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Explore the Holden Arboretum – Canopy Walk, Tower, Nature Play Area & More!

Last Updated: 5/29/2024

The Holden Arboretum is a hidden gem located in Lake County and is a must-visit spot for anyone in Northeast Ohio. The arboretum covers 3,600 acres and features more than 20 miles of trails, a Canopy Walk (an elevated walkway 65 feet above the forest floor), the Emergent Tower (a 120-foot tower where on a clear day you can see all the way to Lake Erie), and a natural play area for kids. It’s a great destination for families and people of all ages. Plus, it’s also dog-friendly, so you can bring your pup along to enjoy the fun. 

Pack some drinks and snacks and wear your comfortable shoes because you can easily spend the entire day exploring the gardens.

Experience the Canopy Walk & Emergent Tower

One of the highlights of the Holden Arboretum is the Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower. These areas are free for members and require an additional fee for nonmembers. The unique experience is well worth the additional charge!

The tower is 120 feet in the air and the views from the top are amazing. We were there on a clear sunny day and could see all the way to the lake. We can’t wait to go back in the fall to see the colorful leaves.

Helpful Tip: Tickets to the Canopy Walk & Tower are first come first serve and they can sell out for the day. Make sure to arrive early and get your tickets as soon as you arrive. For up-to-date information on ticket availability, call (440) 602-3838.

Located a short walk from the tower, the canopy walk allows you to walk 65 feet above the ground. At first, it feels strange to walk among the trees especially since it can be a little wobbly, but we had a great time walking the bridges. 

The canopy walk is accessible for guests of all abilities. While we were there we met someone in a wheelchair that was easily able to enjoy the canopy walk. 

Natural Play Area at Holden Arboretum

Buckeye Bud’s Adventure Woods is a natural play area where kids are encouraged to explore. There are logs for building, a mini zip line, obstacle courses, bird feeding stations, a fossil dig sand area, an explorer cabin, and much more.

There are plenty of benches and seating so parents can sit and watch as their kids play. Of course, you can also join in the fun and let your kid’s imaginations take over. 

Things to Know Before You Visit the Holden Arboretum

• Tickets to the Canopy Walk & Tower are first come first serve and they can sell out for the day. Make sure to arrive early and get your tickets as soon as you arrive. For up-to-date information on ticket availability, call (440) 602-3838.
• Dogs are welcome. Make sure to bring a leash and a water bowl. 
• The paths are beautiful and are great for going on long trail runs or just a leisurely walk. Because of all the flowers and trees the park is beautiful any time of the year.
• It is absolutely safe and family-friendly, but the canopy can feel a little wobbly, as its suspended from the trees. This might cause anxiety for little ones. Make sure you tell your kids that they are not allowed to run or jump while on the canopy.
• The tower was one of the coolest and thrilling things I’ve done in a while. It is definitely worth the hike all the way to the top. The views are beautiful! 
• Pack some snack items or a picnic lunch. There are plenty of places throughout the park for you to enjoy a picnic. Reusable bottles are a great option for drinks because they can be easily refilled.
• If you are planning to visit more than once throughout the year, a family membership is worth the investment. In addition, they offer discounted admission for military families, AAA members, college students, and low-income families.
• Members also get in free to the Cleveland Botanical Gardens, so if you are planning to go to both the Holden Arboretum and the Cleveland Botanical Gardens in the same year, get the family membership and save.

Have Tips or Comments About The Holden Arboretum?  Leave a comment below to let us know. Thanks!

Discounts to Holden Arboretum

While there is an admission fee for the arboretum as well as the canopy walk and tower, there are a number of different discounts available.

Note: These discounts may change at any time. Please visit the Holden Arboretum Website to confirm discounts before visiting.

