A place like no other near Ann Arbor in Michigan
The Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum together form one of the most biodiverse green spaces in the Midwest, offering over 700 acres of gardens, forests, and natural areas right in Ann Arbor. Run by the University of Michigan, this destination draws visitors in every season with its curated gardens, walking trails, and a renowned annual concert series. The site is completely free to explore, though some special events and the adjacent Matthaei Greenhouse may have their own hours and admission policies.
The property has deep roots tied to the university’s legacy of botanical education and conservation. The Nichols Arboretum was established in 1924 when William W. Nichols donated 40 acres of land along the Huron River to the university, with the goal of creating a living laboratory for students and a peaceful retreat for the public. Over the following decades, the university acquired additional parcels, including the Matthaei Botanical Gardens which opened in the 1960s as a complement to Nichols Arboretum’s naturalistic landscapes with more formally designed garden spaces.
The Peony Garden is one of Nichols Arboretum’s signature features, containing over 800 peony plants representing more than 200 varieties. Together, the two properties serve as outdoor classrooms for biology, ecology, and horticulture students while also functioning as a beloved community resource. The Discovery Garden at the Matthaei site features themed plantings, a children’s garden, and demonstration areas designed to inspire home gardeners.
The Huron River Trail runs through Nichols Arboretum with gentle slopes, river overlooks, and dense woodland that transforms into vibrant fall color each autumn. The Great Lakes Garden showcases native Michigan plant communities and educates visitors about regional ecology. Guided tours are available on weekends and often focus on seasonal highlights, native plant identification, or the history of the property. For those interested in more active exploration, the properties have over 10 miles of trails suitable for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
The Peony Garden at Nichols Arboretum is arguably the site’s most famous attraction, drawing crowds each June when thousands of blossoms open simultaneously. The Conserved Prairie offers a glimpse of the native grassland ecosystem that once covered much of the Michigan landscape. The Matthaei Greenhouse Complex houses tropical, desert, and temperate collections under glass, providing year-round greenery and educational programming even during Michigan’s cold winters. The Boardwalk traverses a wetland area offering close views of waterfowl, turtles, and other wildlife that inhabit the Huron River corridor.
The best time to visit depends on what you want to see. June is peak season for the Peony Garden when the collection reaches full bloom and the site hosts its annual Peony Festival. Spring brings thousands of daffodils and tulips to the Matthaei Gardens, while fall offers stunning foliage throughout Nichols Arboretum’s woodlands. Summer provides the warmest weather for exploring all outdoor trails and gardens, and summer concerts take place on select evenings in July and August featuring local and regional musicians in a beautiful outdoor setting.