Botanical gardens has new name

May 13, 2024

WAUSAU – The Monk Gardens has officially changed its name to the Wausau Botanic Gardens.

Tim White, executive director of Visit Wausau, said the name change reflects the garden’s growth and transformation into a premier destination for botanical exploration.

“Wausau Botanic Gardens captures the essence of our expansive and diverse experiences that enchant visitors year-round,” he said. “We believe this new identity will not only resonate with our visitors but also enhance our visibility and appeal as a must-visit location in the region.”

Dave Eckmann, executive director of the Wausau Chamber of Commerce, said the name change is good for the community. 

“The Greater Wausau community is located at the crossroads of commerce – the intersection of I-39 and Hwy 29,” he said. “As people travel the state, it is vitally important to identify and communicate community economic assets. Wausau Botanic Gardens will bring greater geographic acknowledgment of an important economic asset.”

The organization will also embark on Phase I of a three-phased Visitor & Education Center project.

Improvements include:

• A secure fence around some of the property and a state-of-the-art security system
• Create a Ginseng Garden in partnership with Hsu’s Ginseng Enterprises
• Establish a traditional-styled English Garden
• Construct a gatehouse and parking lot, moving the entrance to 4th Ave.
• Make all main trails accessible
• Complete Sara’s Storybook Garden