As someone who moved here from the Bay Area and is still finding my favorite outdoor spaces in Charlotte, I'm always on the lookout for places that offer a little peace and beauty in the middle of a busy day. The McGill Rose Garden absolutely delivered on that. This is truly a beautiful venue--lush flowers everywhere, winding walk paths, and plenty of places to sit quietly and just take it all in. It's the kind of space where you can slow down, clear your head, and quite literally stop and smell the roses. I found it to be a wonderful spot for reflection, a casual stroll, or simply enjoying nature without needing to leave the city. One of the things I especially appreciated is that you can enhance the experience with a visit to the wine bar onsite, Rosie's Wine Garden, where you can grab a coffee, cocktail, or glass of wine and then wander the grounds at your own pace. It adds a relaxed, almost European feel to the whole experience. A quick heads-up: parking can be a bit tricky, as the entrance is off a busy street, so just take your time and be patient when pulling in. Once you're there, though, it's well worth the effort. Bottom line: If you're looking for a small but charming botanical-style garden in Charlotte--a quiet place to reset, reflect, and enjoy the outdoors--this is a lovely little gem. For me, it checked all the boxes and has become a welcome respite in the middle of a busy day. read more

See all

Talk about a hidden gem! This was a great place to get coffee, wine and/or a snack and hang out for a while. Rosie's Coffee and Wine is adjacent and service there was super friendly and fast. There is indoor seating there, but the gardens have little twists and turns and different areas to sit, too. When we visited it wasn't too busy, so we had our choice of tables. There was a birthday or bachelorette type of party in another part of the garden. read more

See all

I really enjoyed my visit! It took us maybe fifteen minutes to walk through the whole thing and snap a few pics. If I lived in Charlotte I would definitely plan on meeting a friend there for coffee and chatting. Beautiful landscaping and helpful signs on most plants. They also have bug spray available for use! After we strolled we stopped for a coffee. All in all a great time! read more

See all

This public garden is a hidden gem in the uptown area of Charlotte, NC and is open to the public Sun to Thur 8-10 and Fri and Sat 8-11 although they do have closures for special events. There is no admission but donations are accepted. Rosie's Coffee and Wine is a shop on site. There is outdoor seating and tables in the garden. Henry and Helen McGill purchased the property in 1950 and while attempting to beautify the land in an urban and industrial plot, they planted many rose bushes. It is currently owned and operated by the city. This 1.4 acre garden with paths, fountains, benches, sculptures and over a thousand rose bushes and plus many other plants and flowers. There is also a full size train car on a surviving piece of train track. This is a very special place in Charlotte. read more

See all

I love coming to Rosie's/the wine garden! It's a cute little shop with a great outdoor space to explore and enjoy some drinks. You can bring your own food or sometimes they have food trucks here. They also have evenings with live music in the summer. Certain times of year it gets very crowded so you have to come early to camp out for a table as they can fill up. Overall a great little hidden gem near Noda! read more

I absolutely adore this place! It's a hidden gem in the middle of bustling city life. A little peaceful oasis of sorts. You'll understand if, no when you come to visit. It's the perfect backdrop for everything. Beautifully landscaped with something different at every corner and scenery around every angle. The flowers are so pretty, and I just become enveloped with calmness whenever I walk through. You can also enjoy drinks from the coffee and wine bar on the site. read more

McGill Rose Garden - View from parking - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Beautiful and magical place to enjoy an afternoon with friends cozied up next to nature!

Nice. Small venue with a beautiful space to chat and chill. Nice staff. Good choices. read more

See all

Very cute coffee and wine shop that connects to the gardens. Wine was great! Will be back!

Great atmosphere, nice place to relax and have a glass of wine or beer. The staff is friendly and prices are reasonable.

