Erin P.
Yelp
Generally speaking I love the Gardens.
Well maintained, and gorgeous. My first visit there this spring left me forgetting I was in the middle of a city. I love the elegance of the main gates, and the history behind the park itself. It is also the largest, well maintained Victorian Garden in North America.
Now, what I don't enjoy: it is, essentially, a park however one is not allowed on the grass? Sure I understand that high amounts foot traffic can be damaging to the growth of the grass. However, what is the harm in someone wanting to sit under a tree, on the grass to read for a few hours? Ok, so there is a small section at one end of the garden where being on the grass is OK. I just don't understand why the grass is so off limits.
Also, no bikes? No jogging? No dogs? On a recent visit I saw a lady walking her bike through the gardens. At no point was she on it. She was walking through, taking the scenic route, as she wanted to get to a street on the other end of the park. She was stopped and told she had to leave immediate as bikes were not permitted. Seriously? Really Halifax? Are all these no-nos really necessary? No playing on the grass - you're basically saying no kids.
Beyond that, I do enjoy having the Gardens in our backyard. It is a little oasis away from the hum and buzz of downtown Halifax.