Ready to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for the tranquil beauty of nature? Ohio is home to some stunning arboretums that are perfect for a day of relaxation, exploration, and maybe even a bit of tree hugging. Here’s your guide to seven of the state’s best arboretums, each with its own unique charm and must-see spots. Let’s dive in!
Chadwick Arboretum (Columbus)
Located right on the Ohio State University campus, the Chadwick Arboretum is a hidden gem in the heart of Columbus. With over 60 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, this arboretum is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic. Don’t miss the Learning Gardens, where you can learn about sustainable gardening practices. Pro tip: Visit in spring to see the magnolias and cherry blossoms in full bloom – it’s pure magic.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes. The place is huge! Also, parking can be difficult on weekdays due to the on-campus location, so visit the place on weekends.
More info: Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens
Cox Arboretum and Gardens MetroPark (Dayton)
The Cox Arboretum is a wonderland for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts. Spanning 77 acres, you’ll find a variety of gardens, including a seasonally open butterfly house. The tree tower is a must-see for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s also a great place for bird watching, so bring your binoculars!
Tips: The butterfly house is usually open from late June through Labor Day – plan your visit accordingly. Also, there are a lot of stairs in the tree tower, so be prepared for a bit of a workout!
More info: Cox Arboretum and Gardens MetroPark
Dawes Arboretum (Newark)
Nature and history blend perfectly at Dawes Arboretum. With over 2,000 acres of gardens, ponds and woodland, you could easily spend a whole day here. The Japanese Garden is particularly impressive, offering a tranquil retreat with its peaceful pond and iconic red bridge. Also, don’t forget to visit Daweswood House Museum for an insight into the Dawes family history.
Tips: Dawes is huge, so plan a picnic by the lake. If you prefer to see the sights from the comfort of your car, you can also take a driving tour.
More info: Dawes Arboretum
Holden Arboretum (Kirtland)
The Holden Arboretum is one of the largest in the country and a nature lover’s dream. The Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower are the highlights here – they give you a bird’s eye view of the forest. The gardens are stunning all year round, but fall is especially magical with its vibrant foliage.
Tips: On weekends, the Canopy Walk can be crowded, so come early. If you’re up for it, climb the Emergent Tower for unbeatable views of Lake Erie and the surrounding countryside.
More info: Holden Arboretum
Mt. Airy Arboretum (Cincinnati)
Nestled in Cincinnati’s largest park, the Mount Airy Arboretum offers a scenic retreat with its manicured gardens and peaceful walking paths. The arboretum is home to over 1,200 species of plants, making it a paradise for plant lovers. The rose garden is a must-see, especially in the summer months when it is in full bloom.
Tips: The arboretum is dog-friendly, so bring your furry friend along for the adventure! There is also a beautiful pond, perfect for a contemplative moment or two.
More info: Mt. Airy Arboretum
Stanley M. Rowe Arboretum (Indian Hill)
The Stanley M. Rowe Arboretum may be small but it has a lot of charm. This picturesque arboretum is known for its impressive collection of conifers and rare trees. It is the perfect place for a quiet afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The arboretum is especially peaceful in the fall when the leaves change color.
Tips: This is a lesser-known place, so it’s usually pretty quiet – perfect for a meditative walk. Entry is free, but donations to help maintain the site are welcome.
More info: Stanley M. Rowe Arboretum
Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum (Dayton)
Woodland Cemetery is more than just a final resting place; it is also an arboretum with some of the oldest and largest trees in Ohio. The cemetery is beautifully landscaped and provides a peaceful setting for a contemplative stroll. It is also the final resting place of several notable people, including the Wright brothers and poet Paul Laurence Dunbar.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the cemetery is quite hilly. The historical tours offered here are fantastic if you want to learn more about the famous people buried here.
More info: Forest cemetery and arboretum
