The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden covers 66 acres on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake, at 8525 Garland Road in East Dallas. Its display gardens change with the seasons, from spring tulips and azaleas to fall foliage and pumpkin displays. Follow the paths through the Jonsson Color Garden, the Magnolia Glade and the Crape Myrtle Allee, or visit the historic DeGolyer Mansion. Families can add the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, with hands-on exhibits and a canopy walk, to their visit.
A garden shaped by the seasons
The Arboretum’s 66 acres bring together display gardens, lawns, trees and water features on White Rock Lake’s southeastern shore. The grounds include 19 themed gardens, with paved paths linking areas such as the Jonsson Color Garden, McCasland Sunken Garden, Magnolia Glade and the Paseo. The Paseo’s central walkway is a useful route between several of the gardens.
The planting changes through the year. Spring brings tulips, azaleas and cherry blossoms; fall adds chrysanthemums, changing leaves and seasonal displays built from pumpkins, gourds and squash. Some areas are known for their trees as much as their flowers, including the Ginkgo canopy and the Crape Myrtle Allee. The Rose Garden has more than 200 hybrid tea roses in 16 varieties.
There is room to pause between the planted beds. Lawns, shaded gazebos, fountains and ponds give the walk a slower pace, while views extend toward White Rock Lake. The Woman’s Garden has sculptures, a reflecting pool and fountains. The landscape also includes a bamboo grove, a herb garden at Camp Estate, and wooded paths bordered by wild vines and flowers.
The DeGolyer Mansion and garden events
The historic DeGolyer Mansion is part of the Arboretum grounds, and self-guided visits let you explore the house. The estate is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For a different kind of stop, art displays have appeared around the garden, including an exhibition with large rabbit and butterfly sculptures.
Public programming ranges from educational classes and garden tours to concerts, art events and seasonal festivals. Dallas Blooms is the spring flower festival, while Autumn at the Arboretum brings fall displays and family activities. Concerts take place on the lakeside lawn during the Cool Thursdays series in spring and fall. Event schedules change, so check the Arboretum’s website if a particular program is part of your plan.
A hands-on garden for children
The Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden is an eight-acre area designed for learning through exploration. Its activities include gardens, science exhibits, a treehouse and a canopy walk along the Texas Skywalk. Water features and interactive displays give children more to do than follow the paths through the planted areas.
The Adventure Garden also runs educational activities for children and adults. Field trip programs include explorations of habitats, and the site has hands-on exhibits about plants and the natural world. Families should allow extra time if they plan to visit this area as well as the wider Arboretum.
FAQ
Where is the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden?
It is at 8525 Garland Road in East Dallas, on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake.
How long should you spend at the Dallas Arboretum?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for a typical visit. Add time if you plan to explore the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden or attend an event.
When is a good time to visit the Dallas Arboretum?
Spring is a good choice for the tulip and azalea displays. The gardens also have seasonal attractions in fall.
Is the Dallas Arboretum suitable for children?
Yes. The Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden has interactive exhibits, gardens, a treehouse and a canopy walk.