• Active Duty Military & Family Discount : Free with a military ID  (There is a fee for tickets to the Murch Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent Tower.)
• AAA Discount: $1 discount for AAA members with a valid membership card
• College Student Discount: $1 discount for college students with a valid student ID
• Museums for All Program: The garden is part of the Museums For All program , which enables low-income families to visit for $1 per person with the presentation of an Electronic Benefits Transfer card. Discount is available to cardholders and their immediate family members purchasing tickets at the same time. Tickets for the Murch Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent Tower are not included in the admission price.

Holden Arboretum 9550 Sperry Road, Kirtland, Ohio 44094 The arboretum is open year-round, but the canopy walk and tower are open seasonally (April-Oct) Website

You may also be interested in:

• Best Outdoor Activities in Northeast Ohio – Fun for the whole family
• Botanical Gardens in Northeast Ohio – More places to enjoy nature
• Ultimate List of Things to do with Kids in Ohio – The ultimate list of fun places to go and things to do

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This Epic Canopy Tour Is Located In Ohio, Just 4.5 Hours Away

Calling all aspiring Ewoks!

That reference is a bit too "Sci-fi" for ya? No sweat. Just trade it out for " Swiss Family Robinsons. "

No? Okay. Try " Robin Hoods" ('Prince of Thieves'-era) "

Nope? Geez. How 'bout... " Tarzans "?

Nothing? Really? ... Really? Whatever. Moving on. Lemme put it this way:

Do you like to (/ have you ever wanted to) frolic amongst the tree tops? Traipse across bridges festooned through a forest canopy? Rise above the branches like some half-bird/ half-monkey/ all-explorer, presiding over all that you survey?

Yes? Sweet. ( Finally! ) Sounds like you're a natural-born fan of canopy tours.

If that's the case, you can stop pinching your pennies and saving up for that trip to whatever tropical hotspot you heard about on the Travel Channel. We've got the perfect destination for ya, right here in the good ol' U.S.ofA. In the Midwest, no less.

In fact, it's located in none other than -- drumroll please -- Ohio! Kirtland, OH, to be exact. (About a half-hour outside of Cleveland.) Gasp.

That's right, gang. After an easy-peezy 4.5-drive from Cincy, you can get your canopy-walk on at The Holden Arboretum . The newly unveiled Kalberer Family Emergent Tower and Judith & Maynard H. Murch IV Canopy Walk are 'bout to give you a whole new perspective on adventure.

Now, before you hop into the photo gallery above for a squirrel's-eye-view of the experience, take a quick sprint through these need-to-knows.

CANOPY WALK / EMERGENT TOWER

• 2016 season: April 1 through November 1.
• Open every day from 9am to 5pm.
• Extended hours (June 2 - August 25): Open Thursday nights from 5pm-8pm. Last tickets sold at 7pm.
• Both structures have finite capacity. Visitors are encouraged to call or check the website for the latest intel prior to visiting.
• Location: 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, OH 44094

THE HOLDEN ARBORETUM "The Holden Arboretum is an outdoor living museum that promotes the beauty and importance of trees and other woody plants to create sustainable and healthy communities in the Great Lakes region and beyond." -- Per the Arboretum itself

• Covers 3,600 acres
• Hosts more than 20 miles of hiking trails
• Home to more than 120,000 documented plants
• Recognized by the Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area

Yep, all of that goodness is right here in the Buckeye State.

Impressed (but kinda not surprised)? Now we're on the same page.

For a peek into the adventure, scroll back up and check out the photo gallery . For more information, swing by the the Holden Arboretum website . Happy exploring!

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Hiking the Parks & Preserves of Ohio

Holden Arboretum: Canopy Walk & Emergent Tower

In mid-August we visited Holden Arboretum to see two new attractions – the Murch Canopy Walk and the Kalberer Emergent Tower. Located in Lake County, Holden Arboretum is the largest publicly-accessible arboretum in the state of Ohio. With 3,600 acres of gardens and forest and over twenty miles of trails there is much to see and do. This article discusses the new canopy walk and the emergent tower. For more information on Holden Arboretum, please see the posts about our earlier visits .

