FWBG
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden (FWBG) is set to break ground on the Baker Martin Family Garden, the first major expansion of the historic garden in nearly two decades and a key project in FWBG's 20-year Master Plan. Fort Worth mayor Mattie Parker, along with city officials, garden supporters, and staff, will officially launch this monumental addition on November 16 at 10 a.m.
The Baker Martin Family Garden itself is a two-acre space designed for children and families, that will include interactive galleries, a water feature, a “Texas pond,” and open play areas. This upcoming section of the FWBG is being created to help spark people’s curiosity of nature and love of the natural world. Scheduled for completion in 2026, the garden will feature interactive and educational experiences aimed at creating memorable family moments and fostering hands-on learning.
The garden is designed by Terra Design Studios, renowned for developing over 25 successful family gardens across 12 states. Its design aligns beautifully with the Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s mission to create sustainable and engaging natural environments.
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden combines the Botanical Research Institute of Texas’s expertise in fundraising, education, and research with the City of Fort Worth’s historic grounds and event facilities, establishing it as one of America’s premier public gardens.
Key Features Breakdown
- Interactive Galleries: Eleven themed spaces tailored for children and families to explore and engage with nature.
- Water Feature: A 150-foot shallow creek that invites safe, interactive play surrounded by native Texas limestone and plants.
- Texas Pond: A habitat for amphibians, fish, and dragonflies, designed for ecological learning and connection.
- Open Play Areas: Expansive lawns offer ample space for active play, promoting physical wellness and community gathering.
FWBG
Facilities and Amenities
The heart of the garden’s educational offerings will be the Discovery Center, a LEED-certified, air-conditioned space that will host educational programs and community events year-round. It will feature a rotating collection of children’s books to spark curiosity and deepen young visitors' engagement with the natural world.
Accessibility and comfort are also top priorities. The garden’s design includes family-friendly features such as no additional entry fees, family restrooms, a dedicated parent’s room, flexible seating options, and shaded areas equipped with overhead fans to make visits comfortable for everyone.
The bird and pollinator gardens are another highlight, with spaces carefully designed to attract and support native species, offering visitors both educational and observational experiences as they learn about Texas’s rich ecosystem and the importance of biodiversity.
Vision and Impact
The Baker Martin Family Garden is envisioned as a "Yes” garden where visitors are encouraged to explore, touch, and learn, moving away from traditional “look but don’t touch” settings, according to a release. This interactive approach aims to deepen children’s connection to nature, fostering a sense of wonder that will fuel their curiosity and prepare them for potential scientific endeavors in the future.
The garden also promotes community and inclusion by creating a space that welcomes families of all backgrounds and abilities. With vibrant play areas for exploration and quieter spaces for reflection, the garden caters to diverse needs, ensuring it is a place for every family to enjoy themselves together.
