Celebrating Smith’s Many Beautiful Gardens

I fell in love with the many beautifully landscaped areas of the Smith College campus, particularly the gardens. Capen Garden, which provided me with the most stunningly beautiful backyard I know I will ever have, opened my eyes to the vast variety of garden design that can coexist in a relatively small space. From the symmetrical tulip beds that border the gazebo to the circular fountain to the attractively rustic and flowery vines, this space was special in a way I will never forget. 

I cannot leave out the Lyman Conservatory, which is open in all seasons. It could be the coldest day in February, but I would still be able to step into the plant house and be transported to the tropics or take in the heat among the succulents. 

During my senior year, I discovered the Happy Chase Garden, with its lovingly crafted beds and potted plant displays. It also happened to be right behind one of my favorite professor’s offices and offered a spectacular view of the Paradise Pond knoll. 

Lastly, I must mention the Japanese Garden, which was restored after I graduated. I got to see it when I came back for my fifth reunion in 2022. I was impressed with how they redid the mazy paths of stepping stones in the hills alongside Paradise Pond, which thin out for the Mill River to meander on.