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Fernwood Botanical Gardens in Niles, MI

Fernwood is mix of trails, wildlife, and seasonal exhibits. It’s part garden, part forest, and part learning space for families and kids. I’m Corky Lorenz, a journalistic photographer in northern Indiana, and this is what I saw during my autumn visit to Fernwood.

A wide view of the big pond and fall leaves changing colors.
The view over the Big Pond with autumn leaves

November 3, 2025

Fernwood Botanical Garden entry wall with green foliage backdrop and a wooden bench under the Fernwood logo.

What is the cost of admission at Fernwood Botanical Garden?

Admission to Fernwood Botanical Garden costs $12 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $7 for children. Kids under 4 get in free. Members visit free all year, and some events or photography sessions may have extra fees.

November 2, 2025

A hand holding a single red leaf at Fernwood Botanical Gardens, surrounded by soft yellow autumn trees in the background.

Is it worth visiting Fernwood after the flowers are done blooming, in the fall?

Even after the flowers fade, Fernwood Botanical Gardens stays alive with color. The trails are lined with bright leaves, textured bark, and a few late blooms that prove how well the gardens are cared for.

November 2, 2025

A bright red and yellow model trolley crosses a wooden bridge surrounded by trees and autumn leaves at Fernwood Botanical Gardens in Niles, Michigan.

Model trains at Fernwood Botanical Gardens

There are two different train displays at Fernwood. One is inside, in the building where you buy your tickets. The other is a short walk from the entrance, on the trail.

November 3, 2025

Room inside the Sims Education Center at Fernwood Botanical Garden with large windows, a rug, and soft rock-shaped pillows arranged for children’s play and sensory activities.

What is the Sims Education Center at Fernwood?

The Sims Education Center at Fernwood Botanical Garden is a library and event space. It focuses on nature education, with books about plants, wildlife, and conservation. It also includes bird watching stations, hands-on learning areas for children, and rooms available for community events and private gatherings.

November 2, 2025

A person eating a chicken pot pie at the Fernwood Botanical Gardens café, served by the Grateful Pie Company.

Pies at the Fernwood Cafe

They have fruit pies and hot food pies! Inside the visitor center is the Fernwood cafe, where you can find treats and food made to order.

November 2, 2025

A person is holding a pair of binoculars inside the sims education center.

Bird watching at Fernwood Botanical Gardens

Follow the trail to the Sims Education Center. It's the grey building with plants on some parts of the roof. Inside, you'll find bird watching stations.

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