Nichols Arboretum Ann Arbor
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Nichols Arboretum Ann Arbor

4.8
·2k reviews·Ann Arbor, United States

A serene urban oasis in Ann Arbor, renowned for its spectacular peony garden and picturesque trails along the Huron River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late May to Mid-June

Peak peony bloom

CrowdHigh
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Nichols Arboretum Ann Arbor

Nichols Arboretum Ann Arbor

Best Time

Late May to Mid-June

Peak peony bloom

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene urban oasis in Ann Arbor, renowned for its spectacular peony garden and picturesque trails along the Huron River.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"The biggest issue I have is its in a very popular college town. So the trails are usually very busy with crowds of people."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌸 Peony Peak Alerts

Follow @matthaeinichols on social media for real-time updates on peony bloom status.

🅿️ Smart Parking

Try neighborhood streets off Geddes or the M28 lot on Washington for free parking on Sundays/evenings.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Peony Garden

Peony Garden

Nichols Arboretum

A breathtaking collection of nearly 800 peonies, offering a vibrant spectacle of color and fragrance in late spring.

Huron River Trail

Huron River Trail

Nichols Arboretum

Winding trails along the Huron River, perfect for peaceful strolls, birdwatching, and enjoying nature's tranquility.

Autumn Foliage

Autumn Foliage

Nichols Arboretum

Experience the stunning transformation of the Arboretum's landscapes with vibrant fall colors, ideal for photography and walks.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Peonies

The world-renowned peony garden is a major draw, but its peak bloom is fleeting, typically mid-to-late May. Plan your visit carefully to catch this spectacular display. Check the Arboretum's social media for real-time updates on bloom status to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Parking Pointers

Parking near Nichols Arboretum can be challenging, especially during peak seasons or events. Consider street parking in surrounding neighborhoods or utilizing the M28 lot on Washington on Sundays and weekday evenings for free access. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Late May to Mid-June
Why
Peak peony bloom
Crowd
High
When
Autumn Mornings
Why
Vibrant fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, free parking
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Literal chills. #universityofmichigan #rosebowl #champs #mrbrightside #annarbor #jimharbaugh #michiganfootball
@elliebkroll
561.6K likes • 4.8M views

🌸 Peony Peak Alerts

Follow @matthaeinichols on social media for real-time updates on peony bloom status. Instagram+1

🅿️ Smart Parking

Try neighborhood streets off Geddes or the M28 lot on Washington for free parking on Sundays/evenings. Reddit

🩷💚 The sorority sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha at University of Michigan – Ann Arbor just revealed their Spring 2025 line! Let’s all show these new sorors from the Beta Eta Chapter some love and give them a warm welcome to Black greekdom! Introducing A.M.A.R.A. 44 @akabetaeta #aka1908 #alphakappaalpha #WatchTheYard
@watchtheyard
89.6K likes • 1.7M views
A beautiful autumn morning in Ann Arbor, at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens / Nichols Arboretum 🫶 • #fallcolors #fallleaves #autumncolors #autumnleaves #autumn #michiganphotographer #michiganphotography #midwestphotographer #midwestphotographer #midwest #autumnweather #autumnal #autumnaesthetic #fallvibes #fallweather #favoriteseason #happyfall #happyfallyall #getoutside #natureishealing #naturehea...
alainakozakphotography
24 likes • 290 views

👟 Trail Ready

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the nearly 3.5 miles of diverse trails. Instagram

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The peony garden and fall foliage offer stunning backdrops for photographers. Instagram+1

The W.E. Upjohn Peony Garden at Nichols Arboretum is one of the world’s premier collections and it is currently in peak bloom! With nearly 800 peonies and over 10,000 flowers, the garden is a breathtaking sight. Join us to celebrate the season's most vibrant display. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, our Peony Garden offers something for ...
matthaeinichols
299 likes • 6.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌸 Peony Peak Alerts

Follow @matthaeinichols on social media for real-time updates on peony bloom status. Instagram+1

🅿️ Smart Parking

Try neighborhood streets off Geddes or the M28 lot on Washington for free parking on Sundays/evenings. Reddit

👟 Trail Ready

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the nearly 3.5 miles of diverse trails. Instagram

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The peony garden and fall foliage offer stunning backdrops for photographers. Instagram+1

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a pet-friendly picnic. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Nichols Arboretum for its stunning natural beauty, especially the world-class peony garden and vibrant fall colors. It's lauded as a peaceful escape within the city, perfect for walks and picnics, and is appreciated for being dog-friendly and free to enter. However, some find the trails can get crowded, and parking can be a significant challenge, detracting from the tranquility for some. TikTokReddit

"Great walking trail with lot of greenery, superb peony garden ,
Great place in the middle of the city to quick get away, dog friendly place.
Nice place for weekend picnic
but unfortunately no parking lot near the Arboretum,needed to park bit further in public parking. Most of the public parking also closed for public took additional 20 minutes to look for parking. Very much enjoyed the trail and place.
Highly recommended"

Padma Ganeswaran

"The biggest issue I have is its in a very popular college town. So the trails are usually very busy with crowds of people. Its busy to get to the trail, traffic to and from this location. Not very relaxing. Very beautiful and well taken care of though!"

Jenna Tasker

"Gorgeous peony gardens! It’s easy to walk around and really see the blooms up close. Educational plaques show what varies are in the gardens. There are also plaques explaining the different types and varieties. Such a beautiful place in the Spring!"

