The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky 4.4 (reviews)

Lexington, KY National Parks Unclaimed
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About The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

You don't need to leave a city to immerse yourself in a nature filled family day out! Just head to the University of Kentucky.

The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky has been giving family's beautiful nature to enjoy since 1991. It spans over 100 acres of beautiful year round plants and colors - all ready to be marveled at by yourselves!

They have created a space where you can feel like you are escaping into a paradise. The gardens are popular with the kids because they have a place where they can enjoy a large and diverse collection of plants and flowers from all around the world.

The Rose Garden is a beautiful and peaceful showcase for many types of roses (you will be surprised how many there are!) and the Fragrance Garden is small, but an amazing area for kids to explore with their wooden columns covered in climbing roses, and winding trails.

Just stand there and take a deep breath...you might be in for a treat!

Most popular of all for the kids, of course, is the Kentucky Children's Garden! This 1.85 acre site at the Arboretum is an outdoor learning environment designed JUST for those little green thumbs aged 2 to 10 years to learn all about plants and the environment.

There are a number of "child-scaled" theme gardens, as well as garden-like elements for their essential play. There are even gardens planted and maintained by children themselves!

Nature is amazing, and at The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky you can get right up close to it!

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How much does it cost?

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Adults Free, but children's garden $2

Children Same as adult

Free Under 2 years for children's garden

Last Update 2023

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The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky FAQ’s

Doing our bit

They want to showcase the Kentucky landscapes and serve as a resource for protecting and educating about the environment

Any top tips when visiting?

Dogs are allowed on the paved pathways, but must remain on a leash at all times

Teachers corner

Why not arrange a docent led your for the students - From May to September you can schedule docent-left tours. Self-gudied tours are available all year round. Docent led tours are $2 adults and $1 per child under 12 (under 2 free)

Does The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky have healthy eating or Vegan options?

They have picnic tables available on a first come first serve basis so why not bring your own healthy lunch and enjoy it under the sun!

Is The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky fully accessible?

Give them a call to see the accessibility of the grounds!

Any additonal information?

Note the hours of the children's garden are different to that of the arboretum. During inclement weather the children's garden might close too