Sunken Garden

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The Sunken Garden is William & Mary’s quad, constructed in 1935 with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as part of his New Deal economic recovery plan. Lined on its longest sides by six academic buildings and bookended on the short sides by the Wren Building and Crim Dell meadow, this open area is the perfect place to relax in the sun between classes or play a spirited game of soccer or frisbee.

Virtually Tour the Sunken Garden

Get a 360-degree view overlooking the beloved campus greenspace.

Launch Experience

Events in the Sunken Garden

A favorite gathering spot in the heart of campus, the Sunken Garden hosts many W&M events.

Homecoming & Reunion Weekend

Alumni and friends gather in the fall to reconnect with each other and celebrate their love for William & Mary.

One Tribe One Day Carnival

The entire W&M community comes together to support the university and enjoy free food, rides and games.

Senior Wine & Cheese

This annual spring gathering invites seniors to celebrate their time at W&M.

Royal Ball

Dressed in their finest attire, students celebrate the end of the academic year.

Student-Run Events

Student clubs, such as Alma Mater Productions (AMP), host a variety of events, including movie nights, petting zoos and yoga on the Sunken Garden.

History of the Sunken Garden

Almost a decade in the making, the Sunken Garden was completed in 1935. It was designed by the Civilian Conservation Corps and supervised by Charles Gillette with 18th-century English landscape gardens in mind. The stately trees found here are among the oldest on campus.

History & Construction

Campus Tour of Woody Species

William & Mary is home to more than 70 woody species. This “living archive” supports research and teaching by our faculty and students. The plant tour includes visits to 13 locations, starting at the Sunken Garden.

Take the Plant Tour