Experience a feast for the senses at the Thomasville Rose Garden. Educate yourself about the various species of roses while enjoying a stroll amid nature. Time your visit to coincide with a flower festival that takes place at the garden and throughout Downtown Thomasville. The Thomasville Rose Garden is adjacent to the Cherokee Lake Park recreational area.

The garden is laid out in a rectangular shape with a pavilion in the center and pathways separating four sections. In these sections are beds with themes titled Heroes, Holidays, Love and Cherish and Famous People. Find signs that provide information about the origin, common name and scientific name of each flower. Stroll between the beds, marvel at the many vivid colors and bend down to smell the varying aromas.

In April, Thomasville celebrates its moniker as the City of Roses with the annual Thomasville Rose Show and Festival. In addition to this garden, look for the 85 other rose beds located around the city. Festival events, including concerts, dance shows and parades, are held downtown and at gardens, galleries and museums. Some events are free while others require ticket purchase.

Go to the neighboring Cherokee Lake Park to enjoy recreational activities. Walk the 1-mile-long (1.6-kimoleter) trail that travels through the park and follows the shoreline around Cherokee Lake. Sit at the piers and watch fishermen wait patiently for a catch. Bring your own food to eat on the lawns or at the picnic tables. Scout out the small children’s playground within the park too, where kids can burn off some energy.

Reach the garden by driving east from Downtown Thomasville for 5 minutes. Free on-site parking is available. If you want some exercise, walk here in about 30 minutes.

Thomasville Rose Garden is open year-round and admission is free. Visit from April to October to see many of the roses in full bloom. Ask at the Thomasville Visitor Center for a schedule of events for the Thomasville Rose Show and Festival.