Murch Canopy Walk

The Murch Canopy Walk takes the visitor high into the tree-top canopy. You walk in a 500-foot loop between tree-top towers via wooden, pedestrian, suspension bridges. From the suspension bridges you get a squirrels-eye view, 65 feet above the forest floor, of the surrounding treetop canopy.

Kalberer Emergent Tower

Located near-by is the Kalberer Emergent Tower. Once you enter the wooden tower, you climb a sequence of stairs. Many, many steps later you emerge 120 feet above the forest floor to a wooden observation deck above the tree-tops. From there you can see the surrounding forest, garden areas of the arboretum, and on a good day, Lake Erie off in the distance.

We visited in August and enjoyed the canopy walk and tower, as well as Holden’s many other attractions. I would expect that the canopy walk and tower would be spectacularly colorful during peak fall foliage.

There is an entry fee for Holden Arboretum, and tickets for the canopy walk and tower must be purchased separately. Tickets may be purchased at either the entrance to the arboretum, or in the visitors center. For pricing and hours of operation of the canopy walk and tower, please see the Holden web site . Note: the canopy walk and tower may be closed for periodic maintenance. Please check the web site prior to your visit.

Additional information

• TrekOhio: Lake County Parks & Nature Preserves — This is the county where Holden Arboretum is located; check out this page for links to the official website and for information on nearby parks and preserves.
• Holden Arboretum: Murch Canopy Walk & Kalberer Emergent Tower
• TrekOhio: Holden Arboretum — Our overview of the arboretum
• TrekOhio: Hiking A Nature Trail at Holden Arboretum — Description of one of the nature trails
• Address: 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, Ohio 44094
• GPS Coordinates: 41.6089711, -81.3021156
• Google Maps : View on map or get directions

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This Ohio Arboretum Has A 500 ft. Long Canopy Walk (And So Much More)

If you’re itching to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, Holden Arboretum is the perfect getaway. Nestled in Kirtland, Ohio, this stunning 3,600-acre haven offers a mix of serene landscapes, exciting exhibits, and breathtaking views.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a casual stroller, or just someone looking to soak in the beauty of the great outdoors, Holden Arboretum definitely has something you’ll enjoy exploring. Let’s dive into the best things to do at this magical place!

Canopy Walk

Kalberer Emergent Tower

Helen S. Layer Rhododendron Garden

Butterfly Garden

Stebbins Gulch

But here’s the catch—Stebbins Gulch is only accessible through guided group tours. This ensures the preservation of its unique geological features, including five named geologic rock units that span from the Late Devonian to the early Mississippian period (that’s about 370 to 350 million years ago!). If you’re up for a tour, remember to dress appropriately for the weather.

Buckeye Bud’s Adventure Woods

Although the ziplines are currently down (sorry, thrill-seekers!), there’s still plenty to do. The observation tower offers a fantastic view of Buttonbush Bog, where kids can spot turtles and frogs. This area isn’t staffed, so it’s up to the adults to keep an eye on their adventurous crew.

Tips for Visitors

• Plan Your Visit: Holden Arboretum is vast, so plan your visit ahead of time. Decide which exhibits and trails you want to explore and allocate enough time for each.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a fair bit of walking, so comfy shoes are a must. Trust me, your feet will thank you.
• Pack a Picnic : There are plenty of picturesque spots to enjoy a picnic. Pack some snacks, grab a blanket, and take in the beauty of your surroundings.
• Check the Weather: Ohio’s weather can be unpredictable. Make sure to check the forecast and dress appropriately. Layers are always a good idea!
• Bring a Camera: With so many stunning sights, you’ll want to capture the memories. Whether it’s your smartphone or a fancy camera, don’t forget it at home.

Ticket Info

Holden Arboretum is located at 9550 Sperry Rd, Kirtland, OH 44094. For more info or to purchase your tickets, head over to holdenfg.org. It’s about a two-and-a-half hour drive from Columbus, so grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and get ready for a memorable day in the great outdoors.

