Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
1,137 acres of stunning display gardens, trees, and nature trails offering a peaceful escape and seasonal beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak tulip season
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Best Time
Peak tulip season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
1,137 acres of stunning display gardens, trees, and nature trails offering a peaceful escape and seasonal beauty.
"By far my favorite place near the twin cities. This place is so well thought out."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save $5 per ticket by purchasing online in advance. Great for groups!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three-Mile Drive
Scenic loop throughout the grounds
A leisurely drive offering stunning views of gardens, trees, and seasonal beauty. Perfect for a quick overview or a relaxed exploration.
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Display Gardens
Various themed gardens
From vibrant tulips in spring to colorful fall foliage, these gardens are a photographer's dream and a nature lover's paradise.
Nature Play Area
Children's garden section
An engaging space for kids to explore and connect with nature, making it a family-friendly destination.
Conservatory
Indoor greenhouse
A tranquil escape showcasing a diverse collection of plants, including a hidden succulent house.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Blooms
Tickets & Membership Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save $5 per ticket by purchasing online in advance. Great for groups!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and trails.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Endless photo opportunities with diverse gardens and seasonal beauty.
🚗 Consider the 3-Mile Drive
A great way to see a lot of the Arboretum, especially if time is limited.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save $5 per ticket by purchasing online in advance. Great for groups!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and trails.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Endless photo opportunities with diverse gardens and seasonal beauty.
🚗 Consider the 3-Mile Drive
A great way to see a lot of the Arboretum, especially if time is limited.
💡 Research Bloom Times
Plan your visit around specific flowers you want to see for the best experience.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Features a nature play area and accessible paths, making it great for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum for its stunning beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and well-maintained grounds. It's considered a top destination near the Twin Cities, offering something for everyone, from families to photographers. While admission has a cost, many find the experience well worth the price, especially when planning multiple visits or taking advantage of membership options.
"By far my favorite place near the twin cities. This place is so well thought out. The gift shop has the most amazing chocolate. Definitely so much art. Such a peaceful place. You will want to make sure you check this for your list. Everyone is welcome here so many features for anyone from walker to wheelchair and very kid friendly"
Elexa Holcomb
"Okay first I did not know this cost money but it was $25 to get in and I went on a weekday. But the one person membership is $75 and they do take that $25 off so that's kind of a good deal. But this is beautiful scenery smells amazing and love the different flowers smells and the different tree smells so much to see. Suggest buying a membership because you will need to go more than once to see everything you have to go at different parts of the year to see which flowers are blooming. Great experience a very peaceful."
Danielle Davis
"Absolutely wonderful experience! We walked about 4 miles and saw most of the arboretum. There is also an option to drive through it and parking spots near the major sights. We were there for about 4-5 hours in total, so it’s definitely worth the money. The iris portion was one of my favorites, the flowers were incredibly beautiful. The walk was also very fragrant and smelt amazing! Highly recommend to visit this place, but I suggest doing some research to see when your favorite flowers bloom so that you can see them here. I also suggest buying the tickets online, as they are 5$ cheaper than in person, so you save a lot getting them online, especially with a large group."
Lera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is located at 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska, MN 55318. It's easily accessible by car from the Twin Cities. Many visitors use GPS navigation to find the quickest route.
Yes, there is ample parking available. Arriving early in the morning is recommended, especially during peak seasons, as it can get busy in the afternoon and evening.
Public transportation options to the Arboretum are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the site.
Absolutely! The Arboretum features accessible paths throughout many of its gardens and trails, making it welcoming for visitors with wheelchairs and strollers.
Yes, there are hotels near the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska and surrounding areas like Eden Prairie. Searching for 'hotels near Minnesota Landscape Arboretum' will provide several options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Weekday admission is typically around $25 per person. Prices can vary, and it's always best to check the official website for the most current pricing.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended. It can save you money, with online tickets often being $5 cheaper than in-person purchases.
The Arboretum offers free admission for youth 15 and under, making it a great value for families. Keep an eye on their official announcements for any special free admission days.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Minnesota Landscape Arboretum hours on their website before your visit, as they change throughout the year.
