

Must Sees
Sensory Garden
More Information
Admission:
Free. A donation of $15 is recommended per car for non-members.
Location:
A Place of Inclusion
The Sensory Garden features five beds, each dedicated to one of the senses, plus a quiet space for those who need a calming environment. This thoughtfully designed space fosters acceptance, support, and a harmonious connection with nature for all who visit.
No matter our ability level, we all connect with nature through our senses and we are unwavering in our dedication to furthering our founder’s vision of a place that everyone can experience.
Community Voices
Shaped with Thoughtful Collaboration
Features of the Sensory Garden
Interpretive Signage & Information
Plants with tactile qualities
In the Touch space, visitors can explore plants like lamb’s ear, coneflower, sensitive fern, hops, and variegated yucca. Tactile elements also include smooth driftwood from the Falls of the Ohio, bumpy and rough-textured planter pots, and various upcycled components awaiting installation.
Quiet Space

The Quiet space incorporates an infinity symbol, historically linked with autism awareness, created through plantings of Adam’s columnar yew (Taxus cuspidata ‘Columnaris’). Repurposed millstones found on-site serve as seats within this quiet space, offering visitors a soothing place to connect with nature.
Sound Elements
A decorative water feature serves as a summer water source for birds and small mammals. The Hearing space is centered around water, with the entire garden filled with the soothing sounds of nature—buzzing insects, rustling leaves, wind chimes, and joyful laughter —offering a deeply immersive sensory experience.
Buddy Benches
Emerging by Meg White
… Their (Bernheim) invitation to be a part of the planning and execution of the Sensory Garden and accompanying art installation underscores their incredible commitment to making the beauty of nature accessible and inclusive. We look forward to spending time enjoying the garden and all that Bernheim has to offer its visitors.