I finally had a chance to stop by now that they've reopened post-COVID. They are practicing proper precautions so masks are required. Tables outside are already pretty well spread out so it's not hard to do the social distancing thing. Even though it's far from rose season, the garden remains quite lush and green. The few roses that were still in bloom in early October were lovelyt and of course the place smells wonderful. Check out the lovely garden. Quite literally, stop and smell the roses. And maybe while you do that, enjoy a glass of wine. [Review 14042 overall, 1364 of 2020, number 2668 in North Carolina.] read more

See all

Wine. Coffee. Wine. The sign outside. Around 2, and not too long of a wait. Salted caramel and rosemary lattes. Perfectly balanced, not too sweet. We exit into the garden. Not something you see everyday tucked into a small downtown spot. Power lines above next door, but otherwise immerse yourself in a mini getaway from a city, and close your eyes, breathe in the floral essence. A nice break from reality. Upon our first few steps, we sit on a metal bench and catch up. Dates. Families strolling by, dogs, kids, babies strapped to their dads. A mix of people. Sunny day but not hot. Lots of roses and herbs. Quaint little garden with rocked pathways. A table filled with plants for sale by a local "Unar" ? Special needs folks trying their green thumb on display for purchase to donate proceeds to the cause. Love that. An outside bar with a line, but we were coffee only. Small parking lot, but not hard to find parking in the area. read more

McGill Rose Garden - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

See all

A beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. Heading to Rosie's for a date night among the flowers is always a favorite of mine. Don't miss out on your perfect Instagram moments at this spot. read more

Very nice grounds hidden behind an old building. Plants are well maintained and train cars are a pleasant surprise. Parking is below par - watch to potholes read more

Such a cute place! Went here for their farmers market like event and was so impressed! They maintain the area so well and it was gorgeous. I definitely want to come back here for another event or for a picnic. read more

See all

Lovely wedding venue! We had a wonderful time at the wedding of a friend, gorgeous roses and plants. The city setting is close to Amelie's NoDa. They have lots of plants and flowering trees. They have a gorgeous mural of artistic inspiration and an old railroad car showing the history of where it was an old coal yard. The space was a small wedding with about 65-70 people. They have a parking lot in the rear. We thought the wedding was beautiful even in the rain. read more

McGill Rose Garden - McGill rose Garden - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I found this place many years ago and it remains a special place of solitude for me. Sacred, almost. When life takes a few bites out of my soul, the quietness and beauty of this little oasis near Uptown draws the wounds from within and I begin to heal. Should you catch a glimpse of me here, just smile and move on. I'm listening to hear the voice of God. If there's ever a place to stop and smell the roses, it's here. read more

McGill Rose Garden - Some days you need a kiss from God. - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

We had such a romantic date night here! Loved walking the garden and enjoying a glass of wine. We went in the summer and it was wonderful. read more

McGill Rose Garden - Sign outside - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

See all

What a cool place, outside rose gardens right in the heart of the uptown area) a great place to grab a coffee or a glass of wine (at Rose Coffee and Wine bar attached), chill and enjoy nature! Beautiful hidden gem right outside uptown I-277 loop off North Davidson!! Small free parking lot in the front and a deck in the back, how did I not know about this place all these years, spring/summer/fall will be beautiful in the gardens, relaxing urban area! read more

See all

This place is absolutely beautiful!! My friend and I are here for the weekend and after lunch, we decided to visit a park. I went on google and found McGill Rose Garden and sooo glad we did!!! The garden is so peaceful and tranquil. We decided to get wine and just sipped and enjoyed the present moment. A definite must visit if you are in the area . read more

See all

I was curious about this place. It's in a busy area on North Davidson Street. There weren't too many rose bushes but there were many flowers, bushes and succulents. There were many sculptures and an old train too. Two little girls were above us by the train and I was afraid they'd fall from the wall so I directed them back to the path. It was a rather sad run down looking place. Maybe during this pandemic they let things slide. There is no admission fee. The gardens could be tidied up quite a bit. That would make it more appealing. The succulents they had were priced but I wasn't sure they were actually for sale. I love gardening so it's sad to see places like this. read more

See all

Very quiet and tons to look at - very neat! There's all kinds of small pockets of gardens and one big area where they would hold events. They even have a train car in the middle! read more

