The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a prominent horticultural attraction located in Dallas, Texas, USA. It is situated on the southeastern shores of White Rock Lake and spans approximately 66 acres. The Dallas Arboretum is celebrated for its stunning gardens, lush landscapes, and extensive collection of plants.
Autumn at the Arboretum
For the 18th year, Autumn at the Arboretum: It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown™, presented by Reliant, highlights the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village featuring pumpkin houses and creative displays utilizing more than 100,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash. This year’s fall festival opens September 16 and runs through November 5.
‘Fall’ in Love With Autumn in Dallas
Autumn at the Arboretum features the breathtaking colors of fall including 150,000 autumn flowers—marigolds, chrysanthemums, pentas and more—accented by the pumpkins, gourds and squash.
Guests can also visit A Tasteful Place, a 3.5-acre food, herb and vegetable garden. Weekly activities include free Monday cooking demonstrations with Dallas College Cooks along with cooking, floral and horticulture demonstrations.
Many special events take place during the festival. Some highlights:
- Mommy and Me Mondays and Tiny Tot Tuesdays, hay bale maze, a pumpkin patch with pumpkins for purchase and more
- Tasteful Tuesdays Floral Demonstrations
- Chef-Tastic Cooking Demonstrations and Wine Down Wednesdays with samples (21 and over)
- “How to” Presentations for Learn to Grow Fridays
- Live piano music and Dallas’ best party bands every weekend
- Seasonal daily samples that use in-season plants from A Tasteful Place garden.
Fun Facts about Autumn at the Arboretum: By the Numbers
Years and Acres
- 1984: year Dallas Arboretum opened as a public botanical garden
- 66:number of acres at the Dallas Arboretum
- 18: number of years the Dallas Arboretum has had the Pumpkin Village
Pumpkin Village
- 100,000:total number of pumpkins, gourds, and squash at Autumn at the Arboretum
- 80,000:number of pumpkins, gourds and squash used to create Pumpkin Village
- 1,500:Bales of hay
- 48: Types of pumpkins, gourds and squash
- 6:number of pumpkin houses
Garden
- 150,000:Fall blooming flowers and plants*
- 15,000:number of marigolds planted for the festival
- 4,000: Chrysanthemums
- *Flowers and plants:Marigolds, Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, Pentas, Salvia, Sweet Potato Vine, Sweet Alyssum, Ornamental Peppers, Lantana, Globe Amaranth, Zinnia, Kale, Crotons and more.
Workers and Volunteers
- 12:Semi-trucks it took to deliver the pumpkins, squash and gourds over 4 days, and 5 days to get all of them out
- 28:the number of days it takes to build the Pumpkin Village
- 40:number of workers and volunteers it takes to build Pumpkin Village
- 6,000: number of hours it took workers and volunteers to build Pumpkin Village
Tickets & Information
Advanced timed tickets are required for entry to the Arboretum by calling 214-515-6615 or visiting the website. Admission ranges from $14-$20; $14 for children 2-12 years old; $16 for seniors 65 years old and up; $20 for adults; free for children under 2. Parking is $11 purchased online or $15 at the gate. Check the website, and social media (Facebook & Twitter: @dallasarboretum Instagram/YouTube: @thedallasarboretum) for up-to-date information.
Gallery: Autumn at the Arboretum
The Dallas Arboretum: An Overview
The Dallas Arboretum is celebrated for its stunning gardens, lush landscapes, and extensive collection of plants. Here are some key features and aspects of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden:
Key Features
Gardens and Displays
The arboretum is known for its beautifully landscaped gardens and seasonal displays. Some of the most popular areas within the arboretum include the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, A Tasteful Place, the Nancy Rutchik Red Maple Rill, and the Jonsson Color Garden, among others. Each of these areas offers a unique horticultural experience, showcasing a variety of plants, flowers, and design styles.
Here are some of the notable gardens and displays you can explore at the Dallas Arboretum:
A Tasteful Place
A Tasteful Place is a beautiful garden that blends horticulture with culinary arts. It features a potager garden, orchard, vineyard, and beds of herbs and vegetables. Visitors can learn about growing edible plants and cooking through various programs and demonstrations.
Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden
This interactive garden is designed to educate children about science and nature in a fun and engaging way. It offers numerous hands-on exhibits, like the Texas Skywalk, the OmniGlobe, and various themed garden areas, providing a learning experience for young visitors.
Nancy Rutchik Red Maple Rill
This garden showcases a breathtaking display of Japanese maples, crepe myrtles, and other plant varieties, set along a gently flowing stream. It’s a serene and picturesque area for leisurely walks and relaxation.
