Welcome to The Ramble!

The Ramble, our new 1.5 acre garden, set in the heart of New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, welcomes children, families, and everyone looking for a joyful, educational experience in a naturalistic setting.

Beautifully landscaped, with hundreds of perennials, shrubs, and trees and featuring a brook, a pond, and a waterfall, The Ramble invites the young and the young at heart to learn about plants and nature. With accessible paths that all can enjoy, and immersive activities designed to spark the imagination, The Ramble draws families in ways not possible in the past. Come into the garden and expand your horizons in a healthy way.

The Ramble, dedicated by the McDonough family, is named in honor of Jean McDonough, who was a champion of the Worcester arts and culture community. She supported The Ramble because it is a form of curated Nature, which offers educational opportunities and play.

Purchase your tickets online now to visit our new Garden. You can also buy tickets in person at the Garden.

  • An imaginative water feature with a landscaped pond and waterfall to explore.
  • A one-of-a-kind “Stumpery” with tree stumps for climbing.
  • A tunnel made of woven branches, and natural building materials for hands-on imaginative play.
  • A circle lawn for games, picnics, performances, classes, and programs.
  • A pavilion for outdoor classes and picnic tables for gathering.
  • A forage garden with edible plants to help teach children where food comes from.
  • An outcrop amphitheater for students to gather while on STEAM-focused field trips.
  • Accessible paths for people of all abilities.
  • Hundreds of new plantings, including beautiful perennials, bulbs, shrubs, and trees, including many native to New England.
  • Quiet spots for reading, drawing, reflecting, and inspiration.