Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden | Dallas

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of the premier botanical destinations in the United States, known for its expansive and meticulously curated gardens, seasonal festivals, and lakeside setting. It occupies 66 acres on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake in East Dallas, Texas, and offers year-round attractions that appeal to families, horticulture enthusiasts, photographers, and tourists alike.

Overview

Founded in 1984, the Dallas Arboretum sits on the former estate of Everette DeGolyer, an influential geophysicist and oil baron. The property’s original architecture and gardens laid the groundwork for a public institution that would become one of the most visited botanical gardens in the country. The location was chosen not just for its historic value, but also for its panoramic views of the Dallas skyline and White Rock Lake.

Notable Gardens and Attractions

1. Margaret Elisabeth Jonsson Color Garden
This is the heart of seasonal floral displays. It spans over 6 acres and bursts with vibrant color throughout the year. In spring, tulips, daffodils, and pansies dominate. In summer, zinnias and salvias take over. The garden also contains a picturesque fountain and is surrounded by shady trees that make it a favorite for strolling and photos.

2. A Woman’s Garden
This nationally acclaimed garden was designed to celebrate the strength, courage, and nurturing nature of women. It is structured in two phases:

Phase I features formal design elements, an infinity edge reflecting pool, and symbolic sculptures.

Phase II offers terraced walkways, native Texas plants, a meditation garden, and water features.
It's also one of the most peaceful and elegant parts of the Arboretum.

3. Nancy Rutchik Red Maple Rill
This is a serene 2-acre area featuring over 80 varieties of Japanese maples nestled along a cascading stream. The vibrant reds and oranges of the maples make this a favorite during the fall. Footbridges, shaded benches, and the sound of flowing water create a calming, almost meditative space.

4. Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden
This 8-acre interactive garden is designed specifically for young visitors to explore science and nature through hands-on learning. With over 150 individual exhibits, it covers topics such as:

Solar and wind energy

Plant life cycles

Photosynthesis

The Texas ecosystem
It includes indoor and outdoor classrooms, a treetop canopy walk, and a discovery lab.

5. A Tasteful Place
Opened in 2017, this garden blends culinary arts with horticulture. It features:

A 3.5-acre edible garden with vegetables, herbs, and fruit trees

A pavilion with a professional kitchen for cooking demonstrations

Daily tastings, seasonal recipes, and workshops that promote sustainable and healthy eating

6. The Trial Gardens
These are research areas where the Arboretum partners with growers and seed companies to test new varieties of flowers, herbs, and vegetables for North Texas. These beds are updated constantly, offering something new to see with every visit.

Events and Seasonal Highlights

Dallas Blooms (Spring)
The largest floral festival in the Southwest, this event runs from late February to mid-April and features over 500,000 blooming bulbs, including tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils. The garden is transformed into a riot of color and includes live music, themed photo ops, and weekend programming.

Autumn at the Arboretum (Fall)
This is a family-friendly fall festival held from late September to early November. It features:

The renowned Pumpkin Village with over 90,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash

Themed pumpkin houses and mazes

Fall blooms such as chrysanthemums and marigolds

Holiday at the Arboretum (Winter)
A celebration from late November through December that includes:

The 12 Days of Christmas display with life-sized Victorian-style gazebos

A towering Christmas tree with lights choreographed to music

Nighttime light displays and holiday music

Cool Thursdays Concert Series (Spring and Fall)
Live music performances on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage and Lawn, set against the backdrop of White Rock Lake. Guests are allowed to bring picnic baskets and lawn chairs, creating a relaxing open-air concert experience.

DeGolyer House and Historical Aspects

DeGolyer House
This historic 21,000-square-foot Spanish Colonial Revival-style mansion, constructed between 1938 and 1940, remains a preserved part of the Arboretum. Tours are included in the general admission and take place hourly. Inside, you’ll find:

Period furnishings and décor

Antique books and original manuscripts

Seasonal decorations during special events

Camp House
Another historic structure on the property, used primarily for private events and weddings, offering views of the lake and skyline.

Visitor Information

Address: 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, TX 75218

Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day

Admission:

Adults (13–64): $21.95 (Mon–Thu), $25.95 (Fri–Sun)

Children (2–12): $17.95 (Mon–Thu), $21.95 (Fri–Sun)

Seniors: Slight discounts available

Museums for All pricing: $3

Parking: $15 (free for members)

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with paved paths and tram tours

Amenities:

Café on the Green and other seasonal dining options

Gift shop

Picnic areas

Shaded seating throughout

The Dallas Arboretum is more than just a garden—it's a cultural and environmental institution that blends art, science, education, and community. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat, a family outing, or a vibrant seasonal festival, this destination offers a rich, immersive experience in every season.