Children & Families

Fun in the Garden

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Discover & Play

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is the perfect destination for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy hands-on fun with their little ones. Kids can explore the charming Children’s Garden, get imaginative at Betty’s Market play area, and dive into discovery at the Education Center, located at the west end of Ford Park.

Inside, families will find giant interpretive displays, engaging activities, access to storybooks, and the starting point for the popular seasonal scavenger hunt—available daily from 10 AM to 3 PM. Whether you’re visiting for a day of outdoor adventure or educational play, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens offers a welcoming, family-friendly environment for curious minds of all ages.

Children's Garden

Summers
Located by the schoolhouse gift shop

Wander through the family-friendly Children’s Garden. See how tall asparagus can grow or shop in our gift shop. The Children’s Garden has plenty to do for everyone! Families can enjoy the shade in rocking chairs perched over Gore Creek or head into the Schoolhouse Gift Shop to find garden-inspired keepsakes.

Betty's Market

Summers
Located by the schoolhouse gift shop

Betty’s Market playhouse is a great way for kids to have fun and embrace their creativity while surrounded by our beautiful vegetable garden. Make a connection to where the food on our table comes from or shop the market for the ingredients on your chosen recipe card. Parental supervision required.

Appropriate for children 3+ accompanied by an adult

Family FRidays

Summers
Located by the schoolhouse gift shop

Join us at the Gardens for a FREE family friendly activity every Friday during the summer. Meet at the Children’s Garden by the Schoolhouse Gift Shop at 11:00 am. Activities include story time, crafts, and games.

Appropriate for children 3+ accompanied by an adult 

Scavenger Hunt

Daily 10am – 3pm

A great way for the family to see all of Betty Ford Alpine Gardens this summer! Search for clues to unscramble words and discover more about habitats. Take your time enjoying the hidden and wonderful areas of the gardens (or our Education Center if the weather is not cooperating). Let the kids lead and spark their sense of adventure. Complete the scavenger hunt to get a special prize. Come back each year to discover a new theme. The Scavenger Hunt starts and ends at the Education Center.

Plan Your Visit to the Gardens

Exhibits, activities and our outdoor living plant collections are open daily from dawn to dusk, offering a peaceful retreat in every season. To deepen your experience, visit our Education Center, open weekdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Starting Memorial Day, the Education Center expands its hours to open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for the summer season. Admission is free (donations are greatly appreciated), allowing everyone to connect with the beauty of the high alpine.