How to Attend Lynnhurst Garden Tour

The Lynnhurst Garden Tour is one of the most cherished annual events in the Minneapolis–St. Paul metropolitan area, offering an intimate glimpse into the private gardens of historic Lynnhurst neighborhoods. Established over four decades ago, this self-guided tour celebrates horticultural artistry, landscape design, and community pride. For gardening enthusiasts, landscape architects, homeowners, and casual admirers of nature, attending the Lynnhurst Garden Tour is more than a weekend outing—it’s an immersive educational experience that blends aesthetics, ecology, and local history.

Unlike public botanical gardens, the Lynnhurst Garden Tour provides access to privately owned spaces meticulously curated by their residents. These gardens range from serene Japanese-inspired retreats to vibrant cottage-style oases, from native plant sanctuaries to edible landscapes that blend beauty with sustainability. Each property tells a story—of perseverance, creativity, and deep connection to the land.

Attending the tour requires more than just showing up. Success hinges on preparation, timing, and understanding the unique structure of the event. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning enthusiast, mastering the logistics ensures you maximize your experience—avoiding crowds, discovering hidden gems, and gaining inspiration you can apply to your own outdoor space.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to attending the Lynnhurst Garden Tour. From securing tickets and planning your route to navigating the grounds respectfully and capturing meaningful insights, every element is designed to help you engage deeply with the event. By following these guidelines, you’ll not only enjoy a flawless day but also leave with practical knowledge to elevate your own gardening journey.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Confirm the Event Date and Schedule

The Lynnhurst Garden Tour typically occurs during the first or second weekend of June, coinciding with peak bloom season in the Upper Midwest. Dates are announced annually in late winter or early spring via the official Lynnhurst Garden Tour website and local community newsletters. Mark your calendar early—tickets often sell out within days of release.

Each year, the tour spans two days—Saturday and Sunday—with identical properties open to the public. This redundancy allows attendees flexibility, but it also means timing matters. If you prefer quieter visits, choose Sunday morning. Weekends attract larger crowds, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Always verify the official schedule. Some years include special features like guided plant walks, live music, or children’s gardening activities at select homes. These add-ons are listed on the event map and require no extra registration, but they may have limited capacity.

2. Purchase Tickets in Advance

Tickets are sold exclusively online through the official Lynnhurst Garden Tour website. No physical tickets are available at the door. The cost is generally $25–$30 per adult, with discounts offered for seniors, students, and groups of four or more. Children under 12 typically enter free.

When purchasing, you’ll be asked to select your preferred day and time slot. While the tour is self-guided, time slots help manage traffic flow and reduce congestion at popular properties. Choose a 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. slot if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy gardens at their freshest—morning dew enhances colors and textures, and many homeowners are still present to answer questions.

After purchase, you’ll receive a digital ticket via email. Save it to your mobile device or print a copy. You’ll need this for entry at the first property you visit. Some homes may also request you show your ticket upon arrival, even if it’s not your first stop.

3. Study the Official Map and Property List

One week before the event, the full property list and interactive map are published on the tour’s website. This map is your most vital tool. It shows the exact addresses of all open gardens, their layout relative to one another, and estimated walking or driving times between locations.

Properties are grouped into three main clusters: North Lynnhurst, Central Lynnhurst, and South Lynnhurst. Each cluster contains 5–8 homes. Plan your route by cluster to minimize backtracking. For example, start in North Lynnhurst, move to Central, then end in South. Use Google Maps or Apple Maps to plot the most efficient driving path between clusters.

Pay attention to property descriptions. Each listing includes keywords like “pollinator-friendly,” “rain garden,” “native perennials,” or “historic stone walls.” These tags help you tailor your visit to your interests. If you’re drawn to sustainable design, prioritize homes labeled “water-wise” or “compost-integrated.” If you love color, seek out “bold annuals” or “color-blocked borders.”

4. Prepare Your Transportation and Parking

Most Lynnhurst homes are located on quiet, tree-lined residential streets with limited on-street parking. Do not assume you can park directly in front of a garden. Many homeowners reserve spots for themselves and their guests. Always park legally and considerately.

Street parking is available on most blocks, but be sure to check for any posted restrictions. Some neighborhoods require permits on event days. If you’re unsure, park one block away and walk. The tour is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, and many properties are within a 5–10 minute walk of each other.

If you’re driving from outside the area, consider arriving early to secure a good spot. Avoid using ride-share drop-offs directly in front of homes—this creates congestion and inconvenience for residents. Instead, drop off at a central point like Lynnhurst Park or the community center, then walk to your first garden.

