July 7, 2019 – Elizabeth Park Conservatory – Rose Garden – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Elizabeth Park Rose Garden in West Hartford, Connecticut.   The Rose Garden is one of the biggest Rose Garden’s in the country.  It is managed by the Conservatory, has over 15,000 rose bushes and 800 varieties of new and old roses.  The Park also holds events including summer concerts, and has a cafe on the property.  There are no fees to enter the garden, and it is dog friendly.

We had a colorful Adventure to the Elizabeth Park Conservatory Rose Garden.  I was exhilarated to find a dog friendly garden, a long, but reasonable drive.  Our plan was to visit early evening to avoid the summer heat.  The Park was very populated upon arrival, but we had no trouble finding parking and began on our journey.  There were different gardens with assorted flowers, and landscaping.  We wandered slowly appreciating the diverse variety of flowers, and of course snapping many photographs.

The property’s main attraction was the Rose Garden.  This Garden was centered by a what the Conservatory refers to as a “gazebo” covered by Virginia creeper.  There are rose colored arches leading to this spectacular centerpiece.  We sat and relaxed at this “gazebo” meeting other guests, many whom were quite curious about Wilma and Shadow.  Shadow seemed a bit displeased by the summer weather, while Wilma soaked in every guest she could pull in to her energetic world.  Both enjoyed their normal, cheerful grass roles, celebrating a new Adventure.  And although I brought water I was pleased to see a dog fountain which we stopped at on several occasions to refresh.  It was not too warm, however we still made sure to take many breaks just in case Shadow and Wilma needed an extra summer rest.

After the Rose Garden we walked over to see several fountains displayed in a murky pond.  Shadow was hoping for a dive into the pond, and I felt quite dispirited to let him down.  We therefore did not stay long in this hopeful area, walking around and finding several scenic bridges made of rock and stone.  Nearby we found many guests picnicking, playing games, and catching up with those they knew.  There was lots of life, culture, and smiles throughout the lovely gardens and adjacent fields.

We really did enjoy the gardens at the Rose Conservatory.  I loved how the more you walked, the more you found, enjoying different gardens around every corner.  Even more special for me a dog friendly garden where I can bring my precious bundles of fur (haha).  It was so nice to have My Mom join us, creating yet another wonderful memory.  A unique and special location.  I definitely plan to be back, and highly recommend you visit these lovely gardens (Rating:  4).