1. Maze
Keeping with the original intent of the maze, this feature was redesigned in 2024. A favorite of young children, the maze is made up of evergreens that will grow varying heights to add mystery as it is walked. The adjacent area was redesigned into a functional sitting area offering panoramic views of the upper garden. At center is Centennial Man, the first sculpture added to Charley Creek Gardens. Back to top
2. Centennial Man
Created by Herron School of Art alumnus Matthew Berg. Back to top
4. Shade Garden
Installed in 1998; path switch backs down to Charley Creek; bluish purple wood hyacinths, daffodils, Virginia bluebells, redbuds, white dogwood, and an assortment of deciduous and evergreen azaleas burst into color proclaiming spring’s arrival; annuals and perennials provide continuous color interest through fall. Back to top
5. Waterfall
Started in 2004, finished in spring of 2006; man-made, self-contained; full flow is 400 gallons of water/minute; meets up with a bog garden of plants native to Indiana wetlands. Back to top
6. Charley Creek
Named after Chief Charley of the Miami tribe of Native Americans; flows through what originally was his land, Falls Cemetery, the city park, and into the Wabash River. Back to top
7. Labyrinth
Installed in July 2008; designed by artist and stone sculptor Marty Kermeen; Native American design; visitors are welcome to walk silently and meditate along its route. Back to top
8. Garfield Wildflower Meadow
Inspired by Garfield creator Jim Davis’ meadow outside his Muncie design studio; features native Indiana wildflowers and grasses; prime color is mid-summer; blooms and seed heads attract birds and butterflies; the foot bridge was added in 2011 and was donated by Falls Cemetery; it is used for photography shoots. Back to top
9. Charley Creek Cottage
Private residence; design suggests Queen Anne cottage architecture popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries; its garden is open to the public; due to erosion, the creek bank is planted with native grasses and wildflowers with root systems that aid in bank retention. Back to top
10. Education and Resource Center
Completed in 2007; designed in the arts and crafts tradition; features a resource/meeting room and staff offices; the greenhouse is used for plant storage, seasonal events and education; the resource/meeting room is available for rental opportunities. Back to top
11. Key Way
Michael Smith, also a Herron alumnus, created this piece. Back to top