Maxwell Arboretum UNL East Campus
A serene urban oasis on UNL's East Campus, featuring labeled plant collections and vibrant seasonal blooms. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak floral beauty
Maxwell Arboretum UNL East Campus
Best Time
Peak floral beauty

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban oasis on UNL's East Campus, featuring labeled plant collections and vibrant seasonal blooms. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
"A great place to walk about with enough plant life to muffle the city sounds."
🚶♀️ Explore East Campus
Wander beyond the arboretum to explore the wider UNL East Campus for more to see.
🍦 Don't Miss Dairy Store
Pair your visit with a stop at the nearby UNL Dairy Store for delicious ice cream.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Labeled Plant Collections
Throughout the Arboretum
Discover a diverse array of labeled trees and plants, making it an educational and visually engaging experience for all ages.

Seasonal Flower Displays
Various Garden Beds
Witness stunning seasonal flower shows that bring a burst of color and life to the arboretum throughout the year.

Shaded Walking Paths
Main Pathways
Enjoy peaceful walks under a canopy of trees, with ample shade and comfortable park benches for relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Seasonal Blooms
Combine with Dairy Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore East Campus
Wander beyond the arboretum to explore the wider UNL East Campus for more to see.
🍦 Don't Miss Dairy Store
Pair your visit with a stop at the nearby UNL Dairy Store for delicious ice cream.
I’m trying to make a tour guide for a project and I would love to know every little nook and cranny of our state so drop them in the comments please!!!!
🏷️ Identify the Flora
Take advantage of the labeled trees and plants to learn about the diverse species.
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
Find plenty of shade on the walking paths, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
What are some ideas/suggestions for a Chicago staycation?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore East Campus
Wander beyond the arboretum to explore the wider UNL East Campus for more to see.
🍦 Don't Miss Dairy Store
Pair your visit with a stop at the nearby UNL Dairy Store for delicious ice cream.
🏷️ Identify the Flora
Take advantage of the labeled trees and plants to learn about the diverse species.
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
Find plenty of shade on the walking paths, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Maxwell Arboretum for its educational labels, beautiful seasonal blooms, and peaceful, shaded walking paths. Its proximity to the popular UNL Dairy Store is a significant bonus, making it a delightful stop for a leisurely outing. Some noted ongoing construction, but anticipate it will enhance the experience once completed.
"There was more to see than I expected. You could walk all over east campus if you wanted. Right next door to this is the UNL dairy store. Great ice-cream. There is quite a bit that tell you what it is."
Jerry Dunlap
"Great place to walk through. Many changes in blooms and flowers with seasons."
S Stinson
"Its not fair to rate currently as it is under construction currently it was a nice place to go with enough plant life it seemed to muffle the sounds of the city. I'm sure once construction is over this will be a great place to visit.
Might be awhile though, I haven't seen anyone out there working in a while just a bunch of orange fencing."
Wayne Riley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maxwell Arboretum is located on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's East Campus. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also serve the East Campus area.
Yes, parking is generally available on the UNL East Campus, though specific availability can vary. It's recommended to check UNL's parking regulations for the most current information.
Depending on your starting point, walking or biking to Maxwell Arboretum might be feasible, especially if you are already on or near the UNL East Campus.
Maxwell Arboretum is situated on UNL's East Campus, which is accessible from major roads like 14th Street and Holdrege Street in Lincoln.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant stop for a break from driving, offering a green space to stretch your legs and enjoy nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Maxwell Arboretum is a public space and generally does not require an admission fee or tickets for entry.
As an outdoor arboretum, it is typically accessible during daylight hours. Specific hours might be subject to UNL campus policies.
Yes, the arboretum is an outdoor space and is generally open year-round, though accessibility might be affected by severe weather.
While generally open, it's wise to be mindful of university campus hours and any potential event closures.
Visiting at night is generally not recommended due to lack of lighting and campus security policies. Stick to daylight hours for the best and safest experience.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse collection of labeled trees and plants, with seasonal flower displays adding to the variety.
Yes, it's a great place for a walk with plenty of shade and park benches to sit and relax.
Facilities can vary. It's best to check with UNL for specific amenities available on East Campus near the arboretum.
Absolutely! The seasonal blooms and diverse plant life make it a picturesque spot for photography.
Take your time to stroll along the paths, read the plant labels, and find a bench to enjoy the natural surroundings.
🍽️ 🍦 Food & Dining
Yes, the UNL Dairy Store is right next door and is famous for its ice cream, making it a popular post-arboretum treat.
While there aren't dedicated picnic areas, you can likely find benches or open grassy spots for a small picnic. Remember to clean up after yourself.
The Dairy Store is primarily known for its delicious ice cream, but also offers other dairy products and snacks.
UNL East Campus has dining options, though they might be more geared towards students and staff. The Dairy Store is the most prominent public food spot nearby.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, but please be respectful of the environment and dispose of trash properly.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for areas with vibrant seasonal flowers, mature trees, and well-maintained pathways. The labeled plants also offer unique photo opportunities.
Definitely. The variety of plant life and seasonal changes provide excellent subjects for nature photographers.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted on university campuses. It's crucial to check UNL's specific drone policy before flying.
Yes, the arboretum's beautiful scenery makes it a lovely backdrop for portraits, provided you are respectful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there isn't a dedicated playground, the open spaces and natural beauty provide ample room for children to explore and burn energy. It’s a great spot for a relaxed family outing that combines light activity with educational opportunities.
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Nature Lovers
The arboretum's manageable size and well-maintained paths make it easy to navigate for a solo stroll. The nearby Dairy Store also offers a convenient option for a solo treat after your walk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Arboretum's Collections
Seasonal transformations are a key aspect of the arboretum's appeal. From the fresh greens of spring to the vibrant colors of summer blooms and the rich hues of autumn foliage, the landscape is constantly evolving. This dynamic nature makes it a rewarding place to revisit throughout the year, offering a different experience with each visit.
Beyond the labeled collections, the arboretum offers a peaceful environment with ample shade and comfortable park benches. It's an ideal spot for a quiet walk, contemplation, or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility away from the city bustle.
The UNL East Campus Connection
The UNL Dairy Store is a local institution, famous for its delicious ice cream made with milk from the university's own dairy herd. It's a perfect complement to a nature walk, offering a sweet reward after exploring the arboretum. Many visitors find this combination to be a highlight of their trip.
Exploring the broader East Campus can also reveal other points of interest, such as the Backyard Garden, which is noted as being 'super neat to check out.' This interconnectedness makes Maxwell Arboretum not just a standalone destination, but part of a larger, engaging campus experience.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit