French gardens are typically formal, and organized in geometric patterns. The main focus of the garden is frequently a pathway that leads the visitor through the various plantings. A French garden would not be complete without a parterre, or “knot garden”, which is a series of tightly clipped hedges that form a geometric pattern. One of the lovely features of this garden is a granite fountain topped by a small statue of a boy pulling a thorn from his foot. This statue is a miniature of a similar statue for which our sister city, Epinal is famous. A replica of that statue can be found a few blocks south of the Gardens, near the Radisson Hotel. Topiary trees and colorfully designed flower beds complement the French design.