St. Andrews New Brunswick: Kingsbrae Garden Admission Ticket
Imagine wandering through 27 acres of beautifully curated gardens, each offering its own unique charm—think vibrant themed flower beds, tranquil ponds, and whimsical sculptures. For just $16, you gain access to this horticultural jewel in the coastal town of St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick. The visit lasts about a day and promises a peaceful retreat with plenty of opportunities for photo ops, family fun, and even animal encounters.
What we really love about Kingsbrae is how the gardens showcase over 50,000 plants across diverse themes like the Rose Garden or the White Garden, each designed to delight the senses. Equally appealing is the on-site Cafe, where you can enjoy dishes made with fresh, local ingredients—perfect for recharging after some garden wandering. Plus, the garden features impressive sculptures scattered throughout, giving visitors a taste of outdoor art in a natural setting.
One thing to keep in mind is that the terrain includes gravel trails, which might limit accessibility for some visitors. It’s best suited for those who can comfortably walk on uneven surfaces. This experience is ideal for nature lovers, families, and art enthusiasts who want an authentic taste of New Brunswick’s scenic and cultural richness.
Key Points
- Affordable Entrance: For only $16, you get a full day of exploring 27 acres of beautifully maintained gardens.
- Stunning Plant Collections: Over 50,000 plants in themed gardens, making each visit visually rewarding.
- Unique Attractions: Features like a Dutch windmill, cedar maze, and woodland trails offer more than just pretty flowers.
- Animal Encounters: Meet alpacas, peacocks, pygmy goats, and rabbits that add a charming, family-friendly touch.
- Art and Sculptures: Dozens of outdoor artworks blend seamlessly into the landscape, enriching the visual experience.
- Seasonal Beauty: The gardens evolve with the seasons, so each visit offers something new.
Exploring Kingsbrae Garden: A Detailed Look
Arrival and First Impressions
As you arrive in St. Andrews, the sight of the 27-acre Kingsbrae Garden immediately sets a tone of calm and beauty. The entrance is inviting, and within moments, you’re surrounded by a carefully curated landscape that balances traditional and modern gardening styles. The garden’s layout encourages a leisurely walk, with multiple paths leading to different themed areas, each designed to surprise and delight.
Themed Gardens: Walking Through a Living Palette
The Rose Garden is a particular highlight, with dozens of varieties of roses bursting with color and fragrance. Walking here feels like stepping into a painter’s palette—reds, pinks, yellows, and whites all mingle in an aromatic display. The White Garden offers a different experience, emphasizing subtlety and elegance, ideal for those looking for a calm, contemplative space. The Knot Garden is a formal design that invites you to admire precise craftsmanship.
The Perennial Garden provides a lush, colorful tapestry of plants that bloom across seasons, while the Bird & Butterfly Garden is crafted to attract winged visitors, adding a lively, buzzing energy to your stroll.
Sculptures and Art in the Open Air
What sets Kingsbrae apart is its dedication to art. Dozens of sculptures, from modern abstract pieces to more traditional forms, are scattered throughout the property. These artworks are thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, creating little surprises at every turn. You might find yourself pausing to appreciate a sculpture that complements the natural surroundings perfectly—an outdoor gallery that enhances the natural beauty rather than overshadowing it.
More Great Tours NearbyAnimal Encounters: A Joy for Families
A special charm of Kingsbrae is its animal collection. You can meet friendly alpacas, watch colorful peacocks strut by, and interact with pygmy goats and bunnies in dedicated petting areas. One reviewer fondly recalled how the goats and alpacas added an extra layer of fun to the visit, making it especially appealing for children and animal lovers.
Unique Features: Windmill, Labyrinth, and Forest Trails
To add to the experience, visitors can explore a Dutch windmill built to 1/3 scale, which offers a picturesque photo opportunity. The cedar maze and tranquil woodland trails provide quiet spots to reflect or simply enjoy nature’s calm. These features offer more than just pretty scenery—they create an immersive environment that invites exploration and discovery.
