Auxiliary Private Garden Tour

Private garden with hostas and statues

Celebrate the 39th anniversary of the Auxiliary Private Garden Tour as guests of the Arboretum Auxiliary on luxury, air-conditioned motor coaches to four local private gardens — each with its own history and charm. Guests will be inspired by creative color combinations, pollinator-friendly plantings, interesting water features and beautiful art pieces. This year's tour includes a garden featured in the Minneapolis Star Tribune's 2023 Garden contest. 

The Sunday, Monday and Tuesday morning tours (July 14-16) will be followed by brunch, the Sunday evening tour will be followed by hors d'oeuvres and wine/beer.   Weather permitting all will be served on Morgan Terrace at the Arboretum. 

Additional Details:

Reservations & Seating

  • Reservations are limited. Sign up early.
  • Unfortunately, gardens on the tour and coaches cannot accommodate those with special needs, including wheelchairs, walkers, etc.
  • No children under 12 years old.
  • Please remember your receipt to attend the buffet.
  • No separate admission to the Arboretum is required. Please show your tour receipt at the Gatehouse entry to the Arboretum.

Weather & Departure

  • The tours will take place regardless of the weather. Dress accordingly!
  • Allow time for road-construction delays to arrive at the Arboretum on time.
  • Coaches will depart from the front entrance of the Snyder Building.
  • Each tour lasts approximately 3 hours. Please wear comfortable and sensible shoes for uneven terrain.
  • Umbrellas are recommended for inclement weather.
  • Still cameras are welcome. Please do not post private garden photos on social media sites.

Tour Times and Tickets

Tours take place Sunday, July 14-Tuesday, July 16, 2024

Special Ticketed Event: $93 for Sunday tours and $85 for Monday and Tuesday tours. Tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m. on April 24, 2024.

Sunday, July 14

9-12 p.m. 

9:45-12:45 p.m. 

10:30-1:30 p.m.

Sunset Tour: 3-6 p.m.


Monday, July 15 

9-12 p.m.

9:45-12:45 p.m. 

10:30-1:30 p.m.


Tuesday, July 16

9-12 p.m. 

9:45-12:45 p.m.

10:30-1:30 p.m.

Location

Tours will depart from the Arboretum. Bus transportation will take attendees to four private home gardens in the Twin Cities area.