Chelsea Wiley

Chelsea Wiley, first of her name, Queen of the Seven Andals... wait. That's not right. Joking aside, Chelsea is a writer and photographer born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. She is an avid reader and a lover of animals.

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Walk Above the Clouds at The Holden Arboretum

Are you looking for the ultimate outdoor adventure? Discover Mother Nature like never before at  The Holden Arboretum . The enchanted forest is host to a canopy walk, fragrant gardens, a 120-foot tall tower, and so much more. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Northeast Ohio with a trip to this one-of-a-kind arboretum. 

For even more recommendations on things to do and what to see on the shores of Lake Erie, be sure to access our complimentary  Vacation Guide . The exclusive, on-the-go guide is the perfect source for planning your next getaway!

Everything You Need to Know About The Holden Arboretum

If you’re ready to get off the water and into the woods,  The Holden Arboretum  is the place for you. See the lake like never before from the treetops and learn the history of Ohio’s oldest inhabitants. What are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your next adventure.  

• Murch Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent Tower

Stroll over treetops with a canopy walk and soar above the clouds at the observation tower of   Kalberer Emergent Tower . The swaying canopy walk is 500-feet long and 65-feet above the forest floor. Discover all of the furry friends that call these old, oak trees home and enjoy an exclusive bird watch from the top of the tower.

You’ll want to pick a sunny day to explore the treetops at Holden’s canopy walk and emergent tower. When it’s clear, visitors can see all the to Lake Erie. If you don’t see anything else at the arboretum, don’t miss these exceptional sights.

• The arboretum has a dedicated 200 acres to its gardens. After coming through Corning Visitor Center, Arlene and Arthur S. Holden Jr. Butterfly Garden is your first stop. The garden is buzzing with hummingbirds, bumblebees, and of course, colorful butterflies.
• The nine-acre Display Garden is a fully sustainable, four-season garden. The gardens are essentially flawless and are hand-pruned and maintained. Bring your walking shoes and be sure to take your time searching for waterfowl on Lotus Pond and taking in the scents of the lilacs. 
• There are two Rhododendron gardens onsite—the Eliot and Linda Paine Discovery Garden and the Helen S. Layer Garden. Both offer immersive experiences with Ohio’s native plant.
• If you’ve already explored the tops of the forest, get on the ground with the Henry Norweb Jr. Tree Allée. Escape the heat in the shade of the evergreens and listen to the songs of the robins. This is one of Holden’s newest exhibits and is nearly untouched by the outside. 
• The Myrtle S. Holden Wildflower Garden is just that—a garden brimming with Ohio’s most primitive and beautiful wildflowers. The garden has been in existence since 1968 and has bloomed to full blossom since then. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the state. 
• Buckeye Bud’s Adventure Woods

Buckeye Bud’s   is a spot for your children to discover nature on their own terms. Build a log shelter, work through the obstacle course, or act out their favorite movie at the woodland theater. The play area even provides a smaller observation tower which overlooks Buttonbush Bog. It’s the perfect spot to spy on the turtles, frogs, lizards, and fish.

Rest Your Feet at The Lakehouse Inn Resort

Our   accommodations  and  amenities  offer stunning views of Lake Erie and all the details you need for relaxation! We also have  king   and  queen  suites and rooms and two-bedroom cottages ! No matter what you’re looking for in accommodations, we have it! We even have an on-property restaurant   Crosswinds Grille . Stay with us and enjoy a comfortable stay, delicious food, and access to beautiful state parks!

The 65-Foot-High Treetop Walkway In Ohio That’s Beautiful Almost Any Time Of Year

By: Author Jasper Miller

Posted on July 25, 2024

Standing tall and proud in Ohio , the Murch Canopy Walk at The Holden Arboretum is an enchanting treetop experience that promises breathtaking views and a fresh perspective on nature.

Set amongst towering trees and lush greenery, this 65-foot-high walkway offers a unique way to explore the forest from above.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just someone looking for a peaceful escape, this canopy walk has something magical to offer.