5. Pack the Right Gear

Comfort and preparedness are key. Bring the following essentials:

• Comfortable walking shoes: Expect uneven paths, gravel, grass, and occasional steps. Avoid sandals or heels.
• Reusable water bottle: Hydration is critical, especially on warm June days. Most homes do not offer water, but you’ll find public water fountains near the community center.
• Small backpack: Carry a notebook, pen, camera, sunscreen, hat, and a light jacket. Even in June, temperatures can drop in shaded gardens.
• Hand sanitizer and tissues: Public restrooms are not available at every home. Some properties have portable toilets—check the map for markers.
• Small notebook or phone notes app: Record plant names, design ideas, and questions for the homeowners.

Do not bring large bags, strollers (unless absolutely necessary), pets, or food. These can disrupt the intimate atmosphere and may violate homeowner guidelines.

6. Arrive at Your First Property on Time

At your first stop, you’ll be greeted by a volunteer or the homeowner. They’ll check your ticket and may offer a printed brochure with additional details about the property. Take a moment to read it. Many brochures include plant lists, design philosophy, and maintenance tips.

Respect the flow. If others are viewing the garden, wait your turn. Don’t block pathways or climb on structures. Gardens are personal spaces—observe quietly, take photos from a respectful distance, and avoid touching plants unless invited.

Most homeowners are happy to chat. Ask thoughtful questions: “What’s your biggest challenge in maintaining this garden?” or “How did you choose these plant combinations?” These inquiries often lead to invaluable insights.

7. Navigate Between Properties Efficiently

After spending 15–25 minutes at each garden, move on. Don’t linger too long—others are waiting, and you’ll want to see as many properties as possible. Use your map to determine the next closest stop. If you’re unsure, ask a volunteer in a blue vest—they’re stationed at key intersections and can guide you.

Some properties are clustered so closely that walking is faster than driving. Use your phone’s map app to compare walking time versus driving time. You may be able to visit three homes on foot in the time it takes to drive two.

If you’re visiting with a group, designate a meeting point in case someone gets separated. The community center or Lynnhurst Park are ideal rendezvous spots.

8. Respect the Homes and Their Owners

The Lynnhurst Garden Tour operates on trust and mutual respect. These are private residences, not public parks. Follow these rules strictly:

• Stay on marked paths and do not enter yards beyond designated viewing areas.
• Do not take cuttings, seeds, or soil.
• Never enter homes unless explicitly invited (rare and only for designated indoor garden spaces).
• Keep noise levels low. Avoid loud conversations or music.
• Do not use flash photography near delicate plants or in shaded areas.
• Dispose of trash properly. Bring a small bag for your own waste.

Remember: You are a guest in someone’s sanctuary. Your behavior reflects on all attendees. A respectful visitor helps ensure the tour continues for decades to come.

9. Capture Inspiration, Not Just Photos

While photography is encouraged, don’t let your camera distract you from learning. Pause frequently. Ask yourself: What soil type is this? What plants thrive here that might work in my yard? How is drainage handled? What materials were used for paths or edging?

Take close-up shots of labels, signage, or plant tags. Many homeowners use custom labels or have plant lists available. If you miss one, ask politely: “Would you mind sharing the name of that lavender?” Most will gladly tell you.

Use your notebook to sketch layouts. A simple diagram of a trellis, a raised bed, or a water feature can be more useful than a hundred photos.

10. Reflect and Follow Up

After the tour, spend 20–30 minutes reviewing your notes and photos. Organize them by theme: “Water Features,” “Native Plants,” “Shade Gardening,” etc. This will help you identify patterns and ideas you can implement.

Many homeowners list their favorite plants on social media or local gardening forums. Search for the tour’s official hashtag—

LynnhurstGardenTour—and follow participants. You may find additional tips, plant sources, or even links to books and videos referenced during the tour.

Consider writing a short review or sharing your experience on community boards. Your feedback helps organizers improve future events and encourages others to attend.

Best Practices

Plan Your Visit Around Your Interests

The Lynnhurst Garden Tour features over 40 distinct gardens each year. Trying to see them all is overwhelming and counterproductive. Instead, identify your gardening goals:

• Are you designing a low-maintenance yard? Prioritize “drought-tolerant” and “perennial-heavy” gardens.
• Do you want to attract pollinators? Look for properties labeled “bee-friendly,” “butterfly garden,” or “nectar-rich.”
• Are you inspired by hardscaping? Focus on homes with stone patios, retaining walls, or water features.
• Do you live in a shady neighborhood? Seek out gardens with shade-loving ferns, hostas, or woodland plantings.

By narrowing your focus, you’ll absorb more meaningful information and avoid sensory overload.

Arrive Early, Leave Late

Arriving at 9 a.m. gives you the advantage of cooler temperatures, fewer people, and gardens at their peak visual state. Morning light enhances color saturation, and dew on petals creates a magical effect that fades by noon.

