Maze Garden at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The vision plan for the Maze Garden at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum re-imagines the existing maze to create a destination for children and families to play and discover nature’s wonders. The new design features a playful, leaf-shaped maze, with paths inspired by patterns found in nature, anchored by neatly trimmed hedge rows that define its shape and form. Within the maze, unique plantings create intimate garden rooms, inviting exploration and discovery at every turn. A central vine tunnel provides an immersive yet accessible experience for visitors who wish to experience the maze without fully entering, while multiple routes of varying lengths encourage curiosity and engagement for all ages.
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Rooted in the Arboretum’s mission to connect people with plants and the natural world, the Maze Garden is envisioned as a space for all seasons, accessible, inclusive, and connected to its surrounding collections. Through a collaborative planning process, the design clarifies the garden’s purpose within the larger Arboretum, enhancing arrival, wayfinding, and visual connections across the site. By embracing the site’s topography, the plan introduces overlooks and framed views that strengthen orientation and invite reflection. Playful plant forms, natural materials, and opportunities for hands-on interaction will create a fun and engaging environment that celebrates exploration, learning, and the beauty of nature.