Want to know more about this incredible adventure?

Embarking on the canopy walk is like stepping into a dream.

The path begins at ground level, winding through the woods with anticipation building with each step.

Before you know it, you’re rising above the forest floor, surrounded by a sea of green.

Picturesque views stretch out in every direction, offering glimpses of the arboretum’s diverse flora and fauna.

The design of the Canopy Walk is both innovative and harmonious, blending seamlessly with the natural environment.

It’s a marvel of engineering that allows visitors to experience the forest from an entirely new vantage point.

Rising to a height of 65 feet, the Murch Canopy Walk offers the kind of view that makes you feel like a bird.

This isn’t just a walkway but an invitation to become one with the forest.

Every step is a new chapter in this leafy adventure book.

You’ve got the rustling of leaves underfoot, like nature’s very own soundtrack, and birds having lively conversations in the trees above you.

Then, there’s the wind, whispering secrets through the branches, making you feel like you’re part of some exclusive forest club.

It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way.

Your eyes feast on shades of green you didn’t even know existed.

Your ears get a full playlist of nature’s greatest hits.

And the scent is fresh, earthy, and a hint of adventure.

It’s not just a walk but a full-on nature immersion, and trust me, you won’t want it to end.

Each season brings its own unique charm to the Murch Canopy Walk.

In spring, the treetops burst with fresh leaves and colorful blossoms, creating a vibrant tapestry of greens and pastels.

The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the sounds of birds chirping and insects buzzing.

As you walk along the elevated path, you can witness the forest coming to life after the long winter months, with new growth and energy at every turn.

Summer transforms the Canopy Walk into a cool, shaded retreat from the heat.

The dense foliage provides a lush, green canopy that offers respite from the sun.

Walking high above the forest floor, you can feel the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves and hear the soothing sounds of nature all around you.

It’s a perfect time to spot various wildlife species that call the arboretum home, from birds and squirrels to butterflies and dragonflies.

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Fall is perhaps the most magical time to experience the Murch Canopy Walk.

The forest is ablaze with the brilliant hues of autumn, with leaves in shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold creating a breathtaking spectacle.

The crisp air and the sound of leaves crunching underfoot add to the sensory delight of the season.

The elevated walkway provides unparalleled views of the changing foliage, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of fall.

Although the Murch Canopy Walk is not open during winter, the arboretum itself remains accessible, offering a unique and serene experience.

The forest, blanketed in snow, takes on a quiet, almost ethereal quality.

The bare branches of the trees reveal the intricate structure of the forest, and the silence is broken only by the occasional call of a bird or the sound of snow falling from the trees.

Visiting the arboretum in winter provides a peaceful escape, a chance to reflect and appreciate the stark beauty of the season.

If you’re planning a visit to the Murch Canopy Walk, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk involves some gentle inclines and uneven surfaces.

Bringing a camera is a good idea, as there will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

And don’t forget to check the weather.

The experience can vary greatly depending on the season and conditions.

The Murch Canopy Walk is more than just a walkway.

Informational plaques along the path provide insights into the flora and fauna of the forest, the ecological significance of the canopy, and the role of conservation efforts in preserving these natural habitats.

For families, it’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about nature together, making the experience both fun and informative.

The Holden Arboretum, home to the Murch Canopy Walk, is a destination in itself.

Spanning over 3,600 acres, it offers a wide range of gardens, trails, and natural habitats to explore.

Whether you’re a plant lover, a bird watcher, or simply someone who enjoys a good walk in the woods, there’s something here to captivate your interest.

The arboretum is committed to conservation and education, making it a place where you can learn about the environment while enjoying its beauty.

For those looking to make a day of it, the Holden Arboretum offers plenty of other attractions.

The Kalberer Emergent Tower is another highlight, offering panoramic views from 120 feet above the ground.

Together, the Canopy Walk and the Emergent Tower provide complementary perspectives of the forest, from the treetops to the sky.

