Eastern Gray Squirrel
ParkKentucky, US
University of Kentucky Arboretum
Experience Kentucky's natural beauty at this stunning botanical garden.
About
Experience Kentucky's natural beauty at this stunning botanical garden. The University of Kentucky Arboretum, officially the State Botanical Garden of Kentucky, is a 100-acre public garden nestled in the heart of Lexington on the University of Kentucky campus. It serves as a vital resource for environmental and horticultural education, research, and conservation, welcoming over 200,000 visitors annually who come to explore and appreciate Kentucky's diverse landscapes.
A highlight of the Arboretum is the "Walk Across Kentucky," a two-mile paved loop that takes visitors on a journey through the state's seven distinct physiographic regions. This living museum showcases a diverse collection of native plants, trees, shrubs, and wildflowers found across Kentucky. Other key attractions include the two-acre Kentucky Children's Garden, designed to engage young minds aged 2-6 with hands-on nature play, and the extensive Horticultural Gardens, which boast year-round color with a wide variety of annuals, perennials, and specialty gardens like the Flight 5191 Memorial Rose Garden and a fragrant display.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape, a scenic spot for a stroll, or an educational outdoor experience, the Arboretum offers something for everyone. Its beautifully maintained paths, diverse plant collections, and commitment to showcasing the Commonwealth's natural heritage make it a memorable destination. The free admission to the main grounds and its dog-friendly policy on the paved path further enhance its appeal as a community treasure. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.
The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky, was established in 1991 through a collaborative effort between the University of Kentucky and the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government. Its mission from the outset has been to showcase Kentucky landscapes and to function as a center for environmental and horticultural education, research, and conservation. In March 2000, the Arboretum received official recognition as the State Botanical Garden for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Before its formal establishment, the woodland area of the Arboretum had already been a site for research since the 1940s, with a fence erected in the 1950s by the University of Kentucky's Forestry Department to protect and study undisturbed growth. Early in its development, a significant undertaking involved the removal of non-native invasive plants like honeysuckle and wintercreeper, a goal that continues to shape its efforts to promote native flora. The popular Kentucky Children's Garden, a key feature today, was first conceptualized in 1994, with construction beginning in 2007.
What to do here
Enjoy leisurely walks or jogs on the paved and unpaved trails, explore the unique plant collections in the Horticultural Gardens, engage with the hands-on exhibits in the Kentucky Children's Garden, attend seasonal events like bird walks and plant talks, and capture the scenic beauty through photography.
Seasonal info
Spring: Expect a riot of color from spring-blooming bulbs, tulips, and flowering trees.
Summer: Vibrant annuals and perennials are in full bloom, especially in the Horticultural Gardens.
Fall: Enjoy autumn foliage and berries, which attract local bird species.
Winter: Features structural elements, evergreens, and early blooming species like witch hazel.
The Arboretum grounds are closed on University of Kentucky home football game days.
Accessibility
The parking lot, visitor center entrance, and most of its interior are wheelchair accessible. Restrooms near the Children's Garden and inside the Visitor Center have grab bars. While some gravel paths in the Horticultural Gardens are accessible, large sections of the Walk Across Kentucky asphalt path are wheelchair accessible, though some slopes may exceed 5%. It's advisable to contact the Arboretum for specific accessibility information or suggestions before your visit. Bicycles are not permitted on the Walk Across Kentucky or garden paths, but shared-use routes connect to Lexington's bike network.
Don't miss
1
Walk Across Kentucky
A 2-mile paved loop showcasing the state's 7 physiographic regions and their native flora.
2
Kentucky Children's Garden
An interactive two-acre garden for children aged 2-6, designed for play and discovery.
3
Horticultural Gardens
A collection of themed gardens including the Home Demonstration Garden, Flight 5191 Memorial Rose Garden, Fragrance Garden, Perennial Teaching Garden, and Witch Hazel Dell, offering year-round color.
4
Arboretum Woods
A 15-acre remnant of Inner Bluegrass Woodland, home to over 90 plant species.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each 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.
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Good to know before you go
Check the calendar
Before visiting, check the Arboretum's website for seasonal events, educational programs, bird walks, and any closures (e.g., for UK football home games).
Wear comfortable footwear
With 2.5 miles of main trails and various spur paths, comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Bring water and snacks
Especially during warmer months, having hydration and light refreshments can enhance your visit. Picnic tables are available.
Explore the Horticultural Gardens
Don't miss the themed "rooms" within the Horticultural Gardens for unique plant collections and inspiring garden designs.
Utilize Arboretum Explorer
Access their online database via your smartphone for self-guided tours and to identify specific plants throughout the grounds.
Visit in different seasons
Each season brings new blooms and natural beauty, offering a fresh experience with every visit. Spring for tulips, summer for annuals, and fall for colorful berries and foliage.
Frequently asked questions
- Yes, general admission to the Arboretum grounds and the Dorotha Smith Oatts Visitor Center is free. However, there is a $4 admission fee for the Kentucky Children's Garden (children under 2 are free).
- Leashed dogs are welcome on the paved "Walk Across Kentucky" path. However, dogs are not permitted in any of the specific gardens (including the Children's Garden) or buildings. Pet waste bags and trash cans are provided.
- The primary attractions include the "Walk Across Kentucky," which showcases the state's diverse ecosystems; the Kentucky Children's Garden, an interactive play and learning space; and the Horticultural Gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens like the Flight 5191 Memorial Rose Garden and the Fragrance Garden.
Recent snaps at this place
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