Arnold Arboretum

Overview

The Arnold Arboretum is a 281-acre living museum of trees and shrubs, managed jointly by Harvard University and the City of Boston. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, it forms the crown jewel of Boston's Emerald Necklace park system.

Highlights

• Lilac Sunday: The only day picnicking is permitted; thousands gather each May to celebrate the blooming lilac collection.
• Bonsai Collection: The Larz Anderson Bonsai Collection includes specimens over 200 years old.
• Peters Hill: A gentle climb to panoramic views of the Boston skyline and Blue Hills.

History

Established in 1872 through a bequest from James Arnold, the arboretum was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Charles Sprague Sargent. It contains over 15,000 accessioned plants representing more than 4,000 taxa from temperate regions worldwide.

Visitor Tips

• Free admission: Open every day, dawn to dusk; no entry fee.
• Driving or T: Accessible via the Forest Hills T station (Orange Line) or by car.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.