USA Today Ranks Tucson Botanical Gardens Among Best in the US

Many of us know of the treasure we have at 2150 N. Alvernon Way, but the folks at USA Today are well aware, too. Tucson Botanical Gardens has been ranked #4 in the country for “Best Botanical Garden” in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for 2025 — for the third year in a row!

First, 20 nominees were selected by a panel, including editors from USA Today, 10Best.com, and subject matter experts. Readers and other community members, far and wide, voted for their favorite.

Then, on Wednesday, March 19, it was whittled down to just 10.

Tucson Botanical Gardens being placed in the top five sure means a lot to the team and the community — it’s a recognition that Michelle Conklin, President and CEO, is extremely grateful for.

“Securing this national recognition once again is a true testament to the beauty, charm, and spirit that make our garden so special,” she added. “Your unwavering support (and votes) continue to elevate us on the national stage, and we couldn’t have done it without you!”

Top 10 Gardens in the U.S.

1. Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
2. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in Cincinnati, Ohio
3. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables, Florida
4. Tucson Botanical Gardens in Tucson, Arizona
5. Lauritzen Gardens in Omaha, Nebraska
6. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, Florida
7. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
8. Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, North Carolina
9. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens in Wichita, Kansas
10. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, Maine

Grub at the Gardens

Stroll down the winding paths and you’ll likely encounter hummingbirds, lizards, and the occasional butterfly. Then, about midway through the Gardens, Edna’s Eatery by Charly’s Grill is blooming with dishes to try.

Certain ingredients like chives on the avocado toast are often picked from potted plants in the windows of the cafe. The flowers in vases on each table are picked from the Gardens each morning.

It’s just one more reason to vote for the unique attraction we have in the middle of town.

The Tucson Botanical Gardens are located at 2150 N. Alvernon Way. For more information, call (520) 326-9686 or visit tucsonbotanical.org.

To read more about the other winners, visit 10best.usatoday.com.

Foodie Club members

Edna’s Eatery by Charly’s Grill is also a Restaurant Partner, meaning that Foodie Club members can score $10 off every 90 days.

For $20 a month, Foodie Club members get a stack of cash vouchers to local restaurants worth over $6,000, free tasting events at local restaurants every month, access to members-only monthly dinner series with local chefs, discounts on events, and monthly mixers with other members. Learn more and join!