This time of year we welcome countless guests from near and far who are entranced by the gardens. A quiet stroll along a wooded path on a warm spring day somehow soothes the soul and puts one in touch with nature at its best. There are many locally-renowned gardens and outdoor events celebrating spring blooms this season. So begin with a self-guided tour of Gramercy Mansion‘s landscaped grounds – you may bump into Anne along your travels and she’ll indulge you with the history of her treasured gardens.
Continue garden gazing at the following local sites:
1. Cylburn Aboretum – Located on Greenspring Avenue just a 15-minute drive from Gramercy, Cylburn invites visitors to explore the gardens, trails and greenhouses from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Visit this Saturday, May 1st for the Grand Opening of the Vollmer Education Center, a brand new green building on the grounds, with many family-friendly festivities from 12:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. Or stop by on Saturday, May 8th for Market Day – dozens of community booths with items for sale and proceeds benefiting the Arboretum. Pack your blanket and picnic basket for Music in the Park on Wednesday, May 26th from 6 – 7:30 p.m. and unwind to the new world jazz stylings of David Bach (free event).
2. Ladew Topiary Gardens – 30 minutes from Gramercy, Ladew Gardens is known around the world for amazing topiary and flower gardens. Visit Monday – Friday between 10 a.m. – 4p.m. and weekends between 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Guided tours of the Manor House as well as self-guided tours of Nature Walk are available. Festivals, concerts and special events are scheduled every week from April – October. Click here for upcoming events.
Looking for an outdoor festival to pass the day? Check out the following:
May 1st & 2nd- Towsontown Spring Festival Enjoy art, music, crafts and more at the 43rd annual festival in the heart of Towson, just minutes from Gramercy.
May 7th & 8th – Flowermart 2010 In historic Mount Vernon, location of America’s first flowermart, Baltimore‘s annual event is always celebrated with flare. Dust off your best bonnet and come on down for a traditional lemon stick and a day of spring celebration.