One of the most lovely parts of the summer is the increase in wildlife we see in New Hampshire. Just a few minutes outside can reveal everything from furry friends to new birds to even the bugs that sometimes annoy us. We’ll take it all if it means the weather is warm and we can spend time outdoors. And while we enjoy all types of wildlife here, it’s the butterflies of summer that we love the most. Spend an afternoon at this garden and you could be surrounded by them!
One of the most beautiful gardens in New England can be found within the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. In operation since 1966, the center’s aim is to bring people close to nature.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
That’s exactly what you’ll get during a visit to the gardens which are curated with the best plants and flowers to attract butterflies.
Kirkwood Garden was the brainchild of “Sunny” Grace Kirkwood, member of the Board of Trustees for the Science Center for many years.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
The garden’s purpose is to attract as many butterflies as possible and the variety of plants and flowers here are all attractive to bees, birds and (of course!) butterflies. All of this makes for a pollinated garden perfect for these beautiful creatures to come visit.
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center / Facebook
And, for us humans, it’s a lovely spot in which to relax for an hour or two.
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center / Facebook
You can find the one-acre garden on the grounds of the Holderness Inn. Visit the west side of the inn to enjoy the patio with views of the garden.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
The impressive upper garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers like azaleas, ferns, rhododendrons, and other plants that prefer shade.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
But if you like the warmth of the sun, head down the granite steps from here to the center area filled with sun and fresh air. Remember to check out the map so you know what you’re seeing.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
This lower area features a number of different trees, shrubs and perennials that soak up the sun.
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center / Facebook
And of course, you can’t forget the butterflies! They arrive by the hundreds and are a wonderful sight to see. Find a comfortable spot to spend some time and watch them flit from plant to plant!
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center / Facebook
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is typically open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., but be sure to check their website for updated opening information and hours. You can also follow them on Facebook. They be reached on 603-968-7194.
Daniel Sutcliffe / Google
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center / Facebook
And while the spring migration might be over, remember that fall should be another great time to see Monarch butterflies making their way down south. You can learn more about the full migration in this articled titled Millions of Monarch butterflies are headed straight for New Hampshire this spring.
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Address: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, 23 Science Center Rd, Holderness, NH 03245, USA
