Finding time for yourself while juggling work, family obligations, never-ending household chores and, potentially, a hobby (gasp!), is virtually impossible. So, when you do get an afternoon free, it’s important to make every moment count.

While nice weather is in town, make a day of it at Tower Hill Botanic Garden, a 45- to 60-minute drive outside of Boston, but one that is worth every mile of the journey there.

Extensive grounds bursting with lush greenery, exotic flowers and local wildlife offer an escape from the chaos of everyday life. The compound includes 17 distinct gardens on 171 acres, open space and preserved woodlands as far as the eye can see.

GARNICK MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY

Tower Hill Botanic Gardens at sunset.

In addition to the Zen you’ll find in the beauty of nature, Tower Hill also has a bountiful events calendar, and one that encourages decompressing. Activities include tai chi or chair yoga (Like alternative forms of yoga? Try this.) in the opulent conservatories and an orchestral concert mixed with the calls of local birds.

At the Tower Hill Library you can learn about the history of the property — it began as the Worcester County Horticultural Society in the 1840s — or research any flora that caught your eye in the gardens.

Top the day off with lunch at Farmer and the Fork, the on-site café that makes handcrafted, locally sourced meals. Both the gardens and the café are kid-friendly.

Whether you come with the family or solo for some me-time you’ll leave feeling refreshed and ready for the next challenge.