The Butterfly Garden is a delightful spot to see these colorful insects up close.

There are also numerous trails to explore, each offering its own unique perspective on the landscape.

For those who prefer a more leisurely visit, there are plenty of benches and rest areas where you can sit and soak in the surroundings.

Food options are available on-site, with picnic areas where you can enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty.

Before heading out, it’s worth checking the arboretum’s website for any special events or programs.

The Holden Arboretum frequently hosts guided tours and other activities that can enhance your visit.

Whether you’re interested in learning more about the local flora and fauna or simply want to enjoy a peaceful walk, there’s always something happening here.

To get more information and plan your visit, check out the Holden Arboretum’s website or Facebook page .

Use this map to find your way there and start your treetop adventure.

Where : 9526-9582 Sperry Rd, Kirtland, OH 44094

Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or education, the Canopy Walk delivers on all fronts.

It’s a place where you can connect with nature, appreciate the beauty of the forest, and gain a deeper understanding of the natural world.

Ready to experience the magic of the Murch Canopy Walk for yourself?

What are you waiting for?

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Holden Arboretum largely reopened but still working on long-term storm recovery efforts

For many Northeast Ohio communities hit by tornadoes in early August , much of the clean-up work is behind them.

However, it may be some time before the same can be said for one of the region’s natural gems: the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland.

"This was a white pine, and it appears to have hit a hemlock on its way down."

That’s Tom Arbour. He’s the curator of living collections at the Holden Arboretum. In a recent tour, he showed some of the havoc wreaked by the storm.

One tornado traveled across the arboretum, Arbour said, but they also had what the National Weather Service calls a macroburst  -- a high-speed downdraft that can be up two-and-a-half miles in diameter.   

So far they’ve cleaned up more than 30 trees that were knocked down, he said, and are assessing what to do with 115 others that are damaged.  

"This is a Norway spruce, and this place is called Spruce Knoll," Arbour said. "These are some of our oldest trees in our collection. They've been here for decades and decades and decades."

This Norway spruce has a jagged wound where a tall offshoot from the trunk was torn off. The fallen portion of the tree lies before us on the ground.

The concern is whether the spruce's injury is too big to properly heal, Vice President of Horticulture and Collections Caroline Tait, said.

"Even though [it's] wonderful, the majority of the tree is standing, actually, we have to consider taking the whole thing out," she said. "That's what, three stories? Four story house there?"

The decision on what to do with each damaged tree is  a collaborative one involving the expertise of the arboretum’s team. With the proper TLC, damaged trees like the spruce will be able to heal themselves overtime, Tait said.

"A key way that you can help that happen is when you make that clean cut, ... you do it on an angle so the water runs off. You don't want any water sitting on the wound," she said. "Typically trees are very good at doing that then healing, and then as they grow, that wound will just get enclosed by the rest of the trunk as it eventually just gets bigger and bigger."

The storm altered pockets of the landscape at the arboretum. Tait pointed to the Buckeye Bluffs section where falling trees took out the zip line and left gaping holes in its tree canopy.

But these changes offer an opportunity for new life, she said.

"What are all the seedlings that are suddenly going to burst out of the ground because now they have the light to do it?" Tait said. "It'll be really interesting over the coming, years and decades to see how those light gap areas reestablish."

Tait says they were able to reopen 250 acres at the heart of the arboretum a week after the storm. A week later, they managed to reopen many of the gardens and walking trails. Even so, the full recovery and restoration could take months.

Holden does have ways to use the fallen trees so they don't go to waste. Some are turned to wood chips and used as mulch, others are revamped into outdoor furniture. And for trees that aren’t blocking trails, Tait said they can be left where they are.

"We call them nurse logs because they're actually the beginning of the next phase of life," she said. "For other, you know, fungi and lichens and the small plants and lots of bugs and little critters that come in and start living in that wood as it degrades."

