Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum...

Activity Overview

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum is owned and operated by University of Michigan, and it was designed by O.C. Simonds in 1907. The arboretum and Botanical gardens were designed to preserve nature, trees and plants. Covering an area of 700 acres around the Ann Arbor area, it includes a conservatory, nature trails, greenhouses, laboratory, and the James D. Reader Center. The botanical gardens and Arboretum are open-year round with free access to public.

Things to Do

• The Nichols Arboretum is a wonderful place for the families to visit, there is an extensive collection of native and exotic plants, many trees and shrubs, trails and pathways. You must follow a visitor's guide and map while touring the Arboretum. Enjoy exploring native trees and wildlife.
• Explore the Matthaei Botanical gardens, the gardens have a natural area, conservatory and walking trails. All the trails at the Botanical Gardens loop back to the visitor center, where there are restrooms, water, and families can have snacks, and visit the gift shop.
• The theme gardens with children's garden, native Michigan garden, a 100-year old Peony garden, and perennial gardens are a treat to watch and explore.
• Free guided tours, gardening and art classes for kids, and many other events are held at the venue.
• Families can have photographs at the botanical gardens. Families can have a picnic after a hike on the trails.
• There are restrooms, water, library and a sitting room at the James D. Reader center.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum Insider Tips

• Give donations to support the gardens and the Arboretum.
• Kids must be supervised while walking on trails and playing in the gardens.
• The parking is not free.