Virginia · Est. 1927
State Arboretum of Virginia
A historic 172-acre arboretum featuring the largest conifer collection in the Southeast and a spectacular Ginkgo Grove.
Founded
1927
Size
172 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 6b
Best Season
October to November for the Ginkgo Grove, and April to May for spring blooms
About State Arboretum of Virginia
The State Arboretum of Virginia occupies the central 172 acres of the 712-acre Blandy Experimental Farm, owned by the University of Virginia. It features labeled tree and shrub collections from around the world dating back to the early 1930s. The arboretum is home to numerous Virginia State Champion trees and serves as a vital research and educational facility.
History & Heritage
Blandy Experimental Farm was established in 1924 when Graham Blandy bequeathed 700 acres of the historic Tuleyries estate to the University of Virginia. In 1927, Dr. Orland E. White became the first director and began transforming the property into an arboretum by planting diverse tree species. The property was officially designated as the State Arboretum of Virginia by the Virginia General Assembly in 1986. Today, it continues its legacy of agricultural and ecological research while remaining open to the public year-round.
Signature Feature
Ginkgo Grove
The Ginkgo Grove is a spectacular collection of over 300 ginkgo trees planted as part of an early scientific experiment. Every fall, usually in late October to early November, the grove transforms into a stunning display of golden yellow foliage. It is one of the largest public ginkgo groves in America and draws numerous visitors for its breathtaking autumn colors.
Photo Gallery
Golden foliage in the famous Ginkgo Grove during autumn
Historic stone walls and pathways throughout the arboretum
Lush greenery and diverse tree collections in the summer
Notable Collections
Ginkgo Grove
Over 300 ginkgo trees that turn a brilliant golden yellow in the fall.
Conifer Collection
The largest collection of conifers in the Southeast United States.
Boxwood Garden
The American Boxwood Society Memorial Garden, serving as a reference library for over 162 cultivars.
Community Forest
A growing forest planted entirely by volunteers featuring Virginia native species.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
Open daily from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year
Best seasonal window: October to November for the Ginkgo Grove, and April to May for spring blooms
Parking & Arrival
Free parking available at the main kiosk and designated visitor areas
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
Main areas and some trails are accessible, with paved roads leading to the information kiosk
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- Virginia State Champion Trees Location
- American Boxwood Society Headquarters
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
October to November for the Ginkgo Grove, and April to May for spring blooms
Address
400 Blandy Farm Ln, Boyce, VA 22620
Phone
540-837-1758
Hours
Open daily from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year
Admission
Free of charge
Parking
Free parking available at the main kiosk and designated visitor areas
Accessibility
Main areas and some trails are accessible, with paved roads leading to the information kiosk
Insider Tips
- 1Visit in late October or early November to see the Ginkgo Grove at its peak golden color.
- 2Be aware that female ginkgo trees drop fruit in the fall that has a very strong, unpleasant odor.
- 3Stay on designated paths and park only in marked areas to protect tree roots.
- 4Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Nearby Attractions
- Skyline Drive (20 miles)
- Shenandoah National Park (20 miles)
- Historic Winchester (12 miles)