See all

This place is incredible ! I have lived in Charlotte all my life and never noticed this spot. It is a small garden in the heart of Charlotte. So beautiful and peaceful among the busy city that surrounds it. Great place for weddings and other small events. This is a public park so open to everyone. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable! They love visitors and encourage it! I definitely would recommend a visit to this park. I look forward to coming back this summer once everything is bloomed! read more

See all

Finally stopped in here on a chilly Saturday evening after visiting Optimist Hall. It was after dark and I was pleased that we were not the only people who brought kids to have fun with their individually packaged s'mores, easily prepared at a few open fires around the property. Obviously a great venue for a wedding or other special event in good weather, this is a great date alternative to many of the wonderful breweries around town, including Bridsong next door. Yes, parking right near the door is limited, but just follow the signs for additional parking a short walk away. Absolutely want to visit again when the flowers are in bloom and the sun is out. Quick service at the counter and smart to have stemless glasses. Another place giving Charlotte some personality and character. A little oasis just north of downtown/uptown. read more

the McGill has been a long time fan favorite of both our campers (I'm the director of CLT Bike Camp) and myself. The Secret Garden aspect of this park is just magical. Whenever I have a chance, I give them a shout out on social media because it is a lovely place to visit. Even though it's right out of the inner circle of the city, when you enter the garden you feel enveloped by a sense of calm. It's great for a day trip with or without children, a stop for coffee if you have a minute in the morning, or a glass of wine in the evening. The staff is supportive and welcoming. read more

This garden is gorgeous! I came here on a Sat morning around 10:30am to meet my photographer for a holiday photoshoot. The garden already had a few people outside. Some were using it for photography and others were enjoying drinks. There were so many little places around the garden to sit and enjoy the scenery. It was free to enter, and parking was free as well. There is a small building in the garden where they sell beer/wine/coffee/etc. I'm not sure if they serve food, but I can't wait to go back and enjoy some drinks in this beautiful garden! At night, I was told that it is lit up with lights all around! Def a gem right outside of uptown. read more

McGill was the perfect wedding venue for us. It was absolutely stunning and Ashlyn was a dream to work with as our coordinator. Venue idea aside McGill also added a little bar inside that is open during the week for drinks so you can wander the grounds and enjoy a glass of wine or pint of beer. Definitely worth going and enjoying an evening! read more

I got stuck at the train tracks fo like an hour, so I pulled into this lovely little garden. Actually, it's surprisingly big. Walk through the gallery and check out local artwork (mostly botanical subjects of course), then go out the back, which opens up to mirrored ornaments dangling from Willow trees, sculpture gardens, and, of course, roses. Lots and lots of roses. McGill is perfect for a picnic, a stroll with that special someone, a place to take kids, and especially for refuge from that awful train! read more

See all

A tiny oasis of charm and beauty situated in an old coal yard nestled beside a railroad track. Seems pretty unlikely, but the McGill Rose is a lovely little gem just minutes by foot or car from uptown. Everything the other Yelpers have written thus far is quite accurate! Neat little shop, great place for a quiet picnic lunch. And I'll add this.. the prices of their home-grown herbs are very reasonable. It's a treat to go anytime of year, but if you can, go in May during the roses' first bloom and you'll be transported to a little corner of heaven. Although I've indicated it's good for kids, unless they enjoy staying on gravel paths and looking at roses, I wouldn't recommend it for a play session, but to enjoy the outdoors and have lunch- definitely. read more

McGill Rose Garden - McGill Rose Garden May 08 - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I wouldn't call this place a secret.. It's a great little park right on the outskirts of uptown and NoDa. Everyone is welcome to stop by and it's not very hidden if you pay attention when you're driving around this wonderful city. They have a good sized parking lot but I've never seen it full unless an event was happening. It's very nice to go and take a walk around to see what's in bloom. They take excellent care of all the flowers and continue to make improvements all around. The flower shop connected to it is great too. I have bought flowers from there multiple times. Very nice people. Keep your eye out for the cat that lives there. Very cute but won't let you get too close! I would rate 5 stars but their hours are mostly inconvenient for me and I cant go when I'm free. read more