Staying until 4 p.m. offers another benefit: as crowds thin, homeowners become more relaxed and open to conversation. Many will share stories about how they transformed their yard over years—lessons you won’t find in any brochure.

Bring a Small Gift for the Host

While not required, a thoughtful gesture goes a long way. A single bloom from your own garden, a packet of heirloom seeds, or a handwritten note of appreciation can brighten a homeowner’s day. Avoid expensive gifts—they may make the host uncomfortable. The goal is gratitude, not obligation.

Learn to Read Garden Design Language

Experienced gardeners speak a visual language. Pay attention to these cues:

• Layering: Tall plants in back, medium in middle, low in front—this creates depth.
• Repetition: Repeating colors or plant types (like three clumps of salvia) creates rhythm.
• Texture contrast: Spiky yucca next to soft lamb’s ear creates visual interest.
• Focal points: A statue, birdbath, or striking tree draws the eye and anchors the design.

Recognizing these principles helps you replicate them in your own space.

Engage with Volunteers and Staff

Volunteers are often longtime residents or master gardeners. They know the history of each property and can point out subtle details you might miss. Ask them: “Which garden surprised you the most?” or “What’s the most common mistake homeowners make here?”

They may also know about upcoming workshops, plant sales, or local gardening clubs you can join.

Be Mindful of the Environment

Lynnhurst gardens often emphasize sustainability. Observe how homeowners manage water, compost, and wildlife. Note the use of rain barrels, permeable pavers, or mulch instead of chemical fertilizers. These practices are transferable to any climate.

If you’re inspired by a rain garden or native plant bed, research local native plant nurseries. Many tour participants source plants from regional growers—avoid invasive species sold at big-box stores.

Document Your Journey

Create a digital or physical scrapbook of your tour. Include:

• Photos of your favorite garden features
• Handwritten notes on plant names and design ideas
• Sketches of layouts or color schemes
• Quotes from homeowners
• Maps with your route highlighted

This becomes a living reference guide for future projects. Revisit it each spring to spark new ideas.

Tools and Resources

Official Lynnhurst Garden Tour Website

The primary resource for all information: tickets, maps, property lists, FAQs, and updates. Bookmark it early: www.lynnhurstgardentour.org. The site is updated regularly and includes downloadable PDFs of past tours for inspiration.

Google Maps and Apple Maps

Use these apps to plot your route between properties. Enable “walking mode” to estimate foot travel times. Create a custom map with pins for each garden you plan to visit. Share it with your group if you’re attending together.

Plant Identification Apps

Download PictureThis or PlantSnap to identify unknown plants on-site. Take clear, well-lit photos of leaves, flowers, and stems. These apps work best with single-specimen shots—not crowded borders.

Local Native Plant Nurseries

After the tour, visit these trusted sources for plants you admired:

• Wild Ones Twin Cities Chapter – Offers native plant sales and educational workshops.
• Minnesota Native Plant Society – Publishes regional plant guides and hosts annual plant exchanges.
• Green Thumb Nursery – Specializes in pollinator-friendly and drought-tolerant species.

Books and Publications

Expand your knowledge with these recommended reads:

• The Living Landscape by Rick Darke and Doug Tallamy – A guide to designing gardens that support biodiversity.
• Garden Revolution by Larry Weaner – Focuses on ecological design and low-input gardening.
• Designing Your Garden by Thomas Church – Classic principles of garden composition.
• Native Plants for North American Gardens by Alan Branhagen – Regional plant profiles with growing tips.

Local Gardening Clubs

Join a community group to stay connected:

• Lynnhurst Garden Club – Meets monthly; members often volunteer for the tour.
• Minneapolis Master Gardeners – Offers free consultations and classes.
• Urban Gardening Collective – Focuses on sustainable practices in urban spaces.

Photography Tips for Garden Enthusiasts

For better garden photography:

• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on leaves and petals.
• Shoot during the “golden hour”—early morning or late afternoon—for soft, warm light.
• Focus on details: dew on a spiderweb, texture of bark, or the pattern of a leaf vein.
• Use aperture priority mode (f/2.8–f/5.6) to blur backgrounds and highlight your subject.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Rain Garden Transformation

One standout property on the 2023 tour belonged to the Chen family, who transformed a waterlogged corner of their yard into a thriving rain garden. Using native sedges, switchgrass, and purple coneflower, they created a bioswale that captures runoff from their roof. The garden now supports dragonflies, frogs, and at least 12 species of pollinators.

Key takeaway: Instead of installing a French drain, they used plants as natural filters. Their garden reduced stormwater runoff by 70% and eliminated the need for irrigation. Visitors left with detailed plant lists and a new appreciation for functional beauty.

