Just last year I passed through Orange, Texas. I wish I had known that Orange, Texas has one of the most earth friendly projects in the world. I would have loved to have had the opportunity to visit the Shangri La Gardens and Nature Center. I am interested in visiting botanical gardens and nature centers when I travel and from the looks of it, the Shangri La Gardens is a beautiful place indeed.
The Shangri La Gardens holds the prestigious U.S. Green Building Council’s Platinum certification for LEED-NC. This means that the project’s construction and design is in accordance with green, eco-friendly standards. The Shangri La Gardens was the first project in Texas to gain this certification.
The Shangri La Gardens is a 252 acre facility with a botanical garden that features more than 300 species of plants and flower that thrive in the unique environment. Adjacent to the gardens is a bird observation area that many different species call home. The Nature Center is a major part of the facility. It has a hands on area where people can understand nature in a special way. It has a special theater for nature shows, a cafe, a greenhouse, a store and several gardens.
The Shangri La Gardens and Nature Center is open for tours from the general public, groups and schools from Tuesday to Sunday during the months of March through October. The gardens are a beautiful place to relax and just take in the tranquil environment. It’s an escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Orange is located near the Texas-Louisiana border, not far from Beaumont and just a few hours outside of Houston. It’s a great place to soak up nature. I think the next time I am out on US 90, I will make a point of visiting the Shangri La Gardens and Nature Center with the entire family. It will be a relaxing and educational visit.
I highly recommend that you check out the website and think about visiting the gardens yourself.
