Frelinghuysen Arboretum photo
ParkNew Jersey, US

Frelinghuysen Arboretum

Frelinghuysen Arboretum offers 127 acres of stunning horticultural beauty and historic charm.

About

Frelinghuysen Arboretum offers 127 acres of stunning horticultural beauty and historic charm. This public arboretum and botanical garden in Morris Township, New Jersey, is a living museum showcasing a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and themed gardens, all set around a grand Colonial Revival mansion. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in a peaceful landscape, rich with both natural splendor and a storied past.

The arboretum boasts an impressive array of over 3,200 different species of flowering plants and trees arranged in inspiring garden designs. Key highlights include the vibrant **Rose Garden** with its award-winning varieties, the serene **Winter Garden** offering interest during colder months, and expansive **Azalea Collections** (both native and non-native) that explode with color in spring. Visitors can also discover specialized areas like the **Pinetum**, featuring diverse conifers, and the tranquil **Hosta and Fern Shade Garden**, providing a cool retreat. The majestic **Great Lawn** offers a picturesque setting for relaxation, while specific specimen trees, such as the grand *Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca'* in front of the mansion and striking **Japanese Maples** by Matilda's Cottage, are notable for their beauty and age.

More than just a beautiful park, Frelinghuysen Arboretum serves as an educational resource and a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts. Its carefully curated landscapes provide continuous visual delight, from the mass plantings of **Spring Bulbs** like tulips and daffodils to the rich textures of its **Perennial Borders**. Whether you're seeking inspiration for your home garden, a tranquil spot for a leisurely stroll, or the perfect backdrop for photography, the arboretum promises a memorable and engaging experience in every season. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum began as "Whippany Farm," the elegant summer estate of George Griswold Frelinghuysen, a patent attorney, and his wife, Sara Ballantine Frelinghuysen. Commissioned in 1891, the Colonial Revival mansion and its surrounding English-style landscape were designed by the Boston architectural firm of Rotch & Tilden. The property remained a private residence, with the family cultivating unique plant collections, until their daughter, Matilda E. Frelinghuysen, inherited the estate. Matilda had a keen interest in gardening and began plans in 1964 to transform the estate into a public arboretum. Upon her death in 1969, she bequeathed the 127-acre property to Morris County, and it was officially dedicated as the Frelinghuysen Arboretum in 1971, in memory of her parents. The arboretum was further recognized for its historical significance when it was entered on the State and National Register of Historic Places on September 22, 1977.

What to do here

Enjoy leisurely strolls through themed gardens and woodlands, picnic on the Great Lawn, engage in photography, take a self-guided cell phone tour (available seasonally from April to November), attend educational programs or workshops at the Haggerty Education Center, and observe seasonal blooms.

Seasonal info

Spring: Witness the "explosion" of tulips, daffodils, magnolias, cherry blossoms, and azaleas.

Summer: Enjoy the peak bloom of roses, butterflies, and the lushness of the perennial borders.

Fall: Admire vibrant autumn foliage and magnificent meadows.

Winter: Discover the unique beauty of the Winter Garden and specimen evergreens. Dress warmly and wear comfortable, weather-appropriate shoes.

Accessibility

The areas around the Haggerty Education Center and the Colonial Revival Mansion, including many gardens and scenic spots, are wheelchair accessible with paved paths and cut curbs. The Haggerty Center itself has ramp access and an elevator. However, some further trails are unpaved dirt paths with elevation changes and may not be suitable for all wheelchairs. The Braille Nature Trail is specifically designed for sensory exploration.

Don't miss

1

Colonial Revival Mansion

The historic centerpiece of the arboretum.

2

The Great Lawn

A vast, manicured expanse perfect for picnics and relaxation.

3

Rose Garden

Award-winning rose varieties bloom profusely in summer.

4

Winter Garden

Features plants with winter interest, including bark, berries, and fragrance.

Wildlife you might spot

12

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes

With 127 acres and numerous trails, you'll want footwear suitable for extended walking on various surfaces.

Bring essentials

Pack water, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially during warmer months, as insects including ticks and mosquitoes are part of the ecosystem.

Download a map or use the cell phone tour: Familiarize yourself with the arboretum's layout by downloading the official map or utilizing the seasonal cell phone tour for guided insights.

Pack a picnic

Food and beverages are not sold on-site, so bringing your own picnic to enjoy on the Great Lawn or other designated areas is highly recommended. Remember it's a carry-in/carry-out facility for trash.

Check "What's in Bloom"

Before your visit, check the arboretum's website or social media for updates on what plants are currently in bloom to enhance your experience.

Photography permits

While personal photography is allowed, commercial photography, including wedding or engagement shoots, requires a permit. Inquire with the Morris County Park Commission if you plan professional photos.

Frequently asked questions

The grounds of Frelinghuysen Arboretum are generally open daily from 8 AM until dusk, year-round. It's always a good idea to check the official Morris County Park Commission website for any special announcements or changes to hours before your visit.
Yes, many areas of Frelinghuysen Arboretum are wheelchair accessible. The paths around the Haggerty Education Center and the Mansion are paved and level, with ramp access to the Haggerty Center and an elevator inside. Curbs are cut at crossing points. However, some outlying trails are dirt paths with elevation changes and may be less suitable for wheelchairs.
No, pets are not permitted at Frelinghuysen Arboretum, or any other Morris County arboreta, as per park regulations. Service animals are typically an exception to this rule.

Recent snaps at this place

View all