As Hans Christian Anderson wrote, “Just living is not enough … One must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower.” Luckily for those living in DFW, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden has provided these life necessities during the most challenging of times.
“During the pandemic, being able to be outside in a 66-acre garden has been such a place of respite and healing for the community,” says Terry Lendecker, Vice President of Advertising and Promotions at the Arboretum. “We are known for our breathtaking floral displays and color all year long. Southern Living named us the best spot this side of Holland to see beautiful flowers.”
The Dallas Arboretum is located in East Dallas, on the shores of White Rock Lake. It is a popular destination for those seeking to capture the perfect photograph or just spend a day strolling along the plant-laden paths.
“As a city garden, you will see an amazing diversity of cultures that are a true reflection of our DFW community,” Terry says. “The garden is a shared experience and a place where guests come to connect with nature and one another, as well as a place to make lasting memories.”
The Dallas Arboretum features numerous, themed gardens sure to inspire visitors of all ages and interests.
A Tasteful Place, an award-winning, 3.5-acre ornamental garden, pavilion and kitchen promotes sustainable, locally-grown food. Visitors can enjoy cooking demonstrations and free tastings made from seasonal produce.
The Rory Meyer’s Children’s Adventure Garden comprises 17 indoor and outdoor interactive learning galleries, educates and connects children with nature. The fun-filled 8- acre garden teaches life and earth science to students, teachers and families.
“Since opening in the fall of 2013, the Dallas Arboretum has hosted nearly 700,000 students in formal education programs with more than 1 million visitors having walked through the beautiful butterfly gates,” Terry says, adding that COVID protocols are in place, and free Garden STEM home lessons are offered, as well.
Some other signature gardens featured at the Dallas Arboretum include A Woman’s Garden, with its serene infinity pool; the Nancy Rutchik Red Maple Rill, featuring a collection of more than 80 varieties of Japanese Maples along a stream; the McCasland Sunken Garden featuring the Chico y Chica de la Playa sculpture and fountain; and the Nancy Clements Seay Magnolia Glade with a meandering waterway and picturesque lily pond. Find a complete list of signature gardens and take a virtual tour at DallasArboretum.org.
For those seeking to become more involved, Terry says there are numerous volunteer and donor opportunities at the Dallas Arboretum.
“The Dallas Arboretum volunteer team consists of over 4,000 volunteers who contribute close to 100,000 hours of service each year,” Terry says. “We are one of the top volunteer sites in the nation, and we simply could not do what we do without their dedication to service. During peak seasons more volunteers are needed. To inquire on current opportunities, contact volunteers@dallasarboretum.org or 214-515-6561.”
For those who would like to financially support the Arboretum, Terry suggests becoming a member. Members receive free admission and parking throughout the year and are invited to exclusive events.
Upcoming Events:
April 1- 11
Dallas Arboretum presents Dallas Blooms, the largest annual floral festival in the Southwest. With the theme “America the Beautiful,” the festival showcases 100 varieties of spring bulbs and more than 500,000 blossoms, thousands of azaleas and hundreds of Japanese cherry trees. Each week, the event focuses on one of six regions of the United States with food, music, flowers and special events.
April 1
The Dallas Arboretum’s 2021 Cool Thursdays Spring Concert Series kicks off at 7:30 p.m. April 1 and will continue each Thursday through July 1. The fall series will be Sept. 2-Oct. 28. Visit DallasArboretum.org for ticket information.
April 24-25
Dallas Arboretum presents the Artscape Fine Art Show & Sale featuring more than 100 artists from across the country.
May 1-Aug. 8
Dallas Arboretum's Summer Exhibit featuring ZimSculpt, a contemporary stone sculpture exhibit from ZimBabwe.