It's really no secret, but tucked away in mid-town is a bit of heaven for those who love their green things. The Tucson Botanical Gardens offers several acres featuring not only plants that thrive in a desert clime, but those sometimes surprising ones which can indeed find a place here with a bit of pampering. Here, birds, beetles and butterflies create a special alchemy; the rose garden is fancy and fragrant; and the springtime irises are dizzying in their delicate drama. TBG hosts art shows and plant sales, and offers special programs, like poetry readings and concerts. Growdown!, the contest in which landscape designers compete to create the most unique small gardens, is a recent addition to TBG's slate of unique events. And for a simple and charming winter holiday experience, Luminaria Nights shines.

Runners up:

2. Tohono Chul Park

7366 N. Paseo del Norte

742-6455

3. Reid Park Rose Garden

Country Club Road, just north of 22nd Street

791-4873