Welcome to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society (Mass Hort), one of America’s oldest and most distinguished horticultural institutions. Founded in 1829, our enduring mission is to encourage the science and practice of horticulture and to deepen the public’s enjoyment, appreciation, and understanding of plants and the environment. Our home is the magnificent Gardens at Elm Bank, a 36-acre estate on the Dover/Wellesley line, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Take the excitement anywhere with the Rolldorado app.
The Gardens at Elm Bank: A Living Museum of Landscape Design
The Gardens at Elm Bank are a breathtaking collection of twelve distinct gardens that blend historic legacy with contemporary design. This living museum invites people of all ages and backgrounds to explore how plants and landscape architecture are an integral part of our lives. Our goal is to connect people to the natural world through sustainable design, cultural practices, and the pure, simple joy of being in a beautiful garden.
Our Signature Gardens
Each of our twelve gardens offers a unique experience and horticultural focus.
- Weezie’s Garden for Children: A magical, one-of-a-kind space designed to delight the senses and spark a lifelong love of nature in children. It’s an interactive wonderland where kids can explore, play, and learn.
- The Bressingham Garden: A stunning, four-season perennial and shrub garden designed by the world-renowned English nurseryman and author, Adrian Bloom. This garden is a masterclass in texture, color, and form, offering inspiration from spring through winter.
- The Italianate Garden: A formal, elegant garden reflecting a rich history. Designed in the early 20th century by the famed Olmsted Brothers, sons of Frederick Law Olmsted, this garden has been lovingly restored to its original grandeur, featuring classical design principles and beautiful symmetry.
- Massachusetts Trial Garden: A working garden where new plant varieties from around the world are grown and evaluated for their performance in New England’s challenging climate. It’s a sneak peek at the future stars of the gardening world.
A Rich History of Cultivating Community
For nearly two centuries, the Massachusetts Horticultural Society has been a leader in advancing the art and science of gardening.
Our Founding and Mission
Founded in 1829 by a group of forward-thinking citizens, Mass Hort was established to promote and improve the practice of horticulture. From hosting the nation’s first flower shows to establishing extensive horticultural libraries, our commitment to education and community has never wavered. We continue this legacy today by offering a vast array of classes, workshops, tours, and family-friendly events designed to inspire gardeners of all skill levels.
Plan Your Visit to The Gardens at Elm Bank
Experience the beauty and tranquility of one of Massachusetts’ premier garden destinations.
Hours of Operation
- Gardens: Open daily from 8:00 AM to dusk, from May 1st through Columbus Day.
- Administrative Office: Open year-round, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission and Tours
- General Admission: A suggested donation of $5 per adult is greatly appreciated to help us maintain these beautiful gardens for all to enjoy.
- Guided Garden Tours: Join us for an expert-led tour of the gardens. Tours begin at 10:00 AM every Tuesday from late April through October. The fee is $10.00 per person.
Directions
Address:
Massachusetts Horticultural Society
900 Washington Street (Route 16)
Wellesley, MA 02482
From the East / Boston
- Take the Massachusetts Turnpike (Route 90 West) to Exit 16 (West Newton).
- Follow Route 16 West for 4.7 miles to Wellesley Center.
- At the 5-way intersection, stay left to remain on Route 16 West (Washington Street).
- Continue for another 1.6 miles; the entrance to Elm Bank will be on your left.
From the North (via I-95 South / Route 128 South)
- Take I-95 South (Route 128 South) to Exit 21B for Route 16 West.
- Follow Route 16 West for approximately 2.9 miles to Wellesley Center.
- At the 5-way intersection, stay left to remain on Route 16 West (Washington Street).
- Continue for another 1.6 miles; the entrance will be on your left.
From the South (via I-95 North / Route 128 North)
- Take I-95 North (Route 128 North) to Exit 21B for Route 16 West.
- Follow Route 16 West for 2.9 miles to Wellesley Center.
- At the 5-way intersection, stay left to remain on Route 16 West (Washington Street).
- Continue for another 1.6 miles; the entrance will be on your left.
From the West (via Mass Pike / Route 90 East)
- Take the Mass Pike (Route 90 East) to Exit 14 (Weston) for I-95 South.
- Take I-95 South (Route 128 South) for about 1/2 mile to Exit 21B for Route 16 West.
- Follow Route 16 West for 2.9 miles to Wellesley Center.
- At the 5-way intersection, stay left to remain on Route 16 West (Washington Street).
- Continue for another 1.6 miles; the entrance will be on your left.