When it comes to maintaining its curated collection of trees, Arbour said they’ll look for ways to preserve what was lost through taking cuttings of trees that were damaged.

"We’re assessing, we’re determining which ones we want to repropagate, so that we can preserve the genetic material of the tree and keep growing part of it for years to come," he said. "The original tree itself has died, but literally its clone can live on."

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Labor Day Weekend Hours

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Both campus will be open Labor Day weekend, see hours below.

Holden Arboretum Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday: 9am-5pm

Cleveland Botanical Garden Friday:10am-5pm Saturday: 10am-4:30pm Sunday: noon-5pm Monday: 10am-5pm

Visiting Holden Arboretum

Frequently asked questions.

Do I still need reservations to come into the Arboretum?

While reservations are not required, the easiest and most convenient way to visit starts with purchasing your ticket online. Click here to buy your tickets.

Do I need tickets or reservations to visit the Murch Canopy Walk or Kalberer Emergent Tower?

Nope! Once you have checked in at the gatehouse entry point, you are free to roam the gardens and trails, and may visit the Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower at your leisure.

You may visit the structures up until 15 minutes before Arboretum closing. Those final 15 minutes of the day are needed for guests to vacate and staff to close and secure the structures.

You may need to wait in line, especially on busy days, as both structures have capacity limits for safety.

Where are the bathrooms?

Restrooms are available in Corning Visitor Center , and will be open during all public hours and, for members, between 7:30 a.m. and sunset. This restroom is accessible to our guests using a wheelchair.

Restrooms in the Thayer Center building, located next door to the Corning Visitor Center, are on the lower level and open during public hours.

Is smoking permitted?

For the health of our visitors, we are a smoke-free and vapor-free environment.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome, following these precautions:

• Dogs must always be on a leash.
• Dogs are allowed in all outdoor gardens.
• Only working service dogs are allowed in the buildings and on the Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower. For the safety of all passengers, dogs may not ride on tram vehicles.
• Don’t forget to pick up after them! “Mutt Mitts” are available at a few locations on site (please also bring your own waste bags), and trash cans are accessible throughout the property.
• Bring a water container for your pup – it may be filled at the water fountain in the visitor center.

How long does it take to see the Arboretum?

This varies from person to person, of course, but the average visit time is 2-3 hours.

Are food and/or water available for purchase?

Yes! Chef Ben Bebenroth of Spice Hospitality Group has created a Grab + Go Café featuring delicious, convenient food.

Easy snacks, treats, and beverages (sparkling water & canned spring water) are available during open hours in the Corning Visitor Center. Fresh salads and fruit/veggie snacks are now available!

On days when Grab + Go is sold out or not stocked, vending machines are also available inside the Corning Visitor Center during public open hours.

Are there picnic tables available on site?

Yes, the Arboretum picnic area is located between Corning Visitor Center and the trailhead. Picnic tables and charcoal grills (bring your own supplies) are available on a first-come first-served basis.

Will you offer concerts or wine and beer tasting this season?

The Arboretum has a calendar of great events planned in the coming year. Be sure to check out our events page to learn about events and exhibits coming up this season at both of our campuses.

Can I take a tour?

Yes! From May through October, tours will run on a weekly schedule. Check our Tram Tours page for more details on schedule, accessibility, and how to purchase tickets.

Is the Arboretum accessible to people with mobility or physical disabilities?

Yes! There are a number of ways we’re working to make our grounds accessible to our guests who may find special adaptations useful.

Upon entry, there are several parking spaces reserved for guests with disabilities in the first bay of our paved lot.

Electric scooters are available for a daily rental fee of $20, and complimentary manual wheelchairs are also available. Both may be checked out at the desk in the Corning Visitor Center.

Benches are located throughout the gardens and grounds to provide ample opportunity for resting and recharging.

Guided tram tours of the grounds are ticketed and offered in May through October. It’s a great option for those who want to see the grounds but aren’t up for a long walk.

