The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

There are few things more refreshing than strolling through a lush park. Located on the University of Kentucky campus is The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky. The 100-acre garden boasts the Walk Across Kentucky, home demonstration gardens, rose gardens, and the Kentucky Children’s Garden.

The mission of the garden is to showcase Kentucky landscapes as a resource for environmental and horticultural education, research, and conservation. Visiting this beautiful park is free and open to the public. Learn more by clicking here.

The General Garden

A leisurely walk through the woods is so calming. There’s even a catchy term for it now: “forest bathing.”

This 100-acre park on the University of Kentucky campus is more than just a pretty place to walk and relax. The Arboretum is also a showcase for the state’s plant biodiversity and an opportunity to teach the public about the value of trees.

In addition to woodland gardens, the grounds have flower gardens and ecosystems from the state’s seven different regions. There is also an English Cottage Garden, Native plant garden, Herb Garden, and Fragrance Garden.

The Arboretum’s mission is to promote environmental and horticultural education, research, and conservation. And, as a public garden, it is open to all for free. Special events and exhibits are offered on certain days; see the website calendar for details. A small fee is charged to enter the children’s garden. A large paved path and many trails make for an enjoyable stroll or jog around the scenic grounds.

The Walk Across Kentucky

There is something so soothing about walking in the woods. In fact, there’s even a catchy phrase for it: “forest bathing.”

At The Arboretum, stroll through woodlands and flower gardens while learning about the different ecosystems in Kentucky at the same time. This park is a great place to go for a stroll or just hang out with friends. Multiple paths and trails offer plenty of space to walk, run, or jog. There’s even a playground for the kids.

Located on the University of Kentucky campus, this park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. There’s a home demonstration garden, rose garden, children’s garden and much more. A highlight is the Walk Across Kentucky Loop, a paved path that showcases all seven of Kentucky’s geographical regions. The path wanders through areas featuring woods, ridges, plateaus, hills, and bluegrass. In addition, you can see native grasses such as Pennyrile prairie and wildflowers blooming throughout the spring. Explore more!

The Children’s Garden

The Kids’ Garden is a special place that nurtures children’s love of nature and helps them understand the intricate ways in which plants thrive. Educational programs run daily and are provided by Arboretum staff to foster a deeper connection with the enchanting gardens.

The Distillery District is a bustling entertainment, shopping, and dining hub that’s centered around the city’s early bourbon distilleries. It features eclectic bars, lime music venues, and a few small art galleries.

Waveland State Historic Site is a preserved look into the plantation era of old Lexington. Guests can tour the antebellum mansion, admire the flower and herb gardens, and learn about the family’s role as slaveowners.

The expansive area is great for a walk, a stroll with friends, or a jog. There are also a variety of picnic spots. In the future, the Arboretum hopes to expand its visitor center and continue fighting invasive species. Military and Veteran ID holders receive free admission to the Kentucky Children’s Garden.

The Visitor Center

Besides the main garden, you’ll find the Kentucky Children’s Garden, Rose, Fragrance, and Herb Gardens. The entire park offers plenty of space for walks, jogs, or schoolwork. You can even bring a dog, but keep it on a leash.

The paved Walk Across Kentucky loop wanders through areas representing the state’s seven geographical regions. So you’ll encounter woods, prairie, ridges, plateau, hills, and bluegrass while learning about the plants that thrive there.

You can help fund the construction of a new Dorotha Smith Oatts Visitor Center for The Arboretum by contributing to the Legacy Campaign. Your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar. You’ll be recognized in the Arboretum’s Book of Appreciation and may also be named on a permanent display. And all donations are tax-deductible. Click here for more information. Check out this interesting post!

 

Driving directions from Integrity Curb Appeal to The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

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