Texas · Est. 1938
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
A 66-acre botanical garden located on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake.
Founded
1938
Size
66 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 8b
Best Season
March to May for spring blooms, September to November for autumn colors
About Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a 66-acre botanical garden located in East Dallas, Texas, on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake. The majority of the grounds were once part of a 44-acre dairy farm known as Rancho Encinal, purchased by geologist Everette Lee DeGolyer and his wife Nell in 1939. It features 11 lush gardens and gorgeous vistas, offering breathtaking views for residents and tourists year-round.
History & Heritage
The history of the Dallas Arboretum begins in 1938 when oil-wealthy geophysicist Everette DeGolyer and his wife Nell Goodrich DeGolyer began construction on their 21,000-square-foot Spanish Colonial Revival style home. Since 1976, the DeGolyer Estate has formed a portion of the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. The Dallas Arboretum officially opened to the public in 1984 with the mission to create a garden that would be a premier destination.
Signature Feature
DeGolyer Gardens
The 21,000-square-foot home of Mr. and Mrs. DeGolyer serves as the centerpiece to this garden. Landscape architects Arthur and Marie Berger designed the 4.5-acre DeGolyer Gardens for the DeGolyer family in 1940. Many of the original garden features remain, including the Magnolia Allee, the Sunken Garden and the Octagonal Fountain.
Photo Gallery
Beautiful garden pathways
Lush botanical displays
Scenic views of the arboretum
Notable Collections
The Trial Gardens
Established to expand research efforts and evaluate many different plants in the diverse North Central Texas Climate.
The Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden
Designed to connect children with nature and promote environmental awareness with 17 interactive galleries.
Crape Myrtle Allee
Features a lane of crape myrtle trees enclosing a stone walkway to create a natural tunnel.
Pecan Grove
Serves as the centerpiece of the Autumn at the Arboretum festival, surrounded by over 100 Japanese Cherry Trees in spring.
Recognition & Awards
- Best Place for a Walk in August (Dallas Observer, 2004)
- Best Garden Design Source (Dallas Observer)
Editorial Standards
This profile was researched and written by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial team, which includes certified Master Gardeners and horticultural writers with field experience across the United States. All admission prices, hours, and garden details are verified against official garden websites and updated May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
March to May for spring blooms, September to November for autumn colors
Address
8525 Garland Road, Dallas, TX 75218
Phone
214-515-6615
Hours
Open daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission
Varies by season; check website for current pricing
Insider Tips
- 1Purchase tickets and parking in advance online.
- 2Bring a hat and wear sunscreen as many areas are exposed to the sun.
- 3Visit during the Dallas Blooms festival in spring for spectacular floral displays.
- 4Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the 66-acre grounds.
Nearby Attractions
- White Rock Lake (0.1 miles)
- Dallas Museum of Art (6.5 miles)
- Perot Museum of Nature and Science (7.0 miles)