Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Insider Tip: Cool Thursdays Concert Series

Visiting in spring or fall? Plan your trip to the arboretum around the Cool Thursdays Concert Series, which showcases some of the region’s best performers. Pack a picnic and a blanket or chair, as concerts take place on the lawn. – Justine Harrington

A Natural Getaway in Dallas

While Dallas is known for its towering skyscrapers and bustling highways, it's also home to ample green spaces. A prime example is the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which spans 66 acres in White Rock Lake Park, approximately 7 miles northeast of downtown. Escape the city's hustle and bustle by taking a leisurely walk through the Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden, where over 2,000 varieties of azaleas bloom in the spring, and several acres of chrysanthemums come to life during the fall. Another highlight is Crepe Myrtle Allee, a breathtaking natural tunnel formed by arching crepe myrtle trees.

Family Adventure: Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden

If you're traveling with kids, be sure to visit the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden. This extensive 8-acre museum includes 17 galleries featuring interactive demonstrations, games, and teacher-led labs focused on environmental science. The Children's Garden also offers 150 innovative exhibits, including canopied walkways and a 9,100-square-foot Exploration Center equipped with plant and soil labs, among other fascinating features.

Hours of Operation

The garden is open to the public every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ticket Information

Monday to Thursday:

• Adults: $21.95
• Kids (2 to 12): $17.95

Friday to Sunday:

• Adults: $25.95
• Kids (2 to 12): $21.95

It's worth checking the website for discounted admission days; for instance, August entrance costs just $3 per person. On-site parking is available at $15 per car.