Community gardens can be found in urban landscapes throughout the United States, and they serve a variety of purposes: bringing people together, creating an eco-friendly space, providing fresh food, and a place that is vibrant and open. No matter where they are, they make an impact in the communities that they serve.

There are hundreds of these gardens throughout America, but these are a few that are going above and beyond for its members.

Historic Bethabara Park Community Gardens, Winston-Salem, SC

The community garden that started it all. This was the first one made in the United States, constructed in the early 1990s in South Carolina for education purposes. This garden takes on a colonial feel, from the gardening techniques to the construction on site.

Wise Words Community Garden, New Orleans, LA

A combination of food and art, this community garden is located outside of New Orleans and works to integrate the community and their local food systems. The space also holds a compost station, potting and gardening lesson area, and public space for a market.

Fort Mason Community Garden, San Francisco, CA

Established in the 1970s by a group of artists, the goal of this community garden was to forge a long-standing garden system in San Francisco. The garden is located on the historical grounds of Fort Mason, and features a mix of flowers, vegetables, and herbs. This space is open to the public to enjoy in all its glory.

Meredith Gardens, Houston, TX

A sanctuary placed in an urban landscape, Meredith Gardens serves as an all-inclusive, learning ecosystem open to anyone and everyone. They do not put up fences or charge fees because they encourage volunteering and community. This serves as the perfect place to come together to learn, grow, and enrich the local community.