Consider purchasing a membership if you plan to visit multiple times, as the admission fee can be applied towards it. Look for potential discounts through local promotions or group rates.
📸 📸 Photography
The Arboretum is a photographer's paradise! The display gardens, especially during peak bloom seasons like spring tulips and summer irises, offer stunning backdrops. The fall foliage is also spectacular.
Yes, the Arboretum's diverse gardens, natural landscapes, and seasonal beauty provide endless opportunities for photoshoots. Many photographers find it an ideal location.
From landscape and nature photography to portrait sessions, the Arboretum offers a variety of settings. The changing seasons ensure unique visual opportunities year-round.
Generally, personal photography is welcomed. However, for commercial or professional photoshoots, it's advisable to check the Arboretum's policies or contact them directly.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light for photography, often referred to as the 'golden hours.' This also helps avoid the midday crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants near the Arboretum in Chaska and surrounding towns. You can find a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal establishments.
The Arboretum typically has a cafe or dining area where visitors can purchase refreshments and light meals. It's a convenient option for a break during your visit.
Picnicking is often allowed in designated areas. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery while saving money on food. Check the Arboretum's guidelines for specific rules.
The cafe usually offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. It's a good spot to refuel before continuing your exploration.
Yes, there is a gift shop that offers a variety of items, including unique chocolates, souvenirs, and Arboretum-related merchandise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With accessible paths throughout, strollers are easily managed, and kids can enjoy discovering different plants and gardens. The Three-Mile Drive is also a great way to keep younger ones entertained while still seeing the sights.Consider visiting during fall for the festive decorations and pumpkin displays, or in spring to witness the vibrant tulip blooms.
The Arboretum's ever-changing beauty means each visit offers something new for curious young minds. Remember to check for free admission for youth 15 and under to make your visit even more budget-friendly.💰 Budget Travelers
If you're a solo visitor or a couple planning more than three visits, purchasing a one-person membership can be cost-effective, as the initial admission fee is often deducted from the membership cost.To maximize your budget, pack your own snacks and drinks for a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful scenery. Booking tickets online in advance can also save you money compared to purchasing them at the gate.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Beyond the natural beauty, the Arboretum often features sculptures and art installations integrated into the landscape, adding another layer of visual interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Spectacles: When to Visit for Peak Beauty
As summer progresses, the gardens continue to bloom, offering lush greenery and diverse floral arrangements. However, fall is arguably one of the most popular times, with stunning fall foliage painting the landscape in fiery hues.
This season also brings festive decorations like pumpkin houses and scarecrows, making it a magical time for families. Even winter offers a serene beauty with snow-covered landscapes and the chance to explore the conservatory's warmth. Pro-tip: Researching specific bloom times for your favorite flowers on the Arboretum's website can help you plan the perfect visit to catch nature's most spectacular shows.
Navigating the Arboretum: Drive, Walk, or Both?
+1 This is ideal for those with limited time, mobility challenges, or who simply prefer a more relaxed pace. There are designated parking spots near major attractions, allowing you to hop out and explore specific areas on foot.For those who enjoy a more immersive experience, the Arboretum boasts miles of nature trails and walking paths.
Combining both methods is often the best approach. You can start with the Three-Mile Drive to get an overview and identify areas you want to explore further on foot. This flexibility ensures that everyone, from leisurely drivers to avid walkers, can have a fulfilling visit.
A Family Affair: Fun for All Ages
This hands-on experience can spark a lifelong appreciation for nature in young visitors.Beyond the dedicated play area, the Arboretum's vast grounds are an open invitation for exploration. Accessible paths make it easy for strollers and for children to wander and discover. The ever-changing seasonal displays, from spring blooms to fall pumpkins, keep each visit fresh and exciting.
The sheer scale of the Arboretum means there's always something new to see, making it a place kids will want to return to again and again.Parent Tip: Consider packing snacks and drinks, or utilize the on-site cafe for a convenient break. The Arboretum's welcoming atmosphere and diverse offerings ensure a memorable outing for the whole family.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit