Hidden Gardens Tour

The 2026 Hidden Gardens Tour marks the kickoff of the Essex Garden Club’s 75th year, inviting visitors to explore a curated collection of eight private gardens in the Essex villages of Ivoryton and Centerbrook.

Enjoy these unique New England gardens including a surprise roof-top garden of a prominent local business. June blooms featuring roses, peonies, bleeding hearts, irises, and wisteria-clad pergolas blend in well with shady woodland gardens of hostas, native wildflowers, and carpets of ferns and moss. Water features can be seen on this garden tour – from koi fishponds to a fishing ladder that encourages fish to swim upstream. Seasonal vegetable and cutting gardens are enclosed in a variety of square foot features. Patio and fire pit spaces are tucked away to enjoy the gardens day and night. Venture through gardens, weaving along paths to some fun features such as a chicken coop turned into a resting spot, or a gaggle of runner ducks excited to meet you. For the rock lover, a cascading riverbed runs from top to bottom in one of the gardens.

Click for tickets.  Please Note: Rain or shine. Non-refundable.
No dogs – while we love our furry friends, they are not permitted during garden tours.
Comfortable walking shoes recommended
Garden locations provided with ticket purchase

Location: Pick up your tickets and hidden garden listings at the Ivoryton Gazebo (opposite the Ivoryton Library, 100 Main Street, Ivoryton), then proceed at your own pace touring these beautiful gardens.