Dawes Arboretum - Visual Highlights

Visual Highlights

• The Dawes Arboretum's Japanese Garden features a meditation house, pond and rock garden. Trees and shrubs are carefully pruned to maintain the Japanese-style Garden.

• An outlook tower located on the south side of The Arboretum allows visitors to see for miles. At the outlook tower, one may see the best view of The Arboretum's hedge letters.

• A bonsai collection is located in the courtyard adjacent to the Visitors Center. The collection features many bonsai plants, including a 100 year-old specimen.

• The Arboretum features one of the northernmost native Bald-cypress swamps in North America. Visitors may walk through the cypress swamp using a boardwalk. Spotted salamanders can be seen in the swamp from late winter through spring.

• The Dutch Fork Wetlands is a recent addition to The Arboretum. Wetlands are one of the most diverse ecosystems, and the wetlands at The Arboretum is no exception. Many mammals, birds and insects call the wetlands home. Visitors can explore the wetlands alone or take a guided tour.

• The central grounds include many plant collections, ponds and walking trails. Every season brings a different view.