LSU Hilltop Arboretum
A 14-acre free arboretum in Baton Rouge, showcasing diverse trees and native plants with peaceful trails and frequent community events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak blooms and pleasant temperatures
LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Best Time
Peak blooms and pleasant temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 14-acre free arboretum in Baton Rouge, showcasing diverse trees and native plants with peaceful trails and frequent community events.
"Such a gem! I am a purebred BatonRougen and I JUST Discovered the arboretum!?"
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore miles of trails; good footwear is essential for enjoying the diverse landscapes. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss plant sales or workshops! They're popular and can affect crowd levels. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Winding Walking Trails
Throughout the arboretum
Meander through diverse plant collections and enjoy the serene natural beauty. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a refreshing walk.
The Tranquil Pond
Near the pavilion
Observe turtles basking in the sun and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this charming water feature. A delightful spot for quiet contemplation.
Seasonal Plant Sales
Event areas
Discover a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers. A fantastic opportunity to purchase unique plants and support the arboretum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors, Rain or Shine
Timing is Everything for Peak Blooms
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore miles of trails; good footwear is essential for enjoying the diverse landscapes. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss plant sales or workshops! They're popular and can affect crowd levels. :calendar:
🐢 Turtle Spotting Fun
Head to the pond deck for a chance to see turtles! They often come close to visitors. :turtle:
📸 Bring Your Camera
The arboretum offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially during bloom seasons. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore miles of trails; good footwear is essential for enjoying the diverse landscapes. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedule
Don't miss plant sales or workshops! They're popular and can affect crowd levels. :calendar:
🐢 Turtle Spotting Fun
Head to the pond deck for a chance to see turtles! They often come close to visitors. :turtle:
📸 Bring Your Camera
The arboretum offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially during bloom seasons. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water to stay refreshed while you explore. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise LSU Hilltop Arboretum as a beautiful, peaceful, and well-maintained natural escape. Many highlight the free admission and the opportunity to explore diverse plant life and spot wildlife like turtles. While some wish for more flower variety, the overall sentiment is one of relaxation and appreciation for this local gem.
"Very green and relaxing place. It is open from dawn till dusk, and the office/gift shop is only open normal hours (like a 9-5). There are turtles in the pond, if you go up to the deck and look over, that will come to you. There are a bunch of interesting trees and a few flowers. It’s very earthy and smells fresh. There are multiple paths in, and not a hard closing time, so if you are concerned just park outside the gate. There are bees in the far back past the hill near magnolia trees, and lots of insects and birds. Check the office when you go, as this place is a venue for people to use and could be closed. Overall, very relaxing."
Bailey Speck
"Such a gem! I am a purebred BatonRougen and I JUST Discovered the arboretum!? Love this park so much, so easy to just wander through the trees and breathe. The pond near the pavilion is so peaceful with all of the little turtles waddling about in the water. Great spot!!"
Maily
"-It is nice and peaceful; a maintained property
-Plants can be purchased here, too. You can use the qr code and make your purchase selectiona.
-There are venues that can be rented, as well."
University of Louisiana Alumna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
LSU Hilltop Arboretum is located at 11855 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70810. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available. Many visitors find it a convenient spot for a peaceful escape within the city.
Public transportation options to the arboretum might be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most direct access.
Free parking is available at the arboretum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, if you're concerned about closing times or arriving after hours, you can park outside the main gate. The grounds are generally accessible from dawn till dusk.
The arboretum is well-marked and situated on Highland Road, a main thoroughfare in Baton Rouge, making it relatively easy to locate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to LSU Hilltop Arboretum is free! This makes it a wonderful, accessible option for a relaxing day out.
The arboretum grounds are open from dawn till dusk. However, the office and gift shop operate during normal business hours, typically around 9 AM to 5 PM.
Yes, the arboretum is open on weekends from dawn till dusk, offering a great opportunity for weekend outings and family fun.
For general visits, no advance booking or tickets are required as admission is free. However, for special events or venue rentals, it's best to check their website.
The main restriction is the daylight hours, as the arboretum is open from dawn till dusk. It's a good idea to check if any private events are scheduled that might affect access.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and grasses. The arboretum showcases a variety of Louisiana native plants, making it a great place to learn about local flora. 
Highlights include winding walking trails, a peaceful pond with turtles, and various themed garden areas. It's also a venue for events and workshops.
Absolutely! With its beautiful natural scenery, diverse plant life, and seasonal blooms, it's a fantastic spot for photography, especially for nature and landscape shots.
While not always advertised, it's worth checking with the office or their website for any scheduled guided tours or educational programs.
Typically, pets are not allowed in botanical gardens or arboretums to protect the plant collections. It's best to confirm their specific pet policy before visiting.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, there is a gift shop that operates during normal business hours. It's a good place to find nature-themed items and souvenirs.
Definitely! The arboretum frequently hosts plant sales, offering a wide assortment of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Keep an eye on their schedule for these events.
There are no dining facilities within the arboretum itself. Visitors usually bring their own snacks or plan to eat at nearby restaurants in Baton Rouge.
Plant sales typically feature a variety of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and grasses, often including native Louisiana species.
Some reviews mention using QR codes for purchase selections, particularly during plant sales, suggesting a modern approach to transactions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
The tranquil pond and the winding trails provide picturesque backdrops. Remember to check for seasonal events like plant sales, which can add extra visual interest. 📚 Bookworms Seeking Serenity
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Flora
+1The arboretum's design encourages exploration, with multiple interconnected paths that lead you through different ecological zones. Whether you're interested in the subtle beauty of native grasses or the grandeur of mature trees, there's something to captivate every visitor. The changing seasons bring new wonders, from the vibrant blooms of spring to the rich colors of fall foliage.
For those looking to bring a piece of this natural beauty home, the arboretum frequently hosts plant sales. These events are a fantastic opportunity to acquire unique and locally adapted plants, often including rare varieties not easily found elsewhere. It's a chance to support the arboretum's conservation efforts while enhancing your own garden.
+1Events and Community Engagement
+1The arboretum also serves as a venue for workshops, talks, and even private events. Visitors can attend sessions on topics ranging from floral arrangement to the use of native plants in cutflower farming, as highlighted by botanist jenblanchardbotanist.
This engagement fosters a deeper appreciation for horticulture and the natural world within the Baton Rouge community. Many of these events are free to attend, making the arboretum an accessible resource for learning and enjoyment. Keep an eye on their official schedule or social media for announcements about upcoming activities.
A Peaceful Retreat in Baton Rouge
The arboretum's design, with its multiple paths and natural landscapes, invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and find a moment of calm. Many reviewers highlight the relaxing atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of insects and birds.
Whether you're looking for a quiet place to read a book, enjoy a leisurely walk, or simply find a moment of peace, LSU Hilltop Arboretum provides a welcome natural sanctuary. Its accessibility and free admission make it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating break.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit