A lot of people don’t realize it, but Conn College has a beautiful public Arboretum, wildflower garden, and nature trails, with easy parking off of Williams Street. And this hidden gem is totally free and open to the public seven days a week from dawn to dusk.
Spanning 750 acres across the Connecticut College campus and the surrounding towns of New London and Waterford, the Connecticut College Arboretum is a unique blend of botanical beauty, ecological diversity, and historic significance.
Established in 1931, this living museum invites visitors of all ages to explore an exceptional array of plant collections, landscaped gardens, and natural areas that capture the spirit of New England’s rich environmental heritage.
Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the Arboretum is a haven for education, recreation, and quiet reflection, making it one of Connecticut’s most cherished public green spaces.
At the heart of the Arboretum is its renowned Native Plant Collection, a 25-acre sanctuary featuring more than 300 species of trees, shrubs, and vines indigenous to eastern North America. This thoughtfully curated collection includes the Gries Conifer Collection, the Shain Mountain Laurel Garden, and the Nancy Moss Fine Native Azalea Garden, each showcasing a stunning array of plant life.
If you’re someone who loves getting outdoors in New England, there’s a true hidden gem that’s just waiting for you to discover it.
Visitors can wander along well-maintained trails that wind through meadows, forests, and around a serene pond, experiencing the year-round beauty of seasonal wildflowers, towering conifers, and fragrant blooms.
Just across from campus lies the Caroline Black Garden, a tranquil space featuring an impressive array of ornamental trees and shrubs from around the world. With its mature plantings, small stream, and graceful entry plantings, this garden is a picturesque retreat for gardeners, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful moment outdoors.
The Arboretum’s commitment to education and engagement shines through its guided tours, public events, and self-guided exploration opportunities. Knowledgeable docents lead tours from May through October, offering insight into the history, science, and artistry of the plant collections.
The Arboretum also provides digital tours for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, along with brochures and informational signage to enrich the visitor experience.
Whether you’re admiring the vibrant fall foliage, taking a springtime wildflower walk, or simply soaking in the serenity of the trails, the Connecticut College Arboretum is a dynamic space where history, science, and natural beauty converge.
Check out some of these photos we took on our trip:
For more information, visit their official website.
