ACCESSIBILITY AT THE GARDEN
We believe in making New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill accessible to everyone. Our commitment to this goal earned us designation as a UP Organization by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Many of our outdoor gardens and all of our indoor facilities (conservatories, classrooms, café, and restrooms) are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Reserve a Ride Pilot Program
Monday – Friday, 10 AM – 4 PM
During weekdays the Garden provides a by-reservation shuttle service from the parking lot to the Visitors Center entrance for guests requiring assistance. The shuttle can seat five individuals in addition to the driver, who is a trained Garden staff member. This pilot program aims to improve accessibility to the Garden for all visitors. We look forward to giving you a lift!
How It Works
To make a reservation for the shuttle service, call 508-869-6111 or email visit@nebg.org no later than the day before your planned visit. Please note, the Reserve a Ride shuttle is NOT available April 21-25, May 6, or May 26, 2025.
Let Us Know How It Went
Email feedback about your experience with the shuttle service and any suggestions for how we can improve the experience to visit@nebg.org.
PARKING & DROP OFF INFORMATION
The Garden has designed its entry and parking lot using a universally accessible design. Accessible parking is located closest to the Visitors Center entrance. Please follow signage to access this lot. This parking area connects to a gradually inclined, ADA compliant path that leads through an entry pavilion before crossing the Garden driveway and meeting the main path to the Visitors Center.
A drop-off area with benches is located at the Garden’s entry, close to the main path that leads to the Visitors Center. Visitors are welcome to either drop guests off at this location while they park or park in the drop-off zone for up to 15 minutes in order to accompany guests into the Visitor Center. To view a map of the drop-off area, click here.
What To Know Before Your Visit
- Service animals are always welcome at New England Botanic Garden.
- Some areas, such as the woodland trails of our Inner Park, are not wheelchair accessible. Other areas, while accessible, include uneven surfaces that may affect visitors who prefer a smooth surface. View our map here and note that blue paths are paved. Upon arrival, our Visitor Services staff will be happy to clarify accessible paths and routes.
- Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. These chairs may be used in the buildings and on the garden paths closest to the buildings (these paths are blue on our Garden Map) are available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. Please inquire at the Visitor Services Desk when you arrive. We do not offer motorized wheelchairs or scooters.
- Visitors accompanied by a personal care attendant (PCA) will receive one free general admission ticket. To redeem: request PCA ticket when you check in or, if ordering online, enter promotional code PCA at checkout. Limit 1 per transaction. If you need additional complimentary PCA tickets, please call (508) 869-6111 for assistance with your reservation.
Renovation
The Winter Garden is currently under renovation to improve accessibility and will remain closed until mid-Spring 2025. All other gardens remain open.
Sensory Friendly Hours
Upon request, the Garden will open its doors 30 minutes early on Wednesday mornings (from 9:30AM – 10AM) for groups seeking a low sensory, less crowded environment in which to enjoy the gardens. During this time, the Garden Shop and Farmer & Fork Café will not be open. Regular group rates will apply. Personal care attendants (PCA’S) will be admitted free of charge. To schedule a low sensory experience, please contact Rose Yelinalch, Private Events Specialist at least two weeks in advance at ryelinalch@nebg.org or by phone at 508.869.6111 x140.
Your Experience Is Important to Us
We appreciate hearing about your needs and experiences at the Garden, as we strive to foster a space that is welcoming, inclusive, and accessible for everyone. Please contact info@nebg.org if you have questions, thoughts, or suggestions on how we may improve accessibility at the Garden. Thank you!