The Mission of the Inniswood Garden Society:
Inniswood Metro Gardens is a facility of the Franklin County Metro Parks. Operation and maintenance funds are provided by the park district, however, continued growth and development are contingent upon gifts from private citizens and philanthropic organizations.
The Inniswood Garden Society was created in 1984 to assist the Franklin County Metro Parks in the growth and development of Inniswood Metro Gardens in a manner that is consistent with the goals and philosophies of the park district. Additionally, the Inniswood Garden Society assists with the promotion of Inniswood by sponsoring horticultural programs for its members and the public.
Inniswood Metro Gardens:
Nestled within a scenic nature preserve, the 121-acre Inniswood Metro Gardens is a continual source of inspiration for Central Ohioans of all ages. Streams and woodlands filled with wildflowers and wildlife provide a majestic backdrop to the beautifully landscaped flowerbeds, rock garden and lawns.
Dedicated to the enjoyment, cultivation and preservation of nature’s treasures, Inniswood boasts more than 2,000 species of plants, specialty collections and several theme gardens including the rose, herb and woodland rock garden.
Visitors will enjoy the seasonal beauty of the gardens and natural areas as they stroll along two miles of trails and paved pathways.
A Tribute to Two Sisters:
Inniswood Metro Gardens was once the 37-acre estate of sisters Grace and Mary Innis, who enjoyed gardening and wildlife observation respectively. The Innis sisters’ desire to preserve and enhance their gardens and woodlands for the enjoyment of all people resulted in the generous donation of their home and property to Franklin County Metro Parks in 1972.
To honor the memory of Grace and Mary Innis, Metro Parks opened the 2.8-acre Sisters’ Garden in 2002. Designed to celebrate the complexity of nature and the inquisitiveness of childhood, The Sisters’ Garden aspires “to nurture the nature of the child in everyone”.
Learning and Appreciation:
Inniswood offers education in horticulture and the natural sciences for children and adults. Dramatic displays of natural and cultivated gardens, seasonal celebrations and a variety of programs provide a wealth of information and enjoyment. The sister’s former home is the site for education programs, a horticultural reference collection and staff offices.