Boston's Jamaica Plain (JP) --
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Arnold Arboretum

 

This beautifully landscaped 265 acre botanical garden contains over 14,000 woody plants, flowers, and trees. 1997 marks the 125th anniversary of this the nation’s oldest university botanical garden. Located only one-half mile from Taylor House, this stunning site is now a National Historic Landmark administered by Harvard University and the Boston Public Parks System. It is a primary venue in this country for the study of woody plants.
Visitors are allowed to use the Arboretum from sunrise to sunset 365 days a year at no cost. Lilac Sunday, always held on the Sunday closest to May 20, is the only time picnics are allowed. The lilac collection comprises more than 613 plants and 253 varieties. But, there’s much more to see, including magnificent rhododendron, magnolia, and roseaceous plant collections. And there are trees from all over the world, particularly from Asia, as well as a Bonsai collection containing some plants that are several centuries old.
The Arboretum has great beauty and diversity to offer all four seasons of the year. Classes, exhibits, walks, and other activities are available. Call 617/524-1718 for further information. Biking and cross-country skiing are allowed.