Guide to the Dallas Arboretum
Dallas comes alive in the springtime. With the warming temperatures, Dallasites flock to the outdoors, enjoying the weather and sunshine, perusing the food trucks at Klyde Warren Park, and wandering the trails of White Rock Lake. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities in Dallas, and the Dallas Arboretum is no exception.
The Arboretum is a springtime hotspot for many Dallasites. Its manicured gardens are perfect to enjoy the fragrant May blooms, and it’s one of the most popular spots in Dallas for photoshoots. On any given weekend, there can be seven or eight photoshoots taking place in the gardens, from quinceañeras to engagements.
The Arboretum has much to offer, and it’s a must-see in Dallas. Here are some of the best reasons to visit one of Dallas’ most beautiful hotspots.
BOTANICAL GARDENS
The Arboretum’s botanical gardens are among the top in the world, and in the spring, everything blooms into an array of colorful and sweet-smelling flowers. It’s a botanist’s dream, but for the average traveler, the gardens are a beautiful place to enjoy a peaceful walk outdoors.
Find a favorite flower and don’t know what it’s called? Ask a gardener! The Arboretum’s friendly master gardeners are always close by to tend to their plants and eager to show you about the gardens, from the Japanese maples to the wide variety of lush ferns.
WHITE ROCK LAKE
White Rock Lake is the breathtaking backdrop of the Arboretum. Bordering the botanical gardens, the lake offers walking and bike trails, dog parks, and boat ramps and is certainly a popular spot for summertime fun.
Several of the Arboretum’s gardens overlook White Rock Lake, so when you’ve had your fill of flowers, head next door to rent a kayak or go birdwatching. There are almost ten miles of trails, so take a quick walk if you’ve got the time; just remember to watch out for the bicyclers!
ART EXHIBITIONS
The Arboretum hosts several rotating art exhibitions every year. Featuring everything from enormous and colorful abstract sculptures to life-sized bronze statues, the Arboretum takes pride in its curated exhibits. It even offers art classes for younger artists, offered through its vast education program.
For art lovers, there’s no better place to see world-class works of art nestled amongst the natural Dallas landscape.
CONCERTS
During the summer, the Arboretum hosts concert series on its outdoor amphitheater lawn that overlooks beautiful White Rock Lake. The venue is perfect for catching some great music during the warm summer nights, and the views are nothing to scoff at as the sun sets over the water.
When there’s not a concert going on, the amphitheater lawn is a great place to picnic. While there are several restaurants and food carts on the Arboretum grounds, nothing beats brining a blanket and sandwiches and eating alongside a gorgeous view of the lake.
The Arboretum is a can’t-miss when it comes to visiting Dallas. A leisurely walk through its world-class gardens makes for a peaceful afternoon, and its breathtaking views are one of the best in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. My recommendation? Bring a picnic lunch and spend it outdoors on the lawn. You won’t be disappointed!