The following gardens have complete or partially-paved paths that work well for many folks using a wheelchairs or walker. All other paths and trail surfaces are unpaved gravel or moderate woodland terrain.

• Corning Visitor Center and parking lot
• Display Garden (0.1 mi from visitor center)
• Norweb Tree Allée (0.3 mi from visitor center)
• Layer Rhododendron Garden (0.5 mi from visitor center), partially paved
• Paine Rhododendron Discovery Garden (0.4 mi from visitor center)
• Corning Lake (0.4 mi from visitor center), paved patio area with seating
• Murch Canopy Walk (0.7 mi from visitor center), the stretch from the nearest paved path to Canopy Walk ramp has loose gravel and may be more challenging to navigate using a mobility device. Canopy Walk itself is wheelchair accessible to the first platform. At 36 inches wide, the remaining suspension bridges and platforms are wide enough for some wheelchairs. Please call or visit the Corning Visitor Center with any questions, or to ask for a parking permit for closer parking if you’re unable to make the walk out to the structures.

Can I rent a scooter or wheelchair to use while I’m there?

Yes, both are available on a first-come, first-served basis from guest services staff in the Corning Visitor Center and require a valid photo ID to check out.

• Electric scooters: $20 for all-day use
• Wheelchairs: Complimentary

Scooters and wheelchairs may be used on any paved or gravel surface; woodland trails are not accessible using either type of vehicle.

Can I climb trees on the property?

We ask our guests (even the littlest ones) to refrain from climbing the trees. Unlike your local park, the Holden Arboretum is a living museum, which means that many of the trees and plants you see on site are part of our scientific collection.

Climbing can badly damage branches, and we want to ensure our trees remain healthy and beautiful to contribute to research, learning, and enjoyment for years to come.

What’s fun for my kids to do here?

Buckeye Bud’s Adventure Woods is located 0.5 miles from the visitor center, and has a variety of nature play activities for kids to climb, build, and imagine.

The two-story observation tower at Buttonbush Bog is also a great alternative for little ones who need a little practice before they can handle all the steps on our Emergent Tower .

Can I take my wedding/engagement/senior/family/prom photos at the Arboretum?

Yes, we’d love to help you celebrate your special occasion! A photography permit is required for both amateur and professional special-occasion photography – you or your photographer can find out more about details and pricing here .

Can I hike at Stebbins Gulch or Little Mountain?

Both properties are located outside the Arboretum core and inaccessible to guests. Hikes to these locations are often part of our educational class schedule, check here to see what classes and hikes are available at the moment.

If I have a great time during my visit, can I convert my paid tickets into a membership?

Absolutely! You may do so up to a week after your visit – stop into the visitor center or call (440) 946-4400 and the guest services team can help you out with this. Please note that you may apply only as many tickets as the membership would cover (for example, one ticket may be applied to an HF&G 1 membership). Learn more about membership benefits here !

Have a different question?

If you have a question or need assistance during your visit, please call (440) 946-4400 or stop into the visitor center and a team member will be happy to assist you. You may also direct questions to [email protected] at any time.

For emergencies, call Holden Arboretum Police Department directly at (440) 478-1291.

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Plant and care for a tree beginning with making a pledge. We will support each pledge with easy-to-follow instructional toolkits, guidance on how to select the most appropriate tree and where to purchase it, free virtual classes and other ongoing support.

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The spotted lanternfly has announced its arrival in Greater Cleveland in a big way

• Updated: Aug. 31, 2024, 10:56 a.m.
• | Published: Aug. 31, 2024, 5:30 a.m.

A spotted lanternfly at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Gavin Svenson

• Peter Krouse, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The spotted lanternfly has made its way west from eastern Pennsylvania where it was first detected in the United States 10 years ago, and now the unwanted bug is firmly established in parts of Ohio, including Greater Cleveland.

Countless sightings of the winged bug, which feeds on the sap of trees, especially an invasive species called “tree of heaven,” have been reported around town now that they have reached adulthood and sprouted wings.

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