Crista Turner

What People Like

Gorgeous peony gardens
Beautiful fall foliage
Peaceful city escape

What People Dislike

Crowded trails
Difficult parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Nichols Arboretum is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, near the University of Michigan medical school. You can access trailheads from Burnham House or on Geddes at Nichols Drive. Instagram+1 For parking, consider neighborhood streets off Geddes near Oswego or the M28 lot on Washington during specific times. Reddit

Parking directly at the Arboretum is limited. Paid public parking is available, but can be busy. Free parking can often be found on surrounding neighborhood streets, especially on Sundays and weekday evenings. Reddit+1

While not explicitly detailed in the provided content, Ann Arbor has a public bus system that may serve areas near the Arboretum. Checking the Ann Arbor transit website for routes and schedules is recommended. TikTok

The Arboretum offers various trails with different terrains. Some areas, like the main paths and the peony garden, are generally more accessible, but it's advisable to check the official website for detailed accessibility information. Instagram+1

With nearly 3.5 miles of trails, it's helpful to have a map. You can often find trail maps at the entrance points or on the Arboretum's official website. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Nichols Arboretum is a free public space, making it an accessible natural escape in Ann Arbor. Reddit

The Arboretum is generally open from dawn to dusk, but specific hours for certain gardens or facilities might vary. It's best to check the official Nichols Arboretum website for the most current information. Instagram

No advance booking is required for the peony garden. However, due to its popularity during peak bloom, arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds. Instagram+1

Yes, the Arboretum hosts events like 'Shakespeare in the Park' during the summer and offers educational plaques throughout the gardens. Reddit

Absolutely! The Arboretum is beautiful year-round, with stunning peony blooms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in fall, and serene snowscapes in winter. Instagram+2

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

The world-renowned Peony Garden is a highlight, especially in late May to mid-June. The trails along the Huron River and the scenic overlooks also offer beautiful experiences. InstagramReddit+1

Nichols Arboretum features nearly 3.5 miles of trails, ranging from easy, accessible paths to more challenging terrain deeper within the woodlands and along the river. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a fantastic spot for photography, particularly during the peony bloom and autumn foliage seasons. Instagram+1

The Arboretum is a great place for a picnic, with many scenic spots to enjoy your meal amidst nature. Reddit

You can encounter various wildlife, making it a great place for nature observation and decompressing. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within Nichols Arboretum. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or dine at restaurants in downtown Ann Arbor. Reddit

Downtown Ann Arbor, a short distance from the Arboretum, offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. TikTok

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics, but it's important to pack out all trash to keep the Arboretum clean. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best times for photography are during the peak peony bloom (late May to mid-June) and the vibrant autumn foliage season. Early mornings often provide the best light. Instagram+2

The Peony Garden is a prime location, as are the scenic overlooks and the trails along the Huron River. The diverse landscapes offer numerous picturesque opportunities. Instagram+2

Yes, Nichols Arboretum is a popular spot for professional photography and photo sessions, including engagement and family shoots. Instagram+1

Nature photography, landscape photography, and portrait photography are very popular due to the beautiful gardens, seasonal colors, and natural settings. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to check the Arboretum's policies or contact them directly. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nichols Arboretum is a fantastic destination for families. The easy-to-navigate trails, some specifically noted as suitable for little legs, make it accessible for young children. Instagram Kids will enjoy rolling down hills, exploring the natural surroundings, and observing wildlife. Instagram The Arboretum is also dog-friendly (on leash), allowing the whole family, including furry members, to enjoy a day out. Reddit Remember to pack snacks and water, as there are no concessions on-site, and consider a picnic to make the most of the beautiful setting. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Nichols Arboretum is a dream location. The Peony Garden in late May and early June offers unparalleled opportunities for vibrant floral photography. Instagram+1 In the fall, the spectacular autumn colors provide a breathtaking canvas for landscape and nature shots. Instagram+1 Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the best light. Instagram The diverse trails and riverfront also offer numerous scenic spots for portraits and nature close-ups. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Picnickers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Peony Garden

Nichols Arboretum is world-renowned for its spectacular Peony Garden, boasting nearly 800 peonies and over 10,000 flowers. This breathtaking display typically reaches its peak bloom from late May to mid-June. Visitors flock to witness this vibrant spectacle, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Instagram+1

To make the most of your visit, it's crucial to time your visit correctly. Following the Arboretum's social media accounts, such as @matthaeinichols, is highly recommended for real-time updates on bloom status. Instagram+1 While the garden is free to enter, be prepared for crowds during peak season. The educational plaques throughout the garden provide fascinating insights into the different varieties and their origins, adding an educational layer to the visual feast. Reddit

Exploring the Trails and Riverfront

Beyond the famous peony garden, Nichols Arboretum offers nearly 3.5 miles of diverse trails that wind through woodlands, gardens, and along the scenic Huron River. These trails provide a tranquil escape and opportunities for various activities, from leisurely walks to more vigorous hikes. Instagram

Travelers often highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to connect with nature, even while being in the heart of Ann Arbor. InstagramReddit The trails cater to different fitness levels, with some being easy and accessible for families with young children, while others offer more varied terrain. Instagram Birdwatching and enjoying the natural wildlife are common pastimes for visitors exploring these paths. Reddit

Seasonal Beauty and Photography Opportunities

Nichols Arboretum transforms throughout the year, offering unique beauty in every season. While the peony bloom in late spring is a major draw, the vibrant fall foliage is equally stunning, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts. Instagram+1 The Arboretum's diverse landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop for capturing memorable moments. Instagram

Photographers often seek out the golden hour light for their shots, making early mornings and late afternoons particularly appealing. Instagram Whether you're capturing the delicate petals of a peony, the fiery hues of autumn leaves, or the serene river views, the Arboretum offers endless photographic possibilities. Instagram+1 It's a popular spot for engagement photos, family portraits, and simply capturing the natural beauty of Michigan. Instagram

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