Knoxville's Private Gardens Open for Dogwood Arts Weekend

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For one weekend each year, Knoxville residents get a rare chance to explore three private home gardens that are normally closed to the public. This year's Dogwood Arts featured gardens walk on April 18-19 will showcase three properties, including a new location that is only accessible to those who purchase shuttle tickets in advance. Visitors can wander the grounds, enjoy the plants and sculptures, and support the nonprofit Dogwood Arts with a $5 per-garden donation.

Why it matters

Knoxville's annual Dogwood Arts festival is a beloved springtime tradition that celebrates the city's natural beauty. The featured gardens walk offers a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to experience stunning private landscapes that are typically off-limits, providing a glimpse into Knoxville's vibrant gardening culture.

The details

The three gardens open for the 2026 Dogwood Arts featured gardens walk are GATOP (God's Answer to Our Prayers) on the east side of Knoxville, Savage Garden in the Fountain City neighborhood, and a new location called Ross Glen Garden in the Bearden area. Guests can explore the grounds, admire the plants and sculptures, and support Dogwood Arts with a $5 per-garden donation. Professional photography and pets are not permitted.

• The featured gardens walk will take place on April 18-19, 2026.
• The gardens will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.