For Garden's Sake Durham - Raleigh Tot Spots

We were getting our roof replaced a few weeks ago so we HAD to get out of the house. I figured this was a good time for a trek to Durham, so we registered for a class at For Garden’s Sake. It’s a garden center that also hosts kids classes and events to encourage kids to connect with and learn about nature.

Driving in I was super impressed with the grounds. There’s a beautiful, landscaped garden next to a nice, tranquil pond. The class we participated in took place under an old weeping willow next to a small walking bridge. They even thought to put a small swing set and seesaw right next to the picnic table so while we were waiting for class to begin we were able to burn off some energy.

Class was held at the picnic tables next to the pond.

Feed the Animals

While we waited, we were also able to interact with the goats and chickens onsite! The kids were excited to pet and feed the goats, and our class instructor even gave each kid a bag of treats to feed the animals. The animals were extremely gentle with my one year old, who stuck his finger in their mouth multiple times with no issues (I don’t recommend this, but mama got distracted helping the big kids 🤦). I also read on the website that they have a koi pond, but we didn’t interact with the fish.

the goats gathered at the gate when the kids showed up. They know what’s up!

He poked the goats the whole time we were there.

Kids Events at For Garden’s Sake

As for the class, we started with a story time under the tree and then were given a snack of juice and goldfish. After finishing our snack we were given an animal cracker snack to feed the goats. Once everyone had a turn with the animals we all sat at the picnic tables and painted a bird house. Each class has a similar layout, but a different story and craft activity based on the theme. The classes are also pretty affordable at $5-10 per kid. You can see the list of upcoming kids events here.

Adult Events at For Garden’s Sake

After our class we walked around the garden center for a little bit. It’s your typical garden center where you can buy trees, flowers, and everything else that grows in the ground, but it’s very clean and well laid out. I actually worked in a garden center in college but this one was much larger. It also had more of a shopping experience with decorative items like hanging pots and planters. They also had a bar onsite that wasn’t open while we were there, but opens for their evening events. I bet it’s a fun kid-free evening outing to sip and walk amongst the flowers!

You can view the adult calendar of events here.

We’re also adding this spot to our Date Night Directory! Plan your visit today!