With 20 formal gardens covering 96 acres, this rather large botanical garden requires a bit of time to visit properly. You'll find something in bloom at almost any time of year, and even in winter, the Japanese garden offers a tranquil setting for a quiet stroll. In April and May, the Ketchum Memorial Iris Garden, one of the largest in the country, is in bloom, and during May, June, and September the Municipal Rose Garden is alive with color. A special Sensory Garden is designed for people with disabilities and has plantings that stimulate all five senses. In 2009, a new 2.5-acre Children's Garden opened, offering a "tree top adventure" that ascend into the tree line, and a tunneling excursion that offers kids a worm's-eye point of view. Allow at least 2 hours.

Audubon Park, 750 Cherry Rd. tel. 901/576-4100. www.memphisbotanicgarden.com. Admission $5 adults, $4 seniors and students, $3 children 3-12. Mar-Oct Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm; Nov-Feb Mon-Sat 9am-4:30pm, Sun 11am-4:30pm. Located across from Audubon Park Golf Course on Cherry Rd., btw. Southern and Park aves.