97 & 103 Main Street, South Paris, ME 04281 info@mclaughlingarden.org 207-743-8820

FAQ

When are you open? What is your pet policy? Is there an onsite cafe?  It is always a good idea to be prepared, here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions we field from visitors, volunteers, and members.


When are you open?

The garden gate is open seven days a week from May 1 – October 31 from dawn to dusk. The Gift Shop, Historic Home, and Barn are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday during the season. More information here.


Do you offer tours?

We offer tours upon request, led by volunteers and our Director of Horticulture, for a small fee that helps sustain the organization and keep admission free!

For groups of ten or more, the price is $8/person, children, seniors over 65, and students are $6/person.
For groups smaller than ten, there is a set price of $50.

Please call 207-743-8820 ahead of time to schedule the arrangements for your group.


Is the Garden & Homestead available for rent?

The McLaughlin Garden is not currently available for private events. That policy may change in the future, keep checking back here as we develop our policy.


Do you have food on site?

During the 2017 season you can purchase small wrapped snacks in the gift shop, and there will be a coffee and tea hostess service. We also work closely with local cafes including Maurice’s next door and Cafe Nomad in Norway for catering. We welcome groups to bring their lunch or snacks to enjoy respectfully in the garden or barn. If you call the Garden at 207-743-8820 or email us at info@mclaughlingarden.org, we can help you organize box lunches.


What programs do you offer?

We offer a variety of programs year-round as designed by our staff, Program Committee, volunteers and Board of Directors. Each program is unique and exciting, some are more appropriate for certain age groups than others. Please refer to our Programs & Events page for details about what’s going on right now, and sign up for our e-newsletter for reminders!


Do you allow dogs/pets?

We love our furry friends, but no dogs or pets are allowed in the Garden & Homestead. However there is a street and grassy throughway which is great for letting our buddies stretch their legs!


What is your photography policy?

Families may take informal family photos. Members may take photographs for their own private use. All photographers taking photographs for commercial use (sale of images, portraits, wedding photographs, etc.) must purchase a photography sponsorship.  All photographers and visitors must stay on the paths (and out of flowerbeds); please do not climb on benches or walls; no props of any kind are permitted in the garden. More information here.


Are you hiring?

The Garden has a very small staff, but posts any employment opportunities online and announced on our Facebook page. Every summer, we offer two paid internships to college students. Contact us for details or inquiries.


How can I stay informed about activities at the Garden & Homestead?

You can “like” us on Facebook and sign up for our e-newsletter!