The Atlanta Botanical Garden is preparing to grow toward the BeltLine with one of the largest expansions in its history. Updated plans call for nearly eight new acres, a BeltLine-facing entrance and new public spaces designed to connect the Garden more directly with the city.
The project is now part of a $165 million capital campaign, an increase from the $160 million figure reported when the plans were first announced. The Garden says more than $149 million has been raised, with groundbreaking planned for fall 2026 and completion targeted for 2029.
What visitors can expect
A new visitor center will face the Atlanta BeltLine and include indoor and outdoor café space, a gift shop, bicycle parking and guest amenities. Inside the expanded grounds, visitors will move along a central “Grand Axis” connecting new water terraces, a walled garden and a fountain garden.
Outside the ticketed area, a BeltLine Plaza is planned as a free community space for programs and gatherings. The project will also create a stronger green connection among the existing 30-acre Garden, Piedmont Park and the BeltLine’s northeast corridor.
The expansion increases the Garden’s footprint by close to 30 percent. Beyond adding room for plants and exhibits, it creates a second front door—one oriented toward people arriving on foot or bicycle from the BeltLine.
Why some earlier reports show different numbers
Initial local reports described a $160 million project with completion expected in 2028. The Garden’s current project page lists the updated campaign at $165 million and a 2029 completion target. Those newer official figures are reflected here.
Sources and further reading
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