by Melissa McBride
aka The Wander Edit
WHERE EVERY SEASON TELLS A STORY…
ABOUT THE DALLAS ARBORETUM…Set along the serene shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum ranks among the top arboretums globally. With its 66 acres blooming in a living tapestry of color, history, and quiet wonder, every winding path invites curiosity, and every season brings a fresh story you won’t want to miss. What began as the dream of the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Society (DABS) visionaries in 1974 has blossomed into one of the city’s most beloved escapes. The homes and acreage surrounding both historic gems, the Alex Camp Houseand the DeGolyer Estate, were purchased and developed to preserve heritage and nature, beautifully blending history with science and education. The Dallas Arboretum first opened to the public in 1984. The dream continues to grow as visitors from around the world are welcomed daily to wander, learn, and linger. For those who fall in love (as many do), membership offers a deeper connection with insider perks and volunteer opportunities. Being one of the nation’s younger arboretums, there is continued room for growth
Hunt Slonem: Bunnies, Birds & Butterflies
This season, the gardens take on a playful new energy with Hunt Slonem:
Bunnies, Birds & Butterflies. From April 20 through September 30, Slonem’s
whimsical, larger-than-life sculptures and vibrant works by the internationally
celebrated neo-expressionist artist transform the landscape into an open-air
gallery with colorful creations emerging from the blooms. With 28 installations
and more than 100 works placed throughout the garden—and a curated
collection inside the Historic Camp House—the experience is equal parts art
walk and daydream. Don’t miss Twilight Nights, offered Friday through Sunday
evenings, when the garden glows with an extra touch of whimsy and delight.
Cool Thursdays
Music lovers can claim their patch of lawn during the annual Cool Thursdays
concert series, returning April 23 through November 5. For almost three
decades, this lakeside tradition has paired live music with sunset views, starlit
skies, and botanical beauty. Bring a blanket or chairs, pack a picnic, or pick up
bites and beverages on-site—and yes, you can bring your own wine for a small
$5 corkage fee. Tickets are available for members, making it one of the most
charming ways to spend a Thursday evening in Dallas.
Dining & Beverage Options
Whether you’re in the mood for something elegant or easygoing, the
Arboretum offers delightful dining choices. Reserve a seated tea, lunch,
or weekend brunch at Restaurant DeGolyer, or enjoy casual fare from the
Terrace Grill, Café on the Green, or Paseo Provisions. Prefer your own
spread? Pack a picnic (perhaps with a sketchbook and watercolors in tow)
and find the perfect shaded spot.
Events & Education
Beyond its beauty, the Arboretum is a hub for creativity and discovery.
Guests can enjoy a variety of classes—from cooking and floral design
to art workshops—along with engaging programs for both children and
adults. Families will love exploring the Children’s Adventure Gardens,
art and vendor events, the garden chef series and live music; while those
planning special occasions can book private events, weddings, or stage a
picturesque photo session among the blooms. Before heading out, stop by
the gift shop for a keepsake—a small reminder of a day well spent in one
of Dallas’ most enchanting destinations.
FOLLOW THE SEASONAL FUN @THEDALLASARBORETUM
SEATED TEA AT THE DALLAS ARBORETUM
Nestled amid the vibrant blooming paths
and tranquil beauty of the Dallas Arboretum,
the DeGolyer Tea Room offers an elegant
three-course seated tea, served at 11 a.m. and
2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Guests
may choose between a beautiful indoor table
with garden views, or patio dining among
fragrant blooms. The dining experience
changes seasonally, featuring a demitasse of
soup, a selection of delicate tea sandwiches,
and a final course of sweet treats including
scones, clotted cream, and jam—paired
with a trio of seasonal teas. Reservations are
recommended at dallasarboretum.org.
