Betty Ford Alpine GardensBetty Ford Alpine GardensBetty Ford Alpine Gardens
Discover the wonder of alpine environments through the exhibits at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. One of the primary benefits of living near or visiting a botanical garden, is that it creates a microcosm of an extraordinary world, often difficult to view in its entirety, within reach, so that we may experience it at close range.
We carefully curate and create both permanent and seasonal exhibits for the education and entertainment of Vail visitors and members of the Gardens.
Uniting the World in Alpine Plant Conservation
Winter 2026 to Spring 2027
The Passport to the Peaks exhibit invited visitors on a global expedition to explore the breathtaking beauty and extreme resilience of alpine plant life. Traversing this immersive experience throughout the Gardens, visitors discovered the unique adaptations that allow flora to thrive in some of the most unforgiving environments on Earth. From the rugged Rockies to the towering Himalayas, this exhibit highlighted the incredible diversity of high-altitude ecosystems and the common threads that connect them.
This exhibit served as a vital bridge between our local conservation efforts and the global stage of botanical science. Visitors left with a deeper understanding of why these fragile alpine homes are essential to the health of our planet. Together we celebrateed the rugged survivors of the peaks and learned how we can protect them for generations to come.
Winter 2027
A spectacular, community-focused winter art exhibit featuring larger than life yeti sculptures transformed into unique masterpieces by local schoolchildren. This exhibit is an exciting collaboration between the Gardens, Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places and multiple local schools, designed to provide students with the invaluable experience of creating large-scale public art. View more details on the exhibit and our partners.
At Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, past exhibits have played a key role in bringing our mission to life. Education and community are at the heart of everything we do. Through engaging and hands-on programs, we aim to spark curiosity, deepen understanding of alpine ecosystems, and inspire a lasting appreciation for plants and conservation. Take a look back at some of our most memorable past exhibits that have helped connect people to the natural world!
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.
