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Fernwood Botanical Garden

4.7(874)
Botanical Garden

About

Fernwood Botanical Garden offers 105 acres of cultivated gardens and natural areas along the St. Joseph River, featuring trails through prairies, arboretums, and a Japanese garden. Its diverse ecosystems provide a tranquil backdrop for small group walks and outdoor meetings.

The on-site Garden Café serves fresh, local fare, making Fernwood a great spot for casual business lunches or breaks during events. With peaceful pathways and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s ideal for teams seeking a nature-inspired setting near South Bend and Michigan’s wine country.

Best for

  • Outdoor team-building & nature walks
  • Casual client lunches with garden views
  • Small group brainstorming offsites

Request a Package

Tell the venue what you're planning and they'll respond with a custom proposal within 1–2 business days.

Custom Package Request

Custom request

Not sure which package fits? Tell us about your event and the venue will work with you to build the right experience from scratch.

What's typically included

  • Space & layout
  • Food & beverage
  • AV & technology

Venue Details

Standout features

Expansive 105-acre botanical garden and nature preserve
Natural Setting
Expansive 105-acre botanical garden and nature preserve
Fernwood protects at least 10 ecosystems across its vast grounds, featuring miles of walking and hiking trails, a reconstructed prairie, an arboretum, and diverse cultivated gardens including a Japanese garden, herb garden, and railway garden.
Peaceful, immersive natural experience
Atmosphere
Peaceful, immersive natural experience
Visitors describe the garden as serene and otherworldly, with a mix of gravel, grass, flagstone, and dirt paths shaded by mature trees, creating a quiet retreat ideal for reflection and exploration.
Garden Café with consistently praised food
On-site Amenities
Garden Café with consistently praised food
The café offers a selection of well-regarded dishes and homemade pies, providing a convenient and enjoyable dining option that complements the garden experience.

At a glance

Rated 4.7 on Google · 874 reviews