Noerenberg Gardens
Noerenberg Memorial Gardens is known for its tranquility and spectacular beauty. Situated along the shore of Crystal Bay on Lake Minnetonka, Noerenberg is widely regarded as one of the finest formal gardens in Minnesota. Among its blend of perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs and vines, the garden features ornamental shade trees and a stand of conifers and "Northern Lights" azaleas. The garden is open for tours and is an idyllic location for weddings. To schedule a wedding, tour or photography shoot, please call Reservations at 763-559-6700.
Main Number:
763-559-6700May–October
8 AM–Sunset
Interactive Map of Noerenberg
Noerenberg PDF Map
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Things To Do
Formal Gardens
Widely regarded as one of the finest formal gardens in Minnesota, Noerenberg Gardens features a stunning array of annuals, perennials and ornamental shade trees.
Hiking
Take a leisurely stroll around the gardens, rest in the cool shade of the mature trees or in the gazebo catching a breeze from Lake Minnetonka.
History Exploration
Noerenberg Gardens were once home to Grain Belt Brewery founder Frederick Noerenberg and his family. Many artifacts from the original gardens can still be found today, including rocks collected by the family and plants such as Blue False Indigo, Queen-of-the-Prairie, Dusty Meadow Rue, Lavender Mist Meadow Rue, Solomon’s Seal, Peony and Fall Daisy.
Bloom Schedule
May
Native wildflowers (Hepatica, Bloodroot, Merrybells, Solomon’s Seal), Peony, Mertensia, Primrose, Epimedium, Hellebores, Redbud, Azalea, Magnolia and mature evergreens
June
Siberian Iris, Baptisia, Dianthus, Bleeding Heart, Sweet Woodruff, Aruncus, Rodgersia, Foam Flower, Columbine, Campanula and Martagon Lily
July
Monarda, Phlox, Astilbe, Perovskia, Veronica, Allium, Joe-Pye Weed, Lobelia, Culver’s Root, Balloon Flower and an array of unusual annuals
August
Asters, Cimicifuga, Liatris, Hibiscus, Magic Lily, Monkshood, Sedum, Obedient Plant, Kirengeshoma and ornamental grasses
September–October
Asters, Hydrangea, ornamental grasses and many perennials begin to take on autumn coloration. Native and non-native tree and shrub species also begin their autumn display.
History
Grain Belt Brewery founder Frederick Noerenberg and his family built their estate on the shore of Lake Minnetonka in 1890. Influenced by English Landscape Style, the property featured tiered rose beds and impeccably manicured lawns. As world travelers with an appreciation for natural artifacts, the family accumulated an assortment of natural specimens that appeared in the garden, including a collection of trees, plant materials and rocks. Lora Noerenberg Hoppe, one of the five Noerenberg children, acted as chief horticulturist on the gardens for a number of years. She bequeathed the estate to the Park District when she passed away in 1972. At her direction, the home was razed and the estate was transformed to a garden for the public’s enjoyment.
Rules & Guidelines
The terms of the donation of this site prohibit food or beverages, swimming and launching or docking boats within the park. Pets are not allowed at Noerenberg Gardens.
The formal flower gardens at Noerenberg Memorial Gardens add natural beauty to your event. On display in the gardens are a wide variety of unusual annuals, perennials and grasses. The site features accessible brick pathways and an ornamental gazebo overlooking Lake Minnetonka.
Give to Noerenberg
Support Noerenberg Gardens with a donation.
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