Fernwood Botanical Garden begins first phase of reopening
NILES, Mich. -- As we see stores and restaurants open in Michigan, Fernwood Botanical Garden is back open as well.
Although Fernwood is an outdoor space, it had to be closed these past few months because it’s a non-profit, so Fernwood doesn’t fall under the same category as public parks.
Staff came back to work Tuesday, just one day after Michigan’s stay-at-home order was lifted.
Things will be a different at the gardens for the time being. Social distance markers have been put out and visitors will be required to wear a mask when interacting with others.
“We do provide signage and markings on the ground for suggested directions just to keep people moving so they’re not crowded together, but they’re still able to enjoy Fernwood at their own pace,” said Elaine Rowland, Director of Development and External Relations at Fernwood.
The gardens are open to members only through June 16th – that’s when Fernwood hopes to open to the public. The restaurant and gift shop remain closed, as Fernwood is aiming to re-open in phases.
“We do have some guidelines in place and many of them were aligned with the American Public Garden Association,” said Rowland, “Those include social distancing, we do have X’s on the ground when you come check in. We’ve moved check-in outdoors; we do ask that visitors wear face coverings when interacting with other people or [while] indoors. And we just really ask that people enjoy Fernwood while being smart and safe.”
Honor Credit Union partnered with Fernwood to help them re-open. Visitors are asked to register online ahead of time and you’ll also find a downloadable map on Fernwood’s website which lays out directional changes. You can register at: https://www.fernwoodbotanical.org/