Kentucky Children's Garden
What to Do at the Garden
The Kentucky Children's Garden features child-sized representations of Kentucky’s landscapes (natural and man-made, past and present), as well as themed sections such as butterfly, vegetable and transportation gardens.
Spanning two acres, there are many areas to explore and interact with, including our wading stream, "fishing" pond, pioneer cabin, nature center, butterfly garden, sand pit, dig pit, prairie and more.
Educational programming takes place each day that we are open, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Programs are a fun and engaging way for children and their families to learn about the environment and participate in activities. See the Program Calendar below.
Garden-scale model trains run for one hour starting at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Note: We cannot operate the trains during high winds or rain.
Rules
- You must have a wristband to enter the garden. All visitors should go to the Visitor Center before coming to the garden to receive their wristband.
- All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- Shoes must be worn at all times (even in the water).
- Picnics are not allowed in the KCG. Visitors are invited to picnic at the tables outside the KCG gates.
- No pets are allowed in the garden. Service animals are an exception, but staff must be informed.
- No bikes, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, etc., are allowed inside the garden. Strollers, wheelchairs and other mobility devices are allowed.
- Please do not damage, collect or eat the plants in the garden.
- Professional photography is not allowed. Only take photos of your own child.
- All groups over 15 total visitors must register prior to their visit. Visit Group Visits for more details.
Hours of Operation
April & May
Wednesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm (Admission must be purchased by 4pm)
June, July & August
Wednesday - Saturday 9am to 4pm (Admission must be purchased by 3:30pm)
September & October
Wednesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm (Admission must be purchased by 4pm)
Admission
Daily cost: $4 (children under 2 are free)
Season Membership
Cost
- $130 for the 2026 season.
- Save 10% on a season membership by becoming an Arboretum Friend (must show current card to receive benefit).
- Save $5 by bringing your season membership card from another year.
Benefits
- Admission to the KCG for a member and up to four guests every day we are open for the season. A total of five people can visit as often as they wish.
- A 10% discount in our gift shop.
For more information about KCG membership, call 859-257-6955. Thank you for your support!
Features to Explore
The KCG features representations of Kentucky’s landscapes, themed gardens, and more.
See Features & Activities
Group Visits
We welcome small group visits and field trips to the Kentucky Children’s Garden.
Learn about Group Visits
Program Calendar
Each drop-in program aims to deliver a fun and engaging way for children and their families to learn more about nature and the environment. Programs run from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and will take 7-15 minutes. Recommended for ages 3 and up.
Appreciation Days
Our Appreciation Days honor different groups in our community and provide a free or low-cost way to enjoy the Kentucky Children’s Garden. Visit the Dorotha Smith Oatts Visitor Center on the Appreciation Day that applies to you to receive free admission for one adult and one child.
April 18 - Military & Veteran Appreciation Day
June 13 - Grandparents Appreciation Day
July 18 - First Responder & Healthcare Worker Appreciation Day
August 15 - Teacher & School Employee Appreciation Day