Tulsa Botanic Garden Josephine G. and Timothy W. Driskill Children’s Discovery Garden

Meandering pathways, interactive water features, artistic sculptures and hands-on learning zones encourage children to explore botanical concepts through direct experience, fostering both environmental awareness and imaginative play. From a shaded sensory garden to a tree fort and a hidden “cave,” each area invites young visitors to engage creatively with the natural world.

A signature feature of the garden is the Spring Giant – a sculptural grotto that doubles as a fountain and visual anchor at the head of a stream valley. Surrounding woodland plantings complement the site’s natural topography, creating a setting that evolves with the seasons and enhances the garden’s immersive experience.

Howell & Vancuren, now part of Wallace Design Collective, served as the landscape architect, coordinating the full design team – including electrical, mechanical, and civil consultants – and providing comprehensive design, construction documentation and administration services for both hardscape and landscape elements.

Wallace Design Collective continues to expand and enhance the garden with new landscape architecture services, including shade structures at the amphitheater, nature-based play features and demonstration gardens. These improvements, paired with necessary repairs, will grow the garden’s offerings and create fresh opportunities for play, learning and engagement for years to come.

photography: ©Vast Media