Built in 1890 as a private estate for Frederick Noerenberg, founder of Grain Belt Brewery and his family, the 74 acres of the Noerenberg Gardens were willed to Three Rivers Park District when the last Noerenberg child died in 1972. “It was a really generous gift to the public,” says Arla Carmichiel, horticulture supervisor for Three Rivers Park District. “It’s one of those special quiet spots on the lake.”
Unlike other gardens, Noerenberg is smaller, which allows visitors the opportunity to view the entire garden and take home ideas. Another bonus is the gazebo, which Carmichiel says is a great place to relax and look at the lake.
The garden opens May 1 and while it won’t quite be at its peak, Carmichiel says it’s a great time to see the space of the garden before the plants bloom into one another. May flowers include azaleas, spring wildflowers and perennials.
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Noerenberg Gardens
2865 N. Shore Dr., Wayzata
763.559.6700
Free
Open 8 a.m.–sunset May 1 through mid-October
