The Japanese Garden in Fort Worth

It's very easy to think of Fort Worth as a place for cowboys, so it's a good bet that many tourists don't realize the Fort Worth Botanic Garden is just minutes from the zoo and within it an award winning Japanese Garden exists.

Peace and Tranquility at the Japanese Garden in Fort Worth

If I am remembering the last Kung Fu Panda movie correctly, Po was searching for inner peace.  I know there are times during our family travel that I find myself searching for the same thing.  At the Japanese Garden, I found it.

After entering the main gate you can feel stress begin to melt away.  By design, the strolling paths are a place of serenity, with plenty of places to stop and just absorb the beauty that surrounds you.

Before you think that bringing kids into such a serene environment will only ruin the calming nature of the garden, let me tell you that gardens have the same effect on children as they do on adults.

It's a place to slow down…

To explore…

And to be amazed by nature.

Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The Japanese Garden is only one of the gardens withing the Fort Worth Botanic Garden.  

Classic European elegance and grandeur is the hallmark of the Lower Rose Garden.

The historic Oval Rose Garden will enchant you with its classic design, charming gazebo, and, of course, hundreds of roses.

Curving paths lead you through a dramatic series of thought-provoking color schemes and garden themes in the Fuller Garden.

From the frothy waterfall framed with sparkling floral color to the soothing brook laden with ferns, the Perennial Garden has something for everyone.

Designed to delight your nose and renew your sense of wonder, the Fragrance Garden features dozens of scented plants for your enjoyment.

If you seek the best in specialty plants and new varieties, the Trial Garden is your destination.

A favorite of visitors who seek quiet contemplation, the Four Seasons provides the excitement of color and botanical hybridization in a setting that allows relaxed reflection of the surroundings.

The Texas Native Forest Boardwalk is a living outdoor classroom—an elevated boardwalk with viewing platforms and educational features that also acts as a pathway connecting major features of the Botanic Garden.

Explore the winding paths to discover a kaleidoscope of orchids, bromeliads and exotic trees from around the world in the 10,000 square foot Conservatory.

A special thank to the Fort Worth CVB for showing me this beautiful, tranquil spot in their amazing city!

For more photos of family travel ideas in Fort Worth, visit my Fort Worth Texas set on Flickr or type “Fort Worth” in the search bar at the right.