In 1928, a few men had a vision of a formal garden on the U.S. and Canada border where peace could be celebrated. More importantly, they had a vision for a living monument to the ideals of friendship and cooperation among nations that could be an example to the world. In 1932, more than 50,000 people gathered on the prairie to dedicate this sacred space and to begin growing peace.

Today, the International Peace Garden is a year-round destination offering four seasons of nature’s best artwork and activities among 2,400 acres of forests and prairie. It is best known for its iconic formal gardens. More than 80,000 annuals and flowering perennials create a vivid landscape, highlighted throughout the formal gardens and populating iconic spaces, including the floral clock. Throughout the garden, special monuments like The Peace Chapel, 9/11 Memorial, Sunken Garden, and Promise of Peace Sculpture serve as reminders to the founders’ original vision.

The International Peace Garden also includes a world-class conservatory, home to more than 5,000 unique and rare species of cacti and succulents from all corners of the world. The cacti and succulents are constantly changing, displaying a variety of textures and colors and blossoming as early as February, peaking in May and June. This collection was gifted to the Peace Garden in 2009. Today, it not only boasts its unique species collection, it serves as a library for protected plants that could someday be extinct. The work of the conservatory also demonstrates how an understanding of political issues around the world impacts peace and natural ecosystems.

Cultural venues located within the Peace Garden include the International Music Camp and the North American Game Warden Museum, campgrounds, hiking trails, lakes, and picnic areas. Visitors can take advantage of a variety of events and activities for every age and interest.