Example 2: The Historic Stone Wall Revival

At 1123 Elmwood Avenue, a 1920s bungalow featured a restored limestone wall originally built by the home’s first owner. The current gardener, a retired stonemason, replanted the wall’s crevices with mosses, creeping thyme, and alpine strawberries. He used no mortar—only natural soil and careful placement.

Key takeaway: Historic structures can be living elements of a garden. The wall now acts as a microclimate, protecting tender plants from wind and retaining heat. Visitors were inspired to look at their own foundations and fences as potential planting zones.

Example 3: The Edible Landscape

A modernist home on 7th Street featured a front yard that looked like a wildflower meadow—but every plant was edible. Serviceberry, elderberry, chives, garlic chives, and perennial kale formed a tapestry of color and function. A small compost bin and rain barrel were discreetly integrated.

Key takeaway: Edible gardens don’t have to look like vegetable plots. With thoughtful design, they can be as ornamental as any perennial border. The homeowner shared a free PDF with 15 edible plants suitable for Zone 4.

Example 4: The Shade Garden Oasis

In a neighborhood known for full sun, one property stood out for its deep shade garden beneath mature oaks. Hostas, ferns, bleeding hearts, and coral bells thrived under a canopy of leaves. The owner used mulch made from shredded local leaves and installed a small fountain to increase humidity.

Key takeaway: Shade gardens are not “difficult”—they’re different. The right plants, proper mulching, and moisture retention can turn a dark corner into a lush retreat. This garden became the most photographed of the tour.

FAQs

Can I bring my dog to the Lynnhurst Garden Tour?

No. Pets are not permitted on the tour. Even well-behaved dogs can disturb wildlife, damage plants, or cause discomfort to homeowners who may have allergies or fears. Service animals are an exception but must be clearly identified and under control at all times.

Are restrooms available during the tour?

Restrooms are not available at every home. Some properties have portable toilets marked on the map. Public restrooms are located at Lynnhurst Community Center and the nearby library. Plan your stops accordingly.

What if it rains on the day of the tour?

The tour proceeds rain or shine. Many gardens look even more enchanting after a light rain. Wear waterproof shoes and bring a compact umbrella. In case of severe weather, check the official website for updates—cancellations are extremely rare.

Can I take cuttings or plants from the gardens?

Absolutely not. All plants are the property of the homeowners. Taking cuttings, seeds, or soil is strictly prohibited and may result in being banned from future events. Take photos instead.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility varies by property. Some homes have paved paths and flat terrain; others have gravel, steps, or uneven ground. The official map includes accessibility indicators. Contact the tour organizers in advance if you require specific accommodations—they can recommend the most accessible routes.

Do I need to buy a ticket for each day?

No. Your ticket grants access to all properties on either Saturday or Sunday—choose one day. You cannot use the same ticket for both days. If you want to see different gardens, purchase a second ticket for the other day.

Can I take professional photos or film for commercial use?

Commercial photography and filming require prior written permission from the tour organizers. Personal, non-commercial use is permitted. Do not use drones, tripods, or professional lighting without approval.

How can I volunteer for next year’s tour?

Volunteers are essential to the tour’s success. Sign up through the official website in February. Roles include ticket checkers, route guides, information booth staff, and plant labelers. No experience is necessary—training is provided.

Are there guided tours or group rates?

There are no guided group tours. The event is self-guided to allow personal pacing. Group discounts are available for parties of four or more when purchasing tickets together online.

What if I miss the ticket sale?

Tickets are limited and sell out quickly. If you miss the initial sale, check the website daily for cancellations. Sometimes, last-minute tickets become available. You can also join the waitlist on the ticketing page.

Conclusion

The Lynnhurst Garden Tour is more than a showcase of beautiful spaces—it’s a living classroom, a celebration of community, and a testament to the power of thoughtful, patient gardening. By following this guide, you transform from a passive observer into an engaged participant, gaining not only inspiration but practical knowledge that can reshape your own outdoor environment.

Success on the tour comes not from seeing the most gardens, but from absorbing the stories behind them. It’s in the quiet moment when a homeowner explains why they chose native grasses over turf. It’s in the way light filters through a canopy of maples onto a bed of ferns. It’s in the recognition that gardening is not about perfection, but about connection—to the land, to the seasons, and to the people who nurture them.

As you prepare for your next visit, remember: every garden tells a story. Your role is not just to admire it, but to listen. Take notes. Ask questions. Return the following year. And when you plant your own first native shrub or install your first rain barrel, you’ll be continuing the legacy of Lynnhurst—one thoughtful, beautiful garden at a time.