Highfield Discovery Garden, nestled within Glenwood Gardens, offers a whimsical and magical experience that will ignite your children’s love for the great outdoors. This extraordinary Great Park is straight out of a fairytale, filled with secrets, mystery, and wonder.
Upon entering the Visitors Center, which resembles a building from Hansel and Gretel, you’ll embark on a journey through Highfield Discovery Garden. As you explore the garden, you’ll encounter various enchanting spots that will capture your imagination.
Frog & Toad’s Garden
Immerse yourself in Frog & Toad’s Garden, an ethereal pond adorned with lily pads, where frogs, fish, turtles, and other captivating wildlife reside. The iconic Discovery Tree, a 25-foot tall treehouse/play structure with a spooky-funny face, adds an extra touch of adventure to the garden.
Larger and Smaller Than Life
Highfield Discovery Garden goes beyond the ordinary playground experience with its imaginative and immersive features. As you wander through the garden, you’ll encounter larger-than-life mushrooms and treehouses that make you feel small, as well as kid-sized houses that will make your children feel big. It’s like stepping into Alice in Wonderland!
The Trolley Garden
The Trolley Garden will captivate train enthusiasts, as an exquisite outdoor train runs along tracks built on tree branch bridges and tree trunk tunnels. Trains can be found running above adults’ heads and within kids’ reach, creating a sense of wonder and excitement.
Garden Workshop
For a hands-on experience, visit the interactive water play area near the Garden Workshop. And speaking of the Garden Workshop, it not only offers classes but also houses a center for kids programs. Here, your little ones can explore several animals, including snakes, toads, and a turtle who adores being sung to! Additionally, there’s a coloring station, nature books, and puzzles to engage young minds.
Fairy Gardens
Don’t forget to explore the many fairy gardens scattered throughout Highfield Discovery Garden, including the enchanting Rapunzel’s garden. These magical displays will transport you into a world of fantasy.
Fossil Digging and Scavenger Hunt
Engage in fossil digging and uncover 450-year-old fossils found right in Cincinnati, providing a unique educational experience. Explore the diverse scavenger hunts found in colorful mailboxes through out the garden, adding an element of adventure to your visit.
Music Garden
In 2022, a spectacular music garden was added! Head on through the misting caterpillar (perfect for hot days!) and take a small walk down, where you are greeted with a life-size wooden piano repurposed as a planter. The entire garden is in the shape of a treble clef, and features five interactive music stations with very large outdoor instruments and an accessible stage that can be used for self-directed and sensory play. This fun addition allows visitors to explore the connection between nature and music, and encourages creativity and self-expression.
If you need a break, there is a small cafe near the entrance where you can enjoy snacks or bring your own picnic. With umbrellas available, you can relax and savor your treats in a charming setting.
Highfield Discovery Garden is located at 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45215. To learn more and plan your visit, check out their website.