Food and Refreshments
The on-site Cafe is a highlight, serving dishes crafted from local ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a hearty lunch, the menu is thoughtfully curated to match the garden’s ethos of fresh, sustainable food. Many visitors praise the quality and flavor, making it a good reason to linger longer and enjoy a relaxed meal amid the scenery.
Accessibility and Practicalities
It’s worth noting that the gravel trails might pose a challenge for visitors with mobility issues or those using wheelchairs. The garden is open rain or shine, so plan your attire accordingly—comfortable walking shoes are a must. The landscape offers plenty of rest spots and lookout points for taking breaks, ensuring a relaxed pace. Dogs on leashes are welcome, so Fido can join the outdoor adventure too.
Value for Money
At $16 per person, the admission fee is quite reasonable considering the amount of space, plant diversity, art, and animals on display. Visitors often mention the good value, especially for a full-day experience that combines nature, art, and family fun.
Reviews and Authentic Opinions
Based on the reviews, visitors find Kingsbrae “very beautiful and varied,” with one traveler from France noting the “diverse” gardens that appeal to all senses. Another reviewer from Canada appreciated the “cute goats and alpacas,” highlighting how these animals add a special, memorable touch. The overall consensus is that Kingsbrae Garden provides a relaxing, visually stunning outing—one that’s worth the modest entrance fee.
Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re someone who appreciates gardens, outdoor art, and family-friendly activities, Kingsbrae Garden is perfect. It suits visitors looking for a peaceful escape, as well as those wanting to indulge in some light educational fun—thanks to interpretive panels and a variety of themed areas. Nature lovers and photographers will find plenty to capture, while foodies can enjoy a delicious meal made from local ingredients.
However, if mobility is a concern or you prefer smooth, paved surfaces, this might not be the ideal spot due to the gravel trails. Also, if you’re visiting with very young children or pets, the animal encounters are particularly engaging.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Kingsbrae Garden offers a beautifully maintained, thoughtfully designed environment where you can enjoy a full day of serenity, art, and nature. The combination of diverse plant collections, engaging sculptures, and friendly animals makes it a worthwhile stop in New Brunswick. The reasonable price, along with the opportunity to relax and recharge, makes it a great addition to any trip exploring St. Andrews—the charming coastal town that hosts it.
If you’re seeking an experience that balances beauty, tranquility, and a touch of whimsy, Kingsbrae Garden is sure to deliver. It’s a place where every visit can feel fresh, thanks to the changing seasons and ongoing garden evolution. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a couple’s getaway, this garden invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature and art combined.
FAQ
Is the garden open rain or shine?
Yes, Kingsbrae Garden is open rain or shine, so you can plan your visit regardless of the weather—just dress accordingly.
Are dogs allowed in the garden?
Yes, dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a pet-friendly outing.
How accessible is the garden for people with limited mobility?
The trails are gravel, which may limit accessibility for some visitors with mobility challenges. It’s best suited for those comfortable walking on uneven surfaces.
What does the admission fee include?
The ticket grants access to all 27 acres, including themed gardens, sculpture displays, animal encounters, and woodland trails.
Can I visit just part of the garden?
The ticket allows full access; there’s no restriction on which parts you explore during your visit.
Is there food available on-site?
Yes, the garden features a café offering dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, perfect for a sit-down meal or snack.
How long should I plan for my visit?
A typical visit lasts about a day, allowing ample time to enjoy the gardens, sculptures, animals, and café at a relaxed pace.
Are the trails suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids love the animal encounters, the maze, and the playful sculptures. It’s a family-friendly destination.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since the terrain includes gravel trails. Dress for the weather, as the garden is open rain or shine.
To sum it up, Kingsbrae Garden offers a charming, visually stunning escape in New Brunswick, perfect for anyone craving a peaceful yet engaging outdoor experience. Its variety of gardens, sculptures, and animals ensures there’s something for all, making it a solid choice whether you’re seeking relaxation, inspiration, or family fun. With thoughtful features, affordable pricing, and a lovely setting, it’s an experience that’s worth making room for on your travel itinerary.
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