Group Tour Magazine - August 2024 - 55

Schedule a tour for your group to get an
intimate look at the lives of Maine's most
historic political families and peruse the
scenic estate. Also in Augusta, the Pine Tree
State Arboretum spans over 224 acres and
features an array of plant species. This arboretum,
whose name references the state's
nickname, offers extensive walking trails,
a rock garden, and thematic gardens that
showcase Maine's native flora. Group tours
will find plenty to explore, from the arboretum's
butterfly house to its educational
exhibits on plant ecology and conservation.
Hamilton House, a Georgian mansion
overlooking the Salmon Falls River in South
Berwick, is another lesser-known botanical
haven group tours will appreciate. This
National Landmark has been home to shipping
magnates, farmers, and socialites over
its long history, and groups can now tour
the first floor of the house and its gorgeous
grounds, which feature an lively orchard and
colorful perennial gardens.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens sprawl
across 300 acres of lush greenery and florals,
including the Native Butterfly and
Moth House and Giles Rhododendron and
Perennial Garden. Get a deeper look at these
botanical treasures with a themed guided
tour, led by knowledgeable docents who can
illuminate elements of garden design, native
plant care, and biome-specific information.
In addition to its plentiful natural beauty,
enjoy botanically inspired artwork, photography,
and sculptures showcased at the
garden's rotating exhibits.
Nestled in the rolling hills of New Gloucester,
The Gardens at Pineland Farms is a
horticultural treasure. This garden spans
5 acres and showcases a variety of perennial
and annual flowers, vegetables, and
herbs. Group tours can enjoy guided walks
through meticulously designed flower beds,
explore educational displays on sustainable
farming practices, participate in hands-on
gardening workshops, and sample the farm's
award-winning cheeses.
For an educational experience, take
your groups to Colby College in Waterville,
Maine, and tour the Perkins Arboretum, a
128-acre natural haven featuring a diverse
collection of plant life. Guided tours can take
visitors along manicured trails, highlighting
the native plant species. Perkins Arboretum
Coastal Maine Botanical
Gardens, Boothbay
The Blaine House
Gardens & Grounds, Augusta
offers an excellent educational resource,
with programs on tree identification, ecological
research, and environmental stewardship.
Plus, the adjoining bird sanctuary
is a great place to share and connect with
aviary enthusiasts from all over.
A hidden gem in South Paris, McLaughl
in Garden and Homestead is home to
New England's largest collection of lilacs.
Established by Bernard McLaughlin in the
1930s, this 2-acre garden has been lovingly
preserved and expanded over the decades.
In addition to the lilacs, groups can enjoy
plentiful primroses, irises, and wildflowers
across the grounds. Or, if your group prefers
the romance of roses, visit Deering Oaks
Park in Portland, a historic urban park that
includes The Rose Circle, a beautiful garden
featuring a wide variety of rose species. The
surrounding park offers additional attractions
such as duck ponds, playgrounds, and
walking paths perfect for sightseeing.
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Group Tour Magazine - August 2024

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