Canal Era Gardens
Natural beauty and historic interpretation
Beautiful gardens throughout Canal Park are maintained by a team of dedicated volunteers, including several master gardeners. We invite you to explore the gardens of Canal Park below, which enhance the natural wonder of the park and tell the story of Canal Era living. If you would like to join the garden crew, check out our volunteering page!
Bicentennial Garden
The yellow and blue in this garden are a nod to Indiana’s colors. The limestone centerpiece resembles the Hoosier State’s shape, and this garden was installed in honor of Indiana’s bicentennial in 2016.
Boat Dock Garden
This garden welcomes passengers from the canal boat as they board and disembark the vessel.
Fouts Kitchen Garden
Fenced in adjacent to the Fouts House, this garden highlights the plants used daily for cooking and chores.
Medicinal Plants Garden
This garden is fenced next to the Fouts House Garden, and it contains herbal plants essential for medicine of pioneer families of the past.
Butterfly Garden
This area serves as a waystation for monarch butterflies who pass through Canal Park, with plenty of milkweed and other helpful plants.
Case House Herb Garden
Situated next to the Reed Case House, this garden showcases some of the important herbs of pioneer living.
Churchyard Garden
This garden lies across the Gray Bridge and frames the Little White Chapel. White roses adorn the arbor, and other perennials make this a highlight for visitors.
Entry Garden
As visitors enter Canal Park, they are greeted by the thoughtful arrangement of colorful plants just off Washington Street.
French Memorial Garden
This garden honors former Canal president, volunteer, and friend, Jim French. You can find it next to the Interpretive Center.
Gateway Garden
This is a colorful perennial garden with bright blooms and an array of foliage.
Gray Bridge Garden
This is a companion perennial garden to the Gateway Garden, located near the Gray Bridge.
Toll Booth Garden
Sunflowers, cannas, hyacinth bean vines, and more greet our canal boat passengers near the toll booth.
Gardens and Trades Map
If you’d like to supplement your visit with a map and descriptions of Canal Park’s trades, buildings, and gardens, be sure to check out the brochure below!