Very cool place to visit. I was surprised by how big the garden is. It was a perfect spot to hang out by a fire and enjoy a beer with friends. The staff is friendly and the garden is well kept. This just made it on my list of favorites! read more

The McGill Rose Garden is a wonderful starting and stopping place for the gallery crawls that they host. I've been to a couple of them, and they're a lot of fun. The gallery crawl is a great alternative night out on the town if you're finding bar crawling to be tiresome. McGill Rose Garden is a bit in-between uptown and NoDa, so it can be really peaceful there. Since admission is free, it's nice to take lunch outdoors there when it's not so freakin' cold. read more

I recently got married so prepare yourself for several gushing newly married reviews. Our ceremony and reception were at the McGill Rose Garden, one of the most beautiful locations in Charlotte. While the location is convenient (adjacent to uptown, free parking onsite) the staff is what I've come to rave about. Our wedding happened during a very unexpected rain storm and they worked tirelessly to readjust on hours notice. They supplied umbrellas and made sure guests were warm and secure. The team was polite, kind and organized and while a storm was happening we felt calm and well taken care of. I can only imagine how lovely our day would have been under the sunshine but our event wasn't compromised in the slightest due to the five star team at the garden. read more

Prepare for your mind to be blown. This is one of Charlotte's best secrets. It is on N. Davidson in an industrial/sketch area. You walk into this STUNNING garden with plenty of art. It is a delight. You feel like you are transformed into a new place. I cannot recommend this place enough. It feels magical. There are little paths that you can walk to with privacy. There is a large area to be in with a big group. We went for a rehearsal dinner and it was breath taking. I highly recommend going here. read more

This place is simply amazing. If you are ever in the area and looking to just past the time you have to pop in here. It is actually a park for the city and there is a lot of history behind the actual site itself. The flowers are very nice and they have roses obviously but also lots of other flowers and trees as well. The center of the yard has an old coal car from when the railroad used to be in service. Parking is easy with a gravel lot right out front. They also have a few places to rest your feet with bistro tables and benches around. read more

I came to a wedding here. Unfortunately on the day of the wedding it was raining and cold. The day before was beautiful and I got to check out the gardens during the rehearsal. I like that they have plenty of places to sit and enjoy the garden. The staff were on point and did a wonderful job. They do only have one bathroom which makes it a long wait for the bathroom. read more

Beautiful hidden gem!!! I came upon this place by accident and haven't been able to stay away since!! It is so beautiful, quiet, and a little magical...just because many don't know it exists. There are little benches and places to sit and just enjoy the scenery. Love this place. read more

See all

A hidden little garden near the city that's absolutely gorgeous and a nice getaway from the hussle and bussle! There's various little areas of the gardens you can explore and a larger, open space in the middle for events that's decorated with string lights. I loved walking around, even if some of the flowers were past bloom; there's just so much beauty here to appreciate! The garden is free and there's also parking here too! read more

Charlotte's hidden gem located near NoDa. Stop in and see Karisa, owner of Nectar florist. The history of the garden is amazing. It feels like you have stepped out of Charlotte and into a fairytale. I had my wedding there and I highly recommend it to everyone else too. Open minded to everyone and all ages. If you are from out of town, go here. Take a camera. Art, flowers, train car, its gorgeous. Their events are so much fun too. Mothers day always has something sweet going on. Go see this special place. read more

Do you know that this is the only CITY park we have in Charlotte? That's what I was informed yesterday when I took mom here for a quick walk around. I live not far away, and I always want to see what it looks like in there. Somehow I never know when they are open. Yesterday on my way home, there were LOTS of cars and people, in fact the only time I have seen cars or people there. It's a small garden full of roses. At the other end there is a children's garden which looks like they're growing vegetables. And next the the flower shop is a small area of herb garden. It is very quaint. They had some round tables with chairs set up under a tent, turned out someone had a wedding there the night before. I can see this to be a great outdoor venue for an intimate event. One interesting item: a train cart, sitting on a very short strip of abandoned track. This garden locates right next to an active train track, but I didn't know it used to be a coal station at the location. It's open during the week (3 days) and Saturdays from 10-4. And they said we're welcome to bring a little picnic. read more