Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX, 75218
Located on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden spans 66-acre (27-hectare) of grounds, divided into different garden areas, each boasting its own aesthetic and blooms—from tea roses to crape myrtles, azaleas, bananas and tapioca plants. It hosts a range of annual events and educational programs for children and adults alike, with an emphasis on family-friendly activities.
The basics
On arrival at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, grab a map from the information booth to help guide you. If traveling with kids, plan plenty of time for the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, which contains interactive exhibits, whimsical gardens, and hands-on STEM activities. Stop by A Tasteful Place—a 3.5-acre working garden with a pavilion and kitchen—which offers tastings and cooking classes. While there are a number of eateries on-site, you’re welcome to pack a picnic and head to the Pecan Grove, where you can dine at tables beneath shady pecan trees.
Things to know before you go
On-site dining options range from snack bars to multi-course lunch service.
Bring a water bottle—there is a refill station at the main plaza area, as well as drinking fountains at all entrances.
Wheelchairs are available at no cost on a first-come, first-serve basis, while much of the grounds and its buildings are wheelchair accessible.
Bags or luggage cannot be stored on site.
Round-trip tram tours last about 40 minutes and provide access to central garden areas and the DeGolyer House.
How to get there
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Dallas. It’s accessible via the 214 bus route, which stops just outside the Arboretum. There is on-site parking, while taxis and rideshares should drop off at Gate 3.
When to get there
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is open every day, except for New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The Dallas Blooms festival takes place from mid-February to mid-April and boasts more than 500,000 blooms, from tulips to pansies. From September to November, the Arboretum hosts its Pumpkin Village.
White Rock Lake Park
The home of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, the White Rock Lake Park features an almost 10-mile (16-kilometer) hiking and biking trail, as well as activities like fishing, kayaking, bird-watching, and swimming. Events hosted throughout the year include dragon boat races and the Celebration! White Rock fundraiser.
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