Jonsson Color Garden
As the name suggests, this garden is known for its vibrant and seasonal displays of flowers and plants. It features a large reflecting pool and rotating displays that change with the seasons, making it a delightful place to visit year-round.
Rory Meyers Overlook
This vantage point offers spectacular panoramic views of White Rock Lake and the downtown Dallas skyline. It’s an ideal spot for taking in the beauty of the surroundings and capturing memorable photos.
The Paseo
The Paseo is an elegant garden corridor with a European feel. It features terraced gardens, stone fountains, and beautifully sculpted hedges. It’s often used for special events and weddings.
DeGolyer Gardens
Located within the historic DeGolyer Estate, these gardens are a must-visit. They include the sunken garden, the rose garden, the camellia collection, and other meticulously designed spaces surrounding the DeGolyer Mansion.
Eugenia Leftwich Palmer Fern Dell
A cool and shaded garden, this area is dedicated to ferns and other shade-loving plants. Meandering paths through lush greenery create a peaceful atmosphere.
The Lay Family Garden
Designed to inspire and engage visitors, this garden combines art with horticulture. It features contemporary sculptures and well-manicured beds of seasonal plantings.
The Woman’s Garden
This garden is a tribute to women and their contributions to horticulture. It is known for its exquisite water features, a well-curated plant collection, and an inviting atmosphere. These are just a few of the gardens and displays you can explore at the Dallas Arboretum. The arboretum’s commitment to horticultural excellence and creativity is evident in the diversity and beauty of its garden spaces, making it a delightful destination for nature enthusiasts and garden lovers.
Seasonal Festivals
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden hosts several seasonal festivals throughout the year, offering a dynamic and ever-changing experience for visitors. Here are some of the notable seasonal festivals that take place at the Dallas Arboretum:
Dallas Blooms
Dallas Blooms is one of the most famous festivals at the arboretum. It typically occurs during the spring months, usually from late February to early April. This festival features a stunning display of thousands of blooming spring flowers, including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and azaleas. Each year, Dallas Blooms has a unique theme, and the gardens are transformed to reflect this theme with creative floral arrangements and garden displays.
Autumn at The Arboretum
This fall festival typically takes place from September to November. The gardens are adorned with a wide variety of pumpkins, gourds, and autumnal plants. Visitors can enjoy a pumpkin village with themed pumpkin houses and creative displays. It’s a great time to celebrate the beauty of fall and enjoy the cooler weather.
Holiday at The Arboretum
During the holiday season, the Dallas Arboretum is transformed into a winter wonderland. Visitors can explore the Twelve Days of Christmas exhibit, featuring impressive 12-foot-tall gazebos decorated to represent each of the twelve days of the classic holiday song. The gardens are adorned with a spectacular array of holiday lights, making it a magical destination during the winter months.
Family Fun Weekend
This family-oriented event typically takes place in the spring. It offers special activities, games, and entertainment for children and families. It’s a great time for kids to learn about plants and nature in an interactive and engaging way.
Easter Weekend
Around Easter, the Dallas Arboretum hosts various family-friendly activities. Children can participate in egg hunts and other Easter-themed fun in the beautiful garden setting.
Summer of Sculpture
While not a traditional festival, the Dallas Arboretum often features outdoor sculpture exhibitions during the summer months. These exhibitions showcase a diverse collection of sculptures from various artists and provide a unique and artistic dimension to the garden.
These seasonal festivals and events enhance the overall experience of visiting the Dallas Arboretum, offering something special for every season. Whether you’re interested in vibrant spring flowers, fall foliage, holiday lights, or interactive family activities, the arboretum’s calendar is filled with opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the gardens year-round. Please note that the specific dates and details of these festivals may vary from year to year, so it’s a good idea to check the arboretum’s official website or calendar for the most up-to-date information
Education and Research
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is dedicated to providing educational programs and resources to help visitors learn about horticulture, gardening, and the natural world. It offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages and has a strong focus on teaching children about plants and the environment through the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. Here’s an overview of the educational initiatives and resources offered by the Dallas Arboretum:
Children’s Education
The arboretum places a strong emphasis on educating children about the wonders of the natural world. The Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden is a prime example of this commitment. It’s an interactive learning environment designed to engage young minds with science and nature. Through hands-on exhibits and activities, children can explore topics such as ecosystems, weather, and plant life.
Adult Education
The Dallas Arboretum offers a wide range of adult education programs. These can include horticulture classes, gardening workshops, and lectures on various topics related to plants and gardening. These programs are designed for both beginners and experienced gardeners who want to expand their knowledge.
