Sherwood Gardens: A Hidden Gem in Bloom

                                                                                                                    

yellow tulips

    On my way to work, I drive past Sherwood Gardens, and lately, I’ve been watching for the tulips. When they finally bloom, it’s like the whole area transforms. Bright reds, soft pinks, sunny yellows, and deep purples are arranged in wide, colorful patches that look like a painting. It’s peaceful, quiet, and honestly, kind of perfect for taking a breather during the day. I’ve always loved flowers; hydrangeas are my favorite, but I admire all kinds, especially when they’re in a vase on a kitchen table. My roommates and I try to keep fresh flowers in our apartment as much as we can. It just makes everything feel more cheerful and homey.

     Sherwood Gardens isn’t something you’ll find in most travel guides, but people who live nearby know it’s special. It’s not a huge park, but the space feels calm and open. You’ll see people walking slowly, kids running around, and neighbors just enjoying being outside. Even a quick walk through clears your head. There’s a rich story behind this space, too. Sherwood Gardens was originally a private garden owned by John W. Sherwood, a local philanthropist and lover of landscape design. He transformed what used to be a swampy area into this spectacular garden in the 1920s and ‘30s. Even after his passing, the tradition lived on. Now, it's maintained by the Guilford Association, and every spring, over 80,000 tulips are planted by hand, just for the joy of it.

purple tulips

     For me, Sherwood Gardens is more than a landmark. It’s a daily reminder of why I love this city: not just for its history, but for the little hidden joys that show up when you least expect them, in the middle of your commute, along a quiet street. Having a place like this nearby is something I feel lucky for. It gives you a reason to slow down, step outside, and just enjoy something simple and beautiful. When it gets a little warmer, my friends and I plan to go back and have a picnic there before we graduate, just to take it all in once more.

 

A lady enjoying the sun and the tulips

multicolored tulips

red tulips