor spaces that can be used for team-building activities, such as guided garden tours, scavenger hunts, or outdoor yoga sessions,” says McConathy. “These activities can promote collaboration and strengthen interpersonal relationships in a more relaxed and informal setting.” No matter the weather, Texas arboretums and botanical gardens provide a breathtaking backdrop for your next meeting.
amarillobotanicalgardens.org
fwbg.org
houstonarboretum.org
wildflower.org
