Miller Nature Preserve
Today I am going to share with you a wonderful outing that I experience with my good friend Noreen. This past Friday, we toured some of the Miller Nature Preserve located in Avon, Ohio on Route 83. Even though it was quite chilly at 49 degrees, the sun was out and made the outing much more enjoyable.
Miller Nature Preserve rests on 78 acres of wooded land in the heart of Avon, Ohio. Much of the property was donated by longtime Avon resident, Buddy Miller in memory of his late wife Alice Fowles. A Visitor Center is nestled between trees and the winding French Creek and includes a cafe (The Orchid Room), a gift shop and a demonstration kitchen for cooking classes. The highlight of this preserve (which is what we came to see) is the 5,000 square foot conservatory, the first in Lorain County.
The outside is quite impressive with newly landscaped conservatory, butterfly house being built next to it opening in July, 2012, outside seating on a stone terrace, a bridge over the French Creek, etc.
Lunch was very nice, we just had a salad with grilled chicken. They offer soups, salads, sandwiches and a couple of desserts. The lunchroom was full of couples of all ages. This would make a nice outing for a garden club group. You can reserve tables in the cafe.
Upon paying our $2.00 to gain entrance into the consevatory, we proceeded inside and were truly amazed by all the beautiful tropical and desert plants. They have a wonderful cactus collection at the entryway on all four sides. A path winds around the inside so that you can view the tropicals up close. Every plant was pristine and very well cared for. Two small waterfalls were installed, also. There was a groundskeeper inside who was tending the plantings. He was very congenial and we enjoyed our rousing discussion on plants with him.
Bromelioids, huge Banana Trees, Anthyriums, Orchids in bloom, exotic Begonias, different types of Pothos, Philadendrums, even a Pitcher Plant (Carnavour Species). There were so many different plants that it is hard to list them all here. At the end was a Bonsai display that extended itself outside in a protected courtyard. Amazing!
If you are planning a trip to this part of Ohio, or, live in the area, this is well worth your time to come an visit.
Here are just a few pictures from our visit. Hoping that you enjoy them!
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