If there’s anywhere students should visit near campus, it is Maymont Park—the home of beautiful gardens and history. Only 2 miles away from VCU’s main campus (about 7 minutes away by car), Maymont is the perfect spot to amaze visiting parents and friends. In my first photoblog in the blog-series, Megan’s Map, take a glimpse into Maymont’s gardens and history through my original photography.
Upon first walking into Maymont Park, there are large, green spaces perfect for picnicing or hanging out. Throughout the rest of the park, there are multiple fountains, themed gardens, and historical landmarks. One of the first gardens is Maymont’s famous Italian Garden.
Breathtaking stonework greets you as you enter the Italian garden—surrounded by beautiful greenery. In the springtime, the garden is budding with roses, tulips and various flowers. On the edge of the Italian Garden there is a double-sided staircase with a fountain in the middle and a waterfall that flows down into the Japanese garden.
Another incredible addition to the Italian Park is a pathway of columns. I don’t think I need to write about how incredible it is for you to understand why it’s a desirable spot for weddings and special occassions. Just check out the pictures:
The next garden is a well-tended Japanese garden. As you cross over traditional Japanese bridges, koi fish glide through the greenish-blue waters underneath your feet. Around the koi pond there is a path to walk on to view the beautiful scenery. Throughout the rest of the garden, there are cherry trees and other traditional Japanese plants.
On the other side of the park, there is a beautiful butterfly garden, a nature preserve, and a children’s farm. The nature preserve showcases a 20-foot waterfall that empties into an aquarium that holds turtles, river otters, and fish. The children’s farm has cows, horses, goats, chickens, pigs and other farm animals that you can feed. Along with the interactive gardens, there is a tram ride around Maymont, and also a tour of the Maymont Mansion (the historic home of James and Sallie Dolley).