Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University
About
Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University - 281 Acres in Jamaica Plain
281-acre living museum of trees and shrubs in Jamaica Plain, operated by Harvard University as part of the Frederick Law Olmsted Emerald Necklace park system. The arboretum stewards a research-grade plant collection while serving as a public park open year-round.
Programs for Kids
Family programming spans drop-in scavenger hunts through caregiver-and-child sessions. Programs include:
- Little Explorers winter program (ages 3-5 with caregivers)
- Spring Scavenger Hunt
- Wildlife Search scavenger hunt
- Wonder Spot educational stations
- Self-guided family activities
What's Included
- 281-acre outdoor plant collection
- Free admission and free family activities
- Visitor Center with printed activity guides
- Research-grade tree and shrub collection
Experience
Jamaica Plain and Roxbury families use the arboretum for unstructured outdoor exploration alongside curated programming. The grounds connect to the broader Emerald Necklace and pair with adjacent Olmsted parks for longer outings.