The park’s dynamic educational programs blend art, nature, and science and are a key draw for student groups. The facility’s 158-acre expanse, featuring both indoor and outdoor gardens and over 200 sculptures, provides a rich learning environment. Schools can choose from guided tours tailored to different age groups or self-led experiences, allowing students to explore at their own pace and connect with horticulture and fine arts.
Student programs at Meijer Gardens are not just educational, they are engaging and interactive. Carefully designed to align with educational standards, these programs foster creativity and critical thinking. Art-inspired activities seamlessly integrate with environmental exploration, allowing students to study ecosystems and diverse plant species across themed gardens. Tours may also incorporate STEM concepts, providing students with hands-on science and engineering-related problem-solving experiences as they explore the natural and artistic exhibits.
The Lena Meijer Children’s Garden and Michigan’s Farm Garden are particularly popular for younger participants, offering a range of interactive experiences. From water play areas to hands-on agricultural learning, these activities are designed to stimulate environmental awareness and promote teamwork, imagination, and sensory engagement. The availability of seasonal tram tours across the grounds further enriches the visit, offering a narrated experience through the landscapes and exhibitions.
For educators and organizations, Meijer Gardens offers a range of resources and support to enhance the educational experience. These include resource materials to facilitate pre- and post-visit learning and grant assistance to make the programs more accessible. Whether the focus is on art, conservation, or botany, the unique combination of sculpture and natural beauty at Meijer Gardens ensures an enriching educational experience for students of all ages.
