Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is a free botanical garden and research collection in Boston’s Jamaica Plain and Roslindale neighborhoods. Its 281 acres hold trees, shrubs and flowering plants from around the world, many identified with labels. Follow the paths through wooded groves and open hills, look for the bonsai collection, or climb Peters Hill for a view of the Boston skyline. Spring brings lilacs and other blossoms; autumn colors the trees. The grounds are part of Frederick Law Olmsted’s Emerald Necklace park system.
A living collection in Boston
Arnold Arboretum is a botanical research institution and public green space managed by Harvard University. Founded in 1872, it covers 281 acres in Boston’s Jamaica Plain and Roslindale neighborhoods. The grounds form part of the Emerald Necklace, the connected park system designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.
The collection includes trees, shrubs and woody vines from around the world. Plant labels help you identify what you pass, turning a walk into an introduction to the arboretum’s living collection. Research and education are part of its work, alongside public access to the grounds.
Paths, hills and plant collections
Paths cross wooded areas, lawns and hills, with room to choose a short stroll or a longer walk. Peters Hill is a good destination if you want a view of Boston framed by trees. The arboretum also has ponds and bridges, and its varied terrain lets you move between open ground and shaded paths.
Look for the bonsai collection and the hemlock area among the grounds’ distinctive sections. The collection is not limited to plants in flower: trees and shrubs provide different points of interest across the seasons. Signs identify many specimens, so allow time to stop and read them as you walk.
Seasonal highlights
Spring draws attention to the arboretum’s blossoms, including its lilacs, azaleas and rhododendrons. Lilac Sunday, held on Mother’s Day, is an annual celebration of the lilac collection. The flowering season also includes cherry blossoms and other blooms.
Autumn is another strong season for a visit, when foliage colors the trees. In any season, the collection and landscape change the character of the walk. Peters Hill offers an open viewpoint, while paths through the trees provide a closer look at the plants.
Planning your walk
You can explore independently or join a guided tour. The visitor center has educational exhibits, and the Hunnewell Building is a departure point for guided tours. Check the arboretum’s website for current visitor information and tour details before setting out.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sun protection if you plan to cover a lot of ground. Some paths are paved, while others take you through less developed parts of the grounds. The arboretum is accessible by public transport, including the Orange Line to Forest Hills. If you drive, street parking is available, but observe posted time limits.
The grounds are for walking and biking, but picnicking is not allowed. Dogs are permitted on leash. Admission is free, so you can spend your time following the paths and exploring the collections without planning around an entry ticket.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Arnold Arboretum free to visit?
Yes. Admission to the arboretum is free.
How long should you spend at Arnold Arboretum?
Allow about 1 to 3 hours for a walk and time to explore the plant collections.
When is the best time to visit Arnold Arboretum?
Spring is a good time for blossoms, including lilacs. Autumn brings colorful foliage.
Can you picnic at Arnold Arboretum?
No. Picnicking is not allowed on the grounds.
How do you get to Arnold Arboretum?
The arboretum is in Boston’s Jamaica Plain and Roslindale neighborhoods. It is accessible by public transport, including the Orange Line to Forest Hills.
