from staff
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens opened their latest addition to the Zoo, the Gardens at Trout River Plaza with a weekend-long event Sept. 7-9.
The $1.9 million, 1.6 acre Gardens at Trout River Plaza is the first in a series of new gardens and exhibits to open at the Zoo.
“The opening of this artistic garden space completes yet another part of our award-winning Botanical Gardens Master Plan,” said Zoo Executive Director Dennis Pate. “This new garden is now the only one of its kind in Jacksonville and just a preview of what’s to come with planning already underway for our Asian Bamboo Garden and Monsoon Asia exhibit.”
The new garden space features a partially-walled botanical garden plaza that will serve as a gathering and event space and offers a view of the Trout River. In the center of the plaza is a fountain with a spill bowl topped by a bird sculpture. The fountain is surrounded by a pebble mosaic that features a menagerie of animals that can be found in the Trout River.
There are 13 Grecian-style columns that are topped with overflowing flowering urns. The planted trellis, large shade trees, themed lights and furniture create a unique area for families or group events.
According to a press release, the Riverview Courtyard located behind the plaza is a space that will exclusively be used for day and nighttime private events. The “Great Lawn” in front of the plaza can also be used for private events.
“This is the most formal garden we’ve designed with both classical and contemporary elements,” said Bob Chabot, director of horticulture at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.
If you are interested in hosting an event in the new Gardens, please call 757-4463, ext. 103. The Zoo and Gardens are open seven days a week from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.