The lush green gardens of Green Spring Gardens are a product of their history. The gardens are named after the city’s first green spot, which is also known as Green Spring. The city was founded in 1742 and the gardens were created in the late 1700s as a way of beautifying the area. During the Civil War, the gardens were severely damaged, and they weren’t restored until the 20th century. You can learn more about the history of the gardens and their restoration in this article: The Hidden History of Green Spring Gardens.  The parkway and gardens are also home to a variety of wildlife. The gardens host many species of birds and animals, including raccoons, squirrels, deer, and rabbits. The raccoons that frequent the area are no threat to humans. And the squirrels and rabbits can be safely handled by visitors who exercise caution. Visitors should be mindful of snakes and other reptiles, however, as not all are safe for humans to approach. When you visit the gardens, you’re also helping to protect the environment by reducing the amount of developed land that a city needs to maintain. The gardens also help to beautify and give character to the area. So next time you visit Alexandria, make a point to explore the green landscapes of Green Spring Gardens!