Allen Centennial Gardens

While you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to take a lunch or study break to ramble about the beautiful Allen Centennial Gardens, easily sighted through the library’s north-facing windows (corner of Babcock and Observatory Drives).

These 2.5 acres of teaching gardens, managed by staff affiliated with the university’s Department of Horticulture, surround what was formerly known as the 'Agricultural Dean’s residence.'

Today, the gardens feature a variety of landscaping designs and plant-communities—including experiments with culinary herb and kitchen gardens.

The gardens also afford volunteer opportunities! Students and members of the public who are interested in contributing their time to a variety of gardening tasks are invited to contact Mr. Ed Lyon, Head Gardener, with that expressed interest and availability.

Photo credit: Jeff Miller, University Communications