Plant Trials
The arboretum conducts plant trials to assess the performance of different plant varieties in the Texas climate. This research benefits both local gardeners and the horticulture industry by identifying plants that thrive in the region. The results of these trials are shared with the public.
Public Seminars and Workshops
Throughout the year, the arboretum hosts public seminars and workshops on various topics related to gardening, plant care, and sustainable practices. These events are an excellent opportunity for visitors to gain practical knowledge and gardening skills.
Educational Tours
The Dallas Arboretum offers guided tours for school groups, community organizations, and individuals. These tours provide insights into the different gardens, plant collections, and seasonal displays. They are tailored to various age groups and interests.
Library and Resources
The Arboretum has a resource library that includes a collection of books and materials related to horticulture and botany. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and the general public.
Educational Outreach
The Arboretum also extends its educational efforts to the community through outreach programs. This includes partnerships with local schools, involvement in community gardening projects, and collaborating with other educational institutions.
Certified Programs
For those interested in becoming master gardeners or horticulturists, the Dallas Arboretum provides training and certification programs. These programs equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to become experts in the field.
Online Resources
The arboretum’s website often includes informative articles, videos, and other digital resources to help individuals learn more about gardening and horticulture from the comfort of their own homes.
The educational initiatives at the Dallas Arboretum are designed to promote a greater understanding of plants, nature, and sustainable gardening practices. Whether you’re a novice gardener or an experienced horticulturist, the arboretum offers opportunities to expand your knowledge and appreciation for the natural world. You can learn more about the various educational initiatives at The Dallas Arboretum by clicking here.
Cultural Events
The Dallas Arboretum often hosts cultural events, including outdoor concerts, art exhibits, and other activities. These events make it a hub for both nature and arts enthusiasts in the Dallas area.
History
The arboretum’s history dates back to the 1930s when the DeGolyer Estate was purchased by Everette L. DeGolyer and Nell DeGolyer. Over the years, it transformed into a world-class botanical garden. Today, the DeGolyer Estate is a part of the arboretum and serves as a historic house museum.
The history of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is rooted in the legacy of the DeGolyer family, who played a pivotal role in the creation of this world-class botanical garden.
DeGolyer Estate: The story begins with the DeGolyer family, Everette L. DeGolyer and Nell DeGolyer. In 1938, they purchased a 44-acre estate on the shores of White Rock Lake in Dallas, Texas. This estate, known as the DeGolyer Estate, included a beautiful Spanish-style mansion built in the 1940s.
Gardening Enthusiasts: Both Everette and Nell DeGolyer were passionate gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers. They cultivated extensive gardens on their estate, which featured a wide array of plant collections, including azaleas, camellias, and more.
Vision for a Public Garden: Before Everette DeGolyer’s passing in 1956, he and his wife Nell expressed their wish for the estate to be transformed into a public garden and horticultural center for the benefit of the community. This vision was inspired by their love of horticulture and the desire to educate and inspire others.
Formation of the Arboretum: Following Everette’s death, the DeGolyer family established the DeGolyer Foundation to realize this dream. They began working to create the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, a public garden that would be a place of beauty, education, and conservation.
Early Development: The arboretum officially opened to the public in 1984. Over the years, the gardens and facilities were expanded, and a wide range of plant collections and themed gardens were added to make it a comprehensive botanical garden.
Continued Growth: The Dallas Arboretum has continued to grow and evolve, adding new gardens, seasonal displays, and educational programs. It has also played a vital role in horticultural research and conservation efforts.
Nonprofit Organization: The Dallas Arboretum operates as a nonprofit organization, relying on memberships, donations, and volunteers to sustain its mission of providing education and inspiration through horticulture.
Today, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden stands as a testament to the vision of the DeGolyer family and their commitment to sharing the beauty of plants and gardens with the public. It has become one of the leading botanical gardens in the United States, known for its stunning gardens, seasonal festivals, educational programs, and a dedication to preserving and showcasing the wonders of the natural world.
Membership and Support
The Dallas Arboretum is a non-profit organization and relies on memberships, donations, and volunteers for its continued operation and growth. Learn about all the ways you can support The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden here.
Sustainable Practices
The arboretum is committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. It has received recognition for its efforts to conserve water and promote responsible gardening and landscaping.
Visitor Experience
Visitor Experience: Visitors to the Dallas Arboretum can enjoy leisurely strolls through the beautifully manicured gardens, learn about various plant species, attend educational programs, and participate in seasonal events. The picturesque setting and scenic views of White Rock Lake make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a haven for those who appreciate the beauty of plants and the art of gardening. It offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and provides a space for people to connect with nature and learn about